Josh Thornton

If you are looking for an extraordinary trip that offers comfort and fun, then Captain Josh Crappie Fishing is the perfect match for you. Captain Josh Thornton is a lifelong angler who knows all the secrets you need to reel in tons of Crappie! His passion for fishing is out of this world and guarantees that you will have the best time of your life! The beautiful Lake Lanier offers spectacular, year-round Crappie fishing. Crappie is one of the most sought-after freshwater fish in North America known for its great nutritional value. They are also one of the most mouthwatering panfish to eat where you can choose to fry it in one piece or fillet it. Captain Josh will be there to assist you to make sure you have the catch of your life! The adventure starts on a 17’ BassTracker boat outfitted with top-notch electronics which guarantees a safe and comfortable ride for anyone on board. This vessel has all you need to have a productive day on the lake and can accommodate up to 2 guests fishing at the same time. Safety equipment will be taken care of by the captain as well. Captain Josh will provide all the fishing equipment you'll need for your trip. Just purchase a valid fishing license, bring sun protection, food, drinks, and get ready to have a mind-blowing fishing adventure! Enjoy one of the best panfish fishing trips in George today!

EPSG:4269

Wow what a day myself and Josh went out to have some fun this morning and fun we had many fish caught some very nice ones two. Two of my favorite things are in picture one. SLABZ crappie rod and ATX lures great combo. Everyone needs to try this combo.Hit the like and follow button and stay tuned for great fishing for crappie.
#SlabzCrappie
#atxlurecompany

Successful crappie fishing trip on boat in Gainesville GA showing multiple fish catch

Loaded day chasing slab crappie with SLABZ rod and ATX lures

Crappie

Seasonal Fishing Guide to Crappie, Striped Bass, and More on Lake Lanier

Lake Lanier crappie fishing is good the water temperature is 84 The fish are  active early in the morning before sunrise
Standing timber in 30-40 foot of water has been producing but not in big numbers get a few and move to the next spot. The deep fish are biting better than the shallow fish on docks Crappie have been at depths of 20 to 35 feet above a 25 to 40 foot bottom. The jig color combo that worked the best for me this week was black with a green paddle tail 1.5 inch jig. For your best fishing experience consider using the following equipment: a one piece ACC Crappie Stix rod and reel paired with 4 or 6 pound test K9 line with a Atx lure company jig. Further optimizing your efforts, a Garmin LiveScope, protected by a sonar shield cover, and a Power Pole are highly recommended.
To schedule your guided Lake Lanier crappie fishing trip, please contact Captain Josh Thornton at 770-530-6493. Additional information and helpful fishing tips can be found on our websites:

Hot Weather, Hotter Crappie Bite in the Brush

Crappie fishing on Lake Lanier is holding steady this July, with the best action happening early in the morning and just before sunset. Anglers are finding solid numbers of fish staging around submerged brush piles in 15 to 25 feet of water, especially on the south end of the lake near Flat Creek, Big Creek, and around docks with good structure. Target shaded areas during peak heat to improve your odds.

The most effective tactic right now is using small jigs in natural colors—think monkey milk, blue ice, or chartreuse—slowly worked through brush piles and dock posts. Minnows under slip floats are also producing well when crappie are suspended. Electronics are a major help this time of year, as schools are holding tight and won’t chase far.

Water temps are in the mid-80s, so the bite slows down midday. Focus your efforts early or late, and stay mobile until you mark fish. With stable weather and clear water conditions, this is a great window to fill the cooler with slabs if you time it right.

One for the books today! Summer fishing on Lake Lanier kicked off with a bang as I took Daniel out for some crappie action. We launched from Sardis Creek Park in Gainesville, GA, greeted by clear skies and perfect conditions. The water at Blacks Mill was just right for our target species. It was an early morning start with Captain Josh Crappie Fishing, and we were ready to make the most of our time on the lake.

