How to Fish Lake Norman: Best Patterns & Techniques

Lake Norman

Published: Nov 1, 2018Updated: May 14, 2025

Table of Contents

Spring Fishing Patterns on Lake Norman

Season	Species	Water Temp	Behavioral Patterns	Key Locations	Best Techniques	Forage Types	Bait Colors
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Spotted Bass	53-64	Spotted bass are transitioning from winter patterns to pre-spawn staging areas, actively feeding to build energy reserves for spawning. Fish are showing increased aggression and moving towards shallower staging areas, particularly around docks, brush piles, and rip rap. Fish are suspending at various depths (from shallow to 15 feet) around structure, especially docks and brush piles, making frequent movements between deep and shallow water as they prepare for spawning.	Docks with deep water access, particularly those near spawning flats Rip rap banks and rocky areas in creek arms Brush piles positioned on or near spawning flats Main lake and secondary points with rock or boulder coverage	Hard Jerkbaits worked with long pauses around brush piles and dock fronts Neko Rigs worked slowly around dock posts and boat lifts Medium Diving Crankbaits (7'-12') worked along rip rap and rocky banks Soft Body Swimbaits (Small/Medium) slow rolled near bottom structure Underspins worked around docks and rocky areas	Shad - primary forage based on multiple recent reports Blueback Herring - actively feeding on schools between brush piles Crawfish - becoming active on rocky structure and rip rap	Vibrant Craw Colors Natural Baitfish Colors Dark Neutrals
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Largemouth Bass	52-65	Bass are transitioning from winter patterns to pre-spawn staging areas, actively feeding to build energy reserves for spawning Fish are showing increased activity in shallower water, particularly around transition areas and staging points Feeding periods are extended due to increasing metabolism, with fish actively pursuing both shad and crawfish	Docks adjacent to spawning pockets, especially in 15-foot depth range Riprap banks and rocky points where crawfish are active Dam areas where shad are congregating in 15-foot depths	Shakey Heads worked slowly along bottom near docks and transition areas Hard Jerkbaits for suspended fish following baitfish schools Bladed Jigs around brush piles and dock areas Shallow Diving Crankbaits (0-6') along riprap banks	Shad schooling in 10-15 foot depths Crawfish becoming active on rocky structures Blueback Herring in open water areas	Vibrant Craw Colors Bold Striped Patterns Chartreuse Colors
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Striped Bass	55-65	Striped bass are transitioning from winter patterns to pre-spawn staging, actively feeding while moving between deeper winter areas and spawning tributaries Fish are showing selective feeding behavior, particularly short-striking baits, indicating a preference for specific presentations and smaller profile lures	Brush piles at creek channel mouths in 10-17 feet of water First drop-offs near potential spawning banks Transitional areas near smaller creek cuts	Soft Body Swimbaits (Small/Medium) slow-rolled on 1/4oz jig heads Umbrella Rigs worked through suspended fish Vertical Jigging Mid Depth (10-19') around brush piles	Shad concentrations around creek mouths and transition areas Secondary baitfish gathering in pre-spawn staging areas	Bold Striped Patterns Chartreuse Colors Natural Baitfish Colors
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Catfish	58-68	Pre-spawn catfish are beginning to move from deeper wintering areas to staging areas near spawning flats, becoming more active as water temperatures rise Feeding activity increases during this transition period, with fish particularly active during wind-driven current situations	Channel swings and deeper areas adjacent to spawning flats Areas where dock networks intersect with deeper water access Wind-swept points and coves where current concentrates forage	Live Bait Rigs with bottom-bouncing presentation Carolina Rigs dragged slowly along transitional areas Vertical Jigging Mid Depth (10-19') near structure	Shad schools beginning spring movements Bluegill concentrating near dock structures Alewife moving into shallower staging areas	Vibrant Craw Colors Chartreuse Colors Bold Striped Patterns
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Crappie	52-62	Crappie are transitioning from deep winter holding areas to pre-spawn staging areas, following warming trends and becoming more active Fish are moving in schools, following shad movements while preparing for spawn, particularly active during warming trends	Staging areas near spawning flats in 8-15 foot depth range, especially near brush piles Secondary points and creek channel bends leading to spawning coves Dock areas providing vertical structure in 10-15 foot depths	Crappie Spider Rigging Vertical Jigging Mid Depth (10-19') Crappie Long Lining (Pulling/Trolling)	Shad schools in pre-spawn transition areas Small bluegill and juvenile sunfish near brush and dock areas	Chartreuse Colors Pink Colors Dark Neutrals
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Panfish / Bluegill	58-68	Pre-spawn bluegill are transitioning from deeper winter areas to shallow feeding zones, becoming more active as water temperatures rise Fish are staging near spawning areas but focusing on feeding to build energy reserves, particularly active during morning and evening periods	Shallow protected coves with emerging vegetation, especially near deeper water access Brush piles in 5-10 foot depths adjacent to spawning flats Dock areas providing overhead cover in 4-8 foot depths	Bobbers with slow presentation 2-4 feet below surface Ice Fishing Jigs worked vertically around brush and dock posts Micro Crankbaits retrieved slowly along dock edges	Early season insects and larvae Small crustaceans near brush and vegetation Emerging aquatic insects	Chartreuse Colors Dark Neutrals Pink Colors
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Common Carp	55-68	Carp are becoming increasingly active as water temperatures rise, moving from winter deep areas to shallower flats and creek mouths to feed Fish are staging near spawning areas but still primarily focused on feeding, with increased activity during warmer parts of the day	Creek mouths and adjacent flats in 5-10 foot depth range where organic matter concentrates Shallow coves with emerging vegetation near rip rap areas Protected areas between docks where water warms faster	Live Bait Rigs with a slow, bottom-focused presentation Texas Rigs (Worming) dragged slowly through feeding areas Bobbers set just off bottom in shallow feeding zones	Natural insects and larvae becoming active in warming waters Shad concentrated in creek mouths and shallow flats Bottom-dwelling invertebrates and organic matter	Vibrant Craw Colors Dark Neutrals Chartreuse Colors
