Piedmont Lakes Pilot is published six times a year by Nerve Pilot Productions LLC PO BOX 6007 Richmond, VA 23222
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Pontoon Rentals on Lake Tillery 1183 Lilly’s Bridge Rd, Mt . Gilead, NC 910-573-0629; LillysBridgeMarina com
Long Cove Resort & Marina
Boat Rentals on Lake Wylie 14629 Rainbarrel Rd, Charlotte, NC 28278
704-588-1467; LongCoveResort .com
Morningstar Marinas Crown Harbor Pontoon and ski boat rentals on Lake Norman 21660 Crown Lake Dr, Cornelius, NC 28031 704-895-3723; CrownHarborMarina com
Morningstar Marinas McLean
Lake Wylie
315-K Lanyard Ln, Belmont, NC 28012
704-413-0856; MorningstarMarinas .com
Morrow Mountain State Park
Row boats & canoes
704-982-4402
Mountain Creek Marina 7515 Stonewall St, Sherrills Ford, NC 28673
704-483-0077; MtCreekMarina com
North Bridge Marina House boat, pontoons 704-663-4600
North Point Watersports 112 Doolie Rd, Hwy 150 W, Mooresville, NC 28117
704-799-1994; NorthPointWatersports .com
Pier 88 Yacht Club
Pontoon, Kayak & SUP Rentals
River Hills Marina, Lake Wylie 54 Marina Rd, Lake Wylie, SC 29710
803-831-0088
River’s Edge Marina
5803 Icard Ridge Rd, Hickory, NC 28601 828-495-8833; RiversEdgeMarinaNC com
Riverside Marina
Pontoon Rentals
1500 River Dr, Belmont, NC 704-813-4591; RiversideMarinaNC com
Rock Outdoors
Kayak & Paddleboard Rentals
7440 NC Hwy 8, Lexington, NC 27292 336-488-7044; RockOutdoors com
Tailrace Marina
1010 Marina Village Dr, Mount Holly, NC 28120 704-827-0000; RowBoatMarinaGroup com
Tega Cay Marina
Pontoon & SUP Rentals on Lake Wylie 1 Marina Dr, Tega Cay, SC 29708 803-547-2218; TegaCayMarina .com
Wateree Marina
3374 John G . Richards Rd, Liberty Hill, SC 29074 803-475-1224; WatereeMarinaInc com
Wet & Wise Adventures
Luxury Pontoon & Fishing Boat Rentals on Lake Wylie 304 Blucher Circle, Clover, SC 973-460-2033; WetWiseAdventures com
What’s Up Watersports
Jet Ski Rentals on Lake Norman 704-931-8787; WhatsUpLakeNorman com
Aquaventure Boat Club
All Seasons Marina, Lake Norman 827 Langtree Rd, Mooresville, NC 28117 704-818-7641; AquaventureBoatClub .com
Aquaventure Boat Club
The Landing, Lake Norman 4491 Slanting Bridge Rd, Sherrills Ford, NC 704-724-0996; AquaventureBoatClub com
Carefree Boat Club
Lake Norman & Lake Wylie 704-557-0848; CarefreeBoats com
Freedom Boat Club
Waterstreet Seaport, Lake Norman 17505 W Catawba Ave, Cornelius, NC 28031 704-228-3475; FreedomBoatClub com
Freedom Boat Club
Pier 49 Marina, Lake Wylie 16310 York Rd, Charlotte, NC 28728 704-228-3475; FreedomBoatClub com
Lake Effects Boat Club
Stutts Marina, Lake Norman 571 Stutts Rd, Mooresville, NC 704-360-5177; LakeEffectsBoatClub com
Wilmington Boat Show
October 10-12, 2025
Wilmington Convention Center, Wilmington, NC 864-250-9713; WilmingtonBoatShow .com
Georgetown Wooden Boat Show
October 18-19, 2025
Front Street, Downtown Georgetown, SC 843-520-0111; WoodenBoatShow com
Bass & Saltwater Fishing Expo
January 10-12, 2025
NC State Fairgrounds, Raleigh, NC 336-855-0208; NCBoatShows com
Richmond Fishing Expo
January 17-19, 2025
Meadow Event Park, Doswell, VA 336-855-0208; NCBoatShows com
Charleston Boat Show
January 24-26, 2025
Charleston Area Convention Center, Charleston, SC 864-250-9713; TheCharlestonBoatShow com
Mid-Atlantic Boat Show
February 6-9, 2025
Charlotte Convention Center, Charlotte, NC 612-332-1811; MidAtlanticBoatShow com
RVA Family Boat Show
February 14-16, 2025
Richmond Raceway Complex, Richmond, VA 336-855-0208; RVABoatShow .com
Central Carolina Boat & Fishing Expo
February 21-23, 2025
Greensboro Coliseum, Greensboro, NC 336-855-0208; GreensboroFishingExpo com
Savannah Boat Show
March 7-9, 2025
Savannah Convention Center, Savannah, SC 864-250-9713; SavannahBoatShow com
Raleigh Convention Center Boat Show
March 21-23, 2025
Raleigh Convention Center, Raleigh, NC 919-996-8500
All Seasons Marina At Marker T-3 827 Langtree Rd, Mooresville, NC 28117
704-892-3478; AllSeasonsMarina net
American Marine Liquidators 4879 NC Hwy 16, Denver, NC 28037 704-483-8144; AMLBoats com
Boat Body Shop, The 292 Rolling Hills Rd, Mooresville, NC 28117
704-892-BOAT (2628)
Four Seasons Marine Supply Supplies Only 1584 NC Hwy 16 N, Denver, NC 28037 704-489-8242
Huntley Marine 307 N Polk St, Pineville, NC 28134
704-889-2111; HuntleyMarine com
Marine Techs
Full mobile service 10385 Hwy 8 S, Southmont, NC 27351 336-688-9671
Norman-Wylie Marine
15105-D John Delaney Dr #319, Charlotte, NC 704-825-2911; NormanWylie com
North Point Watersports 112 Doolie Rd, Hwy 150 W, Mooresville, NC 28117
704-799-1994; NorthPointWatersports com
Rick’s Custom Marine Canvas & Sail Repair
In-Water Hull Cleaning
22214 Torrence Chapel Rd, Cornelius, NC 28031
704-879-1672; RicksCustomMarineCanvas com
Safe Harbor Westport 7879 Water Oaks Dr, Denver, NC 28037
3374 John G Richards Rd, Liberty Hill, SC 29074 803-475-1224; WatereeMarinaInc .com
Enjoy the ride with a professional at your helm.
Captain Harry Smith
We Pilot Your Boat; You Enjoy the Ride 980-722-9317 or 704-455-3567
Captain Stetson Lewis
Captain service/private boating lessons Call or text 980-613-0206; captainstetson1@gmail .com
Scott Spivey, USCG Ret.
