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Premier Crappie Charters on Clark's Hill Lake
- Published Date: July 22, 2025
- Fishing
- Amity Recreation Area, Thomson Highway, Lincolnton, GA, USA
- $400 - $1,000 price range
- Updated Date: October 1, 2025
Summary
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Slab Crappie Catches
Partly cloudy skies set the stage for a day of light tackle action!
Got a nice crappie catch!
Caught a nice one by the water today!
Caught a big one on the lake!
Clear skies and light tackle: the perfect recipe for a day on the water!
Clear skies and light tackle: the perfect recipe for a day on the water!
Clear skies and light tackle make for the best fishing day in Thomson!
Clear skies and light tackle make for the perfect fishing day!
Stormy skies can't dampen the spirit of light tackle fishing!
Light tackle and storms brewing: the perfect crappie recipe in Thomson!
Partly cloudy skies set the stage for a day of light tackle action!
Got a nice crappie catch!
Caught a nice one by the water today!
Caught a big one on the lake!
Clear skies and light tackle: the perfect recipe for a day on the water!
Clear skies and light tackle: the perfect recipe for a day on the water!
Clear skies and light tackle make for the best fishing day in Thomson!
Clear skies and light tackle make for the perfect fishing day!
Stormy skies can't dampen the spirit of light tackle fishing!
Light tackle and storms brewing: the perfect crappie recipe in Thomson!
Partly cloudy skies set the stage for a day of light tackle action!
Got a nice crappie catch!
Caught a nice one by the water today!
Caught a big one on the lake!
Reel in the Fun: Crappie Fishing on Clarks Hill Lake
Hey there, fellow anglers! If you're itching to get out on the water and fill your cooler with some tasty crappie, boy do I have the trip for you. Captain James of Reel N Time Fishing Charters is serving up a 6-hour crappie extravaganza on Georgia's famous Clarks Hill Lake. This isn't just any old fishing trip – it's a chance to learn from a local expert, have a blast on the water, and hopefully catch your limit of these delicious panfish. So grab your hat and let's dive into what makes this crappie adventure a must-do for fishermen of all stripes.
What's the Scoop?
Picture this: You're out on Clarks Hill Lake, the sun's just coming up, and the water's like glass. Captain James fires up the boat, and before you know it, you're cruising to his secret crappie hotspots. This 6-hour trip is perfect for everyone from first-timers to seasoned pros. The best part? You don't need to bring a thing – all the gear's included. Just show up ready to fish, and maybe pack some snacks to keep your energy up. Oh, and if you're wondering about those fish you catch? For just a buck a fish, the Captain will clean and fillet your haul, so you can focus on the fun part – reeling 'em in!
Crappie Catching 101
Now, let's talk technique. Crappie fishing on Clarks Hill is an art form, and Captain James is a master. You might start off spider rigging, with multiple poles spread out like spider legs, slowly trolling to cover more water. Or maybe you'll try some vertical jigging, dropping your line straight down next to structure where those crappie love to hide. The Captain's got all the latest gear – sensitive rods, light line, and an array of jigs and minnows that these fish can't resist. He'll show you how to read the fish finder, spot those schools, and present your bait just right. Before you know it, you'll be pulling in crappie like a pro.
Reel Talk from Happy Anglers
Don't just take my word for it – check out what some of Captain James' satisfied customers have to say:
"James really knows how to catch crappie. We fished for two days and loaded the coolers. I would give him a 5 out of 5 stars. You will not regret booking a charter with him. Definitely coming back soon!" - Ben
"James was a terrific guide. He not only put us on the fish but kept us laughing the whole time. We highly recommend booking a day on the water with him. Just a tip : don't take food you will not have time to eat. Take one bottle of water is all you need. 😂" - Robert
"Had an absolute great day of fishing with Captain James Weeks and my daughter of 14. We had perfect weather, warm and overcast with light wind. We caught our limit of Crappie and a few catfish as well as bass. We were on the fish early and back at the ramp by 11am, he cleaned our fish and helped load them up. Great fisherman and very family friendly. We will definitely be back and would recommend to everyone." - Clay
The Crappie Lowdown
Alright, let's talk about the star of the show – the crappie. These little guys might not be the biggest fish in the lake, but pound for pound, they're some of the tastiest and most fun to catch. Clarks Hill Lake is known for its "slab" crappie, fish that can easily top 2 pounds. These panfish are schooling fish, so when you find one, you've usually found a bunch. They love to hang around structure – submerged trees, brush piles, and dock pilings are all prime real estate for crappie.
