Fishing At Lake James

AKA: James Lake, James Reservoir

What to fish for...

Fishing for largemouth bass, smallmouth bass, blue catfish, black crappie, white crappie, walleye, bluegill, white bass, striped bass, northern pike and tiger muskie at Lake James in North Carolina.

This deep, cold-water lake is home to quite a variety of freshwater fish species. Lake James is a 6,800-acre reservoir with depths up to 120 feet, located in the north-central part of the state. Bass are a favorite target of sporting anglers, while walleye are the focus of many who are looking for table fare. Crappie are a close second for fish fry enthusiasts. Big pike, muskie, catfish and stripers also reside in the lake for those seeking trophy fish. Schooling white bass can be caught in spring along shallow shorelines, and during the summer by fishing deeper along river channels and ledges. The clean clear water makes for great tasting fish of all species. Nice boat ramps, multiple marinas, boat rentals and camping facilities are all at your service. Bring the family, enjoy the beautiful scenery, and experience some excellent fishing at James Lake.

Primary fish species residing in Lake James

Click images for fishing tips and details about each species.

Lake James Amenities

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

Today's Weather & Forecast

Marinas

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

Lake James Camping Resort & Marina
5786 Benfields Landing Rd
Nebo, NC 28761
828 584-0190

Mimosa Boat Landing Marina
2260 N Powerhouse Rd
Morganton, NC 28655
828 584-1886

Public Boat Launch Ramps & Landings

Black Bear Boat Ramp
Plenty of paved parking, a six-lane concrete launch ramp, and three docks make this boat access a favorite. It is located in the northwest sector of the lake, at the convergence of Yancey Road and Lake James Road.

Canal Bridge Boat Ramp
This three-lane, concrete launch ramp is located at the end of James Ave, just south of the Highway 126 Bridge. It has a dock and plenty of paved parking.

Hidden Cove Public Boat Access
Located mid lake, on the south side of the lake off Highway 126, this small, two-lane ramp has limited paved parking and a boat dock.

Linville Boat Ramp
Located at the northern tip of the lake, off highway 126, this is a two-lane, concrete ramp with a dock and convenient, paved parking.

Click here for a North Carolina Fishing License.