Largemouth Bass

Boone, North Carolina, situated in the heart of the Blue Ridge Mountains, isn't the first place that comes to mind for largemouth bass, but several smaller lakes and reservoirs offer surprisingly good fishing. Watauga Lake, a short drive from Boone, is a popular destination. Bass fishing here is best in the spring and fall when the water temperatures are moderate, and the fish are actively feeding. During the summer, focus on deeper structure to find cooler water and holding fish. A practical tip for Watauga: the Shook Branch Recreation Area provides excellent boat launching facilities and access to prime bass fishing areas. Also, be aware that the bass in these mountain lakes can be a bit more finicky than their lowland cousins. Downsizing your lures and using finesse techniques can often be the key to success. The bass population in Watauga is healthy, with opportunities to catch both numbers and some quality fish.