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Smallmouth Bass	48-58	Transitioning from winter deep water areas to pre-spawn staging areas, actively feeding to build energy reserves for spawning Moving along migration routes from deep wintering areas to shallow spawning flats, stopping at key structure along the way Becoming more aggressive in feeding behavior as water temperatures rise, particularly during warming trends	Main lake points with deep water access, especially those with rock or rip rap Secondary points leading into spawning pockets and coves Transition areas where rock structure meets deeper water Areas near the power plant discharge where warmer water accelerates spring patterns	Jerkbaits worked slowly with long pauses, particularly on sunny days Blade Baits worked vertically along depth transitions Tubes dragged slowly along rocky structure Football Jigs worked methodically on point transitions	Shad concentrating in pre-spawn staging areas Blueback herring following similar migration patterns as the shad Crawfish becoming more active as water temperatures rise	Vibrant Craw Colors Bold Striped Patterns Dark Neutrals
Spring (Spawn)	Spotted Bass	58-68	Spotted bass are in spawning mode, with fish staging near and actively spawning around docks, stumps, and rocky areas. Some fish are pre-spawn while others are actively spawning or even post-spawn Fish are showing aggressive territorial behavior around beds, especially near structure transitions to deeper water	Docks adjacent to spawning flats, particularly in the southern portion of the lake Rip rap banks and rocky points that transition to deeper water Shallow stumps near spawning flats	Wacky Rigs worked slowly around docks and visible beds Drop Shot with finesse presentations for deeper bedding fish Hard Jerkbaits worked along transition areas	Minnows Shad	Vibrant Craw Colors Light Neutral Colors
Spring (Spawn)	Largemouth Bass	58-72	Bass are transitioning through spawning phases, moving from pre-spawn staging areas to spawning flats and protected areas near docks Fish are actively feeding during morning hours in shallower water, then shifting to secondary points and deeper areas during afternoon sun	Docks in shallow pockets, particularly floating docks with cross members Secondary points with access to deeper water Rock piles near spawning flats	Soft Body Swimbaits (Small/Medium) worked at various depths Wacky Rigs skipped under docks Hard Jerkbaits on windy points Neko Rigs as a follow-up presentation	Shad moving into spawning areas Bluegill in shallow pockets around docks	Bold Striped Patterns Vibrant Craw Colors Light Neutral Colors
Spring (Spawn)	Striped Bass	58-68	Staging pre-spawn stripers move from deep winter haunts into transitional depth ranges near spawning grounds, primarily utilizing creek channel mouths and flats 10-20ft deep Adult stripers become increasingly aggressive during pre-spawn period, making frequent feeding movements to shallow flats during lowlight periods Schools breaking up into smaller groups, with large females moving shallower than males during peak spawn	Creek channel mouths intersecting with main lake points Brush piles along transitional depth ranges (10-20ft) Secondary points inside major creek arms Shallow flats adjacent to deep water access	Soft Body Swimbaits (Large) Live Bait Rigs Trolling Mid Depth (10-19') Umbrella Rigs	Gizzard and Threadfin Shad Alewives	Natural Baitfish Colors Chartreuse Colors Bold Striped Patterns
Spring (Spawn)	Catfish	58-72	Moving from winter deep holes to shallower spawning areas, particularly around complex shoreline features Males actively preparing and guarding nesting sites in protected areas Increased feeding activity as water warms, with peak activity during dawn and dusk	Protected coves and inlets with firm bottom near shoreline Areas adjacent to docks in 4-8 feet of water Shallow flats near channel edges with structure	Live Bait Rigs with slow, bottom-focused presentation Carolina Rigs worked slowly through spawning areas Texas Rigs (Pitch/Flip) around dock structures	Shad concentrations in spawning areas Bluegill in shallow structure Alewife schools moving shallow	Vibrant Craw Colors Chartreuse Colors Bold Striped Patterns
Spring (Spawn)	Crappie	58-68	Crappie are moving into shallow spawning areas (2-8ft) and staging near shoreline structure, particularly around docks and stumps in protected areas Males are establishing and guarding nests while females stage slightly deeper, making multiple trips between staging and spawning areas Feeding activity is increased during pre-spawn, with fish actively pursuing shad and other baitfish in preparation for spawning	Protected coves and pockets with stumps and laydowns in 2-5ft range Dock areas providing shade and protection in spawning depth Transition areas between spawning flats and slightly deeper water (8-12ft) where females stage	Crappie Dock Shooting Bobbers Crappie Sniping (Casting/Single Poling)	Shad Small bluegill and juvenile panfish Juvenile bass	Chartreuse Colors Pink Colors Dark Neutrals
Spring (Spawn)	Panfish / Bluegill	65-75	Spawning bluegill are actively defending nesting colonies in shallow waters, typically 2-4 feet deep, with males becoming increasingly aggressive Fish are moving from deeper pre-spawn staging areas to shallow spawning flats, particularly active during morning and evening hours	Protected shallow bays and coves with firm bottom composition, especially near emerging vegetation Areas between docks where spawning colonies can establish protected nesting sites Shallow flats adjacent to deeper water that provide quick escape routes	Bobbers with light jigs or live bait suspended 2-4 feet deep, worked slowly through spawning areas Ice Fishing Jigs worked horizontally just above bottom in spawning areas Micro Crankbaits retrieved slowly along the edges of spawning colonies	Small insects and larvae near spawning areas Zooplankton in shallow water columns Small crustaceans around vegetation and woody cover	Chartreuse Colors Dark Neutrals Pink Colors
Spring (Spawn)	Common Carp	62-75	Carp are moving into shallow, warmer areas (2-6 feet) to spawn, congregating near emergent vegetation and flooded shoreline cover Actively feeding during pre and post-spawn periods, with increased surface activity and mud stirring visible in spawning areas	Creek mouths and shallow flats with soft bottom composition Protected coves with emerging vegetation near rip rap Shallow areas adjacent to dock structures with nearby deeper water access	Live Bait Rigs with light weight to avoid spooking fish in shallow water Bobbers suspended baits near vegetation edges Texas Rigs (Worming) worked slowly through spawning areas	Natural insects and larvae in spawning areas Shad concentrations near creek mouths Organic matter and vegetation	Vibrant Craw Colors Chartreuse Colors Dark Neutrals
Spring (Spawn)	Smallmouth Bass	55-65	Male smallmouth actively building and guarding nests in shallow rocky areas, while females stage nearby in slightly deeper water Fish become more aggressive and territorial during spawning, defending nests against intruders Pre-spawn feeding activity increases as fish prepare for the spawning phase	Protected rocky pockets and coves with gravel or small boulder substrate (2-6 feet deep) Main lake points with gradual slopes near spawning pockets Rip rap banks with access to deeper water	Tubes worked slowly along rocky bottom in spawning areas Ned Rigs cast to visible beds or likely spawning areas Drop Shot with finesse presentations for wary spawning fish	Crawfish emerging in warming shallows Blueback herring moving shallow for their own spawn Small baitfish in spawning areas	Vibrant Craw Colors Dark Neutrals Bold Striped Patterns
