Captain Josh Crappie Fishing
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Top-Rated Lake Lanier Crappie Fishing Charter

  • Published Date: July 17, 2025
  • Fishing
  • Lake Lanier
  • $350 - $400 price range
  • Updated Date: September 12, 2025

Summary

Want to reel in some trophy Crappie on Lake Lanier? This 4-hour charter with Captain Josh is perfect for anglers of all levels. You'll get hands-on guidance from a pro who knows all the best spots. No need to bring gear - top-quality rods, reels, and tackle are provided. Just grab your Georgia fishing license and any snacks you want. Whether you're solo or bringing friends and family, you'll learn techniques to land those big catches. The captain's expertise means you're in for a productive day on the water, with plenty of chances to hook some impressive fish. Remember, it's catch-and-release, so you can feel good about conservation while still getting those trophy photos. Be ready for an active day of fishing - you might even pick up some new tricks to use on your next outing.
Top-Rated Lake Lanier Crappie Fishing Charter

Big Crappie Catches

Crappie fishing with light tackle at Sardis Creek Park

Huge crappie reeled in at Sardis Creek Park using light tackle!

Reel in Trophy Crappie on Lake Lanier

Ready to hook into some slab crappie on one of Georgia's best fishing lakes? Captain Josh's professional crappie charter on Lake Lanier is your ticket to a day of non-stop action. Whether you're a seasoned angler or just getting your feet wet, this 4-hour trip is tailored to put you on fish and send you home with a cooler full of tasty filets. With all the gear provided and expert know-how at your fingertips, you'll be jigging like a pro in no time.

What to Expect on the Water

From the moment you step aboard Captain Josh's clean, well-equipped boat, you're in for a treat. He's got all the latest electronics to find those honey holes where the big crappie are stacked up. You'll learn the ins and outs of reading the fish finder, setting up your presentation, and the subtle techniques that can turn a slow day into a bonanza. The captain's got a knack for making everyone feel comfortable, whether you're a first-timer or looking to up your game. And let's be real - there's nothing quite like the thump of a big crappie hitting your jig!

Tactics That Land Lunkers

On this trip, you'll get hands-on experience with the methods that consistently produce on Lanier. Captain Josh is a master of spider rigging - a technique that lets you cover water and present multiple baits at different depths. You might also try vertical jigging around brush piles or slow-trolling minnows along creek channels. The captain will show you how to fine-tune your presentation based on the conditions and the mood of the fish. It's not just about catching; it's about understanding the why and how, so you can replicate your success on future trips.

Customer Stories

"It was bloody cold! Captain Josh is a great guide with a sense of humor. He put us on the fish all trip, but they would not bite. Many times the fish would leave their group come up sniff our lure and just leave it. We caught 3 ...pic below." - Colin

"This trip was fantastic. It was a hard day of fishing after a random cold front and storm came through the night before. However, Capt. Josh can still found the crappies. Capt. Josh was great in answering all questions from tactics, crappie ecology, Lanier history, and about anything else that popped up. My daughter and myself had a blast." - Patrick

"Absolute blast with Capt. Josh today on Lanier catching crappie. Brought home a cooler full and threw back a bunch as well. For those of you that don't know Capt. Josh, he donates his time to both military veterans, as well as everyday hero's including fireman, police, and medics. Thanks a bunch Josh, we appreciate your efforts." - Trapper

Species You'll Want to Hook

Crappie are the star of the show on this trip, and Lake Lanier's known for producing some real slabs. These panfish might not pull drag like a striper, but they more than make up for it with their numbers and taste on the table. Crappie in Lanier can reach upwards of 2 pounds, with most keeper-sized fish falling in the 10-14 inch range. They're known for their paper-thin mouths, which makes for an exciting and challenging fight - you've got to finesse these fish to the boat!

Spring is prime time for crappie fishing, as they move into shallow water to spawn. But don't count out the rest of the year. Captain Josh knows how to track these fish as they move out to deeper structure in the summer and fall. In the cooler months, you might find them schooled up tight, which can lead to some of the most exciting fishing of the year when you get on a hot bite.

Crappie are notorious for their light bites, which is part of what makes them so fun to catch. You'll learn to watch your line like a hawk and feel for that subtle 'tick' that means a fish has taken your bait. And when you set the hook on a big slab, get ready for some acrobatics - these fish are known for their spirited fights and tendency to throw the hook if you're not careful.

