The biggest fishing hole in the Uwharrie National Forest is Badin Lake. The eastern shore borders the national forest and the lake is well stocked with catfish, bream, largemouth, white and striped bass. The Forest Service has one ramp at the Cove Boat Ramp area but is planning to build improved launching facilities at the Badin Lake campground. The state has two ramps on the lake.
Marinas offer easy access for everything from jon-boats to pontoons.
The lake is crowded with pleasure boats on spring and summer weekends. Well attended bass tournaments are usually held every weekend from March through October. In early spring, fish are spawning and feeding well. Look for bluegill beds, circular depressions in the shallows. Catch them with crickets, worms or artificials.