
Created in 1929, High Rock Lake is the northernmost of the Uwharrie Lakes and the second largest lake in North Carolina behind Lake Norman. Its water surface covers 15,180 acres (61 km2) and there are 365 miles (587 km) of shoreline. It begins at the confluence of the Yadkin River and the South Yadkin River. The lake's name is derived from neighboring "High Rock Mountain," the tallest mountain in the Uwharrie Mountains. The lake serves as a boundary between Davidson and Rowan counties and is a reservoir for hydroelectric power generation. This 15,000-acre reservoir on the Yadkin River provides excellent boating and fishing opportunities for bass, crappie, striper, bream, catfish and bait.
High Rock Lake has been considered one of the best fishing lakes of North Carolina for a long time.[4] It has been the host of Bassmaster Tournaments, including the Bassmaster Classic in 1994, 1995, and 1998 [5] and is the site of frequent other angling competitions. The lake has ample channel, blue, and flathead catfish, plus crappie and several different sunfish such as bluegill, shellcracker and others. Striper and their hybrids as well as white bass are also abundant. The lake is best known for its quantity and quality of largemouth bass, which attract anglers from all over the United States. This is likely due to the relatively shallow nature of the lake and the tremendous amount of habitat that favor the bass.
For information about hunting and fishing regulations and licensing, contact the NC Wildlife Department at 919-662-4381.