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Spotted Bass	62-72	Spotted bass are transitioning from spawning areas to main lake points, actively schooling on shad during early morning hours Fish are splitting time between shallow and deeper water, with some bass still relating to shoreline areas near bream beds while others are moving to main lake structure	Main lake points with adjacent flats Docks, especially those near deeper water Shallow pockets with bream beds	Hard Topwater (Walking) during early morning schooling activity Hard Jerkbaits worked around docks and points Shakey Heads for deeper dock fish	Shad schooling in open water and around points Blueback Herring in deeper water Bream in shallow pockets	Natural Baitfish Colors Bold Striped Patterns Purple Colors
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Largemouth Bass	65-72	Fish are actively guarding fry in shallow areas, particularly around docks with brush, while some are transitioning to post-spawn feeding patterns Early morning shad spawn activity near main-lake banks, with fish moving to shaded areas as sun gets higher	Docks with brush underneath, especially those providing shade Main-lake red clay banks during early morning shad spawn Rock piles in transition areas	Wacky Rigs worked slowly around docks and cover Spinnerbaits parallel to banks and around docks Neko Rigs with light weights for precise dock presentations	Spawning Shad Bluegill	Vibrant Craw Colors Bold Striped Patterns Dark Neutrals
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Striped Bass	62-72	Post-spawn stripers are actively feeding to recover energy, following large schools of shad in transitional areas between shallow and deep water Fish are showing increased surface feeding activity, especially during dawn/dusk periods, as they chase schooling baitfish Stripers are utilizing creek channel mouths and brush piles as staging areas while transitioning between spawning areas and summer haunts	Creek channel mouths where tributaries meet main lake Main lake points adjacent to spawning areas Brush piles positioned along transitional depth breaks in 15-25 foot range	Trolling Mid Depth (10-19') with umbrella rigs and crankbaits along channel edges Vertical Jigging Mid Depth (10-19') when fish are spotted on electronics Large Hair Jigs (Preacher) worked through suspended fish schools	Threadfin and Gizzard Shad schooling in the upper water column Alewives congregating around channel edges and points	Bold Striped Patterns Chartreuse Colors Natural Baitfish Colors
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Catfish	65-75	Post-spawn catfish are actively feeding to recover energy, moving along channels and deeper structure during day, transitioning to shallower areas in evening Fish are responding to wind-driven currents, positioning on current-swept points and channel edges for efficient feeding opportunities	Main lake points and channel edges adjacent to spawning flats Dock networks in 8-15 feet of water, especially those near channel swings Wind-blown shorelines with current breaks and structure	Carolina Rigs with large soft plastics dragged along bottom structure Live Bait Rigs positioned near current breaks and dock edges Vertical Jigging Mid Depth (10-19') around dock posts and channel edges	Shad schools beginning to congregate in post-spawn patterns Bluegill moving to shallow spawning areas Alewife following baitfish migration patterns	Vibrant Craw Colors Chartreuse Colors Bold Striped Patterns
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Crappie	65-75	Post-spawn crappie are transitioning from shallow spawning areas to early summer patterns, actively feeding to recover energy Fish are moving between shallow cover and suspended positions near deeper structure, following shad schools Most active during early morning and evening, seeking shade during bright periods	Dock edges in 8-15 feet of water, especially those near deeper water access Brush piles and laydowns in 12-20 foot range Main lake points with access to deeper water	Crappie Dock Shooting with lightweight jigs for precise placement around cover Crappie Spider Rigging to effectively cover suspended fish around structure Vertical Jigging Mid Depth (10-19') for brush pile fish	Shad schools suspending near structure Small bluegill and juvenile panfish Juvenile yellow perch in deeper brush	Chartreuse Colors Pink Colors Dark Neutrals
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Panfish / Bluegill	68-78	Post-spawn bluegill are actively feeding to recover energy, primarily targeting insects and small invertebrates in shallower water zones Fish are establishing summer patterns, moving between shallow feeding areas and slightly deeper adjacent recovery zones Most active during morning and evening hours, utilizing shade lines from docks and brush for cover	Dock areas with 4-8 feet of water, especially those near deeper water access Brush piles in 6-12 feet of water adjacent to spawning flats Shallow flats with scattered vegetation in 3-6 feet of water	Bobbers with light jigs suspended 2-4 feet deep near dock edges Crappie Dock Shooting with small plastics for spooky fish under structures Micro Crankbaits worked slowly along shade lines and brush edges	Small insects and larvae Tiny crustaceans Small minnows near brush piles	Chartreuse Colors Pink Colors Dark Neutrals
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Common Carp	62-75	Post-spawn carp are actively feeding to recover energy, moving into shallow flats and creek mouths to forage on insects and organic matter Fish are more likely to be found in groups, especially in areas with soft bottom where they can root for food Most active during early morning and evening hours, utilizing the dingy water conditions for daytime feeding opportunities	Creek mouths with accumulated organic matter and debris Shallow flats adjacent to riprap and dock structures Protected coves with brush piles in 8-15 foot range	Live Bait Rigs with corn, worms, or dough baits near bottom structure Bobbers suspended baits over feeding areas Texas Rigs (Worming) worked slowly through muddy bottom areas	Insects and larvae in soft bottom areas Shad in open water areas Natural vegetation and organic matter	Chartreuse Colors Dark Neutrals Vibrant Craw Colors
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Smallmouth Bass	62-72	Smallmouth bass are actively feeding and recovering from spawn, moving between shallow flats and adjacent deeper water throughout the day Fish are primarily targeting shad and blueback herring, with aggressive feeding periods during low light conditions Males may still be guarding fry in some areas, while females are actively feeding to recover energy	Main lake points with quick access to deep water, especially those featuring rip rap or boulder structure Secondary points and rocky banks in transition areas between spawning pockets and main lake Hard structure areas in 8-15 foot depth range with proximity to deeper water	Soft Body Swimbaits (Small/Medium) worked parallel to points and transition areas Drop Shot with slow, subtle presentations near rocky structure Tubes dragged and hopped along rocky bottom transitions Medium Diving Crankbaits (7'-12') worked along rip rap banks	Shad schools moving along points and channel edges Blueback Herring suspending near rocky structure Small crawfish active on rocky structure	Vibrant Craw Colors Bold Striped Patterns Dark Neutrals

