Cool down for catfish

Try these two Carolina lakes for November cats

Anglers seeking catfish in the Carolinas during November often turn to specific rivers and reservoirs where cooler water temperatures bring fish into predictable patterns.

Lake Hickory

In North Carolina, Lake Hickory offers excellent opportunities for catching both channel and flathead catfish.

Located along the Catawba River in the foothills, the lake provides deep pools and submerged structures that catfish favor as the weather cools. Experienced anglers know that late fall catfish often move closer to the mouths of creeks feeding the lake, where slower currents and plentiful baitfish make for prime fishing spots.

Popular techniques on Lake Hickory include bottom fishing with live bait such as shad or cut bait, which channel catfish readily accept. Flatheads, which can grow to substantial sizes, often require heavier tackle and large pieces of cut shad or live sunfish.

Fishing after sunset or in the early morning is particularly effective, as catfish are more active during low light conditions and in cooler water temperatures. Drift fishing along the deeper sections of the lake with a steady presentation is also highly productive, allowing anglers to cover more water and locate schooling fish.

Lake Hartwell

In South Carolina, Lake Hartwell stands out as a prime destination for November catfish. This large reservoir, formed by the Savannah River, has numerous coves, points, and submerged timber areas where catfish congregate as the water cools.

Anglers targeting catfish on Lake Hartwell often focus on the deeper sections near channels and old creek beds, where water temperatures remain more stable and food sources are abundant. Live bait such as shad, minnows, or small sunfish is a common choice, while prepared stink baits or cut bait can be effective for enticing larger flatheads.

Fishing along the edges of submerged brush piles and fallen trees provides natural ambush points, and using a slip sinker rig allows the bait to remain near the bottom where catfish are feeding.

Timing also plays a key role on Lake Hartwell, with early morning and late evening providing the best chances for active fish. Anglers often combine anchoring in one productive spot with occasional slow drifts to cover areas where fish might be moving in search of food.

Be ready for big ones

Both Lake Hickory and Lake Hartwell provide opportunities for anglers to experience the thrill of catching large catfish while enjoying the quiet of the late fall season, and their diverse underwater structures make each outing unique.

Proper preparation, attention to local conditions, and selecting the right bait are essential for success in November catfishing across these two popular Carolina destinations.

The combination of location, bait selection, and timing ensures that November catfish fishing remains a rewarding challenge for anglers willing to brave cooler temperatures in pursuit of a memorable catch.