Fishing Spots Near Fayetteville

The Cape Fear River and surrounding waters offer excellent fishing opportunities for anglers of all experience levels. From bass fishing to catfish, Fayetteville's waters provide year-round action.

Cape Fear River Fishing

Overview

The Cape Fear River system provides:

• Primary species: Largemouth bass, spotted bass, catfish
• Additional targets: Striped bass, American shad, sunfish
• River length: Over 200 miles of fishable water
• Access: Multiple public boat ramps and bank fishing spots

Best Fishing Locations

Campbellton Landing

Popular access point offering:

• Public boat ramp
• Bank fishing opportunities
• Parking facilities
• Good catfish and bass habitat

Fayetteville Boating Access Area

Connected fishing destination:

• Adjacent to Campbellton Landing
• Additional river access
• Deep water fishing
• Variety of structure

Below Buckhorn Dam

Excellent fishing area featuring:

• Strong current fishing
• Striped bass runs
• Catfish concentrations
• Shad migrations (spring)

William O'Huske Lock and Dam

Quality spot providing:

• Tailwater fishing
• Bass and catfish
• Bank access available
• Historic location

Fish Species Guide

Bass

Multiple bass species available:

• Largemouth bass: Most common, found throughout
• Spotted bass: Increasing population, fight hard
• Striped bass: Seasonal runs, excellent fighters

Catfish

Several species present:

• Channel catfish: Most abundant
• Blue catfish: Growing numbers, larger size
• Flathead catfish: Trophy potential

Panfish

Great for beginners:

• Various sunfish species
• Crappie in cooler months
• Year-round availability
• Excellent eating

Seasonal Targets

• Spring: Shad runs, pre-spawn bass
• Summer: Catfish, deep bass
• Fall: Bass feeding heavily
• Winter: Crappie, deep fishing

Fishing Licenses

Requirements

North Carolina requires:

• Freshwater fishing license for ages 16+
• Additional trout stamp for trout waters
• Coastal recreational fishing license for saltwater

Getting Licensed

Purchase options:

• Online at ncwildlife.org
• Sporting goods stores
• Walmart hunting/fishing counters
• License agents throughout county

Costs

Current license fees:

• Annual resident: $25
• Annual non-resident: $45
• Short-term licenses available
• Military stationed in NC: Resident rates

Fishing Tips

Gear Recommendations

For Cape Fear fishing:

• Medium to medium-heavy rods
• 10-20 lb test line
• Various baits (live and artificial)
• Sturdy tackle for catfish

Techniques

Effective methods include:

• Carolina rigs for bass
• Cut bait for catfish
• Topwater in early morning
• Deep diving crankbaits

Safety Considerations

Stay safe on the water:

• Check water levels before fishing
• Wear life jacket when boating
• Watch for submerged hazards
• Be aware of dam releases

Family Fishing

Kid-Friendly Spots

Locations good for young anglers:

• Stocked ponds in city parks
• Calm river backwaters
• Bank fishing access areas
• Places with restroom facilities

Introduction to Fishing

Tips for beginners:

• Start with simple setups
• Target willing biters (panfish)
• Keep initial trips short
• Focus on fun over catching

Fishing Events

Annual Tournaments

The area hosts various competitions:

• Bass tournaments
• Catfish derbies
• Youth fishing events
• Charity tournaments

Community Events

Opportunities to participate:

• Free fishing days (no license required)
• Kids fishing clinics
• Conservation programs
• Casting instruction

Conservation

Catch and Release

Protect the fishery:

• Handle fish carefully
• Use appropriate tackle
• Release large breeding fish
• Follow regulations exactly

Regulations

Know the rules:

• Size and creel limits vary by species
• Some areas have special regulations
• Check current regulations before fishing
• Report violations when observed

Fayetteville's fishing opportunities provide year-round outdoor recreation. Whether targeting trophy bass or enjoying family fishing, the Cape Fear River system delivers quality experiences for all anglers.