Captain service/private boating lessons 704-361-2991; uscgc17@bellsouth net
Lake Hickory Adventures
Cruising Lake Hickory; Groups up to 50 Lake Hickory Marina at the 321 Bridge 6706 Limbaugh Ln, Hickory, NC 28601 828-358-3284; LakeHickoryAdventures com
Lake Norman Yacht Charters 2303 Gunners Ct, Charlotte, NC 28270 704-542-5492; LakeNormanCharters com
Light’n Up Houseboat Charter
On Lake Wylie 704-813-8033
Luxury Yacht Charters
Lake Norman – Year Round 8218 Parkton Gate Dr, Huntersville, NC 28078 704-451-7433; CruiseTheLake com
Sailing on Lake Norman with “The Captain” 30’ sailboat, sailing out of WaterStreet Seaport 704-362-0038
Tailrace Marina
1010 Marina Village Drive, Mount Holly, NC 28120 704-827-0000; TailraceMarina com
Yachta Yachta Yachta PO Box 1248, Cornelius, NC 28031 704-892-0991
All Seasons Marina
At Marker T-3 827 Langtree Rd, Mooresville, NC 28117
704-892-3478; AllSeasonsMarina net
American Marine Liquidators 4879 NC Hwy 16, Denver, NC 28037 704-483-8144; AMLBoats com
An Eye for Detail
Mobile Service Huntersville, NC
704-806-1101; AnEyeForDetail .com
Boat Body Shop, The 292 Rolling Hills Rd, Mooresville, NC 28117
704-892-BOAT (2628)
Boat Dock Marine
5981 Hwy 8, Lexington, NC 27292
336-357-5906; BoatDockMarineNC .com
Boat Repairs Plus 7900 Commerce Dr, Denver, NC 28037
704-489-1442
Charlotte Ski Boats
Cook’s Marina
22862 Lake Tillery Rd, Albemarle, NC 28001
704-983-4211
Dockside Detailing Mobile Service Cornelius, NC 704-987-1271
Four Seasons Marine Supply Supplies Only 1584 NC Hwy 16 N, Denver, NC 28037 704-489-8242
Gregory’s Marine & RV Gel-coat, carpet & upholstery repair/replacement 3021 Mt Gallant Rd, Rock Hill, SC 29732
Mobile Service 2330 South Point Rd, Belmont, NC 28012 704-860-4557 or 704-647-5583
Upstate Marine
8576 Hwy 150, Terrell NC
704-764-6331; UpstateNCMarine com
Wateree Marina
3374 John G Richards Rd, Liberty Hill, SC 29074
803-475-1224; WatereeMarinaInc .com
West Marine
13000 S Tryon St, Ste K, Charlotte, NC 28278
704-588-1020
20420 W Catawba Ave, Cornelius, NC 28031 704-895-5299; WestMarine com
A-1 Mobile Marine
Any Job is Our Specialty Repairs, Repowers, Inboards, Sterndrives, Outboards 150 Ostwalt Amity Rd, Bldg D, Suite 103, Troutman, NC 704-528-9517; A-1MobileMarine .com
American Marine Liquidators
4879 NC Hwy 16, Denver, NC 28037
704-483-8144; AMLBoats com
Angler’s Choice Marine
4343 Old US 52 Hwy, Lexington, NC 27295 336-619-4235
291 Oakland Rd, Spindale, NC 28160
828-286-2290; AnglersChoiceMarine .com
DLR – Mercury
SER-ACC-HDW-OB
Angler’s Choice Marine
6611 AL Philpott Hwy, Martinsville, VA 24112
276-632-5600; AnglersChoiceMarine com
DLR – Mercury
SER-ACC-HDW-OB
Armstrong Marine Service
477 Lytton St, Troutman, NC 28166
704-528-9489
SER – All Brands
ACC-HDW-SER-OB
Boat Dock Marine
5981 Hwy 8, Lexington, NC 27292
336-357-5906; BoatDockMarineNC com
DLR – Yamaha, Evinrude, Mercury, Tohatsu
SER-OB-HDW-ACC
Boater’s Marine of Monroe
1309 Skyway Dr, Monroe, NC 28110
704-282-0967; BoatersMarineNC .com
DLR – Mercury, MerCruiser, Yamaha, Suzuki
SER-ACC-OB-HDW
Boat House, The 6626 Denver Ind Park, Denver, NC 28037
704-483-3370
Boating Place
3430 S New Hope Rd, Gastonia, NC 28056
704-824-5531
Boat Repairs Plus
7900 Commerce Dr, Denver, NC 28037
704-489-1442
Boat Sales of Lake Wylie
4380 Charlotte Hwy, Lake Wylie, SC 29710
803-631-5432
DLR – PCM, Crusader Champion Powersports
6652 Denver Industrial Park Rd, Denver, NC 28037
704-489-6999; ChampionPowerSportsLKN com
SER- Inboard & Outboard Repair
ACC-HDW
Charlotte Ski Boats
1206 Brawley School Rd, Mooresville, NC 28117
704-525-6006; CharlotteSkiBoats .com
SER – Indmar, PCM, Crusader, MerCruser, Volvo
SER-HDW-ACC
Charlotte Ski Boats
At Joyner Marina on Lake Wylie
16310 York Rd, Charlotte, NC 28278
704-525-6006; CharlotteSkiBoats com
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What you’ll find here is a compendium of lakefront and lake-access eateries we recommend to our closest friends. This list will change and we’re always looking for your input. Call us at 704-817-8996 or visit us online at www.piedmontlakespilot.com with your comments and suggestions.
Boss Hog BBQ
7564 Highway 150 E., Sherrill’s Ford.
Crossroads Grill
5585 Rink Dam Road, Taylorsville, NC 28681 828-632-5656; TinyURL com/CrossroadsGrill
Cheeseburgers, homemade chili, barbeque, country-style steaks and fried pies, Southern cooking, mentioned in Our State magazine Open Mon – Sat , 8 a m – 8 p m ; closed Sun Casual $
Lighthouse Pub
6706 Limbaugh Lane, Hickory, NC 28601
828-855-2916; LakeHickoryMarina net
Hot dogs and meatball subs Beer, wine and sodas Just above the gas dock at Lake Hickory Boat Rental & Marina Available for private parties May-September . Open Wed .-Sat ., 11 a m -10 p .m ; Sun ., 11a m -7 p m ; Mon , noon-5 p m .; closed Tues Casual . $
SandBar Marina & Grill
3210 Rink Dam Road, Taylorsville, NC 28681
828-632-7937; SandBarMarinaGrill com
Great lakeside hangout with a grill and bar where you can dock and dine, wine shop, fuel service and events Open Wed , 4-9 p m .; Mon & Thurs , 11 a .m -9 p m .; Fri , 11 a .m -10 p m .; Sat , 9 a m10 p m ; Sun , 10 a m -7 p m ; closed Tues Casual, private bar $
Apps & Taps
River City Marina
155 Pinnacle Lane, Mooresville, NC 28117
704-677-7648; AppsnTapsLKN com
Extensive menu with plenty of apps, salads and heavier fare including Chicago-style, deep-dish pizza . Open Mon -Sat , 11 a .m -2:30 a m .; Sun , noon-2:30 a m . Slips available . Casual $-$$
Big Daddy’s Restaurant & Oyster Bar
1162 River Highway, Mooresville, NC 28117
704-663-4242; BigDaddysOfLakeNorman com
Roomy 500-seat restaurant with oyster bar and salad bar Seafood at its best since 1974 Open Sun -Thurs , 5 p m –9:30 p m ; Fri -Sat , 5 p m –10 p m Casual $$ Blue Parrot Grill
River City Marina
169 Pinnacle Lane, Mooresville
704-663-1203; BlueParrotMenu com
Menu includes steaks and seafood as well as a full bar . The patio is complete with curtains, so you can enjoy being outside even when it's raining BPG is lakeside with slips, and there's a gas dock so you can fuel yourself and your boat (and the family dog, too!) in one stop Open 7 days a week, 11 a .m until . Casual $-$$
704-478-3600; Facebook com/BossHogBBQofLKN
