JANUARY 2026

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Winter Crappie Bite Rated Excellent; Black Bass Fair

 

Anglers heading to Weiss Lake this January can expect classic winter conditions — cold mornings, clear water, and excellent crappie action for those willing to fish deeper structure. Local guides are reporting strong numbers of keeper-size fish and say the outlook for the upcoming 2026 Crappie Rodeo is promising, with quality “winter slabs” already holding in their seasonal pattern.

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Crappie Fishing — Excellent

Crappie fishing on Weiss Lake is currently rated excellent, with the most consistent success coming from anglers who key in on deeper wintering areas.

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Techniques:
Fish deep creek channel ledges and main river structure with minnows and jigs. Popular choices include soft-plastic styles such as the Weiss Choice Tackle zipper minnow. Slow presentations near the bottom are producing the best.

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Locations:

Look for fish staging around:

• deeper dock structure

• stumps and brush along drop-offs

• bends in the creek channels

These areas are providing steady action throughout the day.

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Activity Reports:
Guides around the lake say limits are possible, with many anglers seeing large numbers of keeper crappie in the 25–30 ft range. Several boats are also reporting tagged fish as part of ongoing preparations for the 2026 Crappie Rodeo.

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Black Bass Fishing — Fair

Black bass fishing is considered fair, but windows of strong activity do exist — especially for anglers who brave the early morning hours.

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Techniques:
According to Southern Fishing Schools, try:

• topwater baits at first light

• buzzbaits and spinnerbaits along grassy banks

• speed worms as follow-up lures when fish miss initial strikes

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Strategy:
Cover water quickly with the trolling motor. Bass are scattered, and success often comes from triggering reaction bites rather than finesse presentations.

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Winter Fishing Tips & Outlook

• Expect big “winter slabs.” Crappie in the 25–30 ft range tend to be heavier this time of year and make excellent table fare.

• Watch for tagged crappie. Anglers are encouraged to check fish for tags tied to the upcoming 2026 Weiss Lake Crappie Rodeo, beginning February 1, and follow the instructions on reporting or retaining tagged fish.

• Guides have openings. Several Weiss Lake guides report January dates available for anglers willing to bundle up for a shot at trophy crappie.