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Originally Posted by
catawbalakesguide
Unless you are familiar with the upper reaches of the Catawba river side of Lake James you should count it out. I lived and guided on Lake James for many years and I will admit its one of the most beautiful lakes we have in NC, but unless you really do your homework I would recommend concentrating on Lake Hickory, Lake Norman or Wylie. The surface temp for Hickory should be in the low 60's by Saturday and those fish will be active from 3 to 15' and should be suspended up high in the water column. If you choose Hickory, concentrate in the back half of creeks where baitfish (threadfin shad) are present. If you choose Norman or Wylie concentrate on creeks where baitfish are present and you will find fish trolling (spider rig trolling) and also around docks with brush. Look for fish 2 to 10' deep.