Hickory-smoked pork barbecue, ribs and chicken cooked fresh daily . Buffalo wings Served with homemade baked beans, slaw, Brunswick stew Open Tues .-Fri , 11 a m .–3 p .m , 4-8 p .m ; Sat , noon-6 p m Closed Sun -Mon Casual $
Eddie's Seafood & Raw Bar
643 Williamson Road, Mooresville, NC 28117
704-799-2090; EddiesLKN com
Local favorite with an extensive menu featuring seafood, burgers, Italian specialties and Sunday brunch On the water, but no slips You can, however, beach your boat on the sandy strip — but you might get your feet wet! Open Sun -Thurs , 11 a m -9 p m ; Fri -Sat , 11 a m -11 p m
Hello, Sailor
20210 Henderson Road, Cornelius, NC 28031
704-997-5365; HelloSailorNC com
At Holiday Marina . Sophisticated, retro-inspired restaurant with a waterfront deck and tiki bar Slips available Open Wed .-Sun , 11 a .m -9 p m .; closed Mon -Tues . Jeffrey’s Restaurant 117 Trade Ct, Mooresville, NC 28117
704-799-1110; jeffreyslkn com
Inspired by his late father, Bud, Jeff Lancaster created a restaurant that filled the area’s need for a higher quality restaurant that wasn’t another lifeless franchise Jeff’s passion for people pushed him to strive for the best while embracing an approachable southern charm; this idea is still woven into our essence today Slick but easy-going hangout featuring New American eats with a Southern bent, cocktails and a patio Open Mon -Thurs , 11 a m -9 p m ; Mon , 11 a m .-10 p m ; Sat , 4:30-10 p m , Casual; $$ Lancaster’s BBQ
515 Rinehardt Road, Mooresville, NC 28115
704-663-5807; lancastersbbqmooresville com 9230 Beatties Ford Rd, Huntersville, NC 28078
704-394-1464; lancastersbbqhuntersville com
From humble beginnings in a small former gas station, Lancaster’s BBQ was born in Race City, USA (otherwise known as Mooresville, NC) The year was 1986 and their slow-smoked, real eastern NC barbecue and race memorabilia quickly became legendary Generous plates of barbecue and Southern comfort grub are the draw at this time-tested, casual restaurant Huntersville location is open Sun . & Tues -Thurs , 11 a m .-9 p .m ; Fri .-Sat ., 11 a .m -10 p m . Mooresville location is open Sun .-Fri , 11 a .m -9 p m .; Sat , 11 a .m -10 p m .; Casual; $-$$
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Anntony’s at the Landing
4491 Slanting Bridge Road, Sherrill’s Ford
828-478-5944; anntonys com; landingatthelake com
Located within the Lake Norman Landing Hotel & Marina, Anntony’s offers waterfront dining, a sandy beach area for the kids to play and live entertainment Traditional Caribbean cuisine with Southern influence Enjoy a plate of flavorful ribs, shrimp, island wings marinated in Anntony’s sauces and seasonings, or a seafood platter with classic mac and cheese or coleslaw on the side . Full bar Open Wed -Sat , 11 a m .-9 p m .; Sun ., 11 a m -8 p m .; Closed Mon -Tues The Landing hosts 20 slips, a dock, and a ramp Casual $-$$
North Harbor Club
100 North Harbor Place, Davidson
704-896-5559; NorthHarborClub com
American fare ranging from sandwiches to full dinners Indoor, outdoor dining Live music four nights a week, 7-10 p m Come by boat, 18 slips available Open Fri -Sat , 11 a m -9:30 p m ; SunThurs , 11 a m -9 p m Casual $$-$$$
Port City Club
18665 Harborside Drive, Cornelius, NC 28031
704-765-1565; PortCityClub .com
Classy restaurant with dinner entrees in the $17-$29 range featuring a climate-controlled deck, outdoor patio and sandy lounge area on the water Slips available Open Tues -Thurs, 4-9 p m .; Fri -Sat , 11:30 a .m -10 p m ; Sun ., 11:30 a m -9 p m ; closed Mon .
Toucan’s Lakefront
River City Marina
167 Pinnacle Lane, Mooresville, NC
704-360-2001; TinyURL com/ToucansLakefront
A 6,000-square-foot venue overlooking Lake Norman, from the same folks who brought you the Blue Parrot Open for lunch and dinner, Toucan’s menu includes sandwiches, burgers, wraps, seafood and steaks Oyster bar and full-service bar Familyfriendly . There are 16 slips, so come in off the water Open TuesSun ., 11 a m -18 p .m ; closed Mon . Casual $$-$$$
Waterside Bar & Grill
Waterside Marina
7774 Hudson Chapel Road, Catawba, NC 28609
828-229-7790; Instagram com/WatersideBarAndGrill
Great selection of lake food from burgers and dogs to salads — but you’ll want to try the cheesesteak Kid’s menu Gas dock Open Sun , 11 a m -9 p m ; Mon-Tues , 11 a m - 10 p m ; Wed -Thurs 11 am -11 p m ; Fri,-Sat , 11 a m -midnight Very casual $
Shuffletown Grill
10220 Rozzelles Ferry Road, Charlotte 28214
704-399-1968; ShuffletownGrill .com
Great neighborhood spot, open since 1957 for breakfast and lunch . Extensive menu with daily specials Breakfast includes steak & eggs, omelets, country plates Lunch includes burgers, sandwiches, subs and salads, among other items . Open TuesSat , 6am-2 p m ; closed Sun .-Mon . $
Drift on Lake Wylie
315-M Lanyard Lane, Belmont, NC 28012
980-351-0111; DriftLKW com
Chef-inspired lakeside chophouse Heavy on beef, pork and seafood Fine dining by the lake Located at the Morningstar McLean Marina, just south of the Daniel Stowe Botanical Garden There are slips with a gas dock close at hand . Not the kind of place to come in your wet boardshorts . Open Sun , 10:30 a m2:30 p m . & 4-9 p .m ; Tues -Thurs ., 4-9:30 p m ; Fri . 4-10 p m .; Sat , 10:30 a m -2:30 p m . & 4-10 p m . $$$
J.R. Cash’s Grill & Bar
Tailrace Marina
1000 Marina Village Drive, Mt. Holly, NC 28120
704-601-5541; JRCashs com
Waterfront, Lake Wylie at Tailrace Marina (#62 on Lake Wylie map) Menu includes apps, soups, sandwiches, burgers, steaks, ribs, seafood, chicken and pasta What else is there? Oh desserts and the bar, of course There are slips, so come by boat Open Sun -Thurs , 11 a m -9 p m ; Fri -Sat , 11 a m -10 p m Casual $$
Pier 88 Yacht Club
River Mills Marina
165 Heritage Drive, Lake Wylie
803-831-0088
Closed in the offseason Hot dogs, burgers, BBQ, chicken wings, French fries, onion rings and much more . Beer and wine to go On the lake in Joe’s Cove just two coves south of Buster Boyd Bridge Ship’s store, boat slips and gas dock Open 11 a m .–5 p m
Very casual $
Papa Doc's Shore Club
3990 Charlotte Highway, Lake Wylie, SC 29710
803-831-0043; PapaDocsLKW com