Spring is typically the peak season when crappie move into shallow water to spawn, making them easier to target. But don't count out the rest of the year – Captain James knows how to find them year-round. In the summer and fall, you might need to go a bit deeper, but the action can be just as hot. Winter can be surprisingly good too, with crappie often schooling up in deep water. No matter when you go, these fish put up a scrappy fight on light tackle, and their light bite keeps you on your toes. And let's not forget – they're absolutely delicious. There's nothing quite like a plate of fried crappie fillets after a day on the water.
Why Clarks Hill is Crappie Central
Clarks Hill Lake, also known as Strom Thurmond Lake, is a crappie angler's paradise. This massive reservoir spans over 71,000 acres, with plenty of coves, creek arms, and timber-filled areas that crappie absolutely love. The lake's diverse habitat supports a healthy population of both black and white crappie, giving you a shot at some real trophy fish.
What sets Clarks Hill apart is its consistency. While many lakes have boom and bust cycles for crappie, Clarks Hill seems to produce year after year. The lake's structure, from standing timber to man-made brush piles, provides perfect cover for crappie throughout their life cycle. And with less pressure than some of the more famous crappie lakes, Clarks Hill gives you a real shot at a cooler full of slabs.
Time to Get Your Crappie On!
Listen, if you're still on the fence about booking this trip, let me give you a little nudge. This isn't just fishing – it's a chance to learn from one of the best crappie guides in Georgia, to spend a day on a beautiful lake, and to potentially catch the biggest crappie of your life. Captain James isn't just about putting you on fish (though he's darn good at that). He's about making sure you have a blast, learn something new, and walk away with memories (and hopefully a bunch of fillets) that'll last a lifetime.
So what are you waiting for? Grab your fishing buddies, your kids, or just treat yourself to a day on the water. The crappie are biting, and Captain James is ready to show you the ropes. Trust me, once you experience crappie fishing on Clarks Hill Lake, you'll be hooked for life. Don't let this opportunity slip away – book your trip now and get ready for some serious crappie action!
Customer Reviews
Crappie King James
Ben Gillis
June 21, 2024
James Great Company
James was great. Really enjoyed talking with him during the day. Will defiantly do it again.
James Heard
July 3, 2024
Awesome Fishing Fun
Great Trip! Lots and lots of fun. The fishing was awesome! We will return soon.
Sandra Hall-Lay
October 28, 2024
Awesome Fishing Fun
Great Trip! Lots and lots of fun. The fishing was awesome! We will return soon.
Sandra H
October 28, 2024
Awesome Fishing Fun
Great Trip! Lots and lots of fun. The fishing was awesome! We will return soon.
Sandra H
October 28, 2024
Captain Fish Blaster
Captain James is great put fish in the boat and had a blast 4 sure coming back
Marcuis Mims
December 30, 2024
Laughs and Limits
James was a terrific guide. He not only put us on the fish but kept us laughing the whole time. We highly recommend booking a day on the water with him. Just a tip : don’t take food you will not have time to eat. Take one bottle of water is all you need. 😂
Robert Hoover
May 11, 2025
Always Catch Fish
Whenever I go fishing with James it a great time and we do always catch the fish
Charles Brownlee
December 7, 2024
Total Awesome Trip
Total awesome, I am recommended this fishing trip to my friends.
Lorenza Kates
July 27, 2025
Great Experience
Great experience
Thomas Ware
April 15, 2025
Absolute Blast
This trip absolutely a Blast!!!!!
