Fishing Phelps Lake
AKA: Lake Phelps
Popular Fish Species Phelps Lake, NC
Largemouth Bass Fishing
Phelps Lake continues to deliver great catches of largemouth bass, as it has for several years now. Recent results by locals, and bass fishing tournament participants, attest to the fact that fishing for largemouth bass has been very rewarding lately. Also, there is the potential for catching a monster. Excellent fisheries management by the NC Wildlife has maintained this thriving bass fishery. Big mouth bass often move shallow and become fairly aggressive when they are in a feeding mood. If they seem disinterested in your presentations, try slowing down and use smaller, lighter baits. 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 options. In winter, spend your time fishing Phelps Lake on deeper structure where the bass spend much of their time. Fishing for largemouth bass can range from fair to very good here, year round.
Black Crappie Fishing
Phelps Lake holds a plentiful population of black crappie, and they are running in good sizes this year. Crappie fishing is easy and requires simple, basic gear. Any fishing pole, reasonably small line and crappie jigs or small hooks baited with live bait, creates the ideal setup. Add a bobber and you can set the depth you prefer the bait to maintain. The best time to catch crappie tends to be at dawn and dusk. Live bait and small jigs are the most common method for crappie here. Because crappie always like cover and structure, so locate brush 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.
Pumpkinseed Fishing
Fishing for pumpkinseed sunfish is very popular here at Phelps Lake. Young and old, beginners and seasoned anglers alike, all enjoy catching a bunch of fat pumpkinseed sunfish. This year, much like recent years, the pumpkinseed population is healthy and always looking for something to eat. Pumpkinseed sunfish fishing is about as basic as fishing gets. Any lighter fishing pole, reasonably light line, small hooks baited with anything edible, creates a great setup. Add a bobber and you can set the depth you prefer the bait to position. Pumpkinseed prefer clear water and hang around brush, rocks, vegetation, docks or any cover available.
Fish species to fish for...
Guide to fishing for largemouth bass, channel catfish, black crappie, bluegill and pumpkinseed sunfish at Lake Phelps in North Carolina.
Phelps Lake Fishing Video
This big, shallow lake near the North Carolina coastline can be a haven for bass, crappie and sunfish enthusiasts. Phelps Lake is a 16,600-acre lake, two miles south of Creswell, NC. The lake is a big bowl with little shoreline contour. Virtually all the banks have submerged trees and vegetation, and there are boats docks scattered around the lake. There are boat launch ramps for public use - one paved ramp for bigger boats, and many places around the lake to launch canoes or kayaks. Boaters should be cautious due to the shallowness of the majority of the lake.
Phelps Lake, located in North Carolina, is a hidden gem for fishing enthusiasts seeking a serene and secluded fishing experience. Nestled within the stunning scenery of the North Carolina mountains, Phelps Lake offers anglers a tranquil setting to cast their lines and reel in some impressive catches.
The lake is home to a variety of fish species, making it a paradise for anglers of all interests. Trout, including rainbow trout and brown trout, are regularly stocked in Phelps Lake, providing ample opportunities for trout fishing enthusiasts. These cold-water species thrive in the lake's clear and pristine waters, offering exciting angling experiences.
One notable feature of Phelps Lake is its remote and undisturbed nature, providing a sense of tranquility that is perfect for those seeking a peaceful fishing experience away from the crowds.
Phelps Lake in North Carolina offers a peaceful and secluded fishing experience amidst the breathtaking beauty of the mountains. With its variety of trout species, boating opportunities, and nearby camping options, Phelps Lake provides a serene setting for anglers to enjoy their favorite pastime. Whether you're an avid trout angler or simply seeking a tranquil escape in nature, Phelps Lake offers a serene fishing experience in the heart of North Carolina's scenic landscape.
Primary fish species residing in Lake Phelps
Click images for fishing tips and details about each species.
Phelps Lake Amenities
Marina: NO
Boat Rental: NO
Boat Launch Ramp: YES
Campgrounds: YES
RV Hookups: NO
Lodging: YES
Convenience Store: NEARBY
Bait & Tackle: NO
Restaurant: NEARBY
Today's Weather & Forecast
Fishing Guides On Phelps Lake
TamPam Guide Service - bass
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.
Boating is permitted on Phelps Lake, allowing anglers to explore its tranquil waters and access prime fishing spots. Electric motor boats and canoes are popular choices for navigating the lake. The peaceful atmosphere and scenic beauty create a serene boating experience, allowing anglers to soak in the natural surroundings while seeking out their favorite fishing spots.
Camping is available near Phelps Lake, offering anglers and outdoor enthusiasts the chance to extend their fishing trip and immerse themselves in the beauty of the surrounding wilderness. There are camping options in the nearby Nantahala National Forest, providing facilities such as campsites, picnic areas, and restroom facilities. Camping near Phelps Lake allows anglers to wake up to the sounds of nature, enjoy peaceful evenings around a campfire, and fully embrace the outdoor adventure.
Campgrounds & RV Parks Nearby
Pettigrew State Park Campground - 252 797-4475
Pungo Camp Ground - 252 935-5023
Riverside Campground - 252 945-9012
Lake Phelps NC Map - Fishing & Camping Areas
Contact Information
Lake Phelps
Pettigrew State Park
2252 Lake Shore Rd
Creswell, NC 27928
252 797-4475
Fishing lakes in each state.
070624
Phelps Lake in North Carolina.
NORTH CAROLINA
Bass, crappie and sunfish fishing in northeast NC.
