Crappie

Crappie fishing near Atkinson, NC, can be quite productive, especially if you know where to look. The key is targeting the numerous ponds and smaller lakes scattered around the area. These waters often hold good populations of black crappie. Spring is the best time, as the crappie move into the shallows to spawn. Look for brush piles, submerged timber, and lily pads in 2-6 feet of water. Minnows under a bobber are always effective, but small jigs can also produce well. A local angler's secret is that the smaller, more secluded ponds often hold the biggest slabs. Access can sometimes be tricky, so do your research on public access points before heading out. Remember that the crappie in these waters tend to be wary, so use light line and subtle presentations.