Thomas Ware
April 15, 2025
Perfect Family Fish
Had an absolute great day of fishing with Captain James Weeks and my daughter of 14. We had perfect weather, warm and overcast with light wind. We caught our limit of Crappie and a few catfish as well as bass. We were on the fish early and back at the ramp by 11am, he cleaned our fish and helped load them up. Great fisherman and very family friendly. We will definitely be back and would recommend to everyone.
Clay Peavy
June 20, 2025
Lake Fishing Delight
Had a great time on the lake and boat. Great fishing guide
Errol Boyland
June 23, 2024
Amazing 10 10 Trip
Had an amazing time definitely recommend 10/10
Ronald C. Goldsborough
November 5, 2024
Crappie Catching Pro
Best crappie guide in the state! James is very knowledgeable and professional and a great guy! We will be booking again! If you want to catch crappies, can’t beat James!
Bart Woodard
June 3, 2024
Crappie Limit Success
Great day fishing with Capt Weeks. We caught our limit of crappie and he worked hard changing fishing spots to catch quality fish, just not numbers. Great sense of humor and the friendliest Captain you would ever want to know and fish with. Looking forward to our next trip.
William Watkins
May 16, 2024
Best Guide Ever
This was the best guide service ever. Captain James worked very hard to make sure we had a successful trip. He is a man of integrity and high moral standards. We will definitely book a trip with him again .
Keith Woods
November 7, 2023
Exceeding Expectations
Great guy, me and my family have been on numerous charters and James exceeded our expectations on every level.
Cameron Carlton
June 5, 2025
Top Notch Guide
Captain James Weeks is one of the best fishing guides in the area. He is highly rerecommended as I have fished with him on several occasions.
Charles Gore
May 19, 2025
Top Notch Guide
Captain James Weeks is one of the best fishing guides in the area. He is highly rerecommended as I have fished with him on several occasions.
Charles Gore
May 19, 2025
Fun Fish and Laughs
Wanna have fun Fishing Call Captain James Weeks. Catch fish and have a lot of laughs. Highly Recommend this trip
Thomas Ware
April 17, 2025
Fish Finder James
Captain James never disappoints! This was my 2nd year booking with him. He already knows where the fish are actively biting before you go out. He keeps fresh bait and plenty of it. Thanks again for another memorable trip.
Kyle Satterfield
May 20, 2025
Awesome Captain James
Awesome trip highly recommend Captain James
mike rowe
May 21, 2025
Great experience with lots of fun.
Dwayne Boyd
July 10, 2025
Fish On with James
Capt James was tremendous! He put us on the fish and was patient and instructive the entire trip. Highly recommend!!
Jonathan Roebuck
April 26, 2025
Memories on the Water
A lot of great memories for all. Looking forward to the next trip. Lots of fun conversations and fishing.
Dwayne Boyd
July 12, 2025
Limit Catch Fun
Fourth time with capt James always catch our limit and he is as well as his son are a lot of fun to fish as with
Rhory Jefferson
September 29, 2025
Wisdom Fun and Fish
What a great guide and person, full of wisdom and fun. We had a blast would do it 100 out of 100 times.
Joey Page
July 30, 2025
Crappie Chase Blast
We had an awesome day out on the water chasing those crappies. My brother Gerald and partners Ben and Cab Driver really enjoyed themselves. Thanks, Captain James for everything. We already talking about booking another trip soon.
Nathaniel Allen
May 30, 2025
Had a great day fishing with Captain James. I would recommend him to anyone looking for a day of catching fish on a beautiful lake. He knows where the fish are and how to catch them. I wouldn't hesitate to take my wife and grandkids out fishing with him, likewise I think he would be great for company/businesses fishing charter trips.
