Cypress Lake, North Carolina: Fishing Spots and Seasons

• Overview

  Cypress Lake is listed under Craven County, North Carolina. Salt water lies 4.2 miles off. The water covers some 31 acres, so pick a bank rather than trying to cover it all. Most waters listed here for Craven County are larger. The nearest town is Trent Woods, 1.4 miles away. The big place round here is Wilmington, 76 miles distant. It sits near the edge of the county, so check which rules apply.

• Where to Fish on Cypress Lake

  Depth is unknown to us, and the shoreline is the better guide. The tide is the timetable on this water; two hours either side of the change usually fish hardest. Bays and points beat straight shoreline every time on water like this. The shallow end warms first and pulls fish in ahead of the rest. Some of the species recorded here are protected or tightly regulated, so check what may be targeted before you fish. The near bank of Cypress Lake is often the one people ignore.

• Seasonal Patterns

  Long-term averages put July at about 80°F and January near 43°F. Fishing runs all year, with summer the awkward season. October and November give a second good stretch as it cools. November and March are the quiet, comfortable months to be out. It holds true on Cypress Lake more years than not.

• Tackle & Baits

  We hold no note on access for this one. Parking is not close: 0.9 miles from the bank, and no nearer option is mapped. For the pike, wire up and throw larger lures along the weed edges. Read any posted signs at the access point rather than assuming. Signs go up and come down, so check on the day. For a change of water, Catfish Lake is 11 miles distant. The position on Cypress Lake is worth confirming on the day.