Lake Hartwell crappie will remain active during the summer months, eat regularly throughout the fall, and hunker down during the winter – as is the case in most lakes.
If you understand how crappies respond to the changes in the seasons, you may be able to catch more during your Lake Hartwell crappie fishing trip. Continue reading to find out more about some of the different tips you can use to catch more Lake Hartwell crappie.
If you’re wondering when to take a Lake Hartwell crappie fishing trip, summer is a popular season. Most people have time off work during the summer months. Throughout the warmer months, the fish are also very active. Do note, though, that crappies will typically avoid feeding throughout the middle of the day.
In July, the water temperature in Lake Hartwell will typically average at approximately 83.3 degrees. As the temperatures are so warm, the crappie is forced to find shade throughout the hottest period of the day, which is typically between 12 and 4 pm.
Throughout the summer, Lake Hartwell crappie will typically be most active throughout periods of low-light, i.e. sunrise and sunset. The cooler water and lower light levels help crappie to catch their prey.
Throughout the summer, crappies usually move into slightly deeper water. Deep basins and weed patches are great places to search, rather than the bays and inlets. Use a quality fish finder or topographical map to find deeper parts of the lake.
Although crappies are active during the summer period, they will not usually travel far. So, if you cannot find Lake Hartwell crappie in one spot, simply try another. Keep moving and you will get a bite eventually.