Tom Vidamour
June 30, 2022
Awesome day of fishing, Great Captain. Will definitely be booking again ASAP
Thomas Ware
September 23, 2022
Mr james is a fish catching fool . Ive used severely guides over the years and its not even a comparison to the fish this man puts you on ive been three times this year and ive caught a three man limit twice and 8 shy today of a limit . Its unreal the knowledge and the professionalism this man carries. Booking our company trip tonight and if your in the market for a guide , look no further this man got it figured out! Thanks Mr james we had a blast
Joshua Purvis
October 13, 2022
Captain James is a great captain and fisherman, this was no ordinary charter. Mr. James was very personable and knowledgeable, he was fun to be around, interacted with us all day and let us catch our own fish. I would highly recommend him to anyone and would do anything for him. We will be back for sure even if it means flying down from Alaska just to fish with him. I hope to see him in our state in the near future. Thanks for an epic day of fishing Capt’n!
Jason Rahn
November 8, 2022
Awesome day of fishing. James was a blast, hanging out having fun.was worth the dollars spent, carching over 100 fish was Bonus. Thanks.for a great day James. BTW....the cows say hey.
Jeff McFadden
December 7, 2022
We Had A Awesome Trip With A Great Guide. We Will Be Booking Another Trip Real Soon....
Brad Brock
February 6, 2023
Great Guide Great Fish
This was a great trip great guide good time great fishing he will put you on the fish. Looking forward to doing it again.
Mike Huff
May 6, 2023
Quality Time Quality
Another great trip with Captain Weeks. He put us on quality fish and we had an absolute blast. Getting to spend this quality time with my Dad is priceless and Captain James makes the trip worthwhile. Can’t wait to go the next time! If you’re on the fence, pull the trigger and book this guy. You will not regret it!
Raymond Kovacsiss
June 18, 2023
Annual Awesome Trip
Awesome trip, fishing, Captain! Will be making this an annual trip!
Bernard Speed
June 20, 2023
Extremely Satisfying
We had an extremely good time. The guides were extremely helpful. I would recommend others to fish with real time fishing. You will enjoy it. My guys were extremely satisfied and we will be going back again. I already have other friends that want to book a fishing trip with real time fishing.
Julious Marshall
July 3, 2023
Super Guide Super Trip
Captain weeks is a super fishing guide with a great knowledge on fishing “he said we had a bad day fishing” But the fish that we caught was more a better than we expected. The worse thing you can do is NOT book a fishing trip we Cpt weeks Once you go you’ll be back. We are booking our next trip
Weston Mosley jr
July 21, 2023
Crappie Lovers Dream
Awesome guide. Will be booking more trips. Turned my brother an nephews into Crappie lovers. Can’t wait to go again.
Michael Linder
September 5, 2023
Top Notch Fish Catch
My wife Natalie and I have been with James on 2 crappie fishing trips. You can tell when someone has put in the work and has the experience to be a qualified guide. James has both. If you’re looking for a top notch guide and a great time catching fish, look no further. We are already discussing our 3rd trip!!
James Metcalf
September 5, 2023
Exceeding Expectations
This trip exceeded our expectations! We will definetly be back.
Dewayne Lewis
September 29, 2023
Solid Guide Success
Fished with James a few times. He's a solid guide who works hard to deliver a successful trip.
Randy Walker
October 3, 2023
Limit Every Trip
The Guide is an excellent fisherman good conversation. Keeps every one entertained. We have caught the limit every trip. Will be going out with him again next month.
Julious Marshall
October 14, 2023
Fish Finding Pro
Highly Recommended and kept us on the fish!
Trey Thomas
October 16, 2023
Best Birthday Crappie
JAMES WEEKS IS THE BEST GUIDE THERE IS. I GREW FISHING IN MANY PLACES. TODAY WAS MY FIRST TIME FISHING Clark's Hill/Strom Thurmond lake. Also, today was my Birthday.....what better way to spend your birthday other than to catch a limit of Crappie...my favorite fish!! James thank you so much for being such a relatable guide. You the best and I grew up on a lake in SC!!!!! Thank you sir for a memorable Birthday!!!!
