Crappie

Pendleton, South Carolina, offers excellent crappie fishing, primarily in Lake Hartwell. This sprawling reservoir is renowned for its submerged timber and brush, creating ideal habitat for crappie. The best time to target them is during the spring spawn (March-April) when they move into shallower waters around docks, brush piles, and creek mouths to spawn. Fall can also be productive as the water cools and crappie feed heavily before winter. A local tip: Pay attention to water clarity. After heavy rains, the upper reaches of the lake can get muddy, so head downlake towards the dam for clearer water. The Six and Twenty Creek area is a popular starting point. Anglers often use minnows or jigs under a slip bobber, adjusting depth until you find the fish. Hartwell crappie are known for their good size, with many anglers catching slabs exceeding 14 inches.