High Rock Slabs

The fishing doesn’t cool off in winter

High Rock Lake, nestled in the heart of North Carolina, is known for its abundant fish populations and scenic beauty, making it a popular destination for anglers year-round. While many anglers think of warmer months when it comes to fishing, January can offer some of the best crappie fishing opportunities on this lake. Although winter conditions bring colder water and slower fish activity, with the right techniques and gear, crappie fishing on High Rock Lake in January can be both rewarding and peaceful.

High Rock Lake, the second-largest lake in North Carolina, offers a variety of habitat ideal for crappie, including submerged trees, brush piles, and shallow coves. During January, crappie are typically more concentrated in specific areas, making them easier to target. As the water temperature drops into the mid-40s to low 50s, crappie tend to move deeper into the lake’s main channels and find refuge near structure where they can stay warm and feed.

In winter, crappie slow down and become less aggressive, but they still need to eat to survive. This makes them more likely to be found in deeper, more stable water, such as near drop-offs, ledges, and submerged structures. The quieter winter months also mean less fishing pressure, so anglers can enjoy a more peaceful and productive fishing experience.

To be successful in January, crappie fishing requires a more subtle approach. Cold-water crappie are less likely to chase fast-moving baits, so slow and deliberate techniques are key.

Vertical Jigging: One of the most effective methods for crappie fishing in winter is vertical jigging. By using a small, light jig (typically 1/16 to 1/8 ounce), anglers can fish deep water where crappie tend to congregate. Focus on submerged structures like brush piles, standing timber, or man-made fish attractors. Dropping the jig straight down and slowly bouncing it off the bottom can entice even the most sluggish crappie.

Trolling: Trolling is another excellent technique for winter crappie fishing on High Rock Lake. By using small crankbaits or jigs from a slow-moving boat, anglers can cover more water and target suspended crappie. In winter, crappie often suspend 10 to 20 feet below the surface, so adjusting your trolling depth to match their location is key.

Live Bait: While jigs and lures are effective, live bait such as minnows can be highly productive in the colder months. Rigging a minnow on a small hook under a float or with a light jighead is a great way to mimic natural prey and entice crappie to bite.

In January, crappie are most commonly found in deeper waters, especially around structures.

Deep Channels and Drop-offs: Crappie often move into deeper areas of the lake during winter to find more stable water temperatures. Look for channels, drop-offs, and submerged ledges that create deep pockets where crappie like to congregate.

Submerged Structures: High Rock Lake is known for its numerous submerged structures, including brush piles, sunken trees, and man-made fish attractors. These areas provide hiding spots and food sources for crappie. Using sonar or fish finders can help locate these structures more easily.

Creek Mouths: During winter, crappie often gather at the mouths of creeks where they can find food and cover. These areas are particularly productive during the first few hours of daylight or in the late afternoon when fish are more active.

For winter crappie fishing on High Rock Lake, using light tackle is crucial. A light to medium-light spinning rod (around 6 to 7 feet) paired with a 2- to 6-pound test line will give you the sensitivity needed to detect subtle bites in colder water. Fluorocarbon line is a good choice as it’s less visible in clear water, which is often the case during winter. When fishing with jigs, choose small (1/16 to 1/8 ounce) jigs in colors like white, chartreuse, or black. For live bait, minnows on a simple hook or a jighead work well.