Fishing Lake Gaston

AKA: Gaston Reservoir, Gaston Lake

Most Popular Fish
Available Fish Species
Amenities
Today's Weather & Forecast
Rental Boats
Marinas
Boat Launch Ramps
Local Fishing Guides
Lake Gaston Fishing Video
Fishing License
Campgrounds & RV Parks
Map
Contact Info

Lake Gaston, NC

Popular Fish Species Lake Gaston, NC

Largemouth Bass

Fishing in Lake Gaston for largemouth bass can run hot and cold at times. Lately the fishing has been better than usual. Big bass are thriving in Lake Gaston due to excellent fisheries management and plenty of cover for both baitfish and bass. Fishing for largemouth bass is good virtually any time they are shallow - in spring, mornings in summer, and during warm Fall afternoons. Use shallow crankbaits around rip rap. Around grass use worms, jigs, topwater and spinnerbaits. In deeper water, big worms, jigs and spoons are three good weapons. In winter, spend your time fishing Lake Gaston on deeper structure where the bass spend much of their time.

Striped Bass

Due to their large size, striped bass are a favorite of many locals and fishing guides at Lake Gaston. They are plentiful, run in schools and can grow to bragging size. In Spring and Fall work the upper end of the lake where water is flowing into the lake. Look for deeper water in the river channel, as a holding and feeding place for stripers. In Summer and Winter, stripers hang out in deeper water during the day and feed close to the bottom, 50 feet or deeper. Morning often draws the stripers to the much shallower water, look for them around the 20-foot range as they feed on shallow-running schools of bait. The lake is filled with plenty of baitfish and sunfish to to keep the fishery thriving. Being successful at fishing for stripers is a matter of locating schools of bait, and the wolf packs of stripers which are likely to be nearby. Fish finders, and forward facing sonar, are a big help in locating these roaming schools. Live bait is very effective here, and stripers can be caught year round.

Blue Catfish

Again this year, blue catfish are running in the big to monster size in Lake Gaston. Most of the local guides offer catfish trips, and big blues are the favorite target. The state record is over 125 pounds. Fishing for blue catfish is most often productive summer around any kind of structure. The river end of the lake is often the area where the bigger catfish are caught. Road beds, creek channels and rocky points are all good places to begin. Use a slip sinker or Carolina rig with cut bait or other popular catfish baits. Channel catfish also reside in the lake and fishing for them is often good as well.

Fish species to fish for...

Guide to fishing for largemouth bass, channel catfish, blue catfish, black crappie, white crappie, walleye, bluegill, white bass, striped bass and chain pickerel at Lake Gaston in North Carolina.

Fast becoming "the lake" for big blue catfish, Lake Gaston has great fishing for monster blues. It is a 20,000-acre reservoir on the northern border of the state, 2 miles north of Littleton, NC. In addition to catfish, the lake has healthy populations of bass, crappie, walleye, stripers, white bass and chain pickerel. In fact, Lake Gaston served up the state record chain pickerel. Whether you want to catch a bunch of fish for a fish fry, or go in search of monster fish, Lake Gaston is a great destination for anglers. With over 350 miles of shoreline there is plenty of room for fishing from shore, or from your choice of boats, canoes and kayaks. Boat docks, creek channels and areas with aquatic vegetation are the primary targets for locating fish.

Lake Gaston, situated in North Carolina, is a premier destination for fishing enthusiasts seeking a diverse range of fish species and abundant fishing opportunities. Spanning over 20,000 acres, this reservoir is known for its excellent fishing conditions and scenic beauty.

One of the other prized fish species in Lake Gaston is largemouth bass. The lake boasts a healthy population of largemouth bass, attracting anglers from all skill levels. With its numerous coves, submerged structures, and ample vegetation, the lake provides ideal habitats for bass. Anglers can employ various techniques such as topwater lures, plastic worms, and crankbaits to entice the bass into biting. Lake Gaston is renowned for producing trophy-sized bass, offering anglers the chance to reel in their dream catch.

Lake Gaston is also home to other popular fish species, including striped bass, crappie, catfish, and sunfish. Striped bass, or "stripers," are highly sought after for their fighting strength and delicious taste. Anglers can target striped bass by trolling with artificial lures or using live bait. Crappie fishing is also excellent in Lake Gaston, with both black crappie and white crappie available. Catfish and sunfish provide additional fishing opportunities, making the lake a versatile destination for anglers.

Lake Gaston in North Carolina offers a remarkable fishing experience with its diverse fish species and picturesque setting. Anglers can pursue largemouth bass, striped bass, crappie, catfish, and sunfish, among others. Whether you're seeking trophy-sized bass or simply looking to relax while fishing, Lake Gaston provides an unforgettable fishing experience.

Primary fish species residing in Lake Gaston

Click images for fishing tips and details about each species.

Lake Gaston Amenities

Marina: YES
Boat Rental: YES
Boat Launch Ramp: YES
Campgrounds: YES
RV Hookups: YES
Lodging: YES
Convenience Store: YES
Bait & Tackle: NEARBY
Restaurant: YES

Today's Weather & Forecast

Boating is a popular activity on Lake Gaston, and the lake offers numerous boat ramps and marinas for easy access. Whether you prefer cruising in a motorized boat, paddling in a kayak, or fishing from a pontoon, the lake provides ample space for boating and exploring its vast waters. Boaters can enjoy the scenic views, find their favorite fishing spots, or engage in water sports activities.

Fishing Boat Rentals

Eaton Ferry Marina-Keel Marinas
Rentals: Bow riders, deck boats, pontoons, canoes and kayaks
252 586-4661

Northampton Marine
Rentals: Pontoon and deck boats
252 537-7900

Marinas

Eaton Ferry Marina-Keel Marinas
1865 Eaton Ferry Rd
Littleton, NC 27850
252 586-4661

Washburn's Marina
2192 River Rd
Henrico, NC 27842
252 537-1335

Public Boat Launch Ramps & Landings

Salmon Landing
This is a small, concrete ramp with a dock, located just east of the Highway 903 Bridge. The parking is limited, and unimproved.

Summit Landing
Located at the end of Bluebird Lane, in the southeast corner of the lake, this is a two-lane, concrete ramp with gravel parking.

Fishing Guides On Lake Gaston

Blues Brothers Guide Service - catfish

Lake Gaston Pro Guide Service - bass

If you offer fishing guide services on this lake, please contact us for a free listing, to be posted here.

Lake Gaston Fishing Video

Fishing License

Click here for a North Carolina Fishing License.

Camping facilities are available near Lake Gaston, allowing visitors to extend their fishing trip and fully immerse themselves in the natural beauty of the area. Whether you prefer tent camping or RV camping, there are options to suit different preferences and comfort levels. Camping near Lake Gaston provides an opportunity to wake up to beautiful sunrises, enjoy lakeside campfires, and experience the tranquility of the outdoors.