What was once the Hungry Fisherman then, for many years, T-Bones, is just off the South Carolina side of the Buster Boyd Bridge The renovated space includes four bars and seating for hundreds, plus 38 boat slips Adjacent to Lake Wylie Marina & the Buster Boyd Public Access The menu features steamed and fried seafood platters, oysters, burgers, salads, sandwiches, tacos and bar appetizers . Tiki bar . Carry-out service for boaters Sun .-Thurs , 11 a .m -10 p m ; Fri -Sat , 11 a m .-midnight . Casual $$
Creekside Grill & Ale
3482 John G. Richards Road, Camden, SC 29020
803-273-3448; TinyURL com/CreeksideGrill
Across Beaver Creek from Wateree Marina Dutchman’s Creek Marina & Grill 5546 River Road, Winnsboro, SC 803-482-3067; Facebook com/DutchmanCreek
Marina servicing the Lake Wateree area Gas, fishing tackle, restaurant, snacks, beverages, boat rentals Open Wed -Mon , 7 a .m -9 p m . Casual . $
Riverdeck at Beaver Creek Grill
3473 John G. Richards Road, Liberty Hill, SC 29074
803-273-3757; Facebook com/RiverdeckStoreandGrill
Store and grill with hamburgers, chicken wings, shrimp po-boys, pancakes, omelets, sausage gravy and biscuits, hash browns, homemade biscuits Gas for cars & boats, live bait, all fishing supplies, beer, wine Open Sun , 9 a m -5 p m ; Mon -Thurs 8 a m8 p m ; Fri -Sat , 8 a m -10 p m
Beaver’s Den at Beaver Creek Bar & Grille
3482 John G. Richards Road, Camden, SC 29020
803-475-2289; BeaversDenAtBeaverCreek com
Ribeyes, flounder, chicken, quesadillas, wings Open Mon -Thus , 4-9 p m ; Fri , 4-10 p m ; Sat , 11 a m -10 p m ; Sun , 11 a m -7 p m Bar stays open ‘til midnight most nights Casual $$
Mill Pond Steakhouse
84 Boykin Mill Road, Rembert, SC 29128
803-425-8825; MillPondSteakhouse com
High-end steakhouse with prime and choice Angus beef, shrimp and grits, crab cakes Originally built in the mid-1860’s . Open Tues -Sat , 5 p .m -until; closed Sun .-Mon $$-$ Olde Town Hall
140 Palmer St., Ridgeway, SC 29130
803-337-0389; OldeTownHall com
Oldest Italian eatery in Ridgeway . Brick-oven pizzas, quesadillas, wings, calzones, pasta, grinders and more . Full bar Open TuesThurs , 11:30 a m -9 p m ; Fri -Sat , 11:30 a m -10 p m ; second Sun , 11 a m -2 p m ; closed Monday Bar stays open late for sports events Casual
High Rock Marina & Campground
1013 Wafford Circle, Lexington, NC 27292
336-798-1196; HighRockLakeCampground .com
Fresh, made-to-order snacks and dinners Eat on the deck or get a to-go order to spend more time on the water 20 Slips Casual $
Lakeview Family Restaurant
9185 Bringle Ferry Road, Salisbury, NC 28146
704-637-3699
Down-home family dining . At the public access ramp and across Bringle Ferry from Tamarac Marina (see 51 on High Rock map), so you can come by boat Open for breakfast, lunch and dinner Open Wed -Sat , 7 a m -8 p m ; Sun 7 a m -2 p m ; closed MonTues Very casual $
Tamarac Marina
9120 Bringle Ferry Road, Salisbury, NC 28146
704-636-1918; TamaracMarina weebly com
Full-service restaurant with daily specials . Tackle and grocery store, other amenities Located at the bridge on Bringle Ferry Road, 15-minute access off I-85 Come by boat, there are slips, a gas dock and ramp (see 51 on High Rock Lake map) Open SunThurs ., 5 a m -10 p .m ; Fri -Sat , 5 a .m -11 p m Very casual $ Waters Edge Dock & Grill
257 Boat Club Lane, Salisbury, NC 28146
704-603-8056; WatersEdgeHighRock com
Awesome entrees, creative appetizers, pizza, sandwiches, craft burgers, wings, and late-night bar food as well as weekend brunch Wed -Fri , 5 p m -late; Sat -Sun , 10 a m -late Come by boat, there are slips Casual $-$$
Badin Lake Family Restaurant
2507 Blaine Road, New London, NC 28127
336-461-2660
Great jumping off point for that Badin fishing trip . Above Uwharrie Point Marinas and Badin Shores Resort . Southern breakfast and lunch menu items Seafood and steaks available on weekends Open Tues -Sat 6 a m -2 p m ; closed Sun -Mon Very casual $
Old North State Club Marina
139 Marina Lane, New London, NC, 28127
336-461-4456; OldNorthStateClub com
The menu caters to a wide variety of tastes, from comfort classics to the latest creations Open Tues -Sun , 9 a m -5 p m
Scallywag's Bar & Grill
Badin Lake Marina
700 Lake Forest Drive, New London, NC 28127
336-461-2565; ScallywagsBarAndGrill .com
Waterfront at Badin Lake Marina & Watersports Lake-front dining inside or outside on a large, covered patio . Great food, hand-dipped ice cream Beer and wine Parking areas and boat slips, gas dock and boat ramp, store, pontoon rentals . Lunch, dinner, breakfast on weekends Dine in or take out . Open WedThurs , 5-9 p .m ; Fri , 5-10 p m ; Sat , noon-11 p m ; Sun , 11:30 a m .-5 p m . Casual $
Lefler’s Place Cafe
6423 NC Highway 73 W., Mt. Gilead, NC 27306
910-439-5451; LeflersPlace com
Operating continuously since 1922, Lefler's does smoked barbeque the right way Hand-pattied burgers, homemade chili and slaw, famous hot dogs This place is complete with a country store Open Tues -Wed ., 10:30 a m .-2 p m ; Thurs .-Fri , 10:30 a m .-8 p m .; Sat , 10:30 a m .-3 p m ; Closed Sun .-Mon . Casual $
Harbor Café
197 Holly Harbor Trail, Mount Gilead, NC 27306
910-439-0043; Facebook com/TheTwinHarborCafe
Full breakfast and lunch menu during the week, flounder and shrimp dinners on Friday and Saturday evenings Breakfast includes French toast and pancakes Lunch features salads, burgers, sandwiches and wraps Just off Lillys Bridge Road in the Twin Harbor community Open daily, 7 a m -2 p m ; Thurs -Sat , 4-8 p m Casual $
River Wild
1185 Lillys Bridge Road, Mt Gilead, NC 27306
910-439-2022; RiverWildNC com
Bison burgers along with other fresh, hand-crafted burgers and sandwiches Dockage available at Lilly's Bridge Marina (#51 on Lake Tillery map) or parking if you come by car . Deck seating overlooking the marina Carpet golf . Full bar, live music . Open Tues -Thurs ., 4-9 p m .; Fri -Sat , 11 a m .-10 p .m ; Sun ., 11 a .m -8 p .m ; closed Mon Casual $$
A lakeside restaurant and bar serving pizza, wings, burgers, and sandwiches, not to mention gas if you pull up in your boat Lots of live music on the back patio Dine-in, carry-out and curbside pick-up available Open Wed -Thurs ., 11 a .m -8 p .m ; Fri -Sat , 11 a .m -11 p m .; Sun , 11 a .m -7 p m .; Closed Mon -Tues Casual $
Cash Out on a Good Time at J.R. Cash’s Grill & Bar
By Annie Keough
The team at J .R . Cash’s Grill & Bar will tell you they are focused on what matters most: delicious and abundant food, friendly and efficient service, and satisfied customers .