Summer Fishing Patterns

Season	Species	Water Temp	Behavioral Patterns	Key Locations	Best Techniques	Forage Types	Bait Colors
Summer	Spotted Bass	80-88	Spotted bass are exhibiting a dual pattern - feeding actively early/late in shallow water near hard cover, then moving deeper during midday heat Fish are schooling in open water when chasing shad, but also utilizing ambush points near hard structure Movement patterns show fish transitioning from shallow morning locations (5-15ft) to deeper afternoon spots (15-25ft) as temperatures rise	Deep docks with nearby deep water access Rocky points and boulder fields in 5-15ft Main lake points with wind exposure Rip rap banks adjacent to deep water	Hard Jerkbaits worked aggressively in clear water areas Structure Jigs around deep docks during midday Hard Body Swimbaits around boulder fields and points Drop Shot for deeper dock fish Hard Topwater (Walking) for schooling fish early morning	Shad schooling in open water and around current breaks Bluegill around dock structures and shallow cover Small baitfish relating to rock piles and rip rap	Natural Baitfish Colors Dark Neutrals Vibrant Craw Colors
Summer	Largemouth Bass	71-85	Bass are exhibiting dual patterns - shallow feeding early/late near docks and deep schooling on ledges during midday Actively feeding in low-light conditions around shaded areas, with increased deep water activity as temperatures rise Schooling behavior prevalent on deep structure, particularly when targeting shad and herring	Docks with deep water access, especially those providing shade Deep ledges in 25-40 foot range with schooling activity Laydowns in small coves off main lake areas Rocky points and boulder fields in 5-10 foot range	Hard Topwater (Popping) around docks early and late in the day Soft Body Swimbaits (Large) worked parallel to deep ledges Hard Jerkbaits in shaded areas and around boulders Structure Jigs worked around laydowns and woody cover	Shad schooling in open water and around points Blueback Herring in deeper water Bluegill around dock structures	Bold Striped Patterns Vibrant Craw Colors Dark Neutrals
Summer	Striped Bass	72-84	Striped bass are likely suspending in deeper water during daytime hours, moving to shallower areas during dawn/dusk to feed on schooling baitfish Fish are showing pelagic feeding patterns, actively chasing shad schools and exhibiting surface feeding activity, especially during low light periods	Main lake ledges and points adjacent to deep water Creek channel mouths where deep water meets shallow feeding areas Offshore brush piles in 21+ feet of water serving as ambush points	Shallow Diving Crankbaits (0-6') worked along ledges during low light periods Vertical Jigging Deep (20'+) for suspended fish during midday Trolling Mid Depth (10-19') parallel to channel edges and points	Shad schools suspending over deep water and moving shallow to feed Alewives following similar patterns to shad in open water	Natural Baitfish Colors Chartreuse Colors Bold Striped Patterns
Summer	Catfish	82-86	Catfish showing strong day/night patterns - moving shallow near docks during evening hours and responding to wind-driven currents Multiple size classes actively feeding, with larger blues (10-20lb class) targeting larger forage while smaller fish take prepared baits	Dock lines, especially those with deeper water access and ballast rocks Rocky points where depths transition, particularly during active baitfish movements Northern coves during sustained south winds	Carolina Rigs with cut bait or live bait, especially effective for larger blue cats Soft Body Swimbaits (Small/Medium) worked near structure during active feeding periods Shallow Diving Crankbaits (0-6') during shallow water feeding periods	Shad and Alewife schools, particularly active at creek mouths Bluegill around dock structures Shiners, especially effective for larger blue cats	Bold Striped Patterns Chartreuse Colors Dark Neutrals
Summer	Crappie	75-85	Crappie are seeking shade and cooler water during summer, primarily suspending around dock structures and brush piles Fish are actively feeding during early morning and evening hours, moving shallower to feed on suspended baitfish schools During midday heat, crappie retreat to deeper structure (15-20ft) near brush piles for thermal refuge	Shaded areas under and between docks, especially those in 8-15ft depth range Brush piles positioned in 15-20ft depth zones Stump fields and laydowns adjacent to deeper water	Crappie Dock Shooting - targeting shaded areas under docks where fish are holding Vertical Jigging Mid Depth (10-19') - working brush piles and dock posts precisely Crappie Spider Rigging - for suspended fish around deeper structure	Shad schools suspending near structure Small bluegill and juvenile sunfish around docks Young-of-year baitfish in shallow zones	Chartreuse Colors Pink Colors Dark Neutrals
Summer	Panfish / Bluegill	75-84	Actively spawning and guarding beds in shallower areas, with some fish transitioning to shade-oriented feeding patterns as temperatures rise Most active during early morning and evening hours, seeking shade during bright midday periods Establishing colonies around dock structures, using these areas for both spawning and feeding	Docks with good shade lines, especially those near spawning flats Shallow spawning areas with firm bottom near deeper water access Brush piles in 5-10 foot depth range providing cover from sunlight	Crappie Sniping (Casting/Single Poling) with light tackle for precise presentations Bobbers suspended at 2-4 feet for shallow dock fishing Live Bait Rigs worked slowly around cover	Insects, particularly during morning and evening periods Small aquatic larvae and nymphs around dock pilings Zooplankton in shaded areas	Chartreuse Colors Bold Striped Patterns Pink Colors
Summer	Common Carp	75-85	Carp are highly active in summer, feeding aggressively in shallow areas during early morning and evening hours, moving to slightly deeper water during bright midday periods Fish are frequently surface feeding, especially in shaded areas near structure, and actively rooting in soft bottom areas for insects and organic matter	Creek mouths and adjacent flats in 3-8 feet of water where organic matter concentrates Shaded areas under and around dock structures, especially those with rip rap Shallow coves with brush or laydowns that provide cover and feeding opportunities	Live Bait Rigs with corn, dough balls, or nightcrawlers fished near bottom structure Bobbers with suspended baits near surface feeding areas, especially effective during morning and evening Texas Rigs (Worming) with scented soft plastics dragged through feeding areas	Insects and larvae in soft bottom areas Shad in open water areas Organic matter and vegetation in shallow flats	Chartreuse Colors Vibrant Craw Colors Dark Neutrals
Summer	Smallmouth Bass	68-82	Actively feeding in early morning and evening, moving between deep and shallow structure based on temperature and light conditions Relating strongly to rock and boulder areas, especially where current or thermal breaks occur Schooling and pursuing shad/herring schools in the water column during prime feeding periods	Main lake points with deep water access (15-25ft) adjacent to feeding flats Rocky banks and rip rap areas, especially in 8-15ft depth range Offshore structure near baitfish schools, particularly around depth changes	Drop Shot with finesse presentations in deeper water during midday heat Medium Diving Crankbaits (7'-12') worked along rocky structure during active feeding periods Ned Rigs worked slowly through rocky areas when fish are less active	Shad schools in open water and around structure Blueback herring relating to main lake points and deeper structure Crawfish in rocky areas and rip rap	Vibrant Craw Colors Dark Neutrals Bold Striped Patterns

