%2Ffit-in%2F250x250%2Fguide_websites%2F13268%2Fimages%2F1708991147276image-2024-02-27t074532.170.png&w=1200&q=100)
Blue Catfish Fishing on High Rock Lake
Blue Catfish Guided Fishing Trip in High Rock Lake
5.0
8 Reviews
- 5
100% - 4
0% - 30%
- 20%
- 10%
%2F%2Fusers%2F6ad644b5-8beb-4d0d-946e-ee6c922ab318%2Fimages%2Ftamarac-marina-best-fishing-techniques-6440.png&w=1200&q=75)
The Blue Catfish belongs to the order Siluriformes and family Ictaluridae. It typically measures between 25 and 46 inches in length, with a weight range from 20 to 81 lbs. Habitat: river, lake, flats, backcountry. - Blue Catfish are known for their slate-blue bodies and distinctive fin ray count. - They prefer deeper waters and are often found near structure in lakes and rivers.
Guided Fishing Trip by Captain Marc Gioeli in December
Meet your Captain Marc Gioeli
- Catfish Guide on High Rock Lake NC
Summary
Captain Marc Gioeli of Cats on the Rock Guide Service on Wednesday July offers expert-guided catfish charters on High Rock Lake near Mocksville, NC. This 6-hour fishing charter targets Blue Catfish, Channel Catfish, and Flathead Catfish using proven techniques like bottom fishing, trolling, and crankbaiting. All fishing equipment, bait, and tackle are included for up to 3 guests. Marc's local knowledge of High Rock Lake's structure and seasonal patterns ensures productive fishing action. Whether you're new to catfishing or an experienced angler, these guided trips provide hands-on instruction and memorable catches in North Carolina's premier catfish waters.
Fishing Charter with Captain Marc – Rates & Booking
Captain Marc Gioeli of Cats on the Rock Guide Service on Wednesday July provides comprehensive 6-hour catfish charters on High Rock Lake for 1-3 guests. This guided fishing trip includes all equipment, bait, tackle, and expert instruction on locating fish using sonar and proper rigging techniques. Marc's local expertise covers the most productive areas around Tamarac Marina and the Township of Providence section of the lake. Guests learn effective catfishing methods including bottom fishing in deeper holes, trolling along structure, and working crankbaits for consistent action. Book online to secure your spot for this all-inclusive High Rock Lake fishing experience.
Highlights of 6 Hour High Rock Lake Catfish Guided Fishing Trip for 1–3 Guests
This charter focuses on three catfish species that thrive in High Rock Lake's diverse habitat. Blue Catfish offer the potential for trophy-sized catches, while Channel Catfish provide steady action throughout the day. Flathead Catfish add excitement with their aggressive strikes and fighting ability. Marc shares decades of local knowledge about seasonal patterns, water temperature preferences, and the lake's underwater structure that holds fish.
Summer fishing on High Rock Lake delivers consistent catfish action with comfortable weather conditions. The 6-hour duration allows time to work multiple productive areas and adapt techniques based on fish behavior. All guests receive hands-on instruction regardless of experience level, making this trip ideal for families, beginners, and seasoned anglers looking to improve their catfishing skills.
Local Species Insights: Blue Catfish
Blue Catfish in High Rock Lake grow to impressive sizes, with specimens reaching 25-46 inches and weighing 20-81 pounds. These powerful fish prefer deeper water near structure during summer months, making them perfect targets for bottom fishing techniques. Marc knows the specific holes and drop-offs where trophy Blue Cats congregate, especially around the Township of Providence area where recent trips have produced excellent results. Their slate-blue coloration and squared-off anal fin distinguish them from Channel Catfish, and their strength makes every hookup an exciting battle.
Plan Your Fishing Charter Day
Your High Rock Lake catfish adventure begins at Tamarac Marina with a safety briefing and equipment overview. Marc provides all fishing gear, bait, and tackle suited for the day's conditions and target species. The boat accommodates up to 3 guests comfortably with ample space for fighting fish and storing gear. Guests should bring drinks, snacks, and sun protection for the 6-hour trip. Marc's guidance on sonar reading, rigging techniques, and fish handling ensures everyone learns valuable skills while enjoying productive fishing action on one of North Carolina's premier catfish lakes.
Fishing in High Rock Lake: Blue Catfish
Blue Catfish (Ictalurus furcatus) belong to the order Siluriformes and family Ictaluridae. These impressive freshwater fish are distinguished by their slate-blue coloration and can reach substantial sizes of 25-46 inches, weighing between 20-81 pounds. In High Rock Lake waters this July, Blue Catfish represent the ultimate trophy target for serious catfish anglers.