With five locations spanning both Carolinas — surrounding Lake Wylie, Lake Murray and Lake Hartwell — it seems the eatery’s focus has been well achieved . Online reviews from customers rave about the generous portions of prime rib, sandwiches and shrimp and grits for reasonable prices .
Though its other locations all boast a classic American diner feel, J .R . Cash’s Grill & Bar on Lake Wylie pairs the aesthetic with a stunning view of the Catawba River that sets the eatery’s only North Carolina location apart from the rest
Folks can drive up or tie in at one of the dock’s many spaces to catch a game on one of the bar’s four TVs, relax on the outdoor patio or catch some live music
No matter which location you visit — Chaplin, two in Columbia, Starr or Mount Holly — you’ll find the same classic menu featuring steaks, salads, prime ribs and more .
Start your meal off with some chicken wings, smothered potato skins, barbecue or blackened chicken nachos . If you get too full off of apps you can stick to a light salad or she-crab soup, but we will warn you upfront that you’ll want to save room for the variety of oversized sandwiches and wraps These things are packed to the brim .
If you’re looking for entrees, dive into a fried shrimp platter, fresh Atlantic salmon, blackened chicken Alfredo or choose from a slate of steak and prime rib options . The bar also offers an array of wine selections and specialty cocktails like the Suntan-tini (Pearl vanilla vodka, pineapple and orange juices, grenadine and a sugardipped orange slice), Cash’s Punch (Don Q Coco Rum,
pineapple juice and orange juice topped with a Myers Dark Rum floater) and the Spurs Up Martini (Tito’s vodka, Pama pomegranate liqueur, raspberry liqueur and lemonade)
Look for rotating drink specials each month at low prices, too .
“I recently had the pleasure of dining at JR Cash Bar and Grill in Mt . Holly, and I must say, it was an exceptional experience!” one Google review reads “The food was nothing short of amazing, and the cocktails were even better . Each dish was crafted with care and bursting with flavor . ”
“The atmosphere was delightful, especially with the beautiful lake view, which added a serene touch to our dinner,” the review continued . “I highly recommend JR Cash’s Bar and Grill for anyone looking for a great meal and a fabulous cocktail!!”
J.R. Cash’s Grill & Bar is located at 1000 Marina Village Drive in Mount Holly and is open Sunday through Thursday from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. and Friday and Saturdays from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. Visit jrcashs.com or facebook.com/ jrcashsgrillandbarNClakewylie to learn more.
[TOP] Sandwiches available at J.R. Cash’s (Courtesy of J.R. Cash’s) [BOTTOM] A sampling of offerings from J.R. Cash’s (Courtesy of J.R. Cash’s)
D&E Marine
5911 NC Hwy 8, Lexington, NC 27292
336-357-5620
Diamond Enterprises
5171 Icard Ridge Rd, Hickory, NC 28601
828-495-4448; DiamondEnterprises us
Dixie Camper & Marine
2718 US-52, Albemarle, NC 28001
704-983-2158; DixieCamperSales com
DLR – Yamaha
ACC-HDW-OB-RG-SER
Doc’s Marine
5803 Icard Ridge Rd, Hickory, NC 28601
828-598-0637; DocsMarineNC com
DLR – Suzuki, Mercury, Mercruiser, Rotax (BRP)
SER – Suzuki, Mercury, Yamaha, Mercruiser, Volvo
Dockside Detailing
Mobile Service
Inboard Maintenance & Detailing Cornelius, NC
704-987-1271
Ed Watkins Marine
3333 Hwy 16 N, Denver, NC 28037
704-483-2628; EdWatkinsMarine com
DLR – Evinrude, Mercury
ACC-HDW-OB-RG-SER-BL-YD
Extreme Marine
18605 Northline Dr, Suite H-11, Cornelius, NC 28031
Company’s new president discusses how Rock puts customers first
BYRYANPITKIN
So many successful businesses have been borne of bad experiences .
So it was with Rock Outdoors founder Steve Summer, a lifelong bass fisherman who often found the industry of boat dealerships and marine retail an altogether unwelcoming one .
As a boat owner and businessman who often traveled, Summer found that there weren’t many service shops that were willing to work around his schedule, allowing him to drop off his boat to have work done and pick it up on his own time .
He visited boat dealerships where employees would balk at showing him any boat that wasn’t already on display in the showroom . His wife never got the respect she deserved at the facilities she would visit Men never thought she could confidently back her own boat into a bay
As someone who knew business as well as he knew bass fishing, Summer decided he would be the one to create something better . First launching the business as a one-man mechanic shop, Summer opened the first Rock Outdoors dealership and retail shop next to High Rock Lake in Lexington, North Carolina in 2018 .
The mission was to be the most welcoming and helpful boat dealership, service facility and retail shop in the industry .
The business has since expanded to three locations, beginning with a 50,000-square-foot facility near Smith Mountain Lake in Hardy, Virginia, followed by its most recent opening, a smaller shop near Lake Gaston in Littleton, North Carolina that will act as a temporary location while they build a new facility there similar to their first two .
Each shop employs residents local to the respective area, but all of them visit the flagship in Lexington to be trained and certified in their respective areas of work and, most importantly, customer service . This process ensures that the Rock Outdoors mission to be “a community committed to a life lived outside” builds a community where everyone feels welcomed .
“We’re here for the customer, and without the customers, we wouldn’t have the business,” said Menius . “Whenever you come in to whenever you are leaving the facility, you’re going to be treated fairly, you’re going to be greeted, and we want you to feel like you’re family whenever you leave and that we’ve taken care of you . ”
As you’ll see when you visit their website at rockoutdoors com, the Rock Outdoors inventory is split between boats and retail . Each of their showroom facilities has between 30-35 boats on display at any given time, mostly pontoons but also bass fishing boats and deck boats .
They carry a dozen brands of boats including Barletta, Godfrey, Vexus, and Xpress .
On the retail side, Rock Outdoors carries competitively priced brands like Columbia and YETI but also harder to find stuff like Drake Waterfowl, XtraTuf Footwear, Simms fishing gear, and Old Town kayaks, among others .
“We try to have things that you just can’t find anywhere else,” explained Menius . “If you go to Walmart, I probably don’t need to sell it because Walmart has it and there’s a Walmart everywhere . We try to have items that other places may not have or that you’re going to have to drive to find . ”
Originally a registered nurse who worked in the labor and delivery ward, Menius left that profession to work with a children’s clothing manufacturer . She joined Summer as he began to build out the idea for Rock Outdoors in 2017, beginning at the service counter and working her way up through the business as it grew .
She was named president of the company this year as Summer has stepped back to pursue other ventures
Menius said her time with the company has taught her a lot about the fishing and boating community, which is unlike any other industry in the sense that the people she serves are more like a tight-knit family than a clientele or demographic
“It’s not just trying to sell somebody something or to make that profit, it’s about making memories and family time and what can you do to help their experience and their memories,” she said .
Rock Outdoors does what it can as a company to cultivate that sense of community, sponsoring the Rowan County Bass Anglers, a high school and youth fishing team and community serviceoriented club for all students in the county .
Rock has also hosted its own bass fishing tournaments over the last four years .
Menius specifically remembers the extreme excitement she witnessed in one 10-year-old boy
who participated in one of this year’s paired fishing tournaments with his father, the first tournament the boy had ever participated in .
