North Carolina's 'Rockfish Capital Of The World' With Renowned Fishing Is This Town Nestled On The Banks Of The Roanoke

Approximately an hour away from Raleigh, North Carolina's 'city in a park' with urban appeal, is the charming town of Weldon. Situated on the banks of the Roanoke River where scenic countryside views abound. But what draws travelers is the prospect below the surface, particularly striped bass or 'rockfish.' Every spring, thousands of rockfish flock to Weldon's stretch of the Roanoke to spawn. This section of the river is characterized by moderate currents and rocky habitats which are considered ideal nesting sites for this species. Such is the abundance of striped bass during annual migration that this small town (with roughly a population of 1,300) has bagged an impressive moniker for it, the "Rockfish Capital of the World."

Early March to May is the peak season to cast your anchors. It's when temperatures warm up between 62 and 70 degrees Fahrenheit, perfect for striped bass' spawning. A point to note: Harvest season has been closed for the past two years (2024 and 2025) due to receding striped bass populations. However, eager anglers could still partake in catch-and-release fishing, wherein they release the fish immediately back into the water to ensure their survival. This will conserve and hopefully improve their numbers. The authorities are yet to give a final word on the next harvest season, beginning on March 1, 2026.

Besides the fishing adventures, Walden is your quintessential small town. Cute local establishments, sparse nightlife, and plenty of picturesque views give you a break from city life. Its location at I-95 (near exit 173) makes it an easy drive from many cities. Navigate carefully, though, as this major East Coast Highway is also one of America's deadliest.

If you're here to cast lines for striped bass, know that they aren't a light-tackle fish. Mature ones can weigh up to 20 pounds, so a heavy-duty rod alongside a sturdy line becomes essential. Packing these supplies in advance is a wise choice, but don't fret if you're unprepared. A quick 4-mile trip away is Bargain Land, where you can stock up on baits, rods, reels, and any other fishing gear you need. Besides striped bass, you can also find other fish species in the water, like rainbow trout, American shad, bluegill, chain pickerel, and catfish. Familiarize yourself with all fishing rules and regulations enforced by the North Carolina Wildlife Resources Commission (including obtaining a valid license) for the safety and preservation of the diverse wildlife.

As for other activities on the river, River Falls Park is a lush escape packed with activities and gorgeous views of the Roanoke rapids. Visitors can launch their kayaks or canoes, enjoy a leisurely picnic at the shaded gazebos, or hike the Roanoke Canal trail (the trailhead is located inside the park). Additional facilities such as restrooms, playgrounds, and walking tracks make it a great spot for families with small children. Pets are, however, not allowed, and all non-residents are charged $50 for two to four hours and $200 for an entire day at the park. Opening and closing times are sunrise to sunset each day.

When you're looking for a place to stay in Weldon, you will notice the newly-launched (at the time of writing) Fairfield by Marriott on the map. With 97 rooms and suites, complimentary breakfast, and a great internet connection, it's an unexpected comfort lodging in the countryside. You will also find a similarly elevated experience at Weldon's charming eateries.

One of the favorites — for both locals and out-of-towners — is Ralph's Barbecue. Serving food since 1952, this family-run restaurant has fresh barbecue meats, stews, and seafood on the menu. They also have an all-you-can-eat buffet for times when hunger pangs strike hard. Another great place to curb your appetite is 51 Sycamore Bar & Grill with specialties that include stone-ground grits (a Southern delicacy), seasonal waffle flavors, and "the 51" cocktail. But, for those who prefer their usual fast-food meals, Chick-fil-A is a quick drive away on I-95.

Craft spirits and whiskey enthusiasts are going to want to visit the Weldon Mills Distillery. Rated 4.7 on TripAdvisor, this riverside distillery has award-winning bourbon and signature cocktails awaiting you. They also have immersive tours and tastings, delving deep into the local history and their unique spirit-making process. At the lounge, you can savor a bite or two with the cocktails. Before heading out, you can purchase bottles of your favorite alcohol as memorabilia. And if you want to hit the road again, check out North Carolina's most historic waterfront town, Edenton, only one-and-a-half hours away from Weldon.