Crappie

If you're looking for some slab-sized crappie in the North Carolina mountains, Waynesville offers a few great options. Lake Junaluska is a popular spot, known for its beautiful scenery and decent crappie population. Spring and fall are prime times, as the crappie move into shallower waters to spawn or feed before winter. Focus your efforts around submerged structures like brush piles and docks. A local tip: try using live minnows or small jigs under a bobber, especially near the fishing piers. Another option is the nearby Pigeon River, though crappie numbers are generally lower than in the lake. The Pigeon can be a good option for those who prefer river fishing, but be aware of fluctuating water levels, especially after rainfall. The crappie here tend to be a bit more scattered, so covering ground is key. Keep an eye out for submerged timber and slow-moving sections of the river.