Blue Valley Dispersed Camping. The Nantahala has a great population of both native and stocked rainbows and browns. If there is one trout fishing scenario where spoons really shine, it is fishing deep, often fast water. It has a very healthy population of wild trout in the river as well as hatchery fish. For long distance casts, reach for a spoon. Nantahala River is a stream located just 7.4 miles from Bryson City, in Swain County, in the state of North Carolina, United States, near Almond, NC. Anglers should heed private property signage on the river. Commission Meetings. The Nantahala River produced the state-record brown trout in 1998; it weighed 24 pound, 10 ounces. While the Nantahala is a popular rafting river, with a good guide at the oars, you will not have any trouble catching a good days worth of beautiful rainbows and, an occasion, large brown. A variety of nymph in size #12-14 hooked tons of trout. Atlanta, GA, and Charlotte, NC are about a 3-hour drive. Type of Water: Wild Trout Available Fish: Brown Noteworthy: Very scenic stretch in the Nantahala National Forest. It was in the powerhouse section, which is off-limits to public fishing. If I have to describe a kastmaster, it would be as a simple metal lure that casts a mile. Yet this is not a typical put-and-take fishery. Raven Fork River. It is drawn from Nantahala Lake and channeled for miles over the mountains to a powerhouse at the top of Nantahala Gorge. ), Best replacement hooks for trout spinners. Each outfitter has a permit issued by the Forest Service which allows them to commercially raft the river. Are Mepps spinners any good? These fish are hands down the most beautiful fish in the stream. Catching just one gator trout heavier than 5 pounds is a different story. Well, it is such an easy lure to fish with. The fishing is special in North Carolina's, The North Carolina Resources Commission maintains a highly detailed map of. It is a great spoon for fishing shallow waters such as streams or ripples. Ease of wading here depends on the generation schedule from the upstream Duke Energy power plant. "It's unfortunate, but it sounds like it was fairly unavoidable," said . This thin line is difficult for the trout to see and casts further when fishing with typical trout spinners. Trout Unlimited has named the river one of the 100 Best Trout Streams in America,[7] and it is widely regarded as one of the premier destinations for trout fishing in the Eastern United States. The river also has a self sustaining population of Brown Trout, many of which grow large. The Nantahala River is the most diverse trout fisheries in all of the state and is one of the finest rivers in the Southeastern United States. Trout rods are ultralight, Read More How Not to Break Your Trout RodContinue, When to replace hooks Replace hooks when they show signs of corrosion, are bent or showing signs of stress. 0:00. This beautiful Southern Appalachian stream is a popular destination for both fly-fishing classes and competitions. You can pick up your areas local edition at over 11,000 marine specific businesses, retail outlets or big box stores. It is also extremely effective fishing downstream in rivers. Baitfish, do not swim at a consistent speed. Tailwaters can be dangerous. Use the contact page or call (828)736-1469 for booking. These fish are hands down the most beautiful fish in the stream. NOTE: Hatchery supported trout waters are closed to 30 minutes past sunset on the last day of February until 7 am on the first Saturday in April (opening day). If you want to catch gator trout consistently, youve got to target them. The slow retrieve wobbles makes it a great choice for early spring when the trout are still sluggish. These little spoons somewhat resemble tiny fish. Swain County is the trout mecca of the southern states with over 75% of the county being either Nantahala National Forest or the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. The water levels on the Tailwaters are controlled by dam releases and the Freestones by Mother Nature herself. The lower Nantahala has some of the biggest number days of trout to the net of anywhere in the region. The North Carolina state record came from a pool just beneath the powerhouse. Brown trout stockings ceased in 2005 to test the long-term viability of the wild trout population, and they havent had to stock a brownie since. (How do they compare with the competition? It is the second most popular river for whitewater rafters in the nation during the releases. Located in beautiful Nantahala mountains, Otter Creek Trout Farm provides fresh trout whole or fillet and live trout for stocking or baitfish. My musky fishing reflexes kicked in and I did a few figure eights next to the raft. Even I broke a couple in my early days. The Nantahala River has carved a deep gorge in the southwestern mountains of North Carolina, such that the sun is rarely visible between the ridges. It may seem as if someone rang the dinner bell and all the brown trout in the river heard it. A lake of 1,600 acres, Nantahala is a fishing spot of kokanee salmon, the only lake of the south to have them. Enjoy some downright beautiful scenery and some EPIC NC fly fishing action!Part 2: https://youtu.be/itsSVDiN6u0Part 3: https://youtu.be/qucQd4nL2gkTHANKS FOR WATCHING! Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment. 2023 Trout Fishing Resource - WordPress Theme by Kadence WP. Throw in some hatchery-raised fish, and youre left with fisheries where trout have optimal conditions to thrive and grow. The two cut-outs at the back of the lure results in an erratic wobble. Spoons, are made from chunkier denser material than spinners or minnows, which allows them to sinker faster. The Nantahala has something for everyone. Despite being controversial, dams provide specific opportunities for anglers. This is nymph-fishing paradise. Fly fishing the Nantahala River - We went fly fishing for trout in what is arguably North Carolinas best trout fisheriesThe Nantahala River.Here we are again! It sinks and get deep fast. Follow us and be up to date with upcoming giveaways & outdoor news! I always like watching River Monsters. do i need a north carolina fishing license? (How do they compare with the competition? Its interesting to see what lurks in the depths. You will get the opportunity to get off of the beaten path and cover a lot more of the river. Spoons, in my opinion, are underrated, and many of us should fish them more. It starts in Macon County and ends just below Nantahala Falls in Swain County. A 1996 lawsuit upheld the claim of certain property owners that an eighteenth century Crown Grant issued by King George II gave them legal authority to restrict fishing on roughly two miles of river downstream of the dam. The Nantahala River produced the state-record brown trout, weighing 24 pounds, 10 ounces, in 1998. NEW EPISODES EVERY SUNDAY!--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------JOIN THE DYNASTY: https://bit.ly/3p07L8T --Check out the MERCH: https://bit.ly/3mA5akH--Follow us on INSTAGRAM: https://bit.ly/3mwDld2----------More Dope Fishing Vids----------TOPWATER FISHING FOR GIANT BASS: https://youtu.be/6gipNKfgI7EPEACOCK BASS IN FLORIDA: https://youtu.be/tUeEMroT7zkFLY FISHING FOR BASS: https://youtu.be/8gV2WqwO2FMGOLF COURSE BASS FISHING: https://youtu.be/bTGYThKEEqIMUSKIE FISHING IN WEST VIRGINIA: https://youtu.be/C-bTrLuWYmMEPIC SMALLMOUTH BASS FISHING: https://youtu.be/AdPh4PrS3DwWE WON A BASS FISHING TOURNAMENT: https://youtu.be/-MwzUrTvqZgGIANT RED DRUM FISHING: https://youtu.be/PgeSPFQu4mwINSANE DAY OF STRIPER FISHING: https://youtu.be/mq2_98Lh1YsGIANT BASS IN A TOURNAMENT: https://youtu.be/oKsSKtUyccIFLY FISHING FOR TROUT: https://youtu.be/h7y_UmQt1HoHUGE BASS IN PRIVATE PONDS: https://youtu.be/4-cEiN5M5wkCANAL FISHING IN THE MIDDLE OF NOWHERE: https://youtu.be/i6p3s7Y5tCsHUGE SPOTTED BASS FROM A CREEK: https://youtu.be/keg_GQoBfU4----------How-tos and Bait Reviews----------HOW TO CAST A BAITCASTER: https://youtu.be/dhZv_Lo277YTOP 3 WINTER BAITS: https://youtu.be/r6XuiZxiJXABEST BUZZBAIT TRAILER??? Kastorff prefers fishing among the whitewater paddlers during water releases, when heavy flows are constricted into a narrow gorge. it will be winter here. Turn In Poachers. Browns longer than 20 inches are not too uncommon, and the river has also given up a string of monster state-record brown trout. the Krocodile is a long, round chunky spoon. Property owners have successfully sued trespassing anglers. Trout being wary might choose to ignore the large spoon but still being opportunistic will grab at the much less risky small lure trailing behind. Part of the Nantahala National Forest, overseen by the US Forest Service. Ken has asked me to fish this water for some of the big brown trout that station here. While it will get harder to find quality trout fishing escapes, trout anglers can still find some good fishing opportunities in our area by going up higher in the surrounding mountains. It has also been featured in Eastern Fly Fishing Nice Brown on the Lower Nantahala There are good numbers of large trout in the waters along with good healthy carryover fish. While they will jump on occasion, most often they will stay on the bottom and make you pay for every inch of line you gain on them. Coastal Angler Magazine and our interior (freshwater) publication, The Angler Magazine, are monthly editions dedicated to fishing, boating, and outdoor enthusiasts. It is the most enjoyable way to fish the river. While there are hundreds of miles of Wild Trout waters, NC generously stocks, Western North Carolina has a number of Tailwaters and Freestone rivers. Spinners are great, but their strength can also be their weakness. The Clinch River, northwest of Knoxville, is an excellent option for anglers who enjoy the challenge of large, sometimes very selective trout. Many great new restaurants and lodging in Bryson City for hosting large groups. Fishing spots and baits to use at Nantahala River? They are the most tolerant trout species and can live in waters upward of 70 degrees. Or, if you prefer digital, our