Fishing Moss Lake

AKA: John H Moss Lake, or Kings Mountain Reservoir

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

Moss Lake, NC

Popular Fish Species Moss Lake, NC

Spotted Bass Fishing

Spotted bass are often found in some of the same areas one would find largemouth bass, especially when in deeper water. They also tend to gather in small schools. Here at Moss Lake, they are a favorite of many local anglers, as they are plentiful and put up a very strong battle. Fishing for spotted bass can be good anytime you can locate them. Their diet consists mainly of crayfish and insects, but they also eat small baitfish, sunfish and bluegill. Most of the time, spots prefer to stage on steep rocky or gravel banks, and may move up and down the water column throughout the day. When shallow, use topwater or shallow crankbaits around rip rap. When they are deep, use worms and jigs. In winter, spend your time on deeper structure with small worms, jigs and spoons.

Moss Lake Popular Fish - Largemouth Bass

Largemouth Bass Fishing

Moss Lake offers good fishing for largemouth bass. Lately the fishing here for bass has continued to impress bass fishing enthusiasts. Some big bass roam Moss Lake, thanks to excellent fisheries management by the The North Carolina Wildlife Resources Commission, as well as the availability of extensive cover for both baitfish and bass. When the bite is good, bass typically move shallow and are quite aggressive. If you find them shallow and they are not tempted to bite, slow down and use smaller, lighter baits. 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 Moss Lake on deeper structure where the bass spend much of their time.

Moss Lake Popular Fish - Hybrid Striped Bass

Hybrid Striped Bass Fishing

Hybrid striped bass, also known as wipers, are a favorite of many locals at Moss Lake. They are plentiful but are running small these days, making it hard to locate big ones. As a hybrid of striped bass and white bass, they have great potential for spawning massive numbers and growing to large sizes. Fishing for hybrid stripers is a matter of locating schools of bait, and schools of hybrid striped bass are likely to be in the area. Mornings, during Fall, hybrids can be caught on topwater or shallow running lures, as they are feeding on baitfish at the surface. When they move deeper, fish finders improve your odds of locating both bait and schools of wipers. Live bait, spoons and jigs are very very effective here, and these hungry fish can be caught year round.

Fish species to fish for...

Guide to fishing for largemouth bass, spotted bass, channel catfish, black crappie, white crappie, white bass and striped bass at Moss Lake in North Carolina.

Moss Lake Fishing Video

This relatively small reservoir has a healthy population of bass, crappie and catfish. Moss Lake is a 1,500-acre lake in the southwest part of the state, at Shelby, NC. Boat houses and boat docks line the lake providing cover for bass and crappie, and the lake has a very irregular shoreline with lots of points and channels. Fishing permits are required for anglers age six and older. Anglers sixteen and over also require a NC fishing license.

Moss Lake, located in North Carolina, is a beautiful 1,200-acre reservoir known for its excellent fishing opportunities. Situated amidst the rolling hills and picturesque landscapes, this lake provides a serene and peaceful environment for anglers to enjoy their favorite pastime.

Anglers visiting Moss Lake can expect a diverse range of fish species to target. The lake is well-stocked with a variety of fish, including largemouth bass, crappie, catfish, and sunfish. Largemouth bass are a prized catch at Moss Lake, and the lake's structure and vegetation offer ideal habitat for them. Anglers can try their luck with various baits and techniques to entice these popular game fish. Crappie can be found around submerged structures and brush piles, providing exciting opportunities for anglers to reel in a good-sized catch. Catfish, including channel catfish and flathead catfish, are abundant in the deeper parts of the lake, while sunfish can be found near the shorelines and around the lake's structures.

Moss Lake in North Carolina is a hidden gem for anglers seeking a peaceful fishing getaway. With its diverse fish species, including bass, crappie, catfish, and sunfish, there are ample opportunities to reel in a prized catch. Whether you're an avid angler or a nature enthusiast looking for a serene escape, Moss Lake offers a tranquil setting to enjoy fishing and appreciate the natural beauty of North Carolina.

Primary fish species residing in Moss Lake

Click images for fishing tips and details about each species.

Moss Lake Amenities

Marina: NO
Boat Rental: NO
Boat Launch Ramp: YES
Campgrounds: YES
RV Hookups: YES
Lodging: NEARBY
Convenience Store: NEARBY
Bait & Tackle: NO
Restaurant: NEARBY

Today's Weather & Forecast

Boating is a popular activity on Moss Lake, and there are public boat ramps available for easy access to the water. Whether you prefer a motorized boat or enjoy paddling in a kayak or canoe, the lake's calm waters offer a perfect setting for boating and exploring the lake. Boaters can take in the scenic beauty, navigate through the coves and channels, and find their favorite fishing spots. It's important to adhere to boating regulations and safety guidelines to ensure a pleasant and secure experience on the water.

Public Boat Launch Ramps & Landings

John H Moss Lake Recreation Park
This eight-lane, concrete boat launch ramp features multiple docks and paved parking. It is located in the southwest corner of the lake, off Oak Grove Road.

Fishing Guides On Moss Lake

If you offer fishing guide services on this 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 not available directly at Moss Lake, but there are nearby campgrounds and accommodations that provide convenient access to the lake. Whether you prefer tent camping or RV camping, these facilities offer amenities such as picnic areas, restroom facilities, and beautiful views of the surrounding natural landscapes. Camping near Moss Lake allows anglers to spend extended time in the area, fully immersing themselves in the fishing experience and enjoying the tranquility of the lake.

Campgrounds & RV Parks Nearby

Kings Mountain Lake Campground - 704 482-7926