Blue Catfish Overview
Blue Catfish are North America's largest catfish species, prized by anglers for their size potential and fighting ability. They thrive in large river systems and reservoirs like High Rock Lake, where they occupy deeper waters and feed aggressively on baitfish, crayfish, and other aquatic prey. Their distinctive slate-blue coloration fades to white on the belly, and they possess the characteristic barbels that help them locate food in murky water.
Blue Catfish Habitat and Distribution
These catfish prefer large rivers, reservoirs, and lake systems with good current flow and deep water access. In North Carolina waters like High Rock Lake, they inhabit main lake points, river channels, and areas with significant depth changes. Blue Catfish are native to the Mississippi River drainage but have been successfully introduced to many southeastern waters where they've established thriving populations.
Blue Catfish Size and Weight
Blue Catfish typically range from 25-46 inches in length and weigh between 20-81 pounds, though exceptional specimens can exceed these ranges. High Rock Lake produces quality Blue Catfish in the 15-30 pound class regularly, with the potential for much larger fish. Their growth rate depends on food availability and water temperature, with prime specimens often found in deeper, cooler sections of the lake.
Blue Catfish Diet and Behavior
Blue Catfish are opportunistic feeders that consume fish, crayfish, mussels, and aquatic insects. They're most active during low-light periods, particularly dawn and dusk, though they can be caught throughout the day. These fish use their excellent sense of smell and taste to locate food, making cut bait and prepared baits highly effective. They often school in deeper water during summer months, making sonar essential for locating concentrations.
Blue Catfish Spawning Season
Blue Catfish spawn in late spring when water temperatures reach 70-75°F, typically May through June in North Carolina. Males create nests in cavities, hollow logs, or undercut banks where females deposit eggs. During spawning season, large Blue Catfish move to shallower areas, making them more accessible to anglers fishing near structure and cover.
Blue Catfish Fishing Techniques
Effective Blue Catfish techniques include bottom fishing with cut bait, live bait, or prepared baits near deep structure. Circle hooks in sizes 5/0 to 8/0 work well with sufficient weight to maintain bottom contact. Drift fishing allows covering water to locate active schools. In Mocksville waters, anglers find success using fresh cut shad, chicken liver, and commercial catfish baits around main lake points and river channel edges during summer months.
Blue Catfish Is It Good to Eat?
Blue Catfish offer excellent table fare with firm, white meat and mild flavor. Smaller fish (under 10 pounds) typically provide the best eating quality, while larger specimens are often released for conservation. The meat is high in protein, low in fat, and contains beneficial omega-3 fatty acids. Popular cooking methods include frying, grilling, and baking, with the fillets holding together well during preparation.
Blue Catfish Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is the best bait for Blue Catfish?
A: Fresh cut shad, skipjack herring, and live bait work exceptionally well. Prepared baits like chicken liver and commercial catfish baits are also effective, especially when fishing is slow.
Q: Where can I find Blue Catfish near Mocksville?
A: High Rock Lake offers excellent Blue Catfish opportunities, particularly around main lake points, river channel edges, and deeper structure near the Township of Providence area.
Q: Is Blue Catfish good to eat?
A: Yes, Blue Catfish provide excellent table fare with firm, white meat and mild flavor. Smaller fish typically offer the best eating quality.
Q: When is the best time to catch Blue Catfish?
A: Early morning and evening hours are most productive, though Blue Catfish can be caught throughout the day. Summer months provide consistent action in deeper waters.
More species you can explore on this trip
Cats on the Rock Guide Service Available Trips
Other customer memories from this trip
Picture yourself on a cozy fishing boat, gliding across the calm waters of High Rock Lake. Captain Marc Gioeli's at the helm, ready to share his local expertise and help you reel in some impressive catfish. For the next 6 hours, you'll be targeting Blue, Flathead, and Channel Catfish using top-notch equipment and proven techniques. Whether you're a seasoned angler or trying fishing for the first time, Captain Marc's hands-on guidance ensures everyone has a great time. He'll show you how to read the sonar, set up your lines just right, and find those hidden catfish hotspots. With room for up to 3 guests, it's perfect for a small group or family outing. All the gear's provided, so you just need to bring some snacks and drinks to keep you energized for a fun day on the water. Get ready to make some fishy memories on this laid-back High Rock Lake adventure!