“He had talked his dad into it and he came out and he fished, and he had so much fun,” recalled Menius . “So you’re able to be in people’s memories and important steps in their lives or moments where it gets them excited, and then they have a feel-good response to it … That is something I can grow with .
“It’s not just, ‘I’m here to sell you a boat There you go ’ It’s the experience,” she continued “It’s a good experience of getting to see the people having fun on their boat and then being able to come in and be like, ‘We’ve done this all summer, and we appreciate it . ’ I like being a part of that . ”
Now as the summer ends, Menius and the Rock Outdoors team are busy helping folks winterize their boats while gearing up for the holiday shopping rush, when clothing and kayaks are their perennial best-sellers .
In the back of everyone’s minds, however, will be that subconscious clock counting down to the return of boating season, when new memories will be made and Rock Outdoors will be there to help create them .
Serving Lake Norman & Wylie PO Box 271, Cornelius, NC 28031 704-895-8699; SeaTow com
(continued on page
Wake the World Brings Watersports Fun to Neglected Children and Handicapped Individuals
Nonprofit’s goal is a great day on the lake
By Pat Moran
Greg Hodgkin remembers the day that changed his life . The wakeboarding champion and industrial painting contractor was going 50 mph in his truck when he was struck from behind by a motorist going more than twice that speed .
“She hit me so hard that my [front] seat folded into the backseat,” Hodgkin says .
His Chevy pickup flew off the road, flipped three times through the air, hit a telephone pole and came to rest on all four wheels . Hodgkin wasn’t wearing a seatbelt, yet he was just about the only thing in the totaled truck that didn’t fly out during the wreck . It seemed a miracle that he was alive .
A US Masters Wakeboard Champion and six-time Masters Wakeboard State Champion, Hodgkin considered his close call with death and pondered what he could do with his second chance to better help others
Turning to his love of wakeboarding and water skiing, he founded Wake the World (WTW) in 2008 . The nonprofit provides watersports opportunities to abandoned, abused and neglected children as well as disabled people of all ages .
For WTW’s inaugural event on High Rock Lake in 2008, Hodgkin recruited eight families who owned boats to volunteer as captains for a day on the lake entertaining residents of two
local children’s homes, American Children’s Home in Lexington and the Mills Home in Thomasville . Seventeen years after pulling off that day of service, WTW is still going strong .
“Our goal is to provide a normal day on the lake for the kids,” Hodgkin says . “We don’t try to pack the boats, [so they] get more opportunities to be in the water and learn things . ”
The idea is to give each of the participating kids three to four sessions in the water, ensuring they’ll get up on skis or a board at least once
“Once they have success, you can move on to other things because now they’ve got confidence to try other things,” Hodgkin notes .
A WTW event can include water skiing, kneeboarding or wakeboarding — whatever each respective boat owner is accustomed to . Volunteer requirements are listed on WTW’s application form
Events for handicapped people are open to all ages .
“The youngest we’ve had was 3 years old, the oldest was 84,” Hodgkin says .
These events require special adaptive equipment like sit-skis and harnesses for participants . Hodgkin remembers one participant saying they felt like they were always looking up at people from their wheelchair but that once they were in the water everyone was at the same level .
There are usually between two to four times as many volunteers as participants for any given event Once someone gets involved with helping out during a WTW event, it’s hard to turn down any future volunteer opportunities, which is likely how the organization has grown into the largest all-volunteer organization of its kind .
“These events are so fun,” says Hodgkin .
A countrywide all-volunteer initiative
In 2019, the nonprofit hosted 60 events in more than 28 states plus Canada, with the involvement of more than 500 boats; 1,200 volunteers; and close to 3,200 participants . Though the number of events fell off after COVID, WTW has bounced back, scheduling more than 45 events in 2025 .
WTW has built a network of boat volunteers and sponsors to help support each event, and through the World Wakeboard Association (WWA), the nonprofit also provides insurance for every local event . People who want to host a WTW event are encouraged to check the nonprofit’s website at waketheworld .org to find out how
The degree of autonomy that WTW grants individual volunteers extends to organizers of WTW events across the country . While Hodgkin hosts events at Badin Lake, he says the nonprofit’s biggest 2025 event was in Oregon .
“They had [approximately] 42 boats and over 200 participants,” he says . “They had catered breakfast, lunch and supper, live entertainment [and] a clothing drive . ”
“That’s one extreme,” Hodgkin continues . “On the other end … we had this lady with a trailer on a lake . It was three boats, 15 kids . She fed them from her trailer . There were no gift bags, T-shirts or anything like that, but those kids had just as much fun as the kids at the humongous event . ”
Each local coordinator handles their own fundraising and sponsorships . For his Lake Badin events, Hodgkin has a long-running sponsor that provides food, but he hosts fundraisers to pay for T-shirts .
Hodgkin’s main fundraising event, launched in 2009, is the annual Wake n Flake . Early in
March, participants go wakeboarding on Badin Lake in the morning and snowboarding, usually at Appalachian Ski Mountain, later that same day . After a COVID hiatus, Hodgkin says he plans to bring the event back in 2026 .
For the event, boat dealers pay to take people out on the lake in the morning, which gives the dealers the opportunity to show off their new products and how much fun can be had on them .
As for participants in WTW events, Hodgkin hopes to give the children a taste of success . It’s an opportunity for neglected kids to master tasks they never dreamed they could, facilitated by the generous volunteers and boat owners involved with WTW.
Once a child understands that they can master one unimaginable thing, they can go on to excel in other areas as well .
“We want to show them a life that can be had,” Hodgkin says .
For this man of faith who survived a neardeath experience, the volunteer boat owners he relies upon are performing the ultimate act of loving their neighbor .
[TOP LEFT] Wake the World is the largest all-volunteer organization of its kind. (Courtesy of Wake the World) [BOTTOM] Greg Hodgkin (right) facilitates a past Wake the World event on Badin Lake. (Courtesy of Wake the World)
Lake Hickory was completed in 1928, and has 105 miles of shoreline. Lake Hickory is managed by Duke Energy. For current lake-level information, visit the Piedmont Lakes section of www.piedmontlakespilot.com. Click the “Lake Maps” button. Indicates Public Access
24 R See the Marina Guide on pages 34-37
Lake Hickory
Lake Norman was completed in 1963, covers 32,510 acres, has 520 miles of shoreline and is managed by Duke Power Company. For current lake-level information,visit the Piedmont Lakes section of www.piedmontlakespilot.com . Click the “Lake Maps” button.
Lake Wylie was completed in 1904 and was the first lake built on the Catawba River. It was reconstructed and enlarged in 1925, has 325 miles of shoreline and a surface area of 12,455 acres. Lake Wylie is managed by Duke Power Company. For current lake-level information, visit the Piedmont Lakes section of www.piedmont lakespilot.com. Click the “Lake Maps” button.
Indicates Public Access Boat Ramp R
See the Marina Guide on pages 34-37 24
Indicates Water Tower. W
High Rock Lake
High Rock Lake serves as the principal water storage and release facility for the entire Yadkin/PeeDee River. It consists of 360 miles of shoreline and 15,180 acres of water surface at a full-pond depth of 59 feet. For the latest lake-level information, visit the Piedmont Lakes section of www.piedmontlakespilot.com. Click the “Lake Maps” button.