Once the stage was set, we got down to business. We employed a mix of techniques, alternating between trolling, working crankbaits, and drop shotting to cover different depths and structures. Our persistence paid off when Daniel hooked into a monster crappie. After a good fight, we netted a 22-inch slab – a true trophy for Lake Lanier! We wrapped up the trip with smiles all around, celebrating a successful day on the water.

If you're looking to experience the thrill of crappie fishing on Lake Lanier, now's the time to book your trip. Our 4-hour charter trips are perfect for anglers of all skill levels. We're seeing some great action this season, and I'd love to put you on some big crappie. Whether you're a seasoned angler or new to the sport, Captain Josh Crappie Fishing has got you covered. We provide all the gear and knowledge you need for a successful outing. Don't miss out on the chance to land your own trophy crappie – they're biting, and the lake is calling! Give us a call to reserve your spot and join us for the Ultimate Crappie Fishing Adventure on beautiful Lake Lanier. Summer's the prime time for crappie, so let's get out there and make some memories on the water. Looking forward to seeing you at Sardis Creek Park soon!

Captain

Lake Lanier's Summer Crappie Bonanza: 22-Inch Trophy Catch!

Lake Lanier Summer Crappie: 22-Inch Trophy Catch

Air Fee

Bait Fee

Divemaster Fee

Mate's Fee

Nitrox Fee

Service Fee

State Taxes

Trimix Fee

Join a 4-hour professional angler fishing charter on Lake Lanier, focusing on Crappie. This guided trip accommodates all skill levels, offering expert instruction to help you catch trophy-sized fish. The captain provides all rods, reels, and tackle, so participants only need a Georgia fishing license and personal snacks or drinks. Suitable for solo anglers, friends, or family groups, this experience ensures hands-on guidance and high-quality equipment for a productive day on the water. Deposits are non-refundable.

War Eagle

570 Thompson Creek Park Rd, Dawsonville, GA 30534, USA

570 Thompson Creek Park Rd

4.00hour

Professional Crappie Fishing Charter on Lake Lanier

Reel in a Monster: Epic Crappie Catch on Lake Lanier!

Lake Lanier Trophy Crappie: 22-Inch Slab Caught on Summer Trip

I fished with john Edwards 
This morning we had the best 7 fish total I have ever had on Lake Lanier  over 13 pounds 
3 fish 1 pound 15 ounces   and our smallest was 1 pound 13 ounces

Epic Morning on Lake Lanier! 🎣 Best 7-Fish Total Over 13 lbs! 

A few nice fish from today! 
On the Atx lure company d2d 
4# bass not pictured 
Big schools of roaming crappie 5-8 foot deep
#atxlures

Solid Catch Today! 🎣 Crappie Biting on ATX Lures!

Congratulations Jason Hawkins on a 2 lbs. 10 oz. Lake Lanier black crappie!


Congrats on a Huge 2 lb. 10 oz. Lake Lanier Crappie! 🎣🐟

Call Captain Josh Thornton to book your Lake Lanier Crappie fishing trip.
770-530-6493
The water temperatures are in the mid 80s
Crappie are slow to bite and tight lipped but with some patience you can still get them. You can find crappie suspended 14-18 foot deep over a 30’-40’ bottom use live crappie minnows and be patient. The color combination I am using green and dark green (atx d2d) with a slow retrieval. The gear I recommend for crappie fishing is a Acc crappie stix 1-piece rod and reel with a 4-6-pound test K9 line, along with Garmin Live Scope and Power Pole

Fishing Report In Lake Lanier 

Northern Pikeminnow

Lake Lanier Minnow Fishing

The morning started slow, with only occasional fish being caught. As the day went on, more and more minnow fish appeared around the boat.

