Fishing at Lake Pinehurst, Moore County, North Carolina

• Overview

  Moore County, North Carolina, is where Lake Pinehurst sits. The land about it is pine and hardwood. Around 164 acres of surface means several distinct areas to work. The margin runs to about 3.5 miles in total. Size puts it in the front rank of our Moore County list. Pinehurst is the closest place, 2.1 miles off. The big place round here is Fayetteville, 35 miles distant. It lies deep inside the county rather than near an edge.

• Where to Fish on Lake Pinehurst

  Open data we checked carries no depth for this water. Standing timber shows when the level drops, and fish sit against it. Inflow corners move water, and moving water gathers fish. Survey and observation records for Moore County include pinewoods darter, dollar sunfish, margined madtom and redfin pickerel. What holds for the county may not hold for this water. Lake Pinehurst gives up its fish to patience rather than distance.

• Seasonal Patterns

  Between January at about 41°F and July at about 79°F, the water has a wide range to work through. Fishing runs all year, with summer the awkward season. Shade and hour of day matter more than month. June to September is hot work, so the first and last hours are what count. It holds true on Lake Pinehurst more years than not.

• Tackle & Baits

  Access status is simply unknown for this water. Expect a half a mile walk in from where the car goes. A wire trace and a big bright lure handle the pike; deep water asks for a heavier spoon. Gates get locked out of season on water like this. Some water is controlled locally without a sign saying so. The nearest alternative is Sandy Woods Lake, 2.3 miles out. For Lake Pinehurst in particular, ask before you travel.