Fall Fishing Guide for Lake Norman

Season	Species	Water Temp	Behavioral Patterns	Key Locations	Best Techniques	Forage Types	Bait Colors
Fall	Spotted Bass	66-72	Actively feeding on shad and blueback herring in various depth ranges from shallow to deep, following baitfish migrations Transitioning between shallow and deep water throughout the day, with most active feeding during morning hours and on wind-blown areas Relating strongly to hard cover (docks, rocks) and brush piles, using these as ambush points for feeding	Docks with deep water access, especially those with lights or on wind-blown banks Brush piles in 20-25 foot range Wind-blown points and rocky banks Shallow flats adjacent to deep water	Hard Jerkbaits worked with varying cadence, especially Vision 110 style baits Ned Rigs and Shakey Heads around docks and brush Football Jigs for deeper brush pile fishing Hard Topwater (Walking) early morning on shoals and points	Blueback Herring schooling in various depth ranges Shad concentrating on points and wind-blown areas	Natural Baitfish Colors Vibrant Craw Colors Dark Neutrals
Fall	Largemouth Bass	58-72	Bass are actively feeding on shad, following baitfish schools around docks and points Fish are transitioning between shallow and deep water, using docks and points as staging areas Secondary pattern shows bass targeting crawfish around hard cover in stained water conditions	Docks with deep water access, especially those near points or channel swings Main lake and secondary points with evidence of bait present Rock piles and rip rap areas adjacent to deeper water	Shakey Heads worked slowly around dock posts and edges Structure Jigs skipped under docks and worked methodically Umbrella Rigs worked along points where bait is present	Shad schools congregating around points and dock areas Crawfish active on hard bottom areas and dock structures	Vibrant Craw Colors Bold Striped Patterns Dark Neutrals
Fall	Striped Bass	58-72	Actively schooling and chasing baitfish (alewives/shad) in large groups, particularly aggressive 2-3 hours before sundown Moving up and down along main lake points throughout the day following bait schools, with increased surface feeding activity during low light periods	Main lake points with deep water access Mouths of major coves and creek channels Bridge pinch points for smaller schools	Vertical Jigging Mid Depth (10-19') with jigging spoons or flutter spoons Medium Diving Crankbaits (7'-12') in shad patterns Soft Body Swimbaits (Small/Medium) on underspins or jigheads	Alewife in large schools, particularly near points and open water Shad concentrating around main lake structure	Natural Baitfish Colors Chartreuse Colors Metallic Colors
Fall	Catfish	58-72	Moving from summer deep-water haunts to shallower feeding zones, following baitfish migrations and responding to cooling water temperatures Increased feeding activity during daylight hours as light sensitivity becomes less of a factor with shorter days and cooling temperatures Actively pursuing shad and other baitfish schools, particularly around wind-blown areas and structure	Main lake points and creek channel intersections where baitfish congregate during fall migration Dock areas in 8-15 feet of water, especially those near channel swings Wind-blown shorelines where current concentrates baitfish	Live Bait Rigs with cut bait or whole shad, particularly effective in the turbid conditions Carolina Rigs dragged along bottom structure and channel edges Vertical Jigging Mid Depth (10-19') around suspended bait schools	Shad schools congregating in large numbers during fall migration Bluegill remaining active around dock structures Alewife schools following similar patterns to shad	Vibrant Craw Colors Bold Striped Patterns Chartreuse Colors
Fall	Crappie	55-68	Crappie are transitioning from summer patterns, actively feeding to build energy reserves for winter. They're following shad schools and becoming increasingly structure-oriented as water cools. Fish are showing aggregate schooling behavior, often suspending near structural elements that intersect with baitfish movements.	Deeper dock edges in 15-20ft where they meet brushpiles, providing transitional staging areas Main lake points with stumps and laydowns that intersect with shad migration routes Suspended schools near channel edges where baitfish are congregating	Crappie Long Lining (Pulling/Trolling) along edges of baitfish schools and structure Vertical Jigging Mid Depth (10-19') around dock edges and brush piles Crappie Spider Rigging for precise depth control when targeting suspended schools	Shad schools congregating in large numbers during fall migration Small sunfish and juvenile baitfish around dock structures	Chartreuse Colors Bold Striped Patterns Pink Colors
Fall	Panfish / Bluegill	58-72	Bluegill are transitioning to deeper water as temperatures cool, but remain active around brush piles and dock structures Feeding patterns become more concentrated during midday hours when water temperatures are warmest Fish are schooling more tightly and feeding opportunistically on remaining insects and small crustaceans	Brush piles in 8-15 feet of water near drop-offs Deep dock edges with shade coverage Deeper pockets adjacent to shallow flats	Hover/Mid-Strolling with small jigs around brush piles Crappie Dock Shooting for fish holding tight to dock structures Vertical Jigging Shallow (0-9') with ice fishing jigs for suspended fish	Late-season aquatic insects Small crustaceans Zooplankton	Chartreuse Colors Dark Neutrals Pink Colors
Fall	Common Carp	58-75	Actively feeding to build reserves for winter, focusing on high-protein forage in shallow to mid-depth areas Moving between creek mouths and shallow flats, particularly active during warmer parts of the day	Creek mouths with accumulated organic matter and debris Shallow flats adjacent to deeper water, especially near rip rap Dock areas with accumulated brush and structure in 8-15 foot range	Live Bait Rigs with corn, dough balls, or nightcrawlers near creek mouths Texas Rigs (Worming) worked slowly through brush piles and along rip rap Vertical Jigging Shallow (0-9') near dock structures and creek channels	Shad concentrations in creek mouths and along flats Insects and organic matter in debris-rich areas Small invertebrates along rip rap and dock areas	Vibrant Craw Colors Chartreuse Colors Dark Neutrals
Fall	Smallmouth Bass	58-68	Actively feeding along rip rap banks and main lake points, transitioning to warmer water areas as fall progresses Aggressively pursuing baitfish with increased feeding activity during fall baitfish migrations	Main lake points with rip rap structure and deep water access Power plant warm water discharge areas Rocky banks and rip rap shorelines	Lipless Crankbaits worked with multiple retrieves - burning, dragging, slow rolling, and yo-yoing Shakey Heads with finesse worms as a follow-up presentation Spinnerbaits worked along lay downs and structure	Shad and blueback herring schooling in creek mouths and along points Crawfish in rocky areas and rip rap	Bold Striped Patterns Vibrant Craw Colors Dark Neutrals

