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Fishing At Lake Santeetlah In 2024

AKA: Santeetlah Lake

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By AA-Fishing Staff Writers

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Guide to fishing for largemouth bass, smallmouth bass, black crappie, white crappie, walleye, rainbow trout, brown trout, bluegill, bream and yellow perch at Santeetlah Lake in North Carolina.

Santeetlah Lake, NC

Located amidst the North Carolina Smoky Mountains, Lake Santeetlah is a 2,880-acre gem for boating and fishing enthusiasts. In the western part of the state, at Santeetlah, NC, it has all the amenities for vacationing on and off the water. Runabouts, deck boats, pontoon boats, canoes and kayaks are for rent on the lake. Come fish for smallmouth and largemouth bass, trout and sunfish, where the entire family can enjoy fishing success. The lake has plenty of coves, creek channels and pockets for the fish to call home, and the anglers to seek out. Water ski the main lake areas or quietly fish the backs of the creeks during spring and fall.

The purpose of this page is to deliver an overview of this lake, the fishing options, and area amenities. Our goal is to provide info to first time visitors, as well as beginner and novice anglers. We gathered details from personal experience, numerous trusted websites, and videos of fishing activity on the lake. These websites include the North Carolina Wildlife Resources Commission, marinas at the lake, campgrounds, boat rental agencies and others. By consolidating this information to one page it allows visitors to see the entire picture, all in one place.

Lake Video

Lake Santeetlah, located in the picturesque mountains of North Carolina, is a hidden gem for fishing enthusiasts seeking a peaceful and rewarding experience. This pristine lake spans approximately 2,800 acres and is nestled within the Nantahala National Forest, offering breathtaking natural scenery.

Anglers visiting Lake Santeetlah can expect a variety of fish species that populate its clear waters. The lake is known for its exceptional trout fishing, including both rainbow trout and brown trout. These elusive and prized game fish thrive in the cold, oxygen-rich waters of the lake, providing an exciting challenge for anglers. Fly fishing is particularly popular on Lake Santeetlah, with its numerous secluded coves and quiet stretches of shoreline offering ideal spots for casting lines.

Apart from trout, Lake Santeetlah is home to other sought-after species, including smallmouth bass and largemouth bass. Bass fishing is popular in the lake, thanks to its rocky shorelines, submerged structures, and abundant vegetation that serve as ideal habitats for these feisty fighters. Anglers can target bass using a variety of techniques, such as casting lures, flipping jigs, or topwater fishing.

Lake Santeetlah in North Carolina is a haven for anglers seeking a serene and rewarding fishing experience. With its abundance of trout, bass, and other fish species, the lake offers ample opportunities for angling enthusiasts. Boating and camping options further enhance the outdoor experience, allowing visitors to fully immerse themselves in the natural beauty of the surrounding area. Whether you're casting a line for trout, chasing bass, or simply enjoying the peaceful ambiance, Lake Santeetlah is a must-visit destination for fishing and relaxation in North Carolina.

Fishing Boats For Rent In North Carolina

Primary fish species residing in Lake Santeetlah

Click images for fishing tips and details about each species.

Largemouth bass Smallmouth bass Black crappie White crappie Walleye Rainbow trout Brown trout Bluegill Yellow Perch

Santeetlah Lake Amenities

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

Today's Weather & Forecast

Boating is a popular activity on Lake Santeetlah, and visitors can enjoy exploring its pristine waters in various watercraft. Whether it's a motorboat, kayak, canoe, or paddleboard, there are options for everyone to navigate the lake and find their favorite fishing spots. The calm and serene atmosphere of the lake enhances the boating experience, allowing anglers to fully immerse themselves in the beauty of their surroundings.

Fishing Boat Rentals

Santeetlah Boat Rentals
Rentals: canoes, kayaks, deck boats and pontoons
828 479-7422

Santeetlah Marina
Rentals: canoes, kayaks, deck boats and pontoons
828 479-8180

Marinas

Santeetlah Marina
1 Marina Dr
Lake Santeetlah, NC 28771
828 479-8180

Public Boat Launch Ramps & Landings

Avey Branch Boat Ramp
This is a small concrete boat ramp with unimproved parking. It is located in the northwest corner of the lake, off Joyce Kilmer Road.

Blue Boar Boat Launch
This is a primitive launch ramp and parking. It does have a dock. It is located in the southwest corner of the lake off Blue Boar Road.

Cheoah Point Boating Access
This single-lane, concrete ramp has a dock and limited, paved parking. It is situated in the north-central portion of the lake, on Cheoah Point Road.

Massey Branch Boat Launch
Located in the southeast corner of the lake, off Cherohala Skyway Highway, this dual-lane, concrete ramp with a dock and paved parking.

Click here for a North Carolina Fishing License.

Camping opportunities abound near Lake Santeetlah, allowing anglers and outdoor enthusiasts to extend their stay and enjoy the tranquility of the area. There are several campgrounds in the surrounding national forest, offering a range of amenities such as campsites, picnic areas, and hiking trails. Camping near Lake Santeetlah provides a unique opportunity to connect with nature and fully appreciate the peaceful ambiance of the mountains.

Campgrounds & RV Parks Nearby

Cheoah Point Campground - 828 479-6431

Santeetlah Lake NC Map - Fishing & Camping Areas

Contact Information

Lake Santeetlah
Santeetlah Marina
1 Marina Dr
Robbinsville, NC 28771
828 479-8180

 

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Santeetlah Lake in North Carolina.

Smallmouth, largemouth and trout fishing in western NC.

Fishing at Santeetlah Lake, in North Carolina.