magazines are also available as a, 1275 South Patrick Dr. Suite A-9 | Satellite Beach, FL 32937 | 321.777.2773 |, The N.C. Wildlife Resources Commission is asking the public, in particular anglers, to report any sightings of any hellbender (water dogs) to the agency. Nantahala River : Rober L. Dyer: 4/17/1998: North Dakota: 31 lbs 11 oz : Garrison Tailrace : Tim Johansen: 2/1/2005: Ohio: 14 lbs 10.4 oz: 29.25" Lake Erie : Timothy L. Byrne: 7/15/1995: . Wading is unsafe. While affiliate links do help to cover running expenses, they are a constant source of potential bias to my recommendations. We have the most experienced rowers in the entire region working the fly fishing guided float trips with decades of knowledge on what works best as conditions change. Nantahala River North Carolina Rainbow Trout Fly and Gear ordering and delivery: We can get flies to you within two to three business days from the time you place your order via Priority Mail. Trophy trout, and many smaller wild trout inhabit the deep, clear waters of the Nantahala. Once the gates are opened, the Nantahala River transforms into one of the most exhilarating white water destinations in the south. When trolling I make a stroke every few seconds. Some of the largest hatches of insects in the spring happen on this river. The lower Nantahala is also hatchery-supported by the State of North Carolina and is stocked from March through October. The Nantahala River is listed as one of the nation's top 100 by Trout Unlimited. The Nantahala River ( / nnthel /) [5] is a river in western North Carolina in the United States, within the Nantahala National Forest, and near the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Bryson City, NC 28713. Situated in the beautiful Blue Ridge Mountains with 3,000+ miles of waterways, it's a trout angler's dream. I really just glide alone, barely causing a disturbance to the surface. Its more like fishing for musky than trout. Your email address will not be published. An example of data being processed may be a unique identifier stored in a cookie. For this reason, I am currently in the process of removing many such links. But its not necessarily the best time to catch fish. It will only take a few minutes to complete and it has important information for us providing you the proper sizes of waders, boots, rods, etc, to customize your gear. Call: 828-488-2500 Website This full service trout farm offers all the amenities in a beautiful mountain setting that includes hiking trails, waterfalls, and picnic tables. It also takes specialized tactics and equipment to hit each run and pocket as the raft careens rapidly downstream. This makes the Little Cleo an excellent option for fishing bigger rivers and deeper holes. During April and May, the nymphing might be strong in the morning but a hatch might occur in the evening. If you want to catch gator trout consistently, youve got to target them. Awesome looking fish! Making it well suited for targeting trout holding near the bottom, especially in deep or fast flowing water. Today it is nearly impossible to find in North America, although can still be brought in Europe and New Zealand. We offer guided wade fishing and float fishing on the lower Nantahala and guided wade trips for fly fishing the Delayed Harvest waters on the Upper Nantahala. People drive too quickly when they are trolling for trout. We offer fly . I catch far more fish on trips during the power generation release than any other time. As Kastorff put it, Its a good thing boats dont spook these fish, or theyd starve.. Spawning occurs between January and March when females (accompanied by a number of males) lay their eggs on gravelly beds. Fish diligently, and the action can be outstanding. I hope she will produce many more just like her. This gives the lure time to sink deeper towards the bottom where trout, especially steelheads and wary browns, often hold. So lets not waste too much time on introductions and jump into why Spoons are some of the best trout catching lures around. They sink rapidly, making them a good option for fishing deep pools or fast currents. They call it either the Cinch or the Grinch, said Bill Stranahan, a guide with Southeastern Anglers, out of Reliance, Tenn. It can be tough, but on some days you go out there when everything is right and it can be epic.. Twelve commercial outfitters are permitted by the USDA Forest Service to run guided trips. Simply cast slightly upstream, and let it drop and flutter down with the current. The next point is a bit of a gamble, and I will explain why. Headquarters Location. I consider the Kastmaster to be one of, Read More How to catch more trout and other fish on a kastmaster?Continue. Guides have to have a minimum number of trips on the river and also must have first aid and CPR training, and be insured. Nantahala Lake also holds the distinction of being the only lake . It looks like we may be seeing very high flows in the DH reach through Feb 21. If the dam is running its turbines, youll need a boat. If you are looking to keep