Catfish Lake is a 921-acre Carolina bay lake located in the Croatan National Forest of eastern North Carolina. The lake is accessible via Catfish Lake Farm Road, which curves along the northeastern shoreline. Several smooth, sandy beaches along the road provide potential put-in points for paddlers.

The lake is very shallow, with an average depth of 4 feet and a maximum depth of 7 feet. Its bottom is firm and shallow for a considerable distance from shore, making it easy to launch kayaks, canoes, or small johnboats. The lake's shallow depth and surrounding flat landscape contribute to its dark water appearance.

Catfish Lake has extremely low visibility, less than 6 inches, due to suspended peat particles. The water is highly acidic, with a pH ranging from 5.0 to 4.5. These conditions limit aquatic vegetation growth, resulting in very little underwater structure.

Wildlife in and around the lake includes native catfish species like brown and yellow bullheads, as well as yellow perch, fliers, and bowfin. The surrounding Croatan National Forest is home to diverse bird species and other wildlife.

The lake's unique conditions create a distinct paddling experience. With no aquatic weeds to foul paddles and a firm, shallow bottom, it offers easy paddling. However, paddlers should be aware of potential underwater hazards like old roots or stumps.

Catfish Lake provides a secluded, peaceful environment for paddling. Its remote location in the national forest, lack of development, and limited fishing pressure contribute to a quiet, uncrowded atmosphere. The lake is particularly appealing for those seeking solitude and a chance to experience a unique Carolina bay lake ecosystem.