Smiths Lake, North Carolina: Fishing Spots and Seasons

• Overview

  In North Carolina, Smiths Lake belongs to Cumberland County. The ground round it is oak and grass. Small at around 17 acres: two anglers spread out cover most of it. Some 4.3 miles away sits Walkertown, the nearest settlement. The big place round here is Fayetteville, 12 miles distant. It sits near the edge of the county, so check which rules apply.

• Where to Fish on Smiths Lake

  Our records hold no depth for this water. Look for where the old bank line still shows under the surface. Built water gives depth close in, which suits a bank angler. County-wide records name redbreast sunfish, dollar sunfish, yellow bullhead and bluegill. These are county-wide records, so not all of them will be in this water. Take Smiths Lake a stretch at a time.

• Seasonal Patterns

  On the long-term average, July reads 79°F and January reads 41°F. Cold never closes this one. The first and last hours carry the summer; the middle is slow. November and March are the quiet, comfortable months to be out. Expect Smiths Lake to follow that timing. Falling water concentrates fish into the deeper parts.

• Tackle & Baits

  Who may fish here is not settled in anything we hold. Nothing is listed nearby for parking or launching a boat. A small crankbait along the drop and a worm in the thick stuff cover the bass. Look for a notice board at the entrance. Signs go up and come down, so check on the day. Barnes Lake sits 1.5 miles off and takes the overflow. Confirm before you fish Smiths Lake.