Winter & Ice Fishing Patterns

Season	Species	Water Temp	Behavioral Patterns	Key Locations	Best Techniques	Forage Types	Bait Colors
Winter	Spotted Bass	48-62	Spotted bass are transitioning to deeper winter holding areas, particularly around structure in 15-20 foot depths, with some fish remaining shallow in warmer areas near hot water discharge Fish are showing reduced activity levels requiring slower presentations, but will actively feed during warming trends and early morning periods	Deep brush piles and timber on secondary points in 15-20 foot range Deeper dock poles and floating structures, especially in protected areas Rocky points with access to deep water, particularly those protected from winter winds	Hard Jerkbaits worked with long pauses between twitches Finesse Jigs slow-crawled along bottom structure Ned Rigs worked methodically around dock structures Deep Diving Crankbaits (13'+) worked slowly along bottom contours	Shad schooling in deeper water and around warmer areas Crawfish relating to rocky structure and brush piles Blueback Herring in open water near points	Natural Baitfish Colors Dark Neutrals Natural Craw Colors
Winter	Largemouth Bass	45-65	Bass are schooling on offshore structure and actively feeding on shad, with reports showing consistent success on points and rock piles Fish are relating heavily to dock structures, particularly around dock poles, showing preference for smaller profile baits Slower, deliberate movements with extended pauses are producing strikes, especially with jerkbaits	Main lake points with natural rock, especially those near deep water access Dock structures in creek arms and protected areas Rock piles and rip rap in the backs of creeks, particularly near bridges	Hard Jerkbaits with long pauses between twitches Ned Rigs worked slowly around dock poles Shakey Heads dragged on points with natural rock Finesse Jigs skipped under docks	Shad schooling around points and offshore structure Crawfish in rocky areas and around dock structures	Natural Shad Colors Vibrant Craw Colors Dark Neutrals
Winter	Striped Bass	45-52	Striped bass are actively schooling and following shad schools in deep water, primarily relating to main lake structure Fish are typically most active during low-light periods, suspending in deeper water columns during the day	Main lake points with access to deep water (20'+ depth) Deep creek channel intersections with the main lake Suspended schools over deep water near major structural elements	Trolling Deep (20'+) Soft Body Swimbaits (Large) Vertical Jigging Deep (20'+) Umbrella Rigs	Shad schools in deep water Suspended baitfish over main lake structure	Natural Baitfish Colors Chartreuse Colors
Winter	Catfish	38-48	Moving sluggishly in deeper water with reduced metabolism, typically concentrated in areas with minimal current Feeding less frequently but opportunistically, especially during stable weather patterns Schooling in larger groups near deep structure and channel edges	Deep holes and channel edges near major creek arms Areas where docks extend into deeper water, especially those near channel swings Protected coves with minimal current and stable temperatures	Vertical Jigging Deep (20'+) Live Bait Rigs Carolina Rigs	Shad (concentrated in winter schools) Alewife (found in deeper water) Stunned or dying baitfish (easy winter prey)	Vibrant Craw Colors Chartreuse Colors Bold Striped Patterns
Winter	Crappie	38-45	Crappie actively feeding on suspended shad schools, often relating to aggressive bass feeding activity Fish are suspending in the water column, following baitfish movements with extended periods of neutral activity between feeding windows	Areas where shad schools are concentrated, typically in deeper basins or creek channels Brush piles in 15-25ft depth range serving as winter holding areas Deep dock areas adjacent to channels or deeper water	Hard Jerkbaits worked with long pauses (10-30 seconds) between twitches Vertical Jigging Mid Depth (10-19') around suspended schools Blade Baits worked vertically through suspended fish	Shad schools concentrated in winter locations Small baitfish suspended in the water column	Chartreuse Colors Bold Striped Patterns Dark Neutrals
Winter	Panfish / Bluegill	45-55	Bluegill are concentrating in deeper brush piles and drop-offs near shallow flats, typically staying in more stable water temperatures Fish are feeding less aggressively but will still actively feed during stable weather patterns, especially during mid-day warming periods	Deep brush piles adjacent to shallow flats (8-15 feet) Deeper dock areas with vertical posts providing cover Channel edges and drop-offs near coves	Vertical Jigging Shallow (0-9') Ice Fishing Jigs Live Bait Rigs	Small aquatic insects Zooplankton Tiny minnows	Chartreuse Colors Pink Colors Dark Neutrals
Winter	Common Carp	48-55	Carp become more lethargic and congregate in deeper, stable temperature areas near creek channels and brush piles in 15-20 foot range Feeding activity is reduced but still occurs during warmer parts of the day, especially near deep structure adjacent to shallow flats	Brush piles and laydowns in 15-20 foot depth range near creek channels Deep dock areas adjacent to creek mouths Deep water areas near shallow feeding flats that offer winter sanctuary	Live Bait Rigs worked slowly along bottom near deep structure Vertical Jigging Deep (20'+) with scented baits Drop Shot with natural presentations in deeper holding areas	Dormant insects and larvae in deeper water Winter-stressed shad in deeper water columns Organic matter concentrated near creek mouths	Dark Neutrals Vibrant Craw Colors Chartreuse Colors
Winter	Smallmouth Bass	48-62	Smallmouth bass are concentrating near power plant discharge areas where warmer water (48-62°F) provides winter sanctuary and active feeding zones Fish are schooling more tightly in winter, often suspending near deep structure adjacent to baitfish schools Feeding periods are shorter but more intense, with fish most active during warmer parts of the day	Power plant warm water discharge areas and adjacent structure Main lake points with deep water access (15-25ft) near baitfish schools Deep rock and boulder areas adjacent to channel edges	Blade Baits worked vertically through suspended baitfish schools Hard Jerkbaits with longer pauses near structure Vertical Jigging Deep (20'+) with heavy metal baits	Shad concentrated in warmer water areas Blueback Herring schooling in deeper water Smaller baitfish seeking thermal refuge near discharge areas	Vibrant Craw Colors Bold Striped Patterns Dark Neutrals

