Fishing Charters in North Carolina
Browse fishing charters in North Carolina that can help you catch chain pickerel.


Salty Dawg Fishing Charters
Salty Dawg Fishing Charters specializes in Inshore, Nearshore, Shark Fishing, and Kids Fishing Charters. Based in Ocean Isle Beach NC, but also serving Sunset Beach NC and Holden Beach NC. Veteran-Owned.


Wheels On Deck
Wanchese, North Carolina


Biopsea
Nags Head, North Carolina
Whether you are a beginner or seasoned pro, we strive to provide an enjoyable Outer Banks charter fishing trip for all aboard!


Captain Charles Cp Perry
Kill Devil Hills, North Carolina


X Spearmint Sport Fishing Charters
Manteo, North Carolina
Past Trips, Photos, Fun, Outer Banks, Charter, Boat, Sport, fishing, x-spearmint, Pirates Cove, Captain Ryan Spear, Fishing Trip, Cobia, Mahi, Wahoo, Drum, Manteo, Nags Head, Carolina Custom, Inshore, Nearshore, Bait, Fish, North Carolina, NC


Cape Fear Guide
Southport, North Carolina
Selami permainan berisiko tinggi di TAKERU365! Nikmati imbalan besar dan akses cepat dan aman dengan tautan login tepercaya.


Fletch Sports Fishing Charters
Carolina Beach, North Carolina


Off We Go
Wilmington, North Carolina
Private fishing, island hops, and sunset cruises. USCG-licensed captain.


Mad Kingz Fishing Charters
Ocean Isle Beach, North Carolina
Ocean Isle Beach Location 6855 Beach Drive SW Ocean Isle Beach, NC 28469 910-579-2424


Carolina Fly Guy
Leland, North Carolina
Oak Island fishing charters await with Carolina Fly Guy and Captain Ashley Hux! Experience unforgettable adventures on the water. Book your trip today!


Upper Creek Angler
Morganton, North Carolina
“We had a blast and I am so happy that Nick not only caught a trout on his fly rod but that he caught the biggest trout. He said he learned so much from you yesterday as I also did. A great experience. Thanks again and we will be repeat customers, maybe even a float…


South End Anglers
Holly Ridge, North Carolina
Best Time to Catch Chain Pickerel
Peak season: May, June. Also good: April, July, August, September. Right now in February, activity is poor.
Seasonal Activity Chart

Chain Pickerel
While Charlotte might be known for its urban attractions, it's also a gateway to some decent Chain Pickerel fishing. The Catawba River and its impoundments, like Lake Norman and Mountain Island Lake, offer pockets of suitable habitat. Focus your efforts on the upper ends of these lakes, where creeks enter and provide more natural cover. Look for areas with lily pads, submerged timber, and grass beds. Spring and fall are the most productive times to fish for pickerel here. A good approach is to use weedless soft plastics or small crankbaits. Be aware of boating traffic, especially on weekends, and always wear a life jacket. Pickerel in this region tend to be smaller than in other areas, but they still offer a fun and challenging fishing experience.
How to Catch Chain Pickerel
Detailed fishing techniques coming soon for Chain Pickerel in Charlotte.
Chain Pickerel Fishing Regulations in North Carolina
Open Season
Year-round
Daily Bag Limit
No limit
Size Limit
No size limit
License Required
Unified Inland Fishing License
Consult the NC Wildlife Resources Commission regulations digest for local exceptions.
⚠️ Always verify current regulations with the North Carolina state wildlife agency before fishing.
Related Species in North Carolina
Frequently Asked Questions
What's the best time of year to target chain pickerel around Charlotte, NC?
While you can catch them year-round, chain pickerel fishing is often best during the cooler months, from fall through early spring. They tend to be more active when the water temperatures are lower.
What are some productive baits for catching chain pickerel in the Charlotte area?
Pickerel are aggressive predators and will hit a variety of lures. Spinnerbaits, spoons, crankbaits, and soft plastic lures that imitate baitfish are all good choices. Live minnows are also effective.
Do I need a special license to fish for chain pickerel in North Carolina?
No, you don't need a special license. A Unified Inland Fishing License from the North Carolina Wildlife Resources Commission covers all inland fishing, including chain pickerel.
Are there any size or bag limits for chain pickerel in North Carolina?
Good news, there are no size or bag limits for chain pickerel in North Carolina. You can keep what you catch.
Other Species to Fish in Charlotte
Ready to Catch Chain Pickerel in Charlotte?
Book a trip with an expert guide who knows the best local spots and techniques.





