Crappie

Crappie fishing around Chilhowie, Virginia, often means heading to South Holston Lake. This large reservoir on the South Fork Holston River provides ample habitat for crappie to thrive. Focus your efforts around submerged timber, bridge pilings, and brush piles, especially in the coves and creek arms. Early spring, as the water warms, is a prime time to target spawning crappie in the shallows. A simple jig tipped with a minnow or crappie nibble is a classic and effective presentation. Many anglers also find success spider-rigging multiple rods with jigs at different depths. As the water warms into summer, crappie tend to move deeper, so adjust your tactics accordingly. Several public boat ramps provide easy access to the lake. Be sure to check the lake levels before heading out, as they can fluctuate. The crappie in South Holston are known for their good size and abundance, making it a popular destination for crappie anglers in the region.