Crappie

If you're looking to tangle with some slab crappie, Aulander, North Carolina offers some surprisingly good opportunities. The Cashie River, which flows nearby, and the numerous smaller creeks and ponds in the area hold decent populations. Spring is prime time, as the crappie move into the shallows to spawn. Look for them around submerged structure like fallen trees and brush piles. A small jig under a bobber is a classic and effective presentation. Fall can also be productive as the fish feed up before winter. Many locals have private ponds that may be worth inquiring about – a polite request can sometimes grant you access to some untapped fishing. Be mindful of water levels in the Cashie, as it can fluctuate significantly after heavy rains. A good access point is the boat ramp near the Highway 13 bridge, but be prepared for limited parking, especially on weekends.