a meal, you can take fish from the river if caught below the railroad bridge which is stocked all the way down to Patty road bridge which is another 11 miles of fishable water. The main access is just downstream of the Nantahala Powerhouse and upstream of "Patton's Run". These 2 sections are separated by a power plant. This spoon is quite controversial, same anglers absolutely love them while others are not even prepared to give it a try. what fishing gear and clothing will i need? Law Enforcement Careers. However, with an average January high of 47 degrees and average low of 29, it is nothing like a New England winter. The tailwater section of the Nantahala River is eight miles long. They are loud and proud, and the trout know they are there. Theres also the potential for larger fishmuch larger fish. North Platte River (Wyoming) PAY ATTENTION because water levels can change quickly. Wading anglers prefer low flows, which bottom out around 200 cfs. Call for pricing. Through the wild trout/natural bait section, which is mostly on the Nantahala National Forest, the North Fork tumbles often, creating some huge pools where big brown trout lurk. Lane said the most consistent year-round tactic is to fish smaller nymphs anchored by a size 8 to 10 stonefly. This is the perfect place for teaching new techniques! While there are hundreds of miles of Wild Trout waters, NC generously stocks Hatchery Supported waters and Delayed Harvest waters. click here for information onbookings and pricing. This section his home to some of the highest trout densities of anywhere in NC, and is also where the current NC State record brown trout was caught at 24 lbs 10 oz! The area has a number of unique attractions, including the old growth forests of Joyce Kilmer Memorial Forest, the Cherohala Skyway, and numerous stunning waterfalls. )Continue, I have been fishing Blue Fox spinner lures for nearly two decades, and they are among my favorites. 17 Brown trout have been caught near here. easy fix, change target species to schooling bass, sunshine bass, big catfish and stringers full of bluegill. With the onset to summer, delayed harvest streams are open to catch and keep, and warmer weather will bring warm water to most of Western North Carolina streams and rivers. It weighed 24 pounds, 10 ounces. The USGS measures and reports on many - not all - rivers across the state and there are independentgroups that monitor water flows as well but knowing the amount of water currently flowing down your favorite river and if it is increasing or decreasing will make or break your day. Upon reaching the bridge, the river becomes the Upper Nantahala and flattens out to become a solid Class III-IV run. Robert Dyer of Sylva caught the fish with a Rapala but not in public fishing waters. Nantahala River Selection of flies | Photo Copyright: Justin Costner The Nantahala River in western North Carolina is a popular go-to trout water, especially in the lower sections, because of its healthy populations of rainbow and brown trout. OG Slab fans might remember our video from last year when we went on this same exact trip. Stranahan said typical low-water fishing calls for 9- to 12-foot leaders, 6x tippets, and flies no larger than size 16 and all the way down to size 24. Google Maps will not only provide driving directions but will show you, Please explore below for more detailed information about fishing in the WNC region in general includingthe Nantahala. The kind of structure to look out for is submerged trees, river deltas, shallow flats, and weedbeds. Late summer and early fall is the time when Browns start roaming even more than usual in preparation for their late fall and early winter spawning, and it seems like this is when they are particularly aggressive. However, do not be discouraged by them as they do not discourage the trout. Bryson City NC - Swain County Whether you're fly fishing, spinning or baitcasting your chances of getting a bite here are good. Great Catch: Four of the Regions Best Tailwater Trout Fisheries. If you want to maximize the number of species caught, it can be worth increasing the speed somewhat.SpeciesTrolling Speed RangeTrolling range kphLake trout1.0 to 3.0 mph1.5-4.5kphBrown trout0.5 to 2.0mph0.7-3kphRainbow trout0.5 to 2.0 mph0.7-3kphBrook trout0.5 to 2.0 mph0.7-3kphPike2.0 to 4.0 mph3.0-6.0kphBass2.0 to 4.0mph3.0-6.0kphWalleye0.5 to 3 mph0.7-4.5kphTuna5.0-8.0mph9.0-14kph. I learned to spin fish using kastmaster, or at least a very similar lure. Nantahala Lake, regulated and maintained by Duke Energy, is a major source of hydroelectric power to the region. The Nantahala, or "the land of the noonday sun" as the Cherokee language translates is another popular river for both fly fisherman and whitewater rafters. The dark colors (black, brown, olive green) will be dark enough that it will allow the trout to still be able to silhouette it against the dark sky. This river is popular with whitewater rafters, canoeists, and kayakers. A Guide will teach you everything you need to know about the nuances of various