Fishing Lake James

AKA: James Lake

Popular Fish Species
Lake James Fishing Video
Available Fish Species
Amenities
Today's Weather & Forecast
Boat Launch Ramps
Fishing Boat Rentals
Marinas
Local Fishing Guides
Fishing License
Campgrounds & RV Parks
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James Lake, IN

Popular Fish Species Lake James, Indiana

Lake James Popular Fish - Largemouth Bass

Largemouth Bass Fishing

Enjoy great bass fishing at Lake James as it continues to deliver nice catches of largemouth bass. Results by locals, and many bass fishing tournament participants, attest to the fact that fishing for largemouth bass has been as good as advertised. A significant number of large bass also roam these waters for the added bonus of a potential lunker. Thorough fisheries management by the Indiana DNR's Division of Fish & Wildlife has maintained a quality bass fishery for some time now. Generally speaking, when the bite is good bass often move shallow and become fairly aggressive. Any time you find them shallow and 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 weapons. In winter, spend your time fishing Lake James on deeper structure where the bass spend much of their time. In winter when the lake freezes over, bass can be caught while ice fishing. Smallmouth bass also reside here in good numbers.

Lake James Popular Fish - Smallmouth Bass

Smallmouth Bass Fishing

Smallmouth bass are a favorite of many locals at Lake James, as they grow big and are exciting to catch. Fishing for smallmouth bass is good anytime they are shallow - in spring, during high water, mornings in summer and during warmer fall afternoons. Use shallow crankbaits around rip rap, and around grass use worms, jigs, topwater and spinnerbaits. In winter, spend your time on deeper structure with small worms, jigs and spoons. Largemouth bass also reside here in good numbers. When the lake freezes over, consider ice fishing for smallies.

Black Crappie Fishing

Black crappie reside in good numbers throughout Lake James, and they are averaging a very good size this year. Crappie fishing is excellent and they are running in sizeable schools. 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. 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. White crappie, in smaller numbers, also make this lake their home. When the lake freezes over, ice fishing is often a great way to catch a nice bunch of crappie.

Lake James Fishing Video

Fish species to fish for...

Guide to fishing for largemouth bass, smallmouth bass, black crappie, walleye, bluegill, redear sunfish, yellow perch and northern pike at James Lake in Indiana.

Lake James, located in northeastern Indiana, is a premier destination for fishing enthusiasts seeking a memorable angling experience. With a surface area of over 1,200 acres, this picturesque lake offers a wealth of fishing opportunities. Lake James is known for its diverse fish population, making it a popular spot for anglers of all skill levels.

Primary fish species residing in Lake James

Click images for fishing tips and details about each species.

Lake James Amenities

Marina: NEARBY
Boat Rental: YES
Boat Launch Ramp: YES
Campgrounds: YES
RV Hookups: YES
Lodging: YES
Convenience Store: Yes
Bait & Tackle: YES
Restaurant: YES

Today's Weather & Forecast

Fishing Boat Rentals

The Corner Landing
Rentals: Fishing boats, kayaks and pontoons
260 833-2112

Marinas

Bear Creek Marina
608 Marina Dr
Nebo, NC 28761
828 655-1400

Lake James Marina
9066 NC-126
Nebo, NC 28761
828 254-5253

Public Boat Launch Ramps & Landings

Black Bear Boat Ramp
Located in the northwest corner of the lake, off Lake James Road, this is a six-lane, concrete ramp with docks and paved parking.

Canal Bridge Boat Ramp
Located mid lake, south side, at the north end of the dam, this is a three-lane, concrete ramp with a dock and plenty of paved parking.

Hidden Cove Public Boat Access
Located mid lake, on the south side of the lake, this is a two-lane, concrete ramp with a dock and paved parking.

Linville Boat Ramp
Located in the northeast corner of the lake, off Highway 126, this is a two-lane, concrete ramp with a dock and paved parking.