Indicates Public Access Boat Ramp R
24
See the Marina Guide on pages 34-37
Indicates Public Access Boat Ramp R
24 See the Marina Guide on pages 34-37
Badin Lake, also known as Narrows Reservoir, was completed in 1917. It has 115 miles of shoreline and 5,353 acres of water-surface at full-pond. The lake is adjacent to the 50,000-acre Uwharrie National Forest, and north of the 4,693-acre Morrow Mountain State Park. For the latest lake level information, consult the Piedmont Lakes section of www.piedmontlakespilot.com. Click the “Lake Maps” button.
The Lake Tillery Project is owned and operated by Duke Energy. It began operation in 1928 with the development of Norwood Dam, has approximately 118 miles of shoreline and a surface area of 5,263 acres at full-pond. Besides hydro-electric power generation, Lake Tillery provides drinking water for Montgomery County and the City of Norwood. For the latest lake-level information, consult the Piedmont Lakes section of www.piedmontlakespilot.com . Click the “Lake Maps” button
Sea Tow Uwharrie Lakes
712 Berry Hill Dr, Norwood, NC 28128
855-732-8691; SeaTow com
Tow Boat US/Lake Response
Serving Lake Norman, Mtn Island PO Box 44, Cornelius, NC 28031
704-200-1930; LakeResponse .com
Tow Boat US/Lake Tillery
Running out of Lilly’s Bridge Marina 704-305-1518
Tow Boat US/Lake Wylie
Service from 2 locations on Lake Wylie 803-681-0911; TowBoatLKW com/membership
The left side of the boat as you face the forward bow.
[GUNWALE]
The top surface of the boat’s side: GUNNEL
[FREEBOARD]
Distance from the waterline to the gunwale.
[BEAM]
The width of the boat at it’s widest point
[MIDSHIP]
Approximately the center of the boat.
[KEEL]
The backbone of the hull, extending the full center-line.
[DECK]
Structural Surface that covers the hull from gunwale to gunwale.
[CHINE]
The angle in the hull where the running surface meets the sides of the hull.
[STERN]
The rear of the boat: AFT
[SWIM PLATFORM]
[BOW]
The front end of the boat: FORWARD
[STARBOARD]
The right side of the boat as you face the forward bow.
[SOLE]
Floor of the cockpit, bow area or cabin.
[HELM]
Where the captain steers the boat
[HATCH]
Cover that encloses a storage compartment.
[COCKPIT]
The interior of the boat, not including the cuddy or cabin.
[HULL]
Sides, bottom, bow and transom of the boat from keel to gunwale.
[RUB RAIL]
Protective molding with a stainlesssteel or plastic insert around the boat’s outermost edge.
[LENGTH]
The measurement of the boat from bow to stern
How to Clean a Fish
Step 1. Rinse any remaining slime and dirt off of the fish, and lay it on a cutting surface. Insert a knife in the hole on the underside of the fish. Cut upward along the belly to the head. Tips: Keep the knife blade shallow so you don’t puncture their intestines.. Use a small towel to get a secure grip on the fish while you clean it.
Step 2. Make a cut at the throat to separate the gills from the head.
Step 3. Spread the body open to remove the gills and entrails.
Step 4. Fish have a kidney along the lenght of the backbone. Scrape this out with a spoon or your thumbnail.
Step 5. Cut off the head if you desire, and remove the dorsal fin. Rinse the fish in cold, clean water and keep the fish cool until you are ready to prepare it.
Lake Norman Grocery & Amoco 1208 River Hwy, Mooresville, NC 704-799-0032
AK McCallum Co.
Tackle, Jon Boats
715 Ramsey St, Fayetteville, NC 28302
910-483-6804 or 800-682-2628
Beaches Grocery Hwy 73, Stanley NC 704-827-2188
Boater’s Warehouse
798 Brawley School Rd, Mooresville, NC 704-664-2628
Carolina Fishing Tackle Brawley School Rd, Mooresville, NC 704-799-2912
Open Sun 10a.m.-8p.m.; M -- F 6a.m.-9p.m.; Sat 7a.m.-9p.m. 3900 Mt Gallant Rd, Rock Hill, SC 29732
803-329-0002
Robichaux Outfitters 1113 Brawley School Rd, Mooresville, NC 28117
704-658-1975
Safe Harbor Westport Marina
7879 Water Oaks Dr, Denver, NC 28037
704-483-5172; SHMarinas com
Shoals Sporting Goods
7936 Unity Church Rd, Denver, NC
704-966-1533
Simonds Bait & Tackle Shop
On the Tuckaseigee River
1085 Main St, Bryson City, NC 28713
828-488-6854
Spider’s Place
2628 Blain Rd, New London, NC 28127
336-404-7769
Tackle Town
4705 Cousin Ln, Maiden, NC 28650
704-483-1007; TackleTown net
Tamarac Marina
9120 Bringle Ferry Rd, Salisbury, NC
704-636-1918
Taylorsville Beach Marina
420 Taylorsville Beach Ct, Taylorsville, NC 28681
828-632-7649; TaylorsvilleBeachMarina com
Triangle Food Mart
1298 N Hwy 16, Denver, NC 28037
704-483-3490
The Rod Shop
4115 Rocky River Rd N, Monroe, NC
704-289-4003
Tackle Town
4705 Cousin Ln, Maiden, NC 28650
704-483-1007; TackleTown net
Larry’s Rod & Reel Repair
Reel Repair, Custom Rods, Cork Handle Repair
1928 Chaparral Ct, Lenoir, NC 28645
828-313-7266
SER- Authorized Shimano, Daiwa Repair
Carolina Bonefishing
Fly fishing trips & lessons
704-616-6662; CarolinaBoneFishing com
Catfish Guide Service
Lake Norman Guide David Nicholson
704-592-5562
Down & Out Striped Bass Guide Service
Lakes Hickory, Lookout Shoals, Norman 287 Rumple Hill Dr, Statesville, NC 28677
704-528-9013 or 704-902-7246
Dry Bones Fishing
Capt. Zander Monk
Fishing Norman, Mtn Island, Wylie 704-231-7316; DryBonesFishing com
Fish On! Lake Norman Guide Service
Capt. Craig Price
Fishing Norman, Hickory, Mtn Island, Lookout Shoals, Rhodhiss PO Box 1623, Denver, NC 28037
704-996-0946; FishOnGuideServices com
Gold Hook Guide Service
Jason Quinn
810 Riverstone Ct, Lake Wylie, SC 29745
803-327-7048 or 980-522-6618; JasonQuinnBassPro com
Gul-R-Boy Guide Service
Flounder, Red Drum, Tarpon & Trout
539 Harvestmoon Dr, Georgetown, SC
843-546-3625 or 843-520-6339; GulRBoy com
Hill Guide Services
Capt. John Gary Hill, Santee-Cooper lakes & rivers
704-739-7838; HillGuides .com
Ken’s Guide Service
Striper Fishing
828-325-9848 or 336-785-5935
Lake Wylie Guide Service
Jimmy Drum 99 Old Mine Rd, Mt Holly, NC 28120
704-827-3018
Morrow’s Guide Service
Striped Bass Only 704-491-8787
Madison River Outfitters
Orvis-Endorsed Fly Fishing Guide Service
20910 Torrence Chapel Rd #D5, Cornelius, NC 28031
704-896-3676
Robichaux Outfitters
1113 Brawley School Rd, Mooresville, NC 28117
704-658-1975
Tall Boy’s Catfish Guide
David Nicholson, Fishing Norman & surrounding lakes 704-592-5562
Ty Mathis Striper Fishing
Ty Mathis, lakes Norman, Hickory, Mtn Island 828-308-7755
Yadkin Lakes Guide Service
Maynard Edwards, Fishing High Rock, Badin & Tuckertown lakes 336-249-6782
A fishing license is required for anyone age 16 or older when fishing in any public water, including coastal waters, in both Carolinas. Purchase NC licenses by calling 888-248-6834 or at ncwildlife.org SC licenses are available at dnr.sc.gov or by calling 803-734-3833.
