Fishing Charters in Tennessee
Browse fishing charters in Tennessee that can help you catch crappie.
Open Water Guide Service
Tiptonville, Tennessee
My name is Shane Walley and I am the head guide for Open Water Guide Service. I offer guided crappie and bluegill fishing trips on Reelfoot Lake in Northwest Tennessee.
Reelfootlakefishingguide
Hornbeak, Tennessee
Reelfoot lake fishing guide, reelfoot lake crappie guide, fishing guide, crappie guide.
Ky Lake Crappie Fishing
Crappie Fishing Reports for Kentucky Lake on the Tennessee River, East of the Mississippi
Scenic City Fishing Charters
Fishing Guide Service in Chattanooga, Tennessee specializing in catching trophy catfish, largemouth bass, smallmouth bass, walleye and crappie on the Tennessee River.
Medley Fishing School
Trout Fishing Guide Service, also Crappie, Giant Catfish, Walleye, Sauger, Shellcrackers & great fishing, Gardening Tips. 4 bedroom Lodge just .25 miles from Edgar Evins State Park, & .80 mile from the Caney Fork River and Center Hill Dam and Lake. Customer Lodging and full family reunions available. Fall Foliage tours available until end of November. Music venue for your birthday party. Real Estate Appraiser. Cooking Tips for wildgame.
Best Time to Catch Crappie
Crappie can be caught year-round in Chattanooga. Right now in February, activity is low.
Seasonal Activity Chart
Crappie
If you're looking to tangle with some crappie near Chattanooga, Tennessee, you're in luck. The Chickamauga Reservoir and Nickajack Lake offer excellent crappie habitat. Focus your efforts around submerged structure like brush piles, standing timber, and bridge pilings. Spring and fall are prime times as crappie move shallow to spawn or feed aggressively before winter. During the spawn, try drifting minnows or jigs under a bobber in shallow bays and coves. Later in the year, pay attention to water clarity; crappie often suspend in clearer water. A local tip: the Highway 58 bridge on Chickamauga is a known crappie hotspot, but be mindful of boat traffic. Also, keep an eye on water levels, as fluctuating conditions can significantly impact crappie location. The crappie here average a good size, and you'll find both black and white crappie in these waters.
How to Catch Crappie
Crappie Fishing Regulations in Tennessee
Open Season
Year-round
Daily Bag Limit
15 per day
Size Limit
10-inch minimum
License Required
Freshwater fishing license
Some lakes have different length limits, so check local regulations.
⚠️ Always verify current regulations with the Tennessee state wildlife agency before fishing.
Related Species in Tennessee
Frequently Asked Questions
What's the best time of year to fish for crappie in Chattanooga?
Crappie fishing is usually best in the spring during the pre-spawn and spawn, and again in the fall as they feed heavily before winter. Focus on shallow areas near structure during these times.
What's the crappie bag limit and size limit in Tennessee?
The bag limit for crappie in Tennessee is 15 per day, and the minimum size limit is 10 inches. Make sure to measure your catch to ensure compliance.
What are some good spots to catch crappie around Chattanooga?
Chickamauga Lake is a popular spot for crappie fishing near Chattanooga. Look for crappie around submerged brush piles, docks, and bridge pilings.
What are some effective baits for crappie in Chattanooga?
Live minnows and small jigs are very effective for catching crappie. Try using a slip bobber rig to present your bait at the desired depth.
More Crappie Fishing in Tennessee
Other Species to Fish in Chattanooga
Ready to Catch Crappie in Chattanooga?
Book a trip with an expert guide who knows the best local spots and techniques.