Crappie

Crappie fishing around La Grange, NC, can be quite productive, particularly in the numerous ponds and slow-moving sections of the Neuse River. Spring and fall are prime times, as crappie move into shallower waters to spawn or feed before winter. Target submerged structure like brush piles, fallen trees, and docks with jigs, minnows, or small crankbaits. One local tactic is to fish around the Hwy 903 bridge pilings on the Neuse River; crappie often congregate there. Be aware that the river can fluctuate in depth, so a depth finder is useful for locating submerged cover. The crappie in this area tend to be a mix of black and white crappie, with some reaching impressive sizes, especially in the quieter backwaters.