Arden -- May 24, 2026: State wildlife officials have recently stocked Lake Julian with 1,333 channel catfish, timing the release for the start of the summer season and the Memorial Day weekend. This stocking aims to enhance fishing opportunities for local and visiting anglers in the Greater Asheville Area. Anglers heading to Lake Julian can use this guide to maximize their chances of a successful catch.
The North Carolina Wildlife Resources Commission (NCWRC) is responsible for this warmwater stocking, a regular practice for Lake Julian, also known as Skyland Lake. Buncombe County Parks & Recreation operates Lake Julian Park in Arden, NC, where these fish were released.
To keep the action steady for local anglers, the lake benefits from a regular stocking program designed to boost the fish population year-round.
Lake Julian, a 300-acre public lake located in Arden, NC, is managed to provide consistent catch rates and accessible, family-friendly fishing close to Asheville. The stocking supports recreational use and entry-level anglers who benefit from reliable fishing. Park hours for Lake Julian extend from 7 a.m. to 9 p.m. between May 24 and August 7, offering ample time for fishing during peak summer.
Angler's Guide to Lake Julian
Regulations and Permits: Anglers age 16 and older must possess a valid North Carolina Fishing License. A local lake permit is also required; available at the park office for $4 per day or $25 annually. Discounts are available for senior citizens and veterans. For boating, only electric motors are permitted for private fishing boats, and jon boats are available for rent. A daily or annual fee applies to use the boat launch. Standard NCWRC size and creel limits for channel catfish apply unless specific Lake Julian regulations are posted.
Productive areas at Lake Julian include points and small coves accessible from the Fisherman’s Trail side, near the boat ramp/launch area, and any downed timber, riprap banks, or park fishing piers.
Proven Rigs and Baits: Effective baits for stocked channel catfish include prepared stink baits, cut bait, nightcrawlers, chicken liver, shrimp, or hot dog pieces. Common rigs include a slip-sinker (Carolina) rig, which uses a sliding egg sinker above a swivel and a short leader with a size 1/0-3/0 circle or J-hook. For shallower areas, a simple float rig with a bobber and baited hook set 1-3 feet deep can be effective. For beginners, a bottom rig with a small sliding sinker or fixed split shot a foot above the bait is also suitable. Light tackle, such as 8-12 lb line on spinning outfits, is generally sufficient for the size of stocked catfish.
Lake Julian Park is open seven days a week throughout the year, closing only for Thanksgiving, Christmas Eve, Christmas Day, and New Year’s Day. Starting Memorial Day weekend, the park kicks off its summer hours, welcoming visitors daily from 7 a.m. to 9 p.m.
To ensure a safe and enjoyable environment for everyone, please keep the following park rules in mind:
Swimming in the lake is strictly prohibited.
Four-legged friends are always welcome but must remain on a leash.
For visitors looking to stretch their outing into a full day, the park provides plenty of recreation beyond the shoreline. The grounds feature a mix of picnic shelters and outdoor grills, along with a playground, paved walking trails, horseshoe pits, and dedicated fitness stations. For a bit of friendly competition, players can also take on the 18-hole disc golf course, which snakes its way through the landscape right alongside the water.