The water temperatures are in the mid 80s We are finding crappie suspended 15-30’ feet over a 30-40 bottom. The crappie are suspending for long periods of time and the bite is soft. Look for deep water brush or timber near a main channel up to 40’ usually they will be suspended around 25’ . Look for points near a main channel where the depth falls off quickly if there is any structure for the crappie to hold to you are likely to find them there. Crappie can still be found in shallow water if you can find a area with shade and the water temperature is lower. If you are using jigs I would recommend translucent colors with sparkles. Right now it seems they just want a minnow I am setting minnows 15’- 20 feet deep most of the time over a 20-40’ bottom. 95% of this weeks catch came on minnows. Crappie love the shade so cast into the shadows or shaded areas of dock. When dock shooting the biggest fish are usually the first to bite. I use ATX lure companies jigs on a lip thrashin lure jig heads. I use 5 pound test high visibility yellow k9 braid for my line unless I am using a bobber then it’s the k9 6 pound high vis line k9fishing.com and a Acc crappie stix. I use Garmin Live Scope and the Navionics Boating app.

Lake Lanier Fishing Report

We have an exciting opportunity for anglers to come fish in a Crappie Tournament on Lake Lanier for a great cause! The first place prize for this tournament is $1,000! All of the  proceeds from the tournament support Fishing With Every Day Heroes, a local non-profit that provides free guided fishing trips to veterans, first responders and active duty military! Register today to support an awesome cause and for your chance at some big Prize money while fishing Lake Lanier for Crappie! 

Lake Lanier Crappie Tournament 

Crappie in Lake Lanier Fishing 2022

As the water temperatures rise going into summer season, Crappies eventually grow in number. Look for Crappie in shallow blow downs, and remember to retrieve slow and give the jig time to sink to the level of the fish. When dock shooting the biggest fish are usually the first to bite.

Crappie Fishing in Lake Lanier 2022

The early morning bite has given us a good catch, with an 86 water temperature until 10 am. Crappies love the shade, that's why it is recommended to cast into the shadows or shaded areas of the dock. Retrieve slow and give the jig time to sink to the level of the fish for better results.

Lake Lanier Fishing this June 2022

Had a great time reeling some large fish within the 20’ depth range. Crappies are suspended at 6 to 10 feet, but the biting fish species are located deeper. During the trip, we were able to get around 4 great Crappies heading back to the dock with us. 

Using skippers jig moon jigs tipped with a small minnow use. 

Lake Lanier Fishing 2022

Flathead Catfish

The rainy day did not stop them from fishing a great catch. They managed to catch some Crappies and a massive 16.4 Flathead Catfish from Lake Lanier this July 2022. During the season, they are finding crappie suspended 15-25’ feet over a 30-40’ bottom.

Captain used ATX lure companies jigs on a lip thrashing lure, 5-pound test high visibility yellow k9 braid for line, and a Piscifun reel on an Acc crappie stick. He uses Garmin Live Scope and the Navionics Boating app.

Garmin fish finder display showing sonar reading with fish arches and bottom structure in Gainesville GA waters

Fresh caught fish in cooler from Gainesville GA fishing trip

Fishing boat on calm lake with dock structure in background near Gainesville GA

Fresh caught crappie being held on fishing boat at Lake Lanier in Gainesville Georgia

Fresh caught crappie fish in cooler from Gainesville GA fishing trip

Fresh caught crappie fish lying on boat deck with measuring ruler in Gainesville GA

Fresh caught crappie fish stored in cooler bag after fishing trip in Gainesville GA

Two crappie caught fishing in Gainesville GA displayed on boat dock

Fishing rod bent with fish hooked on lake near dock in Gainesville GA

Freshly caught crappie being held up on fishing boat in Gainesville GA lake

Freshwater Charters in Lake Lanier Fishing for Crappie & Catfish

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!

Captain Josh Crappie Fishing specializes in guided Lake Lanier fishing trips designed for anglers who want both comfort and results. Led by Captain Josh Thornton, a seasoned Lake Lanier fishing guide with years of hands-on experience, the company focuses on Crappie fishing at one of Georgia’s most well-known fishing destinations. Known as the “Crappie Capital of Georgia,” Lake Lanier offers incredible opportunities, and Captain Josh knows exactly where to take you for a productive and enjoyable day on the water. His knowledge, dedication, and passion for teaching make every Lake Lanier fishing charter a unique experience for beginners and seasoned anglers alike. When you choose Captain Josh Crappie Fishing, you’re not just booking a trip—you’re investing in expert guidance that ensures success on the water. From learning effective Crappie fishing techniques to exploring the top spots around Lake Lanier, Captain Josh delivers a personalized approach that sets his trips apart. If you’re ready to enjoy the best Crappie fishing Lake Lanier has to offer, Captain Josh Crappie Fishing is your top choice for Lake Lanier fishing charters.

