Fishing Cheoah Lake
AKA: Lake Cheoah
Popular Fish Species Cheoah Lake, NC
Rainbow Trout Fishing
Fishing for rainbow trout at Cheoah Lake can be effective using worms, salmon eggs, prepared baits, small spinners, spoons, jerkbaits and small crankbaits in vibrant colors to mimic prey. Use the lightest fishing line for the best possible results, based on conditions. Annual stocking by the NC Wildlife has helped to maintain a good population of rainbow trout. While fishing from a boat is often the preferred method, plenty of trout are caught here by anglers fishing from the bank. Additionally, floating or sinking flies, such as nymphs, streamers, or dry flies, are popular choices for fly anglers targeting rainbow trout. Trolling with lures or flies behind a boat, casting near shoreline structures, or still fishing with bait can all yield success. Adjusting lure size, color, and retrieve speed can enhance chances of enticing these colorful and spirited fish.
Smallmouth Bass Fishing
Smallmouth bass are the most sought-after species at Cheoah Lake, with fish over 3 pounds very common. Smallmouth bass fishing is particularly good when they move to shallow water. Use shallow spinnerbaits, buzzbaits, crankbaits, tube baits and jerkbaits around any sort of rip rap. Around grass, use worms, jigs, topwater and spinnerbaits. Other times, focus your time on deeper structure with drop-shot rigs, small worms, jigs and spoons. Rock piles and points are prime areas for smallmouth as these areas are also home to crawfish.
Muskie Fishing
Fishing for muskellunge in Cheoah Lake could provide a trophy fish on any given cast. Giant musky roam these waters and are aggressive eaters. Muskie fishing can bring some exciting moments to your fishing day, as big muskies are spectacular, and strong fighters. Use a strong rod in medium- to medium-heavy action, with heavy line - 20# or heavier. Because of their sharp teeth, steel leaders are highly recommended. Muskie have a big mouth so use big baits, same baits you would use for bass but in larger sizes. Topwater, spinnerbaits, crankbaits and jerkbaits all work well for hungry muskie. The best time of year to chase these big fish is Spring, and then again in Fall as the water temperature starts cooling.
Fish species to fish for...
Guide to fishing for largemouth bass, smallmouth bass, spotted bass, rainbow trout, brown trout, brook trout, redbreast sunfish, white bass and muskie at Cheoah Lake in North Carolina.
Cheoah Lake Fishing Video
Located below Fontana Dam, Cheoah Lake is a 640-acre, cold-water fishery with several species of trout. One boat ramp and a fishing pier are open to the public. It is located on the western border of the state, at Tapaco. This wandering river lake is 29 miles long and has over 200 miles of shoreline. Because it is remote, and gets little fishing pressure, the fishing can often be very good for both quantity and quality. Trout are the main attraction, but the lake also supports populations of bass, sunfish and muskie.
Cheoah Lake, located in the scenic mountains of North Carolina, offers anglers a fantastic fishing experience amidst stunning natural surroundings. This 644-acre reservoir is known for its pristine waters and diverse fish species, making it a popular destination for fishing, boating, and camping.
One of the main attractions of Cheoah Lake is its excellent trout fishing. The lake is stocked with rainbow trout, brown trout, and brook trout, providing anglers with the opportunity to catch these prized gamefish. The cold, clear waters of Cheoah Lake create a suitable habitat for trout, and anglers can try their luck with a variety of fishing techniques such as fly fishing, spin casting, or bait fishing. The picturesque mountain scenery adds to the allure of trout fishing at Cheoah Lake.
In addition to trout, Cheoah Lake is home to other fish species, including largemouth bass, smallmouth bass, and sunfish. Anglers can target bass using a variety of lures and techniques such as crankbaits, soft plastics, or topwater baits. The lake's submerged structures, rocky areas, and shoreline vegetation provide ideal habitat for bass. Sunfish, including bluegill and redear sunfish, offer a fun and rewarding fishing experience, particularly for young anglers and those looking for a relaxed day on the water.
Cheoah Lake in North Carolina provides anglers with a rewarding fishing experience, particularly for trout enthusiasts. The lake's abundance of trout, along with bass and sunfish, offers a variety of fishing opportunities for different preferences and skill levels.
Primary fish species residing in Cheoah Lake
Click images for fishing tips and details about each species.
Cheoah Lake Amenities
Marina: NO
Boat Rental: NO
Boat Launch Ramp: YES
Campgrounds: NEARBY
RV Hookups: NEARBY
Lodging: NEARBY
Convenience Store: YES
Bait & Tackle: NEARBY
Restaurant: YES
Today's Weather & Forecast
Boating is a popular activity on Cheoah Lake, and anglers can take advantage of the lake's boat ramps and marina facilities. Whether you prefer a motorized boat, kayak, or canoe, the lake offers ample space for boating and exploring its various coves and channels. Boaters should be mindful of any boating regulations and safety measures to ensure a pleasant and secure boating experience.
Public Boat Launch Ramps & Landings
Rymers Ferry Lake Access
Use Meadow Branch Road (County Rd 1247) to reach this primitive ramp with limited parking.
Fishing Guides On Cheoah Lake
International Game Fish Association Professional Guides - trout, bass, muskie
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.
Camping facilities are available near Cheoah Lake, allowing anglers and outdoor enthusiasts to extend their stay and immerse themselves in the beauty of the area. Whether you prefer tent camping or RV camping, there are options to suit different preferences and needs.
Campgrounds & RV Parks Nearby
The Campground at Fontana Village - 828 498-2211
Cheoah Point Campground - 828 497-6431
Cheoah Lake NC Map - Fishing & Camping Areas
Contact Information
Cheoah Lake
Cheoah Ranger District
1373 Thunderbird Mountain Rd,
Robbinsville, NC 28771
828 497-6431
Fishing lakes in each state.
100924
Cheoah Lake in NC
NORTH CAROLINA
Fishing for trout and muskie in western NC
