Summertime slabs

Go deep for summer crappie

Crappie fishing in the Carolinas during June offers a rewarding challenge for anglers who understand the seasonal shift in fish behavior. As the heat of summer begins to settle in, both black and white crappie start moving away from the shallow spawning areas and head to deeper waters in search of cooler temperatures and more stable conditions. Knowing where to find them and how to tempt them into biting is key to success during this transitional period.

In lakes and reservoirs across North and South Carolina, crappie tend to suspend around mid-depth structures during June. Brush piles, submerged timber, bridge pilings, and deep docks in 10 to 20 feet of water are all prime targets. Many anglers find success with electronics, using sonar to pinpoint schools of crappie hovering around these features. Once located, anglers can drop minnows or jigs vertically to stay in the strike zone.

Live minnows are a staple for many anglers, but artificial baits can be just as productive. Small soft-plastic jigs in white, chartreuse, or pink are go-to colors for many Carolina crappie anglers. A slow, deliberate presentation works best in the warming water. Vertical jigging with light line such as 4- to 6-pound test is especially effective when fish are holding tight to structure. On cloudy days or early in the morning, crappie may roam away from cover and chase baitfish, offering good opportunities for casting or trolling small crankbaits or Beetle Spins.

Slow trolling

Trolling is a popular method in large open-water lakes like Lake Norman, Jordan Lake, and Santee Cooper. Pulling a spread of jigs at varying depths behind a slow-moving boat allows anglers to cover a lot of water and stay on the fish. This technique is especially productive during early summer when crappie are scattered in open water chasing shad and other forage.

Water clarity can also play a role in determining where and how to fish. In clear water, crappie tend to hold deeper during the day and may be more selective. In stained or muddy water, they often stay shallower and are less wary. Anglers on rivers or in backwater swamps, such as those found in the Santee system, often find crappie holding in current breaks, around laydowns, or in deeper holes where water flow brings cooler temperatures and more oxygen.

Timing is also important. Early mornings and late evenings are generally the most productive times, especially as surface temperatures rise. During mid-day heat, fish are less active and usually positioned tight to cover in deeper water, so patience and precision become crucial.