Crappie

Maiden, North Carolina, is a great starting point for crappie fishing on Lake Norman. Known for its expansive waters and abundant fish, Lake Norman is a haven for crappie anglers. Spring is the best time to target crappie as they move into the shallows to spawn. Look for them around docks, brush piles, and submerged timber in coves and creek arms. A local tactic is to use live minnows or small jigs under a slip bobber, adjusting the depth until you find the fish. During the cooler months, crappie tend to move deeper, so focus on areas near the river channel. Public access is readily available at places like the Pinnacle Access Area, but be prepared for potential crowds, especially during peak season. Lake Norman's crappie population is generally healthy, with good numbers of both black and white crappie.