Why Anglers Keep Coming Back

Lake Lanier isn't just any old fishing hole - it's a crappie angler's paradise. With over 38,000 acres of water and countless coves, points, and submerged timber, there's always a new spot to explore. Captain Josh's local knowledge is key here. He's put in the time to know where the fish are holding throughout the year, which means you spend more time catching and less time searching.

But it's not just about the fish. A day on Lanier is a feast for the eyes, with its clear blue waters and tree-lined shores. You might spot ospreys diving for their own catch or see deer coming down to the water's edge for a drink. And let's not forget the camaraderie - there's something special about sharing a boat and swapping stories with fellow anglers, whether they're old friends or new acquaintances.

Time to Book Your Spot

If you're itching to get out on the water and fill your livewell with some Lake Lanier slabs, Captain Josh's crappie charter is the way to go. With his top-notch equipment, years of experience, and passion for putting clients on fish, you're in for a day you won't soon forget. Remember, all you need to bring is your Georgia fishing license and some snacks - Captain Josh has got the rest covered.

Whether you're looking to learn new techniques, want to explore Lanier's hot spots, or just want to enjoy a relaxing day reeling in dinner, this trip checks all the boxes. Spots fill up fast, especially during peak seasons, so don't wait to lock in your date. Give Captain Josh a call and get ready to make some memories on the water. Who knows? You might just catch the crappie of a lifetime!

Customer Reviews

Cold Fish Tease

quotes

It was bloody cold! Captain Josh is a great guide with a sense of humor. He put us on the fish all trip, but they would not bite. Many times the fish would leave their group come up sniff our lure and just leave it. We caught 3 ...pic below.

Read More
CH
Colin Hetherington

November 25, 2024

Crappie Quest

quotes

This trip was fantastic. It was a hard day of fishing after a random cold front and storm came through the night before. However, Capt. Josh can still found the crappies. Capt. Josh was great in answering all questions from tactics, crappie ecology, Lanier history, and about anything else that popped up. My daughter and myself had a blast.

Read More
PF
Patrick Faist

April 14, 2025

Hero Hooks Crappie

quotes

Absolute blast with Capt. Josh today on Lanier catching crappie. Brought home a cooler full and threw back a bunch as well. For those of you that don’t know Capt. Josh, he donates his time to both military veterans, as well as everyday hero’s including fireman, police, and medics. Thanks a bunch Josh, we appreciate your efforts.

Read More
TG
Trapper Glatzer

May 22, 2021

Fish Frenzy 17

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We landed 17 fish, and the Captain made sure we stayed right on top of them. Even when the bite slowed down and the fish started circling the bait without committing, we still had a fantastic time. Great experience with an excellent guide!

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BS
Brien S

May 6, 2025

Crappie Haul Pro

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We had an awesome day on the water and came back with a solid haul of crappie. Fishing with Captain Josh was a real pleasure—his knowledge and experience are top-notch. The boat was spotless and comfortable, fully equipped with advanced electronics and high-quality gear.

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FN
Frank N.

April 9, 2025

Snag Queen Scores

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My wife and I spent the day fishing with Captain Josh and had an amazing experience. He was incredibly patient and made sure we understood every step, even when my wife kept finding every snag and tree limb in the lake! He retied her line multiple times without a hint of frustration—always with a smile. Captain Josh truly knows where to find the fish, and we couldn’t recommend him more highly.

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RR
Robby R

March 28, 2025

Fish Finder Fun

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Great day can’t wait to go back , patient and gave good instruction. He found the fish !

AB
Andrew Brown

April 17, 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 War Eagle

Company vehicle

Vehicle Guest Capacity: 4

Manufacturer Name: Mercury

Maximum Cruising Speed: 50

Number of Engines: 1

Horsepower per Engine: 150

Get ready for an awesome day of crappie fishing on Lake Lanier with a pro guide who knows all the best spots. Whether you're a seasoned angler or just starting out, this 4-hour trip is perfect for honing your skills and landing some impressive catches. Your captain will set you up with top-notch gear - rods, reels, and tackle are all provided, so you can focus on reeling in the big ones. Just bring your Georgia fishing license, some snacks, and a drink, and you're all set. With room for two, it's ideal for a solo adventure or bringing along a buddy. You'll get hands-on tips and tricks from your expert guide to help you make the most of your time on the water. Lake Lanier is known for its trophy-sized crappie, so get ready for some serious fishing action. Remember, deposits are non-refundable, so lock in your spot and get ready for a great day out on the lake.
Captain Josh Crappie Fishing

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Catch on the Crappie Fishing Capital of Georgia with Captain Josh Crappie Fishing. Have an amazing time on Lake Lanier with Guide Josh of the same charter!

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