5 Best Fishing Spots in North Carolina

5 Best Fishing Spots in North Carolina

Take the day off, set up your line, and go fishing! The state of many beaches and lakes, North Carolina offers its tourists and locals a wealth of opportunity to reel in that big catch. Whether you prefer fishing offshore, taking the boat out for a spin, or canoeing or kayaking, there is a spot for you. Here are five great places to cast a line in North Carolina. 

1. Lake Tomahawk Park, Black Mountain, NC

Lake Tomahawk Park of small town Black Mountain is home to a cozy lake that is not only breathtaking with a view of the mountains, but a great fishing spot. Grill out, cast the line in the water, and even bring the little ones along for the fun! This family-friendly fishing hole consists of 4.5 acres of lake to fish in, or boat with your motor-less boat if you are into that. The shallow lake is for fishing only so you will get the most out of this spot. Also at the park is a trail around the lake wonderful for walking, a pool, a playground, picnic tables, and two tennis courts. Grab your rods and come out to Lake Tomahawk for a family day on the lake! Please remember that you need a fishing license before you go. 

2. Lake Norman, Troutman, NC

“Bass fishing haven,” Lake Norman offers a brilliant fishing spot for its well-known largemouth, striped, white, and spotted bass as well as other fish like blue and flathead catfish, black crappie, bluegill, and yellow perch. Cast from the shoreline, canoe, or kayak, or take your boat out through one of the several launch places on Lake Norman. At the lake, you can lodge, set up shop through the camp or utilize the RV hookups. If you need to stock up on bait and supplies, stop by Carolina Fishing Tackle in Mooresville. They will set you up for a day of success. 

3. Lake Glenville, Glenville, NC

The 1,470-acre Lake Glenville has a plethora of fish, ranging from largemouth and smallmouth bass to black crappie, bluegill, channel catfish, rainbow trout, and walleye. At the lake, launch your boat off the ramp to enjoy a day on the beautiful water. There are both convenience and bait and tackle stores nearby to stock up before your day out. A great option is Brookings Anglers in Cashiers, North Carolina. Here, you can stock up on all the gear you’ll need. Looking to stick around? Lake Glenville has campgrounds, you can hook up your RV or you can lodge. If you have the chance, take a peek at the gorgeous falls of Lake Glenville. 

4. Fontana Lake

Located near the Great Smoky Mountains, Fontana Lake is popular for boating, fishing, and swimming enthusiasts. The lake has boat rentals for those ready to ride and a launch ramp. For those looking to stay and enjoy the beautiful scenery a little longer, campsites and other lodging are available. Primary fish to catch in Fontana Lake are largemouth and smallmouth bass, spotted bass, black crappie, bluegill, brown trout, channel and flathead catfish, muskie, rainbow trout, steelhead, sunfish, walleye, and yellow perch. Nearby, dine at restaurants such as the Stecoah Diner for a full stomach. Find bait shops nearby as well, including the always-reliable Great Smokey Mountain Bait and Tackle in Bryson City.

5. Nantahala Lake

A lake of 1,600 acres, Nantahala is a fishing spot of kokanee salmon, the only lake of the south to have them. As well as kokanee salmon, you’ll find largemouth, striped, and smallmouth bass, blue catfish, black crappie, bluegill, brook, brown, and rainbow trout, catfish, walleye, and yellow perch. In the Nantahala National Forest, the lake provides anglers with lodging, RV hookups, campsites, and boat rentals. To grab gear and supplies before you hit the water, stop at Bryant Bait and Tackle. This is “the one and only hunting and fishing store on Nantahala Lake.” 

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