What You'll Find at Lake Higgins

Lake Higgins is a small impoundment in Greensboro that holds largemouth bass, channel catfish, and bluegill. It sits in a residential area with public access via a parking area and a short walk to the water. The lake runs roughly 30 acres and stays shallow across most of its basin, which means it warms quickly in spring and holds fish in predictable spots year-round.

The main draw here is largemouth bass in the 2- to 4-pound range, with occasional fish pushing 5 or 6 pounds. Catfish bite well from late spring through fall, especially at night. Bluegill and other panfish are plentiful if you want to bring kids or spend a morning on light tackle without much planning.

Key Takeaways

  • Lake Higgins has public parking and a maintained path to the water, making it accessible for anglers of all experience levels.
  • Largemouth bass respond best to shallow-water presentations in spring and fall, and to deeper structure or shade during summer heat.
  • Channel catfish bite reliably from May through September, especially after dark, using chicken liver, cut shad, or prepared stink baits.
  • A North Carolina fishing license is required for anyone 16 and older; check the current season dates and creel limits before you go.

Spring Bass Fishing and Spawning Patterns

March through May is prime time for largemouth bass at Lake Higgins. As water temperatures climb from the low 50s into the 60s, bass move from deeper winter holes into the shallows to feed and spawn. Focus on the northern and eastern shorelines where the sun warms the water first. Look for any cover—fallen trees, brush, dock pilings—in 2 to 6 feet of water.

Spinnerbaits and crankbaits work well during the pre-spawn and spawn windows. Throw them parallel to the shoreline rather than straight out, and work them slowly. If you prefer soft plastics, a 4-inch Texas-rigged worm or a creature bait dragged along the bottom will draw strikes from bass holding in shallow cover. Early morning and late afternoon produce the most consistent bites, though overcast days can keep fish active all day.

Once water hits 70 degrees and stays there, spawning is underway. Bass become territorial and aggressive, but also unpredictable—some will bite anything near their nest, while others retreat to deeper water. If you hook a fish on a bed, consider releasing it quickly to avoid stressing the population during a critical time.

Summer Heat and Deeper Water

By June, Lake Higgins warms into the upper 70s and low 80s. Bass abandon the shallows and move to deeper structure, shade, or areas with current or springs. The deepest water on the lake sits in the central basin, roughly 15 to 20 feet down. Fish will suspend over this deeper water or hold tight to any submerged timber or rock.

Switch to deeper-diving crankbaits, Carolina rigs, or drop-shot presentations. Work the edges where shallow flats meet deeper water—these transition zones hold feeding bass during the heat of the day. Early morning and evening still produce the best bites, but if you fish midday, focus on shade: under docks, beneath overhanging trees, or in the shadow of the dam.

Catfish, by contrast, thrive in summer heat. Night fishing with cut shad or chicken liver near the dam or in the deepest holes will produce steady action. Bring a headlamp, a rod holder, and patience—catfish often bite best between 10 p.m. and 2 a.m.

Fall and Winter Patterns

September through November brings another strong bite as water cools and bass return to shallower feeding zones. The pattern mirrors spring: focus on structure in 3 to 8 feet of water, and throw spinnerbaits, crankbaits, or soft plastics. Fall often produces larger fish because they are feeding hard to build reserves for winter.

By December, water temperatures drop into the 50s and lower. Bass slow down and move back to deeper holes. Fishing becomes tougher, but patient anglers working deep structure with slow presentations—jigs, drop-shots, or small soft plastics—can still connect. Winter catfish fishing remains viable, though less consistent than in warmer months.

Access, Parking, and Regulations

Lake Higgins has a small parking area off Lake Higgins Road in Greensboro. The lot is free and typically holds 10 to 15 vehicles. A maintained path leads from the parking area to the water's edge, with several spots to fish along the shoreline. The walk is short and flat, making it accessible for most anglers.

North Carolina requires a fishing license for anyone 16 and older. You can purchase a one-day license, a seven-day license, or an annual license through the North Carolina Wildlife Resources Commission website or at most tackle shops and sporting goods stores. Check the current bass season dates and creel limits before you fish—regulations can change year to year.

No gas-powered boats are allowed on Lake Higgins, which keeps the water quiet and the shoreline accessible. Kayaks, canoes, and electric trolling motors are permitted. If you plan to fish from a boat, launch from the public ramp if one is available, or ask at the parking area about access.

Tackle and Bait Recommendations

For largemouth bass, a medium-power spinning rod (6 to 6.5 feet) paired with 8- to 12-pound braided or monofilament line handles most presentations. Spinnerbaits in sizes 1/4 to 1/2 ounce, crankbaits in the 2- to 4-inch range, and soft plastics (worms, creature baits, swimbaits) in 3 to 5 inches all produce. Keep a few colors in your box: chartreuse and white for low-light conditions, natural browns and greens for clear water, and dark colors for overcast days.

For catfish, a heavier setup works better. A medium-heavy rod with 15- to 20-pound monofilament or braided line, paired with a simple slip sinker rig or three-way rig, will handle the bottom and any snags. Chicken liver, cut shad, prepared stink baits, and even hot dogs draw catfish reliably. Fish on or near the bottom, and use a rod holder so you can relax while you wait for a bite.

Bluegill and panfish respond to small jigs (1/16 to 1/8 ounce), inline spinners, or live crickets and worms on a simple bobber rig. These fish are abundant and forgiving, making them ideal for learning or for a relaxing afternoon.

When to Fish and What to Expect

Lake Higgins fishes best in spring (March to May) and fall (September to November). Summer is productive for catfish and early-morning bass, but daytime heat can slow the bite. Winter is slowest but not impossible if you are patient and fish deep structure.

This is not a trophy lake, but it is a reliable one. Most bass run 2 to 4 pounds, with occasional 5-pounders. Catfish average 2 to 5 pounds, and bluegill are plentiful and eager. The lake is also close to Greensboro, making it a good option for a quick evening trip or a weekend morning without a long drive.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a boat to fish Lake Higgins?

No. The shoreline is accessible from the parking area, and you can fish from the bank or wade in shallow areas. If you want to use a boat, kayaks and canoes are allowed, as are electric trolling motors. Gas-powered boats are not permitted.

What is the best time of day to fish here?

Early morning (sunrise to mid-morning) and late afternoon (two hours before sunset to dark) are most productive for bass. Catfish bite best at night, especially between 10 p.m. and 2 a.m. Bluegill and panfish bite throughout the day but are most active in early morning and late evening.

Can I keep fish I catch at Lake Higgins?

Yes, within North Carolina's creel limits. Check the current regulations on the North Carolina Wildlife Resources Commission website before you fish, as limits vary by species and can change. Most anglers practice catch-and-release for bass to maintain the fishery.

Is there a launch ramp for boats?

Lake Higgins has limited boat access. Ask at the parking area or contact the Greensboro Parks and Recreation Department about current launch options. Kayaks and canoes can be carried to the water from the parking area.

What should I bring for a day at Lake Higgins?

Bring your fishing license, a rod and reel, tackle, sunscreen, water, and a hat. If you plan to fish after dark for catfish, bring a headlamp or flashlight and a rod holder. The parking area has no facilities, so plan accordingly.