Key Seasonal Structures in Lake Norman

Season	Species	Primary Structure	Secondary Structure
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Spotted Bass	Docks with deep water access, particularly those near spawning flats	Rip rap banks and rocky areas in creek arms
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Largemouth Bass	Docks adjacent to spawning pockets, especially in 15-foot depth range	Riprap banks and rocky points where crawfish are active
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Striped Bass	Brush piles at creek channel mouths in 10-17 feet of water	First drop-offs near potential spawning banks
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Catfish	Channel swings and deeper areas adjacent to spawning flats	Areas where dock networks intersect with deeper water access
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Crappie	Staging areas near spawning flats in 8-15 foot depth range, especially near brush piles	Secondary points and creek channel bends leading to spawning coves
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Panfish / Bluegill	Shallow protected coves with emerging vegetation, especially near deeper water access	Brush piles in 5-10 foot depths adjacent to spawning flats
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Common Carp	Creek mouths and adjacent flats in 5-10 foot depth range where organic matter concentrates	Shallow coves with emerging vegetation near rip rap areas
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Smallmouth Bass	Main lake points with deep water access, especially those with rock or rip rap	Secondary points leading into spawning pockets and coves
Spring (Spawn)	Spotted Bass	Docks adjacent to spawning flats, particularly in the southern portion of the lake	Rip rap banks and rocky points that transition to deeper water
Spring (Spawn)	Largemouth Bass	Docks in shallow pockets, particularly floating docks with cross members	Secondary points with access to deeper water
Spring (Spawn)	Striped Bass	Creek channel mouths intersecting with main lake points	Brush piles along transitional depth ranges (10-20ft)
Spring (Spawn)	Catfish	Protected coves and inlets with firm bottom near shoreline	Areas adjacent to docks in 4-8 feet of water
Spring (Spawn)	Crappie	Protected coves and pockets with stumps and laydowns in 2-5ft range	Dock areas providing shade and protection in spawning depth
Spring (Spawn)	Panfish / Bluegill	Protected shallow bays and coves with firm bottom composition, especially near emerging vegetation	Areas between docks where spawning colonies can establish protected nesting sites
Spring (Spawn)	Common Carp	Creek mouths and shallow flats with soft bottom composition	Protected coves with emerging vegetation near rip rap
Spring (Spawn)	Smallmouth Bass	Protected rocky pockets and coves with gravel or small boulder substrate (2-6 feet deep)	Main lake points with gradual slopes near spawning pockets
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Spotted Bass	Main lake points with adjacent flats	Docks, especially those near deeper water
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Largemouth Bass	Docks with brush underneath, especially those providing shade	Main-lake red clay banks during early morning shad spawn
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Striped Bass	Creek channel mouths where tributaries meet main lake	Main lake points adjacent to spawning areas
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Catfish	Main lake points and channel edges adjacent to spawning flats	Dock networks in 8-15 feet of water, especially those near channel swings
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Crappie	Dock edges in 8-15 feet of water, especially those near deeper water access	Brush piles and laydowns in 12-20 foot range
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Panfish / Bluegill	Dock areas with 4-8 feet of water, especially those near deeper water access	Brush piles in 6-12 feet of water adjacent to spawning flats
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Common Carp	Creek mouths with accumulated organic matter and debris	Shallow flats adjacent to riprap and dock structures
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Smallmouth Bass	Main lake points with quick access to deep water, especially those featuring rip rap or boulder structure	Secondary points and rocky banks in transition areas between spawning pockets and main lake
Summer	Spotted Bass	Deep docks with nearby deep water access	Rocky points and boulder fields in 5-15ft
Summer	Largemouth Bass	Docks with deep water access, especially those providing shade	Deep ledges in 25-40 foot range with schooling activity
Summer	Striped Bass	Main lake ledges and points adjacent to deep water	Creek channel mouths where deep water meets shallow feeding areas
Summer	Catfish	Dock lines, especially those with deeper water access and ballast rocks	Rocky points where depths transition, particularly during active baitfish movements
Summer	Crappie	Shaded areas under and between docks, especially those in 8-15ft depth range	Brush piles positioned in 15-20ft depth zones
Summer	Panfish / Bluegill	Docks with good shade lines, especially those near spawning flats	Shallow spawning areas with firm bottom near deeper water access
Summer	Common Carp	Creek mouths and adjacent flats in 3-8 feet of water where organic matter concentrates	Shaded areas under and around dock structures, especially those with rip rap
Summer	Smallmouth Bass	Main lake points with deep water access (15-25ft) adjacent to feeding flats	Rocky banks and rip rap areas, especially in 8-15ft depth range
Fall	Spotted Bass	Docks with deep water access, especially those with lights or on wind-blown banks	Brush piles in 20-25 foot range
Fall	Largemouth Bass	Docks with deep water access, especially those near points or channel swings	Main lake and secondary points with evidence of bait present
Fall	Striped Bass	Main lake points with deep water access	Mouths of major coves and creek channels
Fall	Catfish	Main lake points and creek channel intersections where baitfish congregate during fall migration	Dock areas in 8-15 feet of water, especially those near channel swings
Fall	Crappie	Deeper dock edges in 15-20ft where they meet brushpiles, providing transitional staging areas	Main lake points with stumps and laydowns that intersect with shad migration routes
Fall	Panfish / Bluegill	Brush piles in 8-15 feet of water near drop-offs	Deep dock edges with shade coverage
Fall	Common Carp	Creek mouths with accumulated organic matter and debris	Shallow flats adjacent to deeper water, especially near rip rap
Fall	Smallmouth Bass	Main lake points with rip rap structure and deep water access	Power plant warm water discharge areas
Winter	Spotted Bass	Deep brush piles and timber on secondary points in 15-20 foot range	Deeper dock poles and floating structures, especially in protected areas
Winter	Largemouth Bass	Main lake points with natural rock, especially those near deep water access	Dock structures in creek arms and protected areas
Winter	Striped Bass	Main lake points with access to deep water (20'+ depth)	Deep creek channel intersections with the main lake
Winter	Catfish	Deep holes and channel edges near major creek arms	Areas where docks extend into deeper water, especially those near channel swings
Winter	Crappie	Areas where shad schools are concentrated, typically in deeper basins or creek channels	Brush piles in 15-25ft depth range serving as winter holding areas
Winter	Panfish / Bluegill	Deep brush piles adjacent to shallow flats (8-15 feet)	Deeper dock areas with vertical posts providing cover
Winter	Common Carp	Brush piles and laydowns in 15-20 foot depth range near creek channels	Deep dock areas adjacent to creek mouths
Winter	Smallmouth Bass	Power plant warm water discharge areas and adjacent structure	Main lake points with deep water access (15-25ft) near baitfish schools

Primary Forage by Season

Season	Species	Primary Forage	Secondary Forage
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Spotted Bass	Shad - primary forage based on multiple recent reports	Blueback Herring - actively feeding on schools between brush piles
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Largemouth Bass	Shad schooling in 10-15 foot depths	Crawfish becoming active on rocky structures
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Striped Bass	Shad concentrations around creek mouths and transition areas	Secondary baitfish gathering in pre-spawn staging areas
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Catfish	Shad schools beginning spring movements	Bluegill concentrating near dock structures
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Crappie	Shad schools in pre-spawn transition areas	Small bluegill and juvenile sunfish near brush and dock areas
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Panfish / Bluegill	Early season insects and larvae	Small crustaceans near brush and vegetation
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Common Carp	Natural insects and larvae becoming active in warming waters	Shad concentrated in creek mouths and shallow flats
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Smallmouth Bass	Shad concentrating in pre-spawn staging areas	Blueback herring following similar migration patterns as the shad
Spring (Spawn)	Spotted Bass	Minnows	Shad
Spring (Spawn)	Largemouth Bass	Shad moving into spawning areas	Bluegill in shallow pockets around docks
Spring (Spawn)	Striped Bass	Gizzard and Threadfin Shad	Alewives
Spring (Spawn)	Catfish	Shad concentrations in spawning areas	Bluegill in shallow structure
Spring (Spawn)	Crappie	Shad	Small bluegill and juvenile panfish
Spring (Spawn)	Panfish / Bluegill	Small insects and larvae near spawning areas	Zooplankton in shallow water columns
Spring (Spawn)	Common Carp	Natural insects and larvae in spawning areas	Shad concentrations near creek mouths
Spring (Spawn)	Smallmouth Bass	Crawfish emerging in warming shallows	Blueback herring moving shallow for their own spawn
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Spotted Bass	Shad schooling in open water and around points	Blueback Herring in deeper water
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Largemouth Bass	Spawning Shad	Bluegill
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Striped Bass	Threadfin and Gizzard Shad schooling in the upper water column	Alewives congregating around channel edges and points
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Catfish	Shad schools beginning to congregate in post-spawn patterns	Bluegill moving to shallow spawning areas
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Crappie	Shad schools suspending near structure	Small bluegill and juvenile panfish
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Panfish / Bluegill	Small insects and larvae	Tiny crustaceans
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Common Carp	Insects and larvae in soft bottom areas	Shad in open water areas
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Smallmouth Bass	Shad schools moving along points and channel edges	Blueback Herring suspending near rocky structure
Summer	Spotted Bass	Shad schooling in open water and around current breaks	Bluegill around dock structures and shallow cover
Summer	Largemouth Bass	Shad schooling in open water and around points	Blueback Herring in deeper water
Summer	Striped Bass	Shad schools suspending over deep water and moving shallow to feed	Alewives following similar patterns to shad in open water
Summer	Catfish	Shad and Alewife schools, particularly active at creek mouths	Bluegill around dock structures
Summer	Crappie	Shad schools suspending near structure	Small bluegill and juvenile sunfish around docks
Summer	Panfish / Bluegill	Insects, particularly during morning and evening periods	Small aquatic larvae and nymphs around dock pilings
Summer	Common Carp	Insects and larvae in soft bottom areas	Shad in open water areas
Summer	Smallmouth Bass	Shad schools in open water and around structure	Blueback herring relating to main lake points and deeper structure
Fall	Spotted Bass	Blueback Herring schooling in various depth ranges	Shad concentrating on points and wind-blown areas
Fall	Largemouth Bass	Shad schools congregating around points and dock areas	Crawfish active on hard bottom areas and dock structures
Fall	Striped Bass	Alewife in large schools, particularly near points and open water	Shad concentrating around main lake structure
Fall	Catfish	Shad schools congregating in large numbers during fall migration	Bluegill remaining active around dock structures
Fall	Crappie	Shad schools congregating in large numbers during fall migration	Small sunfish and juvenile baitfish around dock structures
Fall	Panfish / Bluegill	Late-season aquatic insects	Small crustaceans
Fall	Common Carp	Shad concentrations in creek mouths and along flats	Insects and organic matter in debris-rich areas
Fall	Smallmouth Bass	Shad and blueback herring schooling in creek mouths and along points	Crawfish in rocky areas and rip rap
Winter	Spotted Bass	Shad schooling in deeper water and around warmer areas	Crawfish relating to rocky structure and brush piles
Winter	Largemouth Bass	Shad schooling around points and offshore structure	Crawfish in rocky areas and around dock structures
Winter	Striped Bass	Shad schools in deep water	Suspended baitfish over main lake structure
Winter	Catfish	Shad (concentrated in winter schools)	Alewife (found in deeper water)
Winter	Crappie	Shad schools concentrated in winter locations	Small baitfish suspended in the water column
Winter	Panfish / Bluegill	Small aquatic insects	Zooplankton
Winter	Common Carp	Dormant insects and larvae in deeper water	Winter-stressed shad in deeper water columns
Winter	Smallmouth Bass	Shad concentrated in warmer water areas	Blueback Herring schooling in deeper water

