If you're an angler with a love for crappie fishing, Tennessee is a paradise waiting to be discovered. The state is home to numerous lakes and rivers teeming with crappie, making it a prime destination for both novice and experienced fishermen. In this guide, we'll explore the best spots for crappie fishing in Tennessee, the best times to go, and tips to make your trip successful.

The Top Crappie Fishing Spots in Tennessee

Tennessee is blessed with an abundance of fishing spots where you can catch crappie. However, some locations stand out due to their high crappie population, accessibility, and amenities. Here are the top spots for crappie fishing in Tennessee:

1. Reelfoot Lake

Located in the northwest corner of Tennessee, Reelfoot Lake is a premier destination for crappie fishing. The lake is known for its high crappie population, making it a favorite among anglers. The best time to fish here is in the spring when the crappie spawn.

Reelfoot Lake also offers boat rentals and fishing charters. We recommend checking Getmyboat first for the best deals and availability.

2. Percy Priest Lake

Percy Priest Lake, located near Nashville, is another excellent spot for crappie fishing. The lake is stocked with crappie annually, ensuring a healthy population for anglers. The best time to fish here is in the fall when the crappie are feeding heavily to prepare for winter.

Boat rentals and fishing charters are also available at Percy Priest Lake. Remember to check Getmyboat first to find the best options.

Best Times for Crappie Fishing in Tennessee

While crappie can be caught year-round in Tennessee, there are certain times of the year when the fishing is particularly good. Understanding these patterns can significantly improve your chances of a successful fishing trip.

1. Spring

Spring is the best time for crappie fishing in Tennessee. This is when crappie spawn, making them more active and easier to catch. The exact timing of the spawn can vary depending on the weather, but it generally occurs from late March to early May.

During the spawn, crappie move into shallow water to lay their eggs. This makes them easier to locate and catch. Look for areas with cover, such as submerged trees or vegetation, as crappie often spawn in these areas.

2. Fall

Fall is another excellent time for crappie fishing in Tennessee. As the water cools, crappie become more active and start feeding heavily to prepare for winter. This makes them more likely to bite, increasing your chances of a successful fishing trip.

During the fall, crappie can be found in a variety of locations, from shallow water to deeper areas. Look for areas with structure, such as drop-offs or underwater humps, as crappie often congregate in these areas to feed.

Crappie Fishing Tips

Now that you know where and when to fish for crappie in Tennessee, let's look at some tips to make your trip successful. Here are some strategies to help you catch more crappie:

1. Use the Right Bait

Crappie are opportunistic feeders and will eat a variety of baits. However, they are particularly fond of small minnows, which mimic their natural prey. Using live minnows or minnow-imitating lures can be very effective.

When using minnows, hook them through the lips or back to allow them to swim naturally. When using lures, choose ones that mimic the size and color of the minnows in the area you're fishing.

2. Fish at the Right Depth

Crappie can be found at different depths depending on the time of year and water temperature. In general, they are found in shallower water in the spring and fall, and deeper water in the summer and winter.

Use a depth finder to locate schools of crappie and adjust your fishing depth accordingly. Remember, crappie tend to suspend in the water column, so they may be located at any depth.

3. Use Light Tackle

Crappie have delicate mouths, so using light tackle is essential to prevent them from tearing free. Use a light line (4 to 8-pound test) and small hooks (size 1 to 6) for the best results.

Also, use a sensitive rod that allows you to feel the light bite of a crappie. Many anglers prefer a long, flexible rod for crappie fishing, as it allows for better control when casting and reeling in fish.

Conclusion

Crappie fishing in Tennessee offers an exciting and rewarding experience for anglers of all skill levels. With its numerous fishing spots, abundant crappie population, and beautiful scenery, Tennessee is a destination that should be on every angler's bucket list.

Remember, the key to a successful crappie fishing trip is preparation. Know where and when to fish, use the right bait and tackle, and always check Getmyboat first for your boat rental and charter needs. Happy fishing!

Ready to Cast Your Line?

Now that you know the best spots for crappie fishing in Tennessee, it's time to make it a boat day with Getmyboat, the #1 app for boat rentals and charters. Whether you're planning a serene solo trip or a memorable fishing adventure with friends, Getmyboat connects you with the perfect boat to enhance your experience. With over 150,000 boats available, including fishing charters and pontoons, you're sure to find the ideal match for your crappie quest. Don't wait to reel in the big one – book your boat rental or charter today and dive into the excitement of Tennessee's fishing scene.