Give the gift of an unforgettable fishing adventure with Captain Josh Thornton on Lake Lanier! Treat someone special to a memorable day on the water with Captain Josh Crappie Fishing. Whether it's for a birthday, anniversary, or any special occasion, this charter offers an exceptional fishing experience that will be cherished for years to come. Book a gift of fishing today and let your loved ones enjoy the thrill of Crappie fishing with a top-notch guide.

 Purchase A Captain Josh Crappie Fishing Gift Card today!

Easily change trip dates, times, or trip type by contacting Captain Josh Crappie Fishing from your receipt or right from our website! We look forward to fishing with you!

Purchase an E-Gift card and your loved one will apply that unique confirmation code to the booking at checkout from www.crappieonlanier.com

Captain Josh Crappie Fishing The Ultimate Fishing Charter Experience from Lake Lanier

Captain Josh Thornton is a seasoned crappie guide on Lake Lanier with a deep-rooted knowledge of this unique Georgia fishery. With years of hands-on experience, Josh has developed a reputation for consistently finding productive waters and adapting to seasonal patterns. His understanding of the lake's structure, water conditions, and crappie behavior makes him a go-to resource for anglers who want more than just a day on the water—they want to learn and succeed. Fishing isn’t just a job for Captain Josh—it’s a lifelong passion. His commitment to the craft shows in every outing, whether he’s fine-tuning bait presentation or helping new anglers master their technique. Josh values patience, clear instruction, and creating a relaxed atmosphere on the boat. For him, it's about more than catching fish—it's about helping others enjoy the full experience of fishing Lake Lanier with confidence and enthusiasm. Year-round, Josh focuses on targeting crappie in every season, using tried-and-true tactics tailored to Lanier's waters. He stays dialed in to water temps, clarity, and fish movement, adjusting strategies to keep clients on fish no matter the time of year. Whether it’s brush piles in the summer or staging areas in the winter, his knowledge of the lake's crappie patterns runs deep and always evolving. About The BoatCaptain Josh runs a fully equipped 22’ War Eagle Blackhawk boat, ideal for comfortably hosting up to four anglers. Designed for serious fishing, this vessel is outfitted with top-tier electronics, live sonar, and everything needed for a smooth day on the lake. Safety gear is onboard, and all tackle is provided—just bring your Georgia fishing license, a few snacks, and drinks, and you’re set for a productive day on the water with a guide who knows Lake Lanier like the back of his hand.

Meet Lake Lanier Top Fishing Guide, Josh Thornton, and Captain Josh Crappie Fishing!

Book a 4-hour guided crappie fishing trip on Lake Lanier. Expert instruction, all gear provided. Perfect for families and anglers!

Lake Crappie Fun

Top-Rated Lake Lanier Crappie Fishing Charter

Book a 4-hour guided crappie fishing trip on Lake Lanier. Perfect for beginners, all gear provided. Create lasting memories on the water!

Crappie Catch

Lake Lanier Beginner Crappie Fishing Adventure

Book a 4-hour family crappie fishing charter on Lake Lanier. All gear provided. Perfect for kids and beginners!

Family Crappie

Lake Lanier's Premier Family Crappie Charter

Book a top-rated 4-hour crappie fishing charter on Lake Lanier. Expert guidance, all gear provided. Reserve your spot now!

Lake Reel Time

Expert-Guided Crappie Fishing on Lake Lanier

Book a 4-hour guided Crappie fishing trip on Lake Lanier. All gear provided. Perfect for families and anglers of all levels.

