10 Catfish Spots In North Carolina Locals Say Are Worth Visiting
North Carolina has catfish spots that make every bite a delight, from crispy golden fillets to tender, flavorful pieces that melt in your mouth.
Locals swear by these restaurants for their perfectly seasoned fish, comforting sides, and welcoming atmospheres.
Each visit offers a taste of Southern tradition and culinary skill that keeps people coming back. Get ready to enjoy catfish that proves why these North Carolina spots are truly worth seeking out.
1. Twin Tops Fish Camp: Where Catfish Dreams Come True
Generations of anglers have pulled monster catfish from Mountain Island Lake at this Gastonia institution. Family-owned since 1952, Twin Tops combines old-school fishing charm with serious catfishing action.
The camp rents boats and sells bait, but locals know to bring chicken livers for the best results.
Early mornings and late evenings typically yield the biggest catches, with 20+ pound blues fairly common during summer months.
2. Pier 51 Seafood: Catch ‘Em, Then Eat ‘Em
Forget the fancy frills! Pier 51 in Concord serves up some of the most mouth-watering fried catfish this side of the Mississippi.
Their secret? They source many fish directly from local anglers who frequent nearby Lake Norman. The restaurant’s weathered walls display photos of impressive local catches dating back decades.
Order the catfish platter with hushpuppies and slaw for the authentic North Carolina fishing experience without getting your hands dirty.
3. Harbor Inn Seafood: Charlotte’s Catfish Kingdom
Tucked away in a Charlotte strip mall, Harbor Inn doesn’t look impressive from outside. But step inside this local legend and you’ll find some of the most perfectly prepared catfish in the state.
Regulars rave about the all-you-can-eat catfish special on Wednesdays. The fish arrives hot, crispy, and never greasy.
Harbor Inn’s honey butter and hushpuppies create the perfect accompaniment to their farm-raised catfish fillets that practically melt in your mouth.
4. Captain Tom’s: A Catfish Lover’s Paradise
Captain Tom’s in Kernersville might be landlocked, but their catfish rivals anything you’d find on the coast.
This nautical-themed eatery specializes in Southern-style catfish that’s lightly breaded and fried to perfection.
What makes their catfish special is the cornmeal coating with a secret spice blend that locals have tried unsuccessfully to replicate for years.
The generous portions won’t leave you hungry, and the homemade tartar sauce adds just the right tangy complement.
5. Mayflower Seafood: Winston-Salem’s Catfish Tradition
Weekend warriors flock to Mayflower Seafood in Winston-Salem for their legendary catfish buffet.
The restaurant may not win any design awards, but the perfectly seasoned catfish keeps locals coming back for decades.
Kids especially love watching the indoor waterfall while munching on catfish nuggets.
Smart visitors know to arrive early on Friday nights when the catfish is freshest and the lines haven’t formed yet. Their hushpuppies alone are worth the trip!
6. Fisherman’s Galley: Eden’s Hidden Gem
Small-town charm meets big catfish flavor at Fisherman’s Galley in Eden. This unassuming roadside spot serves catfish caught from the nearby Dan River, prepared with recipes handed down through generations.
The restaurant’s wood-paneled walls showcase trophy catches alongside vintage fishing gear. Try their signature blackened catfish with a side of river fries for a true local experience.
Cash only, so hit the ATM before arriving at this authentic fishing shack turned restaurant.
7. Riverside Fish House: Dallas’ Catfish Central
Massive portions of perfectly fried catfish make Riverside Fish House in Dallas, NC a required stop for serious catfish enthusiasts.
This family-owned spot sits just minutes from Mountain Island Lake, where much of their fish is sourced. The restaurant’s signature cornmeal breading gives their catfish that authentic Southern crunch.
Don’t skip their homemade hushpuppies, which arrive at your table piping hot. Weekends get packed with locals, so consider a weekday visit to avoid the crowds.
8. Big Daddy’s: Lake Norman’s Finest Catch
Boaters pull right up to Big Daddy’s dock in Mooresville for some of Lake Norman’s finest catfish. This waterfront eatery lets you enjoy your meal with stunning lake views that enhance the fresh-caught flavor.
Their blackened catfish tacos have developed a cult following among locals.
The restaurant’s weekend fish fry features catfish caught that very morning from the waters you’re overlooking. Come at sunset for the most magical dining experience as the lake glows orange and pink.
9. True Flavors Diner: Durham’s Catfish Reimagined
Chef Sidney Coves elevates catfish to gourmet status at True Flavors Diner in Durham.
Unlike traditional fried preparations, this modern diner offers a southern-meets-upscale approach with their famous catfish and grits.
The catfish is sourced from sustainable North Carolina farms and prepared with a light cornmeal dusting.
Perfectly crisp outside while remaining flaky and moist inside, it’s served atop creamy stone-ground grits with a smoky tomato jam that will change how you think about catfish forever.
10. Big Fish Grill: Wilmington’s Waterfront Wonder
Salty air enhances the flavor at Big Fish Grill on Wilmington’s scenic riverfront. This dockside restaurant specializes in Carolina catfish prepared with coastal flair – think blackened seasoning with Cajun remoulade.
Grab a seat on the deck where you can watch boats cruise by while enjoying your meal.
Their catfish po’boy sandwich is legendary among locals, featuring perfectly fried fillets on fresh-baked bread. For the full experience, pair it with their signature watermelon mojito during happy hour.