Charlotte, North Carolina

What's biting

• Largemouth Bass

  Where: Lake Norman, Lake Wylie, Catawba River impoundments; shallow weed lines and structure in 2–4 m (6–13 ft) of water.

  Early fall bass move to deeper structure as water cools. Topwater and soft plastics work well at dawn and dusk; try 10–15 cm (4–6 in) ribbontail worms or crankbaits around submerged timber and rock ledges.

  Caution: Check NCWRC for current season status and daily bag limits before fishing.

• Catfish (Channel & Flathead)

  Where: Catawba River main channel, Lake Norman deep holes, Lake Wylie tailrace; night fishing near dam spillways and deeper pools.

  Catfish bite well in warm water; use live bluegill, shad, or chicken liver fished on the bottom 4–6 m (13–20 ft) deep. Fish after dark for best results.

  Caution: Flathead catfish are invasive; harvest encouraged. Verify size and species regulations with NCWRC.

• Crappie (Black & White)

  Where: Lake Norman and Lake Wylie creek arms; 2–5 m (6–16 ft) around submerged brush, fallen trees, and dock pilings.

  Early fall crappie congregate near structure in slightly deeper water. Small jigs (1/8–1/4 oz) tipped with minnows or soft plastics work best; vertical jigging is effective.

  Caution: Crappie seasons and limits vary by water body; confirm with NCWRC before keeping fish.

• Bluegill & Sunfish

  Where: Shallow bays and coves of Lake Norman, Lake Wylie, and smaller ponds throughout the Piedmont; weed beds and lily pads in 1–2 m (3–6 ft).

  Bluegill remain active in early fall. Use small spinners, poppers, or live crickets and waxworms; early morning and late afternoon are prime.

  Caution: No special restrictions, but practice catch-and-release to maintain populations in smaller waters.

• Striped Bass (Landlocked)

  Where: Lake Norman and Lake Wylie main channels; deep structure and current breaks 6–12 m (20–40 ft) deep.

  Stripers begin moving to deeper water as temperatures drop. Live shad or large swimbaits (10–15 cm / 4–6 in) fished near dam tailraces and channel ledges are effective.

  Caution: Striped bass have specific size and bag limits; check NCWRC regulations before fishing.