Charlotte fishing combines the best of the two worlds – a diverse fishery at the doorstep of an urban hub. Charlotte, once called the “Queen City,” is the biggest city in the North Carolina, and at the same time, it offers some of the best angling opportunities you can find in the southeastern U.S.
Both beginners and seasoned fishermen come here to chase after the freshwater A-listers like different Bass species, Catfish, Bluegill, Crappie, White Perch, and Panfish. The main attraction of the Charlotte area is Bass fishing. The Catawba River, as well as the lakes Norman and Wylie, are best known for its abundance of Striped, Spotted, Hybrid, and Largemouth Bass. Channel and Blue Catfish are also plentiful year-round, so whenever you decide to visit, you will not be disappointed.
Fishing Spots
It’s not hard to understand why fishing near Charlotte, NC is so popular. Wherever you decide to cast your line in a 20-mile radius from the city, you’re in for some solid drag-singing action. It doesn’t matter if you’re looking for your next trophy or you just want to catch yourself a good dinner, these waters will provide.
Catawba River
The Catawba River is one of the most productive grounds in the state when you’re looking to hook Largemouth Bass and its Striped cousins. You’ll find the fishery 10 miles from the Charlotte city center, with its numerous access points and splendid scenery. Largemouth Bass prefers murky waters, but to find Smallmouth and Striped Bass, the headwaters of the river are your best bet. For all the beginner anglers looking to build their fishing confidence, targeting Crappie, Bluegill, and Panfish will be a blast. The deeper waters upstream hide healthy numbers of Catfish eager to gulp down your bait. Everyone who has a soft spot for superb Bass fishing should come to the Catawba River during the spring run, when 10 lb Largemouth Bass are a frequent catch.
Lake Norman
Lake Norman lies to the north from Charlotte and is the biggest man-made lake in North Carolina. Thanks to the Cowans Ford Dam that supplies the lake with water, today you have a chance to head out and fish for anything from Bream and Crappie to Bass and Catfish. This is one of the best honey holes in the area and it’s very popular among the anglers of the Charlotte metropolitan area. Here, a productive day boat fishing often results in a boatload of fish. If you had to pick one fishing hot spot on Lake Norman, the N.C. 150 bridge would be it. Striped, Largemouth, and Smallmouth Bass like to feed underneath the bridge, as well as Perch, Crappie, and Catfish.
Lake Wylie
No angler can pass by Lake Wylie and not feel the need to reach for his rod. This Catawba River reservoir spreads on the South and North Carolina borders, about 25 miles from Charlotte. This is one of the favorite local fishing spots, and for all the good reasons. Bass thrive here, namely Spotted, Largemouth, and Smallmouth Bass. You can also hook Blue and Channel Catfish, different Panfish, White Perch, Crappie, and White Bass could also make an appearance. You can catch good sized fish on Lake Wylie, because there are plenty of spots that serve as feeding grounds for different species. If you love the great outdoors and kayaking, the lake has a lot to offer.
Fishing Tips
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Striped Bass will always go after the rattletrap, so using this lure practically guarantees you’ll find this freshwater fighter at the end of your line.
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Quiet and hot nights in summer are the best time to head out and go after Catfish. For that extra boost, use chicken liver or night crawlers, they work like a charm.
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Flathead Catfish can’t resist live bait, and small Bluegill works best to attract these hungry boys.
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If you’ve set your sights on lunker Largemouth Bass, you should try your luck around fallen timber and weed beds using crankbaits, spinnerbaits, and live minnows.
Need To Know
When it comes to fishing in Charlotte, you can choose whether you’d like to fish in rivers, lakes, or on private property. Whatever you decide, inform yourself about licenses and regulations before you head out.
Regulations
To go fishing in Charlotte, you, and everybody else who is 16 and older, will need a valid North Carolina fishing license. You can opt in for a short-term, 10-day license, or a statewide annual license. You can buy it online or in a tackle shop on your way to the dock. Bear in mind that rules can change if you want to cast your line in a state park or on private property. If you want to fish for free, the 4th of July is a “free fishing day” in North Carolina.
Budget
There won’t be a shortage of Charlotte fishing charters to choose from if you decide to test the waters with a local guide. On average, the prices for a full day trip range from $400–$700, and they largely depend on the number of people that want to fish. You can find half day excursions that start at $250 for two people, and up to $500 for six anglers. There’s also an option of booking six-hour trips, which could cost anywhere from $400–$600.
Getting There
Charlotte is North Carolina’s most populated city. Charlotteans pride themselves with their rich history, seeing that this was the focal point of the 18th century Gold Rush. Today, Charlotte is the second biggest banking epicenter, and if you’re a passionate NASCAR fan, there’s no better place in the country to catch a race.
The fishing is quite good all year, though temperatures can get quite low in winter. With prime fisheries no more than 20 miles from the center of town, exploring this dynamic city and getting your fill of the area’s prime fishing is a winning combo.
Bass (Largemouth)
Bass (Smallmouth)
Bass (Spotted)
Bass (Striped)
Catfish
Crappie
Hybrid Striped Bass
Perch (White)
