Fishing FAQs

Below is a short list of fishing FAQs about freshwater fishing in North Carolina with Outdoor Expeditions USA. Please let us know if you have specific questions about the lakes, area or anything else when you contact us at 919-669-2959.

Do I need a fishing license?

Yes. A valid North Carolina fishing license is required and can be obtained through the NC Wildlife Resourses Commission by clicking here.

What do I need to bring?

I recommend bringing a hat, polarized sunglasses, sunscreen and rain gear if rain is in the forecast. Dress for the weather and put on a little extra in the cooler months. Bring anything you would like to eat or drink during the trip. Large coolers are welcome on the pontoon boat and small coolers bass boat. You are welcome to bring your personal rods, reels and any tackle that you would like also.

What are the rates and how do I book it?

Rates are posted on the Book A Trip section for Shearon Harris and Jordan. Falls Lake rates change depending on time of year and scheduling. Please call me directly 919-669-2959 for price quotes on Falls for specific dates. You can use any major credit card to reserve your trip. Call 919-669-2959 to confirm availability before you make your deposit.

Is there a place to stay close by the lakes?

Yes. Please see our “Accommodations” section for a map of lodging and dining close to the lake you will be fishing.

Do I need to bring any tackle?

All tackle, rods and reels are provided for use. I provide open faced spinning tackle for all clients at no additional charge. You are welcome to bring your own gear if you would like. Please make sure your line is rated for 10lb – 20lb test and is fresh so we don’t lose lures and BIG FISH!

How many people can go?

Maximum of two clients and one guide for largemouth specific and multi-species trips using my bass boat. Up to 4 for family fishing trips on the pontoon boat. Weight restrictions apply.

Excellent

Based on 207 reviews

Sam

2023-09-04

Joel is an amazing fishing guide! He is kind, patient, and present and makes sure that you're getting the most of your experience. He is extremely knowledgeable and willing to answer any of your questions in detail. As someone starting to get into fishing this was very important for me and I was able to learn so much from him. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced angler, you will come away with an awesome experience and become a better fisherman! Update: I came back with some friends to fish with Joel and it was another incredible experience! This time we did the family fishing trip to get on some crappie and perch. Joel once again showed why he's such a great guide because he researched beforehand where the fish would be biting and put us on those high percentage spots. We caught soooo many fish and enjoyed a delicious fish fry that night. If you're looking for a fun time with your friends and family then definitely book a trip with Joel!

Cory Harpin

2023-09-02

We had a fantastic time with Joel! He took my son and two of his friends out for my son’s birthday and everyone had a great time. He put us on the fish and made sure that everyone had a great experience. He’s a prompt communicator and makes working with him very easy. I would absolutely recommend Outdoor Expeditions USA and will certainly use them again in the future.

Donnie White

2023-08-25

Had a great trip. A lot of fun and Joel had us on the fish!

Max Fader

2023-08-18

We had an amazing family fishing trip today with Joel! It exceeded our expectations in every way! We did a four hour fishing trip on the smooth and comfortable pontoon boat, from 6-10am. We had a family member in town celebrating a birthday, and this was a gift for them. There were three of us in total. Joel was ready to go as we arrived. We set out and got to watch a beautiful sunrise as we cruised into our first fishing spot. Joel said that he wanted to set the goal of catching twenty fish for the day. I think we blew through that in the first hour! Our final count ended up being 74 or so! We caught Crappie (aka Speck), Perch, Bluegill, one catfish and one Smallmouth Bass! We had such a great time! Joel was great company and made the trip a blast. He handles all the baiting, as well as the releasing. We never even got our hands dirty. He also has great tips for restaurants to try. After our trip and heading home, we grabbed some recommended BLTs at Merritt’s Grill. It was the perfect cap to a perfect fishing trip! Thank you, Joel!

David Parker

2023-08-03

Outdoor Expeditions is my go to fishing guide service. Whether you’re looking for a fishing guide or using the fishing hotline, you’ll catch fish! I was blown away by Joel’s knowledge he has accumulated over several decades of fishing the local lakes. I’m convinced that no one knows these lakes better. I continue to use the fishing hotline for any upcoming trips when weather conditions change or seasons change. Definitely the best fishing resource for all of your fishing needs. 8/2/23 - We out on a Lowrance training session with Joel. Super successful trip on how to setup my electronics, dial in my active target, find fish on downscan, line up the boat and hold position with my Ghost trolling motor. It made so much sense after we went through it a couple of time. Super valuable information to make me a better angler! Thanks Joel!

Ashley Argueta

2023-07-28

Great time on the lake today with Joel. Patience in teaching me everything I needed to know in order to have a successful trip. Caught the most fish I’ve ever caught and probably my pr for a crappie. Definitely recommend to anyone looking for a good time. Very relaxing trip, worth every penny!!!

samuel fuller

2023-07-22

Joel was extremely knowledgeable and very friendly! Made our whole family feel like we had known him for years. Great experience and will be booking again!

Elaine McVey

2023-07-20

My teenage son has been trying to fish unsuccessfully so we booked this outing to get expert guidance. We learned a ton about how to fish our local lakes and had a great time (and caught fish!). We should have done this long ago. Highly recommend!

Dave Newhouse

2023-07-18

Joel runs the absolute BEST guided tour fishing trips I’ve ever experienced! Very knowledgeable with all aspects of fishing and marine adventures! Highly recommend his services!!