Beatties Ford Rd Hardware
2731 Beatties Ford Rd, Charlotte, NC 28216
704-393-2847
C’s BP
101 Wadesboro Blvd, Mt Gilead, NC 27306
910-439-4243
Carolina Fishing
2925 N Center St, Hickory, NC 28601
828-328-1431
Carolina Mountain Sports 101 E Broad St, Statesville, NC 28677
704-871-1444
Chip’s Lake Stop 648 PeeDee Ave, Norwood, NC 704-474-7154
Four Seasons Marine Supply 1584 Hwy 16 N, Denver, NC 28037
704-489-8242
General Store of Denver 6360 E Hwy 150, Sherrills Ford, NC 28673
1183 Lilly’s Bridge Rd, Mt Gilead, NC 910-573-0629; LillysBridgeMarina com
Nichols Store
1980 Mt Holly Rd, Rock Hill, SC 29730
803-328-9792
Norwood Express Mart
130 S Main St, Norwood, NC 28128
704-474-4588
Pendleton’s Sporting Goods
5930 Charlotte Hwy, Clover, SC 29710
803-631-5410
River’s Edge Marina
5803 Icard Ridge Rd, Hickory, NC 28601
828-495-8833; RandNMarina com
River Stop Food Mart
Open Sun 10a.m.-8p.m.; M -- F 6a.m.-9p.m.; Sat 7a.m.-9p.m.
3900 Mt Gallant Rd, Rock Hill, SC 29732
803-329-0002
Sharon Supermarket
2174 Island Ford Rd, Statesville, NC 28677
704-871-0505
Simonds Bait & Tackle Shop
On the Tuckaseigee River 1085 Main St, Bryson City, NC 28713
828-488-6854
Tom’s Grocery & Tackle Hwy 220 N, Star, NC 27356
910-428-4141
WAS Greenfield Market 522 Alexander St, Statesville, NC 28677 704-876-2613
Fishing Creek Taxidermy
Cierra Ln, Lando, SC 29724 803-789-6321
Game Trail Taxidermy
6280 County Line Rd, Mt Pleasant, NC 704-782-4497
Kimsey Museum Studio 5548 Candlewick Tr, Gastonia, NC 704-867-4616
Tommy’s Taxidermy
1313 Crowell Dairy Rd, Indian Trail, NC 704-753-1470
Trail’s End Taxidermy
459 Little River Rd, Ft Mill, SC 29715
803-547-5646
Federal Requirements & Safety Tips for Recreational Boats Quick Reference Chart
Vessel Length Equipment
(in feet)
<16 16<26 26<40 40<65
X X X X Certificate of Number
All undocumented vessels equipped with propulsion machinery (State Registration) must be State registered. Certificate of Number must be on board when vessel is in use. Note: some States require all vessels to be registered.
X X X X State Numbering
(a) Plain Block letters/numbers not less than 3 inches in height must be affixed on each side of the forward half of the vessel (Contrasting color to boat exterior).
(b) State validation sticker must be affixed within six inches of the registration number
X X X Certificate of Applies only to “Documented” vessels: Documentation (a) Original and currencertificate must be on board (b) Vessel name/hailing port marked on exterior part of hull-letters not less than 4 inches in height.
(c) Official Number permanently affixed on interior structure-numbers not less than 3 inches in height.
X X X X Life Jackets (PFDs) (a) One Type I, II, III, or V wearable PFD for each person on board. (must be USCG approved)
X X X (b) In addition to paragraph (a), must carry One Type IV (throwable) PFD.
X Visual Distress Signal (a) One electric distress light or Three combination (VDS) (day/night) red flares. Note: only required to be carried on board when operating between sunset and sunrise.
X X X (b) One orange distress flag and One electric distress lightor -Three hand-held or floating orange smoke signals and One electric distress light - or - Three combination (day/night) red flares: hand-held, meteor or parachute type.
X X Fire Extinguishers (a) One 5-B or One 10-B (when enclosed compartment)
X (b) Two 5-B or Two 10-B or One 20-B. Or one 5-B or 10-B with Fixed System. X (c) Three 5-B or Three 10-B or One 20-B and One 5-B or One 10-B. Or Two 5-B or Two 10-B or One 20-B with Fixed System.
X X X X Ventilation
X X X Sound Producing
X X
(a) All vessels built after 25 April 1940 that use gasoline as their fuel with enclosed engine and /or fuel tank compartments must have natural ventilation (at least two ducts fitted with cowls).
(b) In addition to paragraph (a), a vessel built after 31 July 1980 must have rated power exhaust blower.
(a) A vessel 39.4 ft must, at a minimum, have some means of Devices making an “efficient” sound signal - (i.e. handheld air horn, athletic whistle - Human voice/ sound not acceptable).
(b) A vessel 39.4 ft (12 meters) or greater, must have a sound signaling appliance capable of producing an efficient sound signaI, audible for 1/2 mile with a 4 to 6 seconds duration. In addition, must carry on board a bell with a clapper (bell size not less than 7.9 inches - based on the diameter of the mouth)
X X X X Backfire Flame
Required on gasoline engines installed after 25 April 1940, Arrestor except outboard motors
X X X X Navigational Lights
Required to be displayed from sunset to sunrise and in or near areas of reduced visibility.
X X Oil Pollution Placard (a) Placard must be at least 5 by 8 inches, made of durable material.
(b) Placard must be posted in the machinery space or at the bilge station.
X X Garbage Placard (a) Placard must be at least 4 by 9 inches, made of durable material.
(b) Displayed in a conspicuous place notifying all on board the discharge restrictions.
X X X X Marine Sanitation If installed toilet: Vessel must have an operable MSD Device Type I, II, or III.
X X Navigation Rules
The operator of a vessel 39.4 ft (12 meters) or greater must (Inland Only) have on board a copy of these rules.
The Beaufort Wind Scale
In 1805, Admiral Sir Francis Beaufort of the British Royal Navy developed a 13° scale to measure the strength of wind at sea. Updated and modernized, the scale is still used for approximating wind speed. Speed at sea is measured in knots, with one knot equal to 1.15 miles-per-hour. The Atlantic hurricane season runs June thru November.
but pronounced
Large wavelets. Crests break. Glassy foam, scattered whitecaps.
Moderate, long waves (1.25 – 2.5). Many whitecaps; some spray.
Larger waves (2.5 – 4 meters) forming, crests of whitecaps everywhere, more
Sea heaps up; waves (4 – 6 meters); White foam from breaking waves blows in streaks with the wind.
Moderately high waves (4 – 6 meters) of greater length. Crests break into spin drift, blowing foam in well marked streaks.
Waves high (6 meters) with wave crests that tumble, dense streaks of foam in winds, poor visibility from spray.
Very high waves (6 – 9 meters) with long, curling crests. Sea surface appears white from blowing foam. Heavy tumbling of sea. Poor visibility.
Exceptionally high waves (9 – 14 meters) with overhanging crests. Sea covered with patches of white foam. Edges of wave crests blown into froth. Poorer visibility.
Air filled with foam; waves over 14 meters; sea completely white with driving spray; visibility greatly reduced.
