Due to population shifts and overfishing over the past decade, the N.C. Wildlife Resources Commission enacted a closure during the winter months through early spring to protect spawning fish.
During the 1990s and the early 2000s, too many spawning females were yanked out of the reservoir, causing population declines and size concerns. The Commission responded by establishing a closed season for keeping fish from Dec. 1 to March 31.
All anglers fishing during this time period should exercise caution and return the fish to the water unharmed as soon as possible. Additionally, any large female caught during the spawning season and afterwards should be returned to the water to protect the future of this fishery.
The lake’s fishery was further protected this winter — but not on purpose. The lake’s only public access, a Commission boat ramp, was closed Oct. 29, 2013 for construction that included two new boat ramps with courtesy docks, a handicap-accessible fishing pier, and improved parking and handicap access.
The construction was scheduled to be completed during February 2013.
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