Lanier Crappie

Elite Crappie Fishing on Lake Lanier with Captain Josh

Georgia Fishing License: Get your fishing license today! Explore Georgia's beautiful waters and cast your line for adventure. Don't miss out!

Fishing License

Get Your Valid Georgia Fishing License 

Things to do in Lake Lanier: Discover thrilling water sports, serene beaches, and scenic trails! Plan your perfect getaway today.

Things To Do

Things To Do In Lake Lanier 

Discounts Available

Common Questions: What are the typical prices for Lake Lanier fishing charters with Captain Josh?Prices for Lake Lanier fishing charters with Captain Josh vary depending on the trip duration and type. Expect rates to start around $350 for a half-day trip. What types of fishing trips are available with Captain Josh on Lake Lanier?Captain Josh offers several types of trips including Crappie fishing, bass fishing, and seasonal specialties. Each trip is tailored to provide the best Lake Lanier fishing experience. How long are typical Crappie fishing trips on Lake Lanier?Typical Crappie fishing trips on Lake Lanier with Captain Josh can range from 4 to 5 hours. What is included in the price of a Lake Lanier fishing charter with Captain Josh?The price of a Lake Lanier fishing charter generally includes the use of fishing equipment, bait, and a knowledgeable Lake Lanier fishing guide. It’s advisable to confirm specific inclusions when booking. Do I need to bring my own fishing gear for Crappie fishing on Lake Lanier?No, Captain Josh provides all necessary fishing gear for Crappie fishing on Lake Lanier. Just bring your fishing license, sun protection, and any personal snacks or drinks. Are there any additional costs associated with booking a fishing charter with Captain Josh?Additional costs may include gratuity for the guide and any optional extras like a fish cleaning service or advanced fishing equipment. Make sure to clarify these details when booking. Can I customize my fishing trip on Lake Lanier with Captain Josh?Yes, Captain Josh can tailor your Lake Lanier fishing trip to meet your preferences, whether it's a specific type of fish you want to target or a custom schedule. What’s the best time of year for Crappie fishing on Lake Lanier?Crappie fishing on Lake Lanier is excellent year-round, but peak seasons are typically in spring and fall when Crappie are most active. Captain Josh can provide the best times based on current conditions. How many people can join a Lake Lanier fishing charter with Captain Josh?Captain Josh’s boat can comfortably accommodate up to 2 guests up to 4 guest for Crappie fishing. For larger groups, special arrangements may be available, so it’s best to inquire in advance. What should I expect on a typical day of Crappie fishing with Captain Josh?On a typical day of Crappie fishing with Captain Josh, you can expect expert guidance, a well-maintained boat, and a friendly atmosphere. Captain Josh will ensure you have a productive and enjoyable Lake Lanier fishing experience.

Lake Lanier Fishing Charters Open for Booking this 2022 Season

DEPOSIT: A deposit is required for all bookings and will be applied at checkout BALANCE: The remaining balance is due on the trip date as either Credit or Cash.

GUEST CANCELLATION: In the event that you must cancel your booking, you must do so 3 days prior to your trip date to receive a refund on your deposit. Rescheduling is encouraged and dependent on guide availability.

GUIDE CANCELLATION: In the rare event that your guide must cancel due to inclement weather, health, or equipment issues, you will have the option to reschedule your charter for a later date or receive a refund on your deposit.

TIPPING: Tips to your guide are greatly appreciated for your quality trip.

Trip Policies

Best Boat

Great For Novices

Great For Top Anglers

Great Guide

Good with Kids

Best Spots

Silhouette of angler fishing with rod at sunset over calm water

Silhouettes of anglers fishing from rocky shoreline during sunset over calm water

Majestic snow-capped mountain peaks rising behind dense evergreen forest with calm reflective water in foreground during golden hour lighting

Mountain peaks with orange alpenglow reflected in calm water surrounded by evergreen forest

Angler holding freshly caught black drum fish on boat with ocean backdrop

Angler holding large black drum fish on boat with ocean and blue sky in background

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