Lake Hickory is a productive, nutrient-rich eutrophic lake in Catawba County, North Carolina. Water quality is graded C based on 2 sampling years through 2022. Compared to the 2 other monitored lakes in Catawba County, Lake Hickory ranks #3 for water quality.
Source: EPA Water Quality Portal sampling records, North Carolina DNR, last sampled 2022-09-07. Grade methodology: LakeGrade methodology.
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Swimming Safety
Generally safe for swimming, moderate water quality
Water Quality Grade: C, Fair
No clarity data. Phosphorus level: 30 µg/L. Chlorophyll-a: 14 µg/L. Trophic State Index: 55.
| Metric | Value | Grade |
|---|---|---|
| Water Clarity (Secchi Depth) | No data | |
| Phosphorus | 30 µg/L | C |
| Chlorophyll-a (Algae) | 14 µg/L | C |
| Trophic State Index (TSI) | 55 | Eutrophic |
High nutrients, frequent algae, reduced clarity
Where to stay near Lake Hickory
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Fishing Lake Hickory
Location
County Ranking
Ranked #3 of 3 lakes in Catawba County
Cleaner Lakes Within 30 Miles
Lake Hickory holds Grade C. 2 nearby lakes hold higher grades.
- BLookout Shoals LakeCatawba County · 10.5 mi · Higher grade (C → B)
- BLake NormanIredell County · 18.2 mi · Higher grade (C → B)
Nearby Lakes in Catawba County
Explore Lake Hickory across LakeGrade
More North Carolina Lake Rankings
Top 25 by overall water quality score
Top 25 by Secchi water clarity
Grade A/B + low algae filter
Panfish-rich, public access
Full state directory
Other Grade C Lakes in North Carolina
Eutrophic Lakes in North Carolina
More records, surveys & data sources
Data Sources
Water quality data from the EPA Water Quality Portal
Grading methodology based on Metropolitan Council standards
Most recent sample: 2022-09-07
Monitoring stations: 4