Fishing Charters in North Carolina
Browse fishing charters in North Carolina that can help you catch channel catfish.


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 Channel Catfish
Channel Catfish can be caught year-round in Highlands. Right now in March, activity is Good.
Seasonal Activity Chart

Channel Catfish
Looking to tangle with some whiskered giants in the mountains? Highlands, North Carolina, offers surprisingly good channel catfish opportunities, primarily in its lakes and larger ponds. While not a renowned catfish destination, the cool, clear waters of this high-elevation area hold some respectable fish. The best time to target them is during the warmer months, from late spring through early fall, when the water temperatures rise and the catfish become more active. Focus your efforts around dawn and dusk, especially after a warm rain. A productive spot is often any lake with a good population of panfish, as they provide a natural food source for the catfish. For bank access, try the public areas around Lake Ravenel. A local tip: using live nightcrawlers or cut bait fished on the bottom is a reliable method. The catfish here might not reach record sizes, but the serene mountain setting makes for a memorable fishing experience.
Plan a Trip to Highlands
See what's biting in Highlands, find top-rated guides, and estimate charter costs.
How to Catch Channel Catfish
Detailed fishing techniques coming soon for Channel Catfish in Highlands.
Channel Catfish Fishing Regulations in North Carolina
Open Season
Year-round
Daily Bag Limit
No limit
Size Limit
No size limit
License Required
Freshwater fishing license
There are no statewide size or creel limits for channel catfish in North Carolina. Anglers should check for local regulations on specific bodies of water.
⚠️ 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 bait to use for channel catfish in Highlands, NC?
Channel catfish in Highlands respond well to a variety of baits. Popular choices include chicken liver, nightcrawlers, stink baits, and cut bait. Experiment to see what works best on a given day.
When is the best time of day to target channel catfish near Highlands?
The best time to fish for channel catfish is typically during the late evening or early morning hours, as they tend to be more active under the cover of darkness or low light conditions. They can be caught year-round.
Do I need a special license to fish for channel catfish in Highlands, NC?
To fish for channel catfish in Highlands, North Carolina, you'll need a valid freshwater fishing license from the state. Make sure your license is current before heading out.
Are there any restrictions on the size or number of channel catfish I can keep in North Carolina?
Good news for catfish anglers! In North Carolina, there are no size or bag limits for channel catfish, so you can keep what you catch (within reason) as long as you have a valid license.
More Channel Catfish Fishing in North Carolina
Other Species to Fish in Highlands
Ready to Catch Channel Catfish in Highlands?
Book a trip with an expert guide who knows the best local spots and techniques.





