Fresh Cherokee County Fishing Reports

Blue Ridge Lake Fishing Report – May 2025 Brought to you by Cap’n Hoek Fishing Adventures May has brought its share of rainfall to the Blue Ridge Lake area, creating challenges with rising water levels and fluctuating clarity. But despite the conditions, the fishing has remained steady for anglers targeting spotted bass and walleye. Current water temperatures are averaging around 76°F, keeping fish active and catchable for those willing to adapt. Spotted Bass: Spots have been biting consistently in the 5 to 10-foot range, especially during the early morning hours. The best action has come around main lake points and dock lights, where fish are feeding on baitfish. We’re finding success using live bait as well as finesse soft plastic lures—think drop shots and shaky heads—for a natural presentation in the clearer pockets. Walleye: Walleye are holding deeper and have been most reliably caught in the 30 to 40-foot zone. Downlined live bait has been the most productive method, especially around deeper humps and along the creek channels. It may take some searching with electronics, but when you find them, the bite has been rewarding. While recent rains have affected the lake, overall fishing remains solid. The key is adjusting to the water conditions and staying persistent. With a little patience and the right presentation, there’s plenty of action to be had this month on Blue Ridge Lake. Tight lines from Cap’n Hoek Fishing Adventures

Carters Lake Fishing Report – May 2025 Brought to you by Cap’n Hoek Fishing Adventures May has delivered a fair amount of rainfall to the Carters Lake region, leading to fluctuating water levels and some stained conditions. Despite these challenges, the fishing remains productive for those targeting striped bass, spotted bass, and walleye. Water temperatures have been averaging around 78°F, keeping fish active and on the move. Striped Bass: Stripers have been feeding well around creek mouths and shallow-water markers on the main lake. Live bait fished on slip floats and freelined rigs in 10 to 20 feet of water has been the go-to approach. Early mornings and overcast conditions have been especially productive. Walleye: Walleye are holding deeper, with the most consistent action coming from 20 to 25 feet of water. We’ve been catching them using downlined live bait along rocky points and deeper ledges. Stay mobile and cover ground until you mark fish. Spotted Bass: Spotted bass are biting well in the 5 to 10-foot range, particularly near the mouths of creeks. Target shallow cover and transition areas with soft plastics or live bait presentations. The bite has been steady throughout the day, with peak activity during early morning hours. The post-rain conditions may require a bit more effort, but the fish are still hungry and willing to bite. Stay flexible, fish smart, and you’ll find success out on the water. Tight lines from Cap’n Hoek Fishing Adventures!

We caught some good Stripers using live Blue Back Herring. The fish were between 25 to 40 feet. We also caught some Catfish. Great day on the Lake.

Late morning hours provided for excellent Striper fishing. We caught fish up to 28 inches this morning. Live Herring proved to be the ticket.

Late morning hours provided for excellent Striper fishing. We caught fish up to 28 inches this morning. Live Herring proved to be the ticket.

I am using live Blueback Herring and fishing any where between six to eight rod/reels. The fish are fairly shallow and oriented to points in the mid to northern part of the Lake. The Planer Boards and Flatlines are putting fish in the boat!!!!