Crappie

Crappie enthusiasts visiting Lillington, North Carolina, should set their sights on the many creeks and backwaters connected to the Cape Fear River. These areas offer the calm, structure-rich environments that crappie thrive in. Spring is prime time, as crappie move shallow to spawn. Target submerged brush piles, fallen trees, and creek mouths with jigs or minnows under a float. As the water warms in the summer, crappie often move deeper, congregating around structure in the main river channel. A local tip: the Hwy 87 bridge area can hold good numbers of crappie, especially around the bridge pilings. The crappie in the Cape Fear River system are generally good-sized, with some slabs exceeding 2 pounds. Be sure to check the current fishing regulations for size and creel limits.