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Caught a Flathead Catfish in High Rock Lake
Flathead Catfish in High Rock Lake
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The Pylodictis Olivaris belongs to the order Siluriformes and family Ictaluridae. It typically measures between 12 and 61 inches in length, with a weight range from 4 to 60 lbs. Habitat: river, lake, flats, backcountry. - Known for large size among North American freshwater catfish. - Also called Yellow Cat, Mud Cat, Johnnie Cat, Pied Cat, Mississippi Cat.
Guided Fishing Trip by Captain Marc Gioeli in August
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 fishing on High Rock Lake near Mocksville, NC. This 6-hour charter targets Flathead, Blue, and Channel 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 for anglers of all skill levels. Summer provides consistent catfish action with opportunities for trophy-sized fish in the Township of Providence area and other productive spots throughout the lake.
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. All fishing equipment, bait, and tackle are included in your trip—just bring drinks and snacks. Marc offers hands-on instruction covering fish location, sonar use, and proper rigging techniques. Licensed guide with extensive local knowledge ensures a productive day targeting Flathead, Blue, and Channel Catfish. Contact Captain Marc directly to check availability and secure your 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 using multiple proven techniques. Bottom fishing targets deeper holes where catfish congregate, while trolling covers structure and drop-offs effectively. Crankbaiting adds versatility for active fish in various depths. The Township of Providence area consistently produces quality catches, and Marc adjusts locations based on current conditions and seasonal patterns.
Summer catfishing on High Rock Lake offers consistent action with excellent trophy potential. Marc's guidance helps anglers understand lake structure, catfish behavior, and technique selection. Whether you're learning fundamentals or refining advanced skills, this charter accommodates all experience levels with patient instruction and local expertise.
Local Species Insights: Flathead Catfish
Flathead Catfish in High Rock Lake are opportunistic predators that prefer live bait and structure-rich areas. These whiskered fighters inhabit deeper holes, submerged timber, and rocky ledges throughout the lake. Summer months bring active feeding as water temperatures stabilize, making July an excellent time for targeting quality Flatheads. Marc's knowledge of seasonal movements and preferred habitat helps locate these impressive fish consistently.
Plan Your Fishing Charter Day
Your 6-hour charter departs from Tamarac Marina with all necessary equipment provided. The boat accommodates up to 3 guests comfortably with proper safety equipment and fish-finding electronics. Marc provides instruction on technique, equipment use, and lake navigation while maintaining focus on productive fishing. Partly cloudy conditions with potential afternoon storms are typical summer weather patterns that don't significantly impact fishing success when properly managed.
Fishing in High Rock Lake: Flathead Catfish
The Flathead Catfish (Pylodictis olivaris) belongs to the order Siluriformes and family Ictaluridae. Also known as Yellow Cat, Mud Cat, Johnnie Cat, Pied Cat, or Mississippi Cat, this species is renowned for its impressive size among North American freshwater catfish. Distinguished by its flattened head, squared tail, and mottled yellow-brown coloration, Flatheads are apex predators in High Rock Lake waters this July.
Flathead Catfish Overview
Flathead Catfish are solitary hunters that prefer live prey over scavenged food, setting them apart from other catfish species. Their aggressive nature and substantial size make them highly sought after by anglers. These fish can live over 20 years and continue growing throughout their lives, with some specimens exceeding 100 pounds in optimal conditions.
Flathead Catfish Habitat and Distribution
These catfish inhabit rivers, lakes, flats, and backcountry waters throughout their range. In High Rock Lake near Mocksville, they prefer deeper holes, submerged timber, rocky ledges, and areas with current flow. They seek cover during daylight hours and become more active during low-light periods, making dawn and dusk prime fishing times.
Flathead Catfish Size and Weight
Flathead Catfish typically range from 12 to 61 inches in length, weighing between 4 and 60 pounds. Young fish grow rapidly, reaching 12-16 inches within their first few years. Mature adults commonly weigh 20-40 pounds, while trophy specimens can exceed 50 pounds in productive waters like High Rock Lake.
Flathead Catfish Diet and Behavior
Unlike other catfish species, Flatheads are primarily piscivorous, feeding almost exclusively on live fish including bluegill, shad, carp, and other catfish. They are ambush predators that use their large mouths to engulf prey whole. Peak feeding occurs during nighttime hours, though they remain opportunistic feeders throughout the day when conditions are favorable.
Flathead Catfish Spawning Season
Spawning occurs in late spring to early summer when water temperatures reach 70-75°F. Males create nests in hollow logs, undercut banks, or rocky crevices where females deposit 2,000-100,000 eggs. Males guard the nest aggressively until fry become free-swimming, typically 6-10 days after hatching.
Flathead Catfish Fishing Techniques
Live bait fishing produces the best results for Flatheads, with bluegill, shad, and creek chubs being top choices. Bottom fishing near structure using circle hooks and heavy tackle handles their powerful runs effectively. Cut bait occasionally works, but fresh live bait significantly outperforms other options. In July around Mocksville, anglers find success targeting deeper holes and timber-laden areas during evening hours.
Flathead Catfish Is It Good to Eat?
Flathead Catfish provide excellent table fare with firm, white meat and mild flavor. Their diet of live fish rather than bottom detritus results in cleaner-tasting fillets compared to other catfish species. The meat is high in protein and low in fat, making it a healthy dining option when prepared by frying, grilling, or baking.
Flathead Catfish Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is the best bait for Flathead Catfish?
A: Live bluegill, shad, and creek chubs are the most effective baits. Fresh cut bait can work, but live bait significantly outperforms other options for consistent success.
Q: Where can I find Flathead Catfish near Mocksville?
A: High Rock Lake offers excellent Flathead fishing around deeper holes, submerged timber, rocky ledges, and the Township of Providence area where structure provides ideal habitat.
Q: Is Flathead Catfish good to eat?
A: Yes, Flatheads provide excellent table fare with firm, white meat and mild flavor. Their live fish diet results in cleaner-tasting fillets compared to other catfish species.
Q: When is the best time to catch Flathead Catfish?
A: Evening and nighttime hours produce the best results, though they feed opportunistically throughout the day. Summer months like July offer consistent action with active feeding patterns.
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!
