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Lake Waccamaw

Boat Ramps
2
Access Points
2
Species
23

Lake Waccamaw is an 8,900-acre natural freshwater lake located in Columbus County, North Carolina, about 40 miles west of Wilmington. As the largest of the mysterious geological formations known as Carolina Bays, this shallow lake features approximately 14 miles of shoreline and boasts a unique ecosystem. Unlike most Carolina Bays that are filled with vegetation, Lake Waccamaw contains open water with an average depth of 7 feet and a maximum depth of 11 feet. What makes the lake truly special is its limestone bluff along the north shore that reduces the water's acidity, creating perfect conditions for several endemic species found nowhere else in the world. The relatively clear water, abundant vegetation, and diverse fish population make Lake Waccamaw one of North Carolina's premier fishing destinations, particularly known for its exceptional white perch fishery.

Fishing spots, boat ramps & amenities

Learn how to get on Lake Waccamaw. Uncover great fishing access points, boat ramps, and all the facilities you need for an unforgettable day on the water. Some locations shown may border or include private property. Always check property boundaries and applicable regulations before visiting. onWater's Public & Private Land layer can help you plan your access with confidence.

Waccamaw Outdoors

Waccamaw Outdoors

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Know where you can legally fish on Lake Waccamaw

See public and private land boundaries along the water, turn on private parcels with owner details to know where permission is required, and find land-trust parcels that offer permitted fishing access.

North Carolina licenses and regulations

North Carolina Boating Regulations

When using any type of watercraft to access a body of water, it is important to follow all federal, state, and local rules and regulations. These rules and regulations include boat permitting and licensing, invasive species inspections and stamps, life jacket and PFD rules, motor size and horsepower restrictions, noise limitations, restrictions on personal watercraft, and many more. Visit the web link below for the most current rules and regulations for this body of water.

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North Carolina Fishing License

Youth under age 16 are exempt from the requirements of any fishing license and trout privilege license.

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North Carolina Fishing Regulations

This river has a variety of species and regulations, including potential floating and/or watercraft restrictions. Because this river is specially managed for species, seasons, angling methods, and watercraft, it is strongly encouraged you check all federal, state, and local regulations before fishing. Visit any of the links below, inquire locally, or contact a local fly shop to learn current regulations and restrictions.

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North Carolina Stream Access Laws

If a boater can float the water, it is navigable and can be used for recreation. Navigable waters are in the public trust, including streambeds. If the navigable water is tidal, public use extends to all waters that cover an average high tide.

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Take Lake Waccamaw with you

The onWater Fish app keeps this water's access points, species and conditions in your pocket, with the tools you use once you're there.

  • Use the map without signal

    Download the map around Lake Waccamaw to use it offline when coverage drops.

  • Log your catches here

    Keep a private fishing journal for Lake Waccamaw to find where and when fish are biting for you.

  • HD depth charts from Garmin

    Find drop offs, ledges, channels, points and shallow flats with Garmin depth charts in the app.

Get the onWater Fish app

Free on iOS and Android

Water and weather conditions (10 day forecast)

See the best times to fish Lake Waccamaw and check the forecast before you go.

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