Fishing High Rock Lake
AKA: High Rock Reservoir
Popular Fish Species High Rock Lake, NC
Largemouth Bass Fishing
As home to a prior Bass Master Classic, High Rock Lake has maintained the high fishery standards necessary for attracting tournament and weekend anglers. The lake offers 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 summer and winter, spend your time on deeper structure and long points. Other bass to be caught here include smallmouth bass and spotted bass.
Crappie Fishing
Both black crappie and white crappie reside in High Rock Lake, and crappie fishing is on the rise. About 80% of them are black crappie, which grow to slightly bigger sizes than white crappie. They can be found in large schools hanging around cover. Crappie always like cover and structure, so locate brush, wood and vegetation. Using a fish finder can help locate schools of crappie, which tend to stack vertically around cover. In spring and fall focus on the 8 to 12 foot range. As the crappie move deep in summer and winter, follow points out deep, as well as find ledges near channels in deeper water. White crappie, in smaller numbers, also make this lake their home.
Channel Catfish Fishing
This year a healthy population of channel cats populate the waters of High Rock Lake, and can be found all around the lake. Fishing for channel catfish is often productive around any kind of structure in the area. Road beds, creek channels and rocky points are all good places to begin. Use a slip sinker or Carolina rig with popular catfish baits. Other catfish in the lake include sizeable flathead catfish, with numerous flateads exceeding 30 pounds being caught.
High Rock Lake Fishing Video
Fish species to fish for...
Guide to fishing for largemouth bass, channel catfish, flathead catfish, blue catfish, black crappie, white crappie, bluegill, white bass and striped bass at High Rock Lake in North Carolina.
With a healthy population of bass, crappie, catfish and stripers, High Rock Lake is a very fertile fishery. This productive, 15,180-acre lake in the north-central part of the state has 365 miles of shoreline. Whether you choose to fish from shore, or navigate these waters in a boat, canoe or kayak, you will have in front of you some of the best fishing water in the area. Marinas on the lake provide boaters goods and services to make your day on the lake a pleasure. Including, if you so desire, boat rentals. Fishing tackle, bait, groceries, beverages and ice are also available. The lake is lined with boat docks which provide cover for shallow bass and other species. There are plenty of creek channels, ledges, humps and drop-offs to fish when the fish move off the bank. The water is stained year round, so be prepared to fish spinnerbaits and flashy lures.
High Rock Lake, located in North Carolina, is a popular destination for anglers and outdoor enthusiasts. As the second-largest lake in the state, it offers excellent fishing opportunities and is known for its diverse fish population.
One of the most sought-after species in High Rock Lake is the largemouth bass. Anglers flock to the lake to test their skills in catching these prized game fish. The lake's structure, including submerged trees, brush piles, and rocky points, provides ideal habitats for bass. Anglers can employ a variety of techniques such as topwater lures, crankbaits, and soft plastics to entice bass to strike. High Rock Lake is known for producing both quantity and quality bass, making it a popular destination for bass fishing enthusiasts.
In addition to largemouth bass, High Rock Lake is home to other popular sport fish. Crappie, both black and white, can be found in abundance, especially around submerged structures and brush piles. Anglers targeting crappie often use jigs or live minnows to entice these tasty fish. Catfish, including channel catfish and blue catfish, are also abundant in the lake and provide exciting angling opportunities. Fishing for catfish can be productive using cut bait, stink bait, or live bait.
High Rock Lake in North Carolina offers a fantastic fishing experience with its diverse fish species and scenic surroundings. Whether you're targeting bass, crappie, or catfish, the lake provides ample opportunities to test your angling skills.
Primary fish species residing in High Rock Lake
Click images for fishing tips and details about each species.
High Rock Lake Amenities
Marina: YES
Boat Rental: YES
Boat Launch Ramp: YES
Campgrounds: YES
RV Hookups: YES
Lodging: YES
Convenience Store: YES
Bait & Tackle: YES
Restaurant: YES
Today's Weather & Forecast
High Rock Lake offers a variety of boating options for visitors. Whether you prefer motorized boats, kayaks, or canoes, the lake provides ample space for boating and exploration. The lake features multiple boat ramps and marinas for convenient access. Boaters can enjoy cruising the scenic waters, fishing in various locations, or simply relaxing and taking in the beautiful surroundings.
Fishing Boat Rentals
High Rock Boat Rental
Rentals: Pontoon boats
336 860-4468
High Rock Marina and Campground
Rentals: Fishing boats and pontoons
336 798-1196
Tamarac Marina
Rentals: Pontoon boats
704 636-1918
Marinas
High Rock Boat Dock Marina
339 N Shore Dr
Lexington, NC 27292
336 357-5906
High Rock Marina and Campground
1013 Wafford Cir
Lexington, NC 27292
336 798-1196
Tamarac Marina
9120 Bringle Ferry Rd
Salisbury, NC 28146
704 636-1918
Public Boat Launch Ramps & Landings
North Carolina Wildlife Boat Access Ramp
Located at the northeast end of Bringle Ferry Road Bridge, this two-lane ramp has docks and paved parking.
Southmount Abbotts Creek Boat Access
Located at the end of the Wildlife Recreation Area Access Road, this multi-lane concrete ramp offers a dock and ample paved parking.
York Hill Yadkin River Access
This is a small, primitive launch area with limited parking. It is located in the upper north northeast corner of the lake.
Fishing Guides On High Rock Lake
Yadkin Lakes Crappie Guides - crappie
If you offer fishing guide services on High Rock Lake, please contact us for a free listing, to be posted here.
Fishing License
Click here for a North Carolina Fishing License.
Camping facilities are available near High Rock Lake, allowing visitors to extend their fishing trip and immerse themselves in the outdoor experience. There are campgrounds and RV parks that offer amenities for overnight stays, including lakeside camping spots. Camping near High Rock Lake provides anglers and nature enthusiasts with the opportunity to fully enjoy the tranquility of the area and make the most of their fishing adventure.
Campgrounds & RV Parks Nearby
High Rock Marina and Campground - 336 798-1196
Cross Winds Family Campground - 336 853-4567
High Rock Lake NC Map - Fishing & Camping Areas
Contact Information
High Rock Lake
High Rock Lake Marina & Campground
1013 Wafford Circle
Lexington, NC 27292
336 798-1196
Fishing lakes in each state.
031224
High Rock Lake in North Carolina.
NORTH CAROLINA
Bass, crappie, catfish and stripers fishing in north-central NC.
