Largemouth Bass

Clarkton, NC, provides a gateway to excellent largemouth bass fishing in the southeastern part of the state. The Cape Fear River and its associated backwaters and ponds are the key to finding quality bass. These waters offer classic Southern bass habitat: cypress trees, lily pads, and plenty of submerged vegetation. Spring is undoubtedly the best time to target largemouth here, as they move into the shallows to spawn. Topwater lures, spinnerbaits, and soft plastics are all effective choices. A practical tip: focus on areas with current breaks or where the river narrows. The bass often ambush prey in these locations. Be mindful of alligators, which are common in these waters. The fishery here is characterized by a good mix of sizes, with the potential for some real trophies. Exploring the smaller creeks and oxbows off the main river can often lead to productive fishing.