Crappie

If you're chasing crappie in South Carolina, don't overlook Plum Branch. This area provides excellent access to the Little River section of Lake Strom Thurmond (Clarks Hill Lake), a renowned crappie fishery. Spring is prime time, as crappie move into shallow coves and creek arms to spawn. Target submerged timber and brush piles in 5-10 feet of water with jigs or minnows under a slip bobber. Fall can also be productive as the water cools and crappie school up again before winter. A local tip: the area around Parksville Boat Ramp is a consistent producer, but can get crowded on weekends. For more secluded fishing, explore the smaller creeks further up the Little River arm. The crappie here average a decent size, and you'll find both black and white crappie, with some real slabs mixed in. Be sure to check the South Carolina DNR website for creel limits and size restrictions before you head out.