Catawba River - below Lake James - North Carolina
Fly Fishing River Report & Conditions
Catawba River – below Lake James - Water Flow Chart
Catawba River – below Lake James - Weather report & radar
Catawba River – below Lake James - General hatch chart
| Month | Hatch | Time of Day | Recommended Fly Sizes | Popular Fly Patterns |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| January | Blue Winged Olive | Afternoon | #18-22 | Pheasant Tail, Zebra Midge |
| February | Blue Winged Olive, Midges | Afternoon | #16-22 | Zebra Midge, RS2 |
| March | Quill Gordon, Blue Winged Olive | Mid-Day | #12-18 | Parachute Adams, Pheasant Tail |
| April | Hendrickson, March Brown | Afternoon | #12-16 | Elk Hair Caddis, Hare’s Ear |
| May | Caddis, Sulphur | Evening | #14-16 | Elk Hair Caddis, CDC Sulphur |
| June | Sulphur, Light Cahill | Evening | #12-16 | CDC Sulphur, Parachute Light Cahill |
| July | Terrestrials, Light Cahill | All day | #10-20 | Elk Hair Caddis, Parachute Ant |
| August | Terrestrials, Tricos | Morning | #18-24 | Trico Spinner, Foam Beetle |
| September | Blue Winged Olive, Terrestrials | Afternoon | #16-22 | Parachute Adams, Ant Patterns |
| October | Blue Winged Olive, October Caddis | Afternoon | #14-18 | Pheasant Tail, Pumpkinhead |
| November | Blue Winged Olive, Midges | Mid-day | #18-22 | Zebra Midge, RS2 |
| December | Midges | Mid-day | #22-24 | Zebra Midge, Thread Midge |
Catawba River – below Lake James Access Points
- Old Fort: This access point is found at the confluence of Mill Creek and the Catawba River. It is popular for trout fishing.
- Pleasant Gardens: Located near McDowell County, this access point has ample parking and is a frequently visited spot for fly anglers.
- Bridgewater: This access point in Burke County gives way to a wide river stretch known for an active fish population.
- Lake James State Park: Although technically above the dam, it still provides plenty of opportunities for wonderful fly fishing. While these sites have confirmed good fishing opportunities, remember to check local guidelines and regulations before fishing, as some sections of the river may be restricted or privately owned.
Catawba River – below Lake James Fishing Spots
The Catawba River located below Lake James is considered a gem for fly fishers due to its teeming fish population and stunning environment. Here are the best spots to fish on this river:
- Bridgewater Canoe Portage: An easily accessible slice of the river with reportedly abundant fishing opportunities.
- Lake James State Park: Despite being a lake area, the outlet which becomes a part of Catawba offers an amazing fishing experience.
- Resort at Lake James: Another lake area, but magnificent for fly fishing due to the stocked fish.
Fly fish species that can be hooked in these areas include Trout, Largemouth Bass, Smallmouth Bass, and Catfish. Always ensure to obey the local fishing rules and licenses requirements to protect these precious fishing grounds.
Catawba River – below Lake James Local Fish Species
- Brown Trout: These fish are known for aggressive behavior, spectacular aerial displays and the selective feeding habits that frustrate many beginners.
- Rainbow Trout: Fly fishermen target this species during nearly all stages of their development, from fry to adult.
- Brook Trout: While these fish prefer cooler, smaller streams, they can also be found in the Catawba River. These fish are prized for their beautiful markings and fighters on a fly rod.
- Smallmouth Bass: These fish are aggressive fighters and are very popular among fly fishermen. They offer a great opportunity for top water fishing.
- Largemouth Bass: Largemouth bass are found in warmer waters and are known for their aggressive strikes and leaps out of the water.
- Bluegill: A popular choice for beginners, bluegills are also targeted by experienced anglers due to their aggressive nature and the fun challenge they provide on light tackle.
- Redeye Bass: These are native to the Catawba River and are known for their fighting abilities which make them a sporty fish for fly anglers.
- Channel Catfish: Although not a traditional species for fly fishing, Channel catfish are abundant in the Catawba River and offer a unique challenge for those willing to tackle them with a fly rod.
About the Catawba River – below Lake James
The Catawba River below Lake James is one of the magnetic points not only for locals but also for tourists chasing water-related adventures. The glowing history of this waterway will surely captivate your attention.
The Catawba River was named after the Catawba Indian nation, the original inhabitants of the areas along the river. Long before colonisation, these resourceful tribes used the river as a critical channel for transportation and fishing.
In the 1800s, settlers began to use the river’s power for grist mills and later for hydroelectric power production. The Catawba River thus played a decisive role in the development of the textile industry and manufacturing in the region.
- Today, it’s mainly renowned for recreational opportunities like kayaking, canoeing, fishing, and so much more.
- Comprising over 30 different species of freshwater fish, the river below Lake James offers a remarkable biodiversity experience.
The tale of the Catawba River, interweaving with human and natural history, offers a profound narrative that you’ll appreciate knowing.
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