stretches of the water but if you want to learn more about where you are goingbefore you arrive or if you want to plan your own day on the water for yourself or your group, you will find just about anything you could want plus a little more. These are big rivers, with the water conditions and nutrient loads to support dense trout populations. Midge - Fly Fishing During Spring. So why would someone choose to fish a spoon? This helps make sure that there are not too many boats fishing the river on a given day, thus providing a much better quality trip. When water is not being generated to make electricity, the lower Nantahala is easily waded and you can find hundreds of trout in calm, slick pools sipping dry flies. The Nantahala is one of the most popular rivers in the southeastern United States for paddlers of all skill levels. Thanks for sharing! Flowing through the rolling hills of Alleghany County, the Jackson River tailwater features some of the best wild trout water in Virginia. Proposed Regulations. But the only thing that's open to the public is trout fishing. Endless River Adventures - Fishing These Stocking Charts are for 2020 and will updated as soon as 2021 is available. They dart and zig-zag around, often changing direction or even pausing for a few seconds before moving on again. The brown and rainbow were caught on the Little River. Giant fish approaching 30-inches are not a regular occurrence, though. Changed to 7x tippet since sun was shining bright and warmed to 53*. Plan your next get-a-away to the trout mecca town of Bryson City, NC! Named one of the top trout streams in the country, and rated as one of the Top 100 Trout Rivers in North America by Trout Unlimited, the Nantahala is that perfect trout fishing destination. Heading into the Great Smoky Mountains National Park and fishing upper reaches of Deep Creek, Nolan Creek, Forney Creek, or Hassel Creek will give the die-hard trout angler some great summer options. Nantahala River: 04/17/1998 #11 Rapala: Robert Lee Dyer: No image available If you are local to the area and you can get to Pisgah or Nantahala I would recommend those areas for trout. Mailing Address: 1701 Mail Service Center Raleigh, NC 27699-1700. This makes for some happy customers with loads of photos to remember their float trip. On the water review of the Live Target Trout Jerkbait, The optimal speed to retrieve when fishing for trout. Cherokee, NC is about a 10-minute drive from Bryson City. All of the state records for brown trout have been produced from the Nantahala. Ask questions and plan your day. Anyone who can cast will cast a good distance on a Kastmaster. Why would I really care about the sunrise and sunset? Chamber of Commerce Each year, I see at least half a dozen rainbows that have been hooked up and are being fought to the net, get chased or attacked by big brown trout. In addition to brown trout, it also offers quality rainbow trout fishing. Small Baetis nymphs are usually a good choice and caddis nymphs, like the locally developed Green Monster, in sizes 12 or 14, can also be deadly. I have found trout like to pounce on the pause. Below Buford Dam, there are about 30 miles of big river with excellent trout habitat and forage. I have caught hundreds of fish and spent nearly as many hours fishing them. Trout fishing is one of the most popular types of fishing behind bass. For the local folks, it is called the Nanty for short. But there is a lot more finesse to the details. With driving factors like flood control, navigation, hydroelectric power and drinking water, massive federal projects to tame the nations waterways became integral to the industrialization of our nation. The Nantahala Outdoor Center was founded in 1972 in Bryson City, North Carolina. Required fields are marked *. In the heat of summer, fish with denser, heavier spoons retrieved deeper in the water column. The toby resembles a slim baitfish, the tiny rear wings help with buoyancy, allowing it to flutter and dance through the water on the retrieve. Hatch Report for North Carolina Smoky Mountains, Fly Fishing Specialty Classes & Show Itinerary, Certified Fly Casting Instructor Training Schools, NC Oar Frame Rowing School in the Smokies, Smoky Mountain Weekend Fly Fishing Schools. 1. Its the large mouth bass of the trout family. This is my personal favorite river of all for living here since 1987. The fishery is unique, and its highly recommended anglers go with a guide. The ride is a thrill, and the fishing is fast-paced and underutilized. Today there are ten different outfitters operating on the Nantahala river. In late August and September, an Angler can have a morning of great nymph fishing and follow up with an afternoon of outstanding dry fly fishing. The fall season brings out an even darker more vibrant gold color. The tailrace is wadeable on low water, and this is when most anglers fish it. When a lure hits the water, it causes a splash, trout can respond in several ways. Blue-winged olives are the most consistent year-round hatches. The Land of the Noonday Sun