Top-Rated Crappie Fishing on Clarks Hill Lake

Crappie Winter & Spring Trolling Bonanza

Get ready for some of the hottest crappie action of the year on Clarks Hill Lake! As the water warms up and these tasty panfish move shallow to spawn, we're gearing up for epic days on the water. Our winter and spring trolling trips are designed to put you on the biggest slabs of the season. Whether you're a seasoned crappie angler or new to the game, you're in for a treat. We'll show you the ropes, provide top-notch gear, and make sure you leave with a cooler full of fish and a memory card full of photos.

What to Expect on the Water

When you step aboard our fully-rigged crappie fishing boat, you're in for a day of non-stop action. We'll start by hitting some of Clarks Hill's most productive spots, using our local knowledge and latest electronics to find the fish. You'll learn the art of trolling - a technique that lets us cover water efficiently and present baits at multiple depths. As we work the shorelines and brush piles, keep your eyes peeled for that telltale tap on your rod tip. When a school of hungry crappie moves in, things can get wild in a hurry!

Trolling Tips & Tackle Talk

Crappie fishing is all about a light touch, and our trolling setup is designed to give you the best chance at success. We use ultra-light rods with small reels and light line—typically 4 to 6 lb test—for a sensitive and responsive feel. Our approach includes a mix of jigs, minnows, and crankbaits in colors that consistently perform well on Clarks Hill. We’ll adjust our tactics based on the conditions, whether that means a slow, steady troll or a slightly quicker pace to trigger reaction bites. If you’re new to this technique, no problem—our guides will walk you through everything and have you fishing confidently in no time.

What Anglers Are Saying

"Captain James Weeks was an excellent guide. We caught our limit, the Captain was very professional, and I will be looking forward to going out again." - Phil

"Whenever I go out fishing with Mr.James it's an awesome time,we laugh and joke around every time,and the fishing is always great aswell,Mr James do his job well every trip I've been on" - Charles

"Hello Captain James I just want to take this time out to let you know that me my partner Ben and my other partner Cab Driver we had an awesome fun and safe trip on yesterday. You were very patient explaining us what we have to do and on top of that, you put us on the fish. All I can say is that you are the man when it comes to Crappie and if anyone ask about a fishing trip, I will guarantee refer them to you. So once again, thanks for everything and we will see you again in May 2025 thanks." - Nathaniel

Species You'll Want to Hook

Crappie are a highlight of our trips, and it’s easy to see why. These panfish are fun to catch and are known for their excellent taste at the table. Clarks Hill Lake has a healthy population of quality-sized crappie, offering great opportunities throughout the year. During the cooler months, they tend to school up tightly, so once we locate them, the action can be fast-paced. As spring approaches, crappie move into shallower water to spawn, often gathering around brush piles, submerged trees, and other structure in 5 to 15 feet of water. This is when some of the biggest fish of the season are caught, with females at their peak weight.

Crappie are known for their delicate, thin mouths, which makes hook setting a bit of an art—and adds to the challenge. Their bite can be subtle, but once you find the right depth and presentation, it’s possible to catch a good number in a single trip. And while they may not make long runs, big crappie put up a fun, stubborn fight on light tackle, making them a favorite for anglers of all experience levels.

Why Anglers Keep Coming Back

There’s something about crappie fishing that keeps people coming back season after season. Maybe it’s the quiet anticipation of the next bite, the reward of bringing home fresh fillets, or simply the peaceful time spent on the water. Whatever the reason, Clarks Hill Lake offers all of that and more. Our winter and spring trips combine steady fishing action with scenic views, giving you a chance to unwind, take in the shoreline, and maybe even spot some local wildlife.

Of course, the fishing is the real highlight. When you come across a school of active crappie, the action can pick up quickly—with double and even triple hook-ups that keep things exciting. It’s easy to see why crappie fishing has such a dedicated following. And at the end of the day, you’ll head home with a cooler full of fresh fish—perfect for sharing with family and friends over a classic crappie fry.

Top Catches This Season

While every trip is different, we've been having some killer days on the water lately. Just last week, we put a group on over 100 crappie in a single 6-hour trip, with several fish pushing the 2-pound mark. But it's not just about numbers - we've had days where we've caught fewer fish, but they were all quality 1-pounders and up. That's the beauty of Clarks Hill - you never know when that next cast might produce the crappie of a lifetime.

Time to Book Your Spot

If you’re eager to experience some of the best crappie fishing on Clarks Hill Lake, now’s a great time to reserve your spot. Our fall, winter, and spring trips are among the most popular, and availability tends to fill up quickly. Whether you’re an experienced angler or just getting started, we provide all the gear, expertise, and support you need for an enjoyable day on the water.

Don’t miss your chance to target some of the biggest crappie of the season. Give us a call or send a message to book your trip today. We’ll make sure you’re fishing in the right spots at the right times to help fill your cooler with quality slabs. And who knows—you might even land a trophy crappie. So round up a friend, clear your calendar, and get ready for a memorable day on Clarks Hill Lake. We look forward to seeing you out there!