Joe Jefferson
October 18, 2023
Specks Despite Skies
Had to work for em today. First strong front came through. We had had a high pressure and blue bird skies. Still caught 33 specks. Great trip all together. Captain James Weeks showed us a good time. We blessed an older couple at a gas station with half of our catch. Here is a pic of the other half.
Michael Bosco
October 21, 2023
Friendly Fish Limit
Awesome trip. Guide was friendly and worked hard on getting us our limit . Would highly recommend this guide service to anyone one wanting to catch catch some fish and have a good time doing it. Thanks captain James
Roan Cowart
November 9, 2023
Large Fish Pro Guide
We had a great trip with Mr. James. The weather was not great but he exceeded our expectations. We caught large fish and plenty of them. The guide was professional and was willing to share information. I would recommend him highly.
Michael Harrell
November 16, 2023
Never Disappoints
Great guys!!! Been fishing with them for a few years now and I’ve never been disappointed!!
Bethany Black
February 19, 2024
Laughter and Limits
Our crew needed a well deserved break to get away and enjoy ourselves. Our captain James was a hoot as he showed us several spots that were dead on the fish. We laughed as we had known him for years. Guys and gals, if you need a getaway to just have a ball, I would highly recommend booking a trip with him. Remember he fills up quick so don't delay in booking your spot for this season. Some captains spend most of the time riding from spot to spot trying to find the fish, James knows were they are. The lake was beautiful and the weather was perfect for a day on the lake. Oh by the way the new boat was comfortable and super fast, so hold on to your hat the next spot is across the lake. Thanks for a great day!!!!!! Arnie, Buddy, Todd and Gideon
Arnie Cobb
April 8, 2025
Reeling Success 2025
Second annual trip with the Captain, one of my best fishing experiences! Great success reeling them in! Looking forward to 2025!
Walter Speed
June 12, 2024
Cool Captain Awesome
Every thing was Awesome. Captain James is a really "COOL DUDE" !!!. We will definitely book again 💯💯💯💯
Roland Hunter
July 26, 2024
Crappie Fish Captain
It was a great time. James is a great captain. I highly recommend him to anyone that wants to crappie fish.
Adam White
June 19, 2024
Laughs Fish Memories
We had a great time considering the weather and time of year. Captain James shared great fishing tips and didn’t waste our time when the fish weren’t active. We will definitely fish with him again. Be prepared to laugh and catch fish. Overall our experience was great!! Thanks for the memories Captain James!!
Paxton Riley
July 20, 2024
Best Captain Book Now
Captain James week is the best captain in the world, book today you won't be disappointed we will be back
Andre Mccoggle
July 27, 2024
Knowledge Finds Fish
Captain Weeks exhibited his knowledge of Clark's Hill. The bite was slow and challenging due to a easterly wind. Captain Weeks kept moving around until he found cooperative fish. We had a great time and enjoyed talking during the trip with Captain Weeks. Highly recommend his services for a guided trip.
Kyle Kelly Satterfield
August 23, 2024
Fish Finder James
Captain James knows where the fish are located and he puts you on them. It’s up to you to catch them. Always a great time fishing with the captain.
Charles Gore
August 23, 2024
Enjoyable Fish Trip
We really enjoyed ourselves on the fishing trip and looking forward to coming again
Antonia Reese
September 6, 2024
Limit Catch Guarantee
If you want to catch fish and have a good time doing so book this charter. Captain James is a great guide and will do his best to make sure you catch your limit. We've booked several trips with him over the past 3 years and have always have a good time.
Warking Goodwin
September 12, 2024
Learn more about the species
Crappie
Crappie (Poxomis)
Crappies are game fish and the largest members of the Centrarchidae family. They are present in nature as Black Crappie (Poxomis nigromaculatus) or and White Crappie (Poxomis annularus). Both the species are similar to each other, apart from few distinctions. White crappie will have vertical bars running the length of their body, and black crappie will have no discernible pattern and will just be speckled, hence their nickname, “specks". White crappie has 5-6 spines, and black crappie has 7-8 spines. Anglers often differentiate the two by body shapeGrenade Lake, Mississippi, and Reel foot Lake are considered among giant crappie lakes.