Bait Colors by Season for Lake Norman

Season	Species	Bait Colors
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Spotted Bass	Vibrant Craw Colors Natural Baitfish Colors Dark Neutrals
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Largemouth Bass	Vibrant Craw Colors Bold Striped Patterns Chartreuse Colors
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Striped Bass	Bold Striped Patterns Chartreuse Colors Natural Baitfish Colors
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Catfish	Vibrant Craw Colors Chartreuse Colors Bold Striped Patterns
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Crappie	Chartreuse Colors Pink Colors Dark Neutrals
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Panfish / Bluegill	Chartreuse Colors Dark Neutrals Pink Colors
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Common Carp	Vibrant Craw Colors Dark Neutrals Chartreuse Colors
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Smallmouth Bass	Vibrant Craw Colors Bold Striped Patterns Dark Neutrals
Spring (Spawn)	Spotted Bass	Vibrant Craw Colors Light Neutral Colors
Spring (Spawn)	Largemouth Bass	Bold Striped Patterns Vibrant Craw Colors Light Neutral Colors
Spring (Spawn)	Striped Bass	Natural Baitfish Colors Chartreuse Colors Bold Striped Patterns
Spring (Spawn)	Catfish	Vibrant Craw Colors Chartreuse Colors Bold Striped Patterns
Spring (Spawn)	Crappie	Chartreuse Colors Pink Colors Dark Neutrals
Spring (Spawn)	Panfish / Bluegill	Chartreuse Colors Dark Neutrals Pink Colors
Spring (Spawn)	Common Carp	Vibrant Craw Colors Chartreuse Colors Dark Neutrals
Spring (Spawn)	Smallmouth Bass	Vibrant Craw Colors Dark Neutrals Bold Striped Patterns
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Spotted Bass	Natural Baitfish Colors Bold Striped Patterns Purple Colors
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Largemouth Bass	Vibrant Craw Colors Bold Striped Patterns Dark Neutrals
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Striped Bass	Bold Striped Patterns Chartreuse Colors Natural Baitfish Colors
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Catfish	Vibrant Craw Colors Chartreuse Colors Bold Striped Patterns
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Crappie	Chartreuse Colors Pink Colors Dark Neutrals
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Panfish / Bluegill	Chartreuse Colors Pink Colors Dark Neutrals
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Common Carp	Chartreuse Colors Dark Neutrals Vibrant Craw Colors
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Smallmouth Bass	Vibrant Craw Colors Bold Striped Patterns Dark Neutrals
Summer	Spotted Bass	Natural Baitfish Colors Dark Neutrals Vibrant Craw Colors
Summer	Largemouth Bass	Bold Striped Patterns Vibrant Craw Colors Dark Neutrals
Summer	Striped Bass	Natural Baitfish Colors Chartreuse Colors Bold Striped Patterns
Summer	Catfish	Bold Striped Patterns Chartreuse Colors Dark Neutrals
Summer	Crappie	Chartreuse Colors Pink Colors Dark Neutrals
Summer	Panfish / Bluegill	Chartreuse Colors Bold Striped Patterns Pink Colors
Summer	Common Carp	Chartreuse Colors Vibrant Craw Colors Dark Neutrals
Summer	Smallmouth Bass	Vibrant Craw Colors Dark Neutrals Bold Striped Patterns
Fall	Spotted Bass	Natural Baitfish Colors Vibrant Craw Colors Dark Neutrals
Fall	Largemouth Bass	Vibrant Craw Colors Bold Striped Patterns Dark Neutrals
Fall	Striped Bass	Natural Baitfish Colors Chartreuse Colors Metallic Colors
Fall	Catfish	Vibrant Craw Colors Bold Striped Patterns Chartreuse Colors
Fall	Crappie	Chartreuse Colors Bold Striped Patterns Pink Colors
Fall	Panfish / Bluegill	Chartreuse Colors Dark Neutrals Pink Colors
Fall	Common Carp	Vibrant Craw Colors Chartreuse Colors Dark Neutrals
Fall	Smallmouth Bass	Bold Striped Patterns Vibrant Craw Colors Dark Neutrals
Winter	Spotted Bass	Natural Baitfish Colors Dark Neutrals Natural Craw Colors
Winter	Largemouth Bass	Natural Shad Colors Vibrant Craw Colors Dark Neutrals
Winter	Striped Bass	Natural Baitfish Colors Chartreuse Colors
Winter	Catfish	Vibrant Craw Colors Chartreuse Colors Bold Striped Patterns
Winter	Crappie	Chartreuse Colors Bold Striped Patterns Dark Neutrals
Winter	Panfish / Bluegill	Chartreuse Colors Pink Colors Dark Neutrals
Winter	Common Carp	Dark Neutrals Vibrant Craw Colors Chartreuse Colors
Winter	Smallmouth Bass	Vibrant Craw Colors Bold Striped Patterns Dark Neutrals