McDowell Nature Preserve

McDowell Nature Center serves as the gateway, Copperhead Island is operated and maintained by Park and Recreation in cooperation with Duke Power through a land lease agreement. It serves as the only public boat launch to Lake Wylie in Mecklenburg County. The site also offers bank and pier fishing, trails, and picnicking. Visitor may also reserve the picnic shelter for day-use or rent the entire "island" for overnight group camping.

Fish in Lake Wylie from the banks and piers on Copperhead Island.

Mecklenburg County Park and Recreation offers several locations to fish across the county. According to the NC Wildlife Commission, individuals 16 years of age or older using any type of bait or gear to catch finfish while fishing in North Caro­lina’s public waters must possess a valid North Carolina fishing license.

Need a rod and reel? We'll check one out for you- just stop by a participating Nature Center (Latta, McDowell, or Reedy Creek) to borrow a rod and reel for 24 hours.