Catfish Fishing in Lake Norman

(Ictalurus punctatus/furcatus; Pylodictis olivaris; Ameiurus catus)

If you’re coming to North Carolina to catch big freshwater fish, Lake Norman catfishing is an adventure you shouldn’t miss out on. There are plenty of species you can target here, but the local Catfish population is especially popular. This is because they often come in formidable sizes and are very tasty.

What to Expect

There are three species of Catfish you could find at the end of your line – Channel, Flathead, and Blue. You can hit the water on your own, but it’s always recommended to have a skilled charter captain at your side – they know all the tricks and hideouts of these whiskery fellas.

You don’t have to be a seasoned angler to fish for Catfish on Lake Norman, and it can easily turn into a fun experience for the whole family. In case you’re looking to set a new personal record, the lake is a good place to start, because you can find Flatheads and Blues in the 50-pound range.

There’s usually an array of trip lengths to choose from, but the rule of thumb is simple – the more time you spend fishing, the better the chances of catching your limit. Dedicated fishermen often book full day expeditions and come back to the coast with a tale or two to tell. Charters provide all the gear, so you don’t have to bring your own.

Where You’ll Go

You can go catfishing all year on Lake Norman, but where you’ll find the fish depends on the species you want to hook. Catfish move around freely around the lake and you’ll find them in different parts, depending on the time of year and where baitfish are.

When spawning in spring and fall, you’ll find them close to the coast, in shallow waters. When temperatures outside are extreme (be it hot or cold), Catfish like to stick to deep waters, holes, and areas under dams.

When it comes to the best ways of enticing a Catfish to gulp down your setup, every local angler has their own (secret) recipe for success. Casting or slow-trolling with cut bait in 20–40 feet of water will quickly attract the fish’s attention.

Catfish also feed at night, so you can head out right after sunset and use LED lights to get them closer to your boat. In the winter, they become lazier, so anchoring your boat and letting cut bait float around could get a drowsy Catfish out of its hiding hole.

How to Prepare

Fishing charters run out of several locations on the lake, usually from Statesville, Hickory, and Sherrills Ford. Captains here are passionate anglers themselves, so finding you a good bite will be their mission.

You’ll need a fishing license before you start the trip, and make sure to check the weather forecast to dress appropriately. If you plan on spending the day on the water, then drinks, snacks, and food are a must. After that, you’re prepped and ready to go.

Let Lake Norman catfishing show you what North Carolina freshwater action is all about!

If you’re a first time fisherman or fisherwoman and you need a guide, don’t hesitate to hire Captain Will Price! All I can say is you won’t be disappointed, you’ll be blessed beyond measure with his customer service and professional knowledge!

5.0 / 5

Set'n Hooks Guide Service Charlotte, North Carolina

Use Jeff! Great captain and great time of year to fish. Jeff goes by the name of Water Bugz. Use him.

Water Bugz Fishing Guide Mooresville, North Carolina

It was very enjoyable. The weather was supposed to be inclement but we dressed in layers and ended up needing sunscreen!

Fishers Of Men Guide Service Island Park, ID

Be flexible. The bite could shift from catfish to bass to striper. Our captain was ready for whatever, so just be happy with something stretching your line.

Set'n Hooks Guide Service Holly Springs, North Carolina

I would recommend investing in a guide service if this is your first time on Lake Norman. I highly recommend Captain Will with Onslow Bay Guide Services. I had a lot of success and a lot of fun on the lake this morning.

Onslow Bay Guide Services – Mooresville Raleigh, NC

Make sure you communicate your experience level to uour your guide. Definitely invest in a charter.

Fishers Of Men Guide Service Sherrills Ford, North Carolina

This is a great area to go and have an relaxing time doing what we love best fishing.....

Fishers Of Men Guide Service Shelby, NC

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Best Catfish Fishing Charters in Lake Norman

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Catfish Fishing in Lake Norman