Fishing Lake James

AKA: James Lake, James Reservoir

Most Popular Fish In Lake James
Lake James Fishing Video
Available Fish Species
Amenities
Today's Weather & Forecast
Marinas
Boat Launch Ramps
Get A North Carolina Fishing License
Campgrounds & RV Parks
Map
Contact Info

Fishing Lake, Lake James

Most Popular Fish Species In Lake James, NC

Walleye Fishing

Thanks to the North Carolina Wildlife Resources Commission, healthy a population of walleye reside in the waters of Lake James this year. They are eager to feed throughout the lake, but tend to concentrate on flats and ledges off the river channels. Fishing for walleye here is most often accomplished by trolling, however casting jigs, worms, spoons and deep-diving crankbaits also work well at times.

Smallmouth Bass Fishing

Smallmouth bass are a favorite of many locals at James Lake, which serves up some quality fish when conditions are right. Fishing for bass is good anytime they are shallow - in spring during high water, mornings in summer and during warmer fall days. Use shallow crankbaits around rip rap, and around grass use worms, jigs, topwater and spinnerbaits. In winter, spend your time on deeper structure with big worms, jigs and spoons. Largemouth bass are present as well in decent numbers.

Black Crappie

Both black and white crappie reside in Lake James, with black crappie being the most sought after as they run big here. This year the fish population is healthy and crappie fishing is excellent. Crappie always like cover and structure, so locate shallow brush and vegetation in spring and fall focusing on the 8 to 12 foot range. As the crappie move deep in summer and winter, follow points out to as deep as 30 to 35 feet, as well as ledges near channels at these depths.

Lake James Fishing Video

Fish species to fish for...

Guide to fishing for largemouth bass, smallmouth bass, blue catfish, black crappie, white crappie, walleye, bluegill, white bass, striped bass, northern pike and tiger muskie at Lake James in North Carolina.

This deep, cold-water lake is home to quite a variety of freshwater fish species. Lake James is a 6,800-acre reservoir with depths up to 120 feet, located in the north-central part of the state. Bass are a favorite target of sporting anglers, while walleye are the focus of many who are looking for table fare. Crappie are a close second for fish fry enthusiasts. Big pike, muskie, catfish and stripers also reside in the lake for those seeking trophy fish. Check out fishing reports for popular species at this lake.

Lake James, NC

Primary fish species residing in Lake James

Click images for fishing tips and details about each species.

Lake James Amenities

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

Today's Weather & Forecast

Marinas

Click here for marinas available at this lake.

Public Boat Launch Ramps & Landings

Click here for boat ramps available at this lake.

Click here for a North Carolina Fishing License.

Campgrounds & RV Parks Nearby

Lake James State Park, Catawba River Campground - 828 584-7728

Lake James Landing Campground - 828 652-2907

Paddy Creek Campground - 828 584-1346

Lake James Family Campground - 828 584-0190