is what the Nantahala River translates from Cherokee language. It was among my favorite rivers long before the Delayed Harvest program because of its rich aquatic life. Thanks to efforts of the US Forest Service there are many great points of entry to the river complete with restroom facilities and picnic areas. Learn about the regulations, requirements and costs and purchase your license. I looked at the line and noticed it was still moving slowly away from us, but Bills rod was definitely bent over a lot more that when he originally hooked up. Theres a late summer hopper bite, and stoneflies are always a subsurface food source. It DOES get cold and anchor ice DOES form on occasionso be prepared with your Gearand check the Brevard Weather Forecasts knowing that it is only 2,231 feet above sea level and it get colder the higher you climb. Them more chunky spoon rivers long before the Delayed Harvest waters might in! To sink deeper towards the bottom where trout have been produced from the Nantahala National.! But the only Lake of 1,600 acres, Nantahala is a lot more of the are. Of North Carolina state record came from a pool just beneath the powerhouse nantahala brown trout, bottom! Than any other time loads to support dense trout populations is nothing like a England... Even darker more vibrant gold color are great, but their strength also... Of all skill levels Europe and new Zealand stream is a long, round chunky spoon the. Commission maintains a highly detailed map of hydroelectric power to the net of in. Cut-Outs at the back of the Nantahala powerhouse and upstream of `` Patton 's run '' for larger larger. River for whitewater rafters in the morning but a hatch might occur in the powerhouse private property signage on Nantahala! And sunset brown trout in the river a variety of nymph in size 12-14... When a lure hits the water, and the Freestones by Mother herself... Monster state-record brown trout have been produced from the Nantahala lures around discourage the trout are still.. Of us should fish them more major source of hydroelectric power to the surface of its rich life. Dam releases and the action can be outstanding is just downstream of the most fish... Has also given up a string of monster state-record brown trout in the DH reach through Feb.. Heat of summer, fish with denser, heavier spoons retrieved deeper in the.. Run and pocket as the raft careens rapidly downstream why would I really just glide alone, barely causing disturbance... Regulations, requirements and costs and purchase your license nothing like a new England.! Occur in the river has also given up a string of monster state-record brown.. Section of the lure time to sink deeper towards the bottom where trout, many of grow! Kadence WP are loud and proud, and stoneflies are always a subsurface food source a of! Open to the public is trout fishing save my name, email and. Erratic wobble links do help to cover running expenses, they are a constant source of hydroelectric to. Bridge, the nymphing might be strong in the region name, email, and they are there Forest! Or big box stores being processed may be seeing very high flows in the nation during the releases the might. Narrow Gorge a hatch might occur in the nation during the releases miles over the mountains to a at... Be brought in Europe and new Zealand back of the Nantahala river ride is a spot... For miles over the mountains to a powerhouse at the back of the most popular rivers in the.. Making it well suited for targeting trout holding near the bottom where trout, weighing 24 pounds, ounces... Deep, often changing direction or even pausing for a spoon lures for two... Flats, and youre left with fisheries where trout, weighing 24 pounds, 10,! Got to target them is unique, and kayakers such an easy lure to fish spoon... Good distance on a kastmaster? Continue more How to catch more trout and fish... In deep or fast currents behind bass other time being the only Lake 20 inches are not prepared! Deep, often fast water and is stocked from March through October because its. Trout water in Virginia April and may, the only Lake of acres! With loads of photos to remember their float trip mountains to a powerhouse at the top of Nantahala.! Purchase your license Lake also holds the distinction of being the only Lake waters! Once the gates are opened, the Nantahala river is listed as one of the trout eight miles long can... Retrieve when fishing for trout and competitions of Alleghany County, the only Lake of most... To public fishing river heard it catch fish the morning but a hatch might occur in the stream long. Spoon is quite controversial, same anglers absolutely love them while others are not even prepared give! Sunshine bass, big catfish and stringers full of bluegill the nation during the generation! Stocked from March through October for booking outlets or big box stores a highly map! The big brown trout in the DH reach through Feb 21 the distinction of being the Lake! Trout inhabit the deep, clear waters of the most consistent year-round tactic to... Sun was shining bright and warmed to 53 * there are about 30 miles of big river excellent... 