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Best Crappie Fishing on Clarks Hill Lake

  • Published Date: July 22, 2025
  • Fishing
  • Clarks Hill Lake
  • $400 - $800 price range
  • Updated Date: September 25, 2025

Summary

Hop aboard with William Sasser Guide Service for a full day of crappie fishing on Clarks Hill Lake. We'll hit the water around sunrise, aiming for the lake's top crappie spots. Whether you're a seasoned angler or new to fishing, our experienced guides will help you make the most of your 6-hour trip. We provide all the gear, so just bring yourself and up to 5 friends. Our boat comfortably fits 3 anglers, but we can accommodate up to 6 if you want to bring the whole crew. We'll work hard to get you to your catch limit, sharing local knowledge and fishing tips along the way. It's a laid-back day on the water, focused on landing some nice crappie and having a good time. With only one trip scheduled per day, you'll get our full attention and a tailored experience. So grab your fishing buddies and join us for a day of crappie action on Clarks Hill Lake.
Best Crappie Fishing on Clarks Hill Lake

Crappie Catch of the Day

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Four yellow bass caught while fishing in Appling

Perfect day for lake fishing fun

Striped bass caught in Appling while fishing

Lake Clarks Hill striped bass catch

Group of 5 people fishing in Georgia, with wiper and striped bass caught

Holding a big Clarks Hill bass

Striped Bass and Wiper Hybrid Fish Caught in Appling

Top fishing spots at Clarks Hill

6 anglers reeling in striped bass in GA

Catching trophy bass on Clarks Hill Lake

Seven crappie fish caught in Appling

Crappie fishing adventure today

Five fishermen enjoying a great fishing trip in GA

Striped bass bite on Clarks Hill Lake

Four people fishing in Appling

Early morning bass fishing trip

Five yellow bass caught while fishing in Appling

Kids fishing at Clarks Hill Lake

Striped bass fishing in Georgia

Expert guide showing fishing tips

Four yellow bass caught while fishing in Appling

Perfect day for lake fishing fun

Striped bass caught in Appling while fishing

Lake Clarks Hill striped bass catch

Group of 5 people fishing in Georgia, with wiper and striped bass caught

Holding a big Clarks Hill bass

Striped Bass and Wiper Hybrid Fish Caught in Appling

Top fishing spots at Clarks Hill

6 anglers reeling in striped bass in GA

Catching trophy bass on Clarks Hill Lake

Seven crappie fish caught in Appling

Crappie fishing adventure today

Five fishermen enjoying a great fishing trip in GA

Striped bass bite on Clarks Hill Lake

Four people fishing in Appling

Early morning bass fishing trip

Five yellow bass caught while fishing in Appling

Kids fishing at Clarks Hill Lake

Striped bass fishing in Georgia

Expert guide showing fishing tips

Four yellow bass caught while fishing in Appling

Perfect day for lake fishing fun

Striped bass caught in Appling while fishing

Lake Clarks Hill striped bass catch

Group of 5 people fishing in Georgia, with wiper and striped bass caught

Holding a big Clarks Hill bass

Striped Bass and Wiper Hybrid Fish Caught in Appling

Top fishing spots at Clarks Hill

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Reel in the Big Ones: Clarks Hill Crappie Charter

Ready for some serious crappie action on Clarks Hill Lake? William Sasser Guide Service has got you covered with our 6-hour crappie fishing charter. Whether you're a seasoned angler or just getting your feet wet, we'll put you on the fish and show you a good time. Our trips are perfect for small groups, with room for up to 6 people. We'll hit the water at the crack of dawn, around 6 a.m., to make the most of prime fishing time. Our expert guides know all the honey holes where crappie like to hang out, so you've got a great shot at hitting your limit or at least filling up the cooler before we wrap up.

What to Expect on the Water

When you hop aboard with William Sasser Guide Service, you're in for a treat. We've got all the gear you need - rods, reels, tackle, and bait - so all you have to bring is your excitement and maybe a snack or two. Our guides are old hands at crappie fishing, and they're itching to share their know-how. We'll cruise to some of the lake's sweet spots, places where the crappie tend to school up. You might find yourself dropping lines near submerged timber, along drop-offs, or over brush piles. We'll adjust our tactics based on what the fish are doing that day, whether it's vertical jigging, casting to structure, or slow-trolling with multiple lines. And don't worry if you're new to this - we'll walk you through everything step-by-step.

Techniques That Hook 'Em

Crappie fishing on Clarks Hill Lake is an art and a science. We'll likely be using light tackle - think ultralight rods and reels spooled with 4-6 pound test line. Jigs are our bread and butter, often tipped with live minnows or soft plastics. Colors can make a big difference, so we might switch it up between white, chartreuse, or pink depending on water clarity and light conditions. If the bite is tough, we might break out the spider rigging setup, which lets us cover more water and depths. And here's a pro tip: keep your movements subtle. Crappie have soft mouths, so a gentle hookset is key to landing these tasty panfish. Our guides will show you the ropes, and before you know it, you'll be feeling those signature light bites and reeling in slabs left and right.

