Crappie

If you're after crappie, Halifax County, NC, provides some excellent opportunities, particularly in the backwaters and slower-moving sections of the Roanoke River. The best time to target crappie here is during the pre-spawn and spawn in early spring (March-April) when they move into shallow, protected areas to lay their eggs. Look for them around submerged structure like brush piles, fallen trees, and docks. Minnows and small jigs are the go-to baits. As the water warms in the summer, crappie tend to move deeper, so try fishing around submerged structure in deeper channels. A key piece of local knowledge is to focus on areas where the Roanoke River meets smaller creeks and tributaries; these areas often hold concentrations of crappie. The Weldon boat ramp provides good access to the river, but be aware of the current, especially during periods of high water. The crappie in the Roanoke River system are known for their good size and delicious flavor.