Crappie Habitat and Distribution
Both the crappies have a similar habitat, though black crappie prefers clearer water than white crappie. These fishes can be found in rivers, lakes, and backwater pools swimming in shallow waters or hiding among bushes, vegetation, or other covers.
Crappie is native to Canada and the eastern States. It is a much-enjoyed game fish in North America and inhabits the Great Lakes, Hudson Bay, and the Mississippi River Basins.
Crappie Size and Weight
Crappie can be 7-12 inches long and weigh about 0.5-1 pounds.
Crappie Interesting Facts
Crappie is known for its tasty and white meat.
- Both Poxomis nigromaculatus and Poxomis annularus are less active during the day.
- Both the fishes have a different number of dorsal fin spines. White Crappie has 6 while Black Crappie has 7 or 8.
- Mouth of Black Crappie is larger and reaches mid-eye and has a resemblance to largemouth bass.
- Crappie travels in schools.
- Female lays 5000-60000 eggs.
- Crappie can live for 7 to 10 years.
Is Crappie Good to Eat?
Despite its name, crappie is an excellent source of nutrition, containing high amounts of protein and essential omega-3 fatty acids. Although it's not as popular as salmon or tuna, crappie can be a delicious addition to any healthy diet. They are known for their delicate taste and ease of preparation.
When cooked properly, crappie has a delicate flavor and flaky texture, making it perfect for grilling, frying, or baking. Moreover, because they are smaller fish than other common species, such as bass or catfish, the chances of mercury contamination in their flesh are much lower.
Crappie Spawning
Crappie spawning season begins in early spring and summer when the water temperature is 62 F-68 F. Male builds the nest in soft or gravelly spots, the female lays the eggs, and the male guards the nest. Eggs take 2 to 5 days to hatch.
Crappie Food
Depending on the age, Crappie victims consist of zooplankton, crustaceans, small fish, minnows, insects, gizzard or threadfin shads, and larvae of other game fishes.
Crappie Fishing
Crappie is most active at dawn or dusk. Anglers recommend using live bait and properly sized hooks, not too small, not too large.
Spin or Bait Fishing for Crappie:
Spin fishing for crappie is a popular angling technique used for years. The use of small lures, such as crappie spinners or jigs along the bottom with light tackle, makes it possible to catch these elusive fish with ease. Crappie spinner fishing involves using a spinning rod and reel setup to cast the lure out into the water and retrieve it in a steady fashion.
When fishing for crappie with a spinner, it's essential to choose the right size and color of the lure. Smaller lures are more effective when targeting this species due to their smaller mouths. Additionally, selecting colors that mimic the natural prey of crappie can help increase your chances of catching them. It's also important to consider where you're casting your line when using spinners for crappie fishing.
Another popular technique is a bobber with a hook with live bait such as worms or small minnows. This is a proven method to catch crappie.
Fly Fishing for Crappie:
- Fly fishing for Crappie is exciting. Both dry and wet flies work well. Use dry flies on still and calm days, especially early and late. A great way to start a young angler on fly fishing, crappie is not as challenging as much other game fish.
- The best-wet flies for fly fishing are streamers and nymphs and soft large hackles. Streamers (small) are perfect when the fish is eating minnows.
- Anglers can fly fish for Crappie near fallen trees or bushes using a dry or wet fly. Be patient and let the fish properly take the hook. - Clouser Minnow is the ultimate fly bait that can catch even the sluggish crappie.
Crappie Baits and Lures:
- Spinners
- Pan-fish jigs
- Small crankbaits
- Insects
- Worms
- Streamer flies
- Small minnows
- Nymphs
About the
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Vehicle Guest Capacity: 6
Manufacturer Name: Suzuki
Maximum Cruising Speed: 40
Number of Engines: 1
Horsepower per Engine: 150
James really knows how to catch crappie. We fished for two days and loaded the coolers. I would give him a 5 out of 5 stars. You will not regret booking a charter with him. Definitely coming back soon!