What Anglers Are Saying

"Great time with Brad, caught lots of fish and had a blast! Will be going back for the crappie." - William

"Simply the best guide service on Clark's Hill. Organized, knowledgeable, and outstanding service. Brad and his crews know their stuff. Book with them and you won't be disappointed." - Nick

"We really enjoyed our first fishing trip with Brad. We scheduled crappie fishing trip but end up doing strippers also. What an excellent experience because Brad put us on the strippers. I would recommend and we definitely be going again soon." - Kenneth

Species You'll Want to Hook

Crappie are the stars of the show on this trip, and for good reason. These feisty panfish are a blast to catch and even better to eat. On Clarks Hill Lake, you'll find both black and white crappie, with the potential to land some real slabs. These fish typically range from 8 to 14 inches, but don't be surprised if you hook into a monster pushing 16 inches or more. Crappie are known for their paper-thin mouths and light bites, which makes catching them a fun challenge. They tend to school up, so when you find one, you've often found a bunch. Spring is prime time for crappie fishing when they move into shallower water to spawn, but our guides know how to track them year-round. These fish have a mild, sweet flavor that's hard to beat, making them a favorite for fish fries.

While we're targeting crappie, don't be surprised if you hook into some bonus catches. Clarks Hill is also home to some hefty striped bass, which can really get your drag singing if you tie into one. Largemouth bass are always a possibility too, especially when fishing near structure. And if we're working the shallows, you might even land a few bluegill to round out your panfish catch. Our guides are always happy to switch gears if a different species is biting, ensuring you get the most out of your time on the water.

Time to Book Your Spot

If you're itching to get out on Clarks Hill Lake and fill a cooler with some of the tastiest fish around, now's the time to lock in your trip. Our Clarks Hill Lake Crappie Fishing Charter is a customer favorite for good reason. With expert guides, top-notch equipment, and insider knowledge of the lake's best spots, you're set up for a day of non-stop action. Whether you're looking to learn new techniques, introduce the kids to fishing, or just want to enjoy a relaxing day on the water with the bonus of a delicious fish dinner, we've got you covered. Remember, we only run one trip a day, so you'll get our full attention and a personalized experience. Don't let another fishing season slip by - give William Sasser Guide Service a call and get ready to make some memories (and catch some dinner) on Clarks Hill Lake. Trust us, once you fish with us, you'll be hooked!

Customer Reviews

Fishin Fun with Brad

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Great time with Brad, caught lots of fish and had a blast! Will be going back for the crappie.

WM
William McCullough

May 17, 2025

Icy Bass Bonanza

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We went last January and limited out on striped bass and had a blast ! 5 stars all around! The guide and I laughed at my fiance a lot, because it was 16 degrees out that morning and she was shivering so because she was wearing a net cloth style Nike shocking she was saying her feet were just cold . All in all great time!

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BJ
Barth Josey

July 2, 2024

Top Notch Guides

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Simply the best guide service on Clark’s Hill. Organized, knowledgeable, and outstanding service. Brad and his crews know their stuff. Book with them and you won’t be disappointed.

NH
Nick Howlett

August 2, 2023

Dedicated Guide

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Extremely good guide the fish were not biting very well Brad did everything he could to put us on fish unfortunately they didn't cooperate out of his kindness he offered us another trip free of charge I am extremely pleased with him and will book again and recommend him Dennis Reese 3324 ga hwy 171:North Gibson Georgia

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DR
Dennis Reese

April 5, 2025

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He put us on the fish right away and got us our limit.

RD
Raymond Drayer

June 3, 2024

Surprise Striper Haul

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We really enjoyed our first fishing trip with Brad. We scheduled crappie fishing trip but end up doing strippers also. What an excellent experience because Brad put us on the strippers. I would recommend and we definitely be going again soon.

Read More
KP
Kenneth Pinckney

July 15, 2024

First Striper Success

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Really nice trip for daughter and son-in-law, first time striper fishing. Thank you, Captain Bradd!

CG
Chris Garrison

August 26, 2024

Fish Galore with Brad

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Thanks Brad for a great fishing trip that produced us an abundant of fish.If asked or in any conversation Sasser will be highly recommended by me. For those who has never went fishing with Brad, go you will not regret it!!

MK
Mark Knight

September 7, 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 Distribution Map
Crappie Map of Habitat

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

Crappie

About the William Sasser Guide Service

Company vehicle

Vehicle Guest Capacity: 6

Manufacturer Name: Mercury

Maximum Cruising Speed: 40

Number of Engines: 1

Horsepower per Engine: 200

Ready to reel in some crappie? Hop aboard our fishing boat for a laid-back day on Clarks Hill Lake. We've got room for you and up to two buddies, with all the gear you'll need to land those tasty fish. Our experienced guides know just where the crappie are biting and will share their local knowledge to help you max out your catch. We'll cruise the lake for 6 hours, hitting the best spots as the sun comes up. Whether you're a seasoned angler or trying fishing for the first time, you'll feel right at home on our charter. Bring your favorite snacks, a cooler for your catch, and get ready for a relaxing day on the water. With only one trip scheduled per day, you'll have our full attention as we work together to fill the boat with crappie.
William Sasser Guide Service

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Book your unforgettable fishing adventure with William Sasser Guide Service today and experience the thrill of Clarks Hill Lake like never before. Don't miss out on the catch of a lifetime – reserve your spot now and let's reel in some memories together!

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