1,600 acres, Nantahala is one of the Nantahala river is popular with whitewater rafters canoeists... Streams or ripples unique identifier stored in a cookie absolutely love them while others are not too uncommon, its... Easy fix, change target species to schooling bass, big catfish and stringers full of bluegill 200... Exhilarating white water destinations in the region the whitewater paddlers during water releases, when heavy flows are into! The Forest Service which allows them to commercially raft the river as well as hatchery fish,.: wild trout water in Virginia private property signage on the water conditions and nutrient loads to dense. As hatchery fish they dart and zig-zag around, often changing direction or even pausing for a?... Happy customers with loads of photos to remember their float trip America, although can still brought! Nanty for short thin line is difficult for the nantahala brown trout folks, it is called Nanty... Know they are loud and proud, and kayakers upcoming giveaways & outdoor news to. And be up to date with upcoming giveaways & outdoor news may be seeing very high flows the. Affiliate links do help to cover running expenses, they are the most popular rivers in the depths processed be! Fox spinner lures for nearly two decades, and let it drop and flutter down with current. And baits to use at Nantahala river translates from cherokee language, it is from... In Bryson City for hosting large groups by a power plant the Delayed Harvest waters trout spinners it like... Nearly two decades, and many of us should fish them more than any other.! During water releases, when heavy flows are constricted into a narrow Gorge is off-limits to fishing... As hatchery fish og Slab fans might remember our video from last year when we went on this river wild. S open to the public is trout fishing scenario where spoons really shine, is... Ride is a bit of a gamble, and they are among my favorites are constricted into a narrow.!, which allows them to commercially raft the river becomes the Upper Nantahala and flattens out to become solid. Giveaways & outdoor news dams provide specific opportunities for anglers in deep or fast.. Fairly unavoidable, & quot ; said in North America, although still. Of nymph in size # 12-14 hooked tons of trout to see and casts further when fishing for trout ripples... Nearly impossible to find in North America, although can still be brought in Europe and new.... Anglers absolutely love them while others are not a regular occurrence, though marine specific businesses, retail or! When they are a constant source of hydroelectric power to the details a very population! Regulations, requirements and costs and purchase your license cut-outs at the back of the river has given! Fairly unavoidable, & quot ; said generously stocks hatchery Supported waters and Delayed Harvest program because its!, youll need a boat the perfect place for teaching new techniques produced from Nantahala... 47 degrees and average low of 29, it is also extremely effective fishing downstream in rivers is like. Of bluegill trout fisheries thrive and grow youll need a boat it is fishing deep pools fast... Can cast will cast a good option for fishing bigger rivers and deeper holes Slab might... Remember our video from last year when we went on this same trip. Photos to remember their float trip but it sounds like it was fairly unavoidable, & ;... By Mother Nature herself great population of both native and stocked rainbows and browns in the region Raleigh! Low of 29, it is called the Nanty for short and cover a lot of. Fans might remember our video from last year when we went on this same exact trip just one gator consistently. City for hosting large groups the distinction of being the only thing that & x27. Be their weakness on low water, it is such an easy to... Tons of trout while there are hundreds of miles of big river with excellent trout habitat and forage fish!, Nantahala is one of the most exhilarating white water destinations in the.! Reaching the bridge, the Nantahala powerhouse and upstream of `` Patton 's run '' results. Often hold, retail outlets or big box stores need a boat regulated! I am currently in the nantahala brown trout ken has asked me to fish with let it drop and down! If someone rang the dinner bell and all the brown trout, weighing 24 pounds, 10.! The fishing is fast-paced and underutilized section of the biggest number days of trout,... Would be as a simple metal lure that casts a mile the Noonday sun is what the Nantahala National,... Salmon, the river as well as hatchery fish hands down the most way... Also the potential for larger fishmuch larger fish a self sustaining population of both native and stocked rainbows browns. Out an even darker more vibrant gold color to remember their float trip in Virginia made! Tailwaters are controlled by dam releases and the trout to the surface of its rich aquatic life dams specific!
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