Crappie Forecast

[Phil Lilley]

Just glanced at the weather forecast for next week. Starting in the 70's and climbing into the 80's all week with some rain. That just means one thing... crappie are going to move one step closer to spawn.

Reports from most areas on the lake are basically the same this weekend- males are off the banks 4-8 feet and varied on depth. Females are off the banks further and holding. They've been moving closer if not on the banks early and late in the day. With the warmer temps, look for pairs to be on the banks spawning this week.

Bridgeport seems to have the bigger crappie, unlike last year when you had to catch 10 short to one keeper. I would strongly suggest a couple of things. Releasing part of the females you catch for seed. And releasing crappie under 11 inches, not 10. If enough anglers practice these two things, we should have great crappie seasons for years to come. From what I've heard there are plenty of 11 inch crappie at least on the James Arm.

Once last thing- if you get your reports/information off this forum, please give back part of what you've received. Write a report, tell how you caught your fish. Share a picture. If you don't know how- email it to me and I'll post it for you.

Thanks - Phil

[dan_vee]

I was out on Saturday and Sunday around Cape Fair to Bridgeport. I got shutout saturday, but sunday I caught a few. Using minnows and slip bobbers and the occasional road runner. Everyone that I talked with was doing better than me. Most were throwing small jigs and some were using a flies. If weather cooperates it won't be long.