North Carolina is a trout fisherman’s paradise, with over 5,000 miles of rivers and streams teeming with these prized fish. Whether you’re a seasoned angler or just starting, you’ll find plenty of opportunities to catch your limit in the Tar Heel State. Here are 10 of the best rivers for trout fishing in North Carolina:
1. Tuckasegee River
This legendary river is home to a healthy population of rainbow, brown, and brook trout. The Tuckasegee is known for its beautiful scenery, with towering mountains and lush forests lining its banks.
2. French Broad River
The French Broad River is one of the most popular trout fishing destinations in North Carolina. It’s home to a variety of trout species, including rainbows, browns, and brookies. The river offers a mix of fast-moving water and deep pools, making it perfect for both fly fishing and spin casting.
3. Davidson River
The Davidson River is a beautiful mountain stream that’s known for its wild trout population. The river is stocked with rainbows and browns, but there’s also a healthy population of native brook trout. The Davidson is a great place to fly fish, as its clear water and abundant insect life make it easy to spot fish.
4. Watauga River
The Watauga River is a large mountain river that’s home to a variety of trout species. The river is known for its big rainbows, but it also has a good population of browns and brookies. The Watauga is a great place to fish for both wild and stocked trout.
5. Linville River
The Linville River is a beautiful mountain stream that’s home to a healthy population of wild trout. The river is known for its clear water and abundant insect life, making it a great place to fly fish. The Linville is a popular destination for both locals and tourists, so it’s important to arrive early and be prepared for crowds.
6. Neuse River
The Neuse River is a large, slow-moving river that’s home to a variety of trout species. The river is stocked with rainbows, browns, and brookies, but it also has a healthy population of native brook trout. The Neuse is a great place to fish for both wild and stocked trout, and it’s also a popular destination for paddlers and boaters.
7. Yadkin River
The Yadkin River is a large river that’s home to a variety of trout species. The river is stocked with rainbows, browns, and brookies, but it also has a healthy population of native brook trout. The Yadkin is a great place to fish for both wild and stocked trout, and it’s also a popular destination for canoeing and kayaking.
8. South Fork New River
The South Fork New River is a beautiful mountain stream that’s home to a healthy population of wild trout. The river is known for its clear water and abundant insect life, making it a great place to fly fish. The South Fork New River is a popular destination for both locals and tourists, so it’s important to arrive early and be prepared for crowds.
9. North Toe River
The North Toe River is a large mountain river that’s home to a variety of trout species. The river is stocked with rainbows, browns, and brookies, but it also has a healthy population of native brook trout. The North Toe is a great place to fish for both wild and stocked trout, and it’s also a popular destination for whitewater rafting.
10. Wilson Creek
Wilson Creek is a small mountain stream that’s home to a healthy population of wild trout. The creek is known for its clear water and abundant insect life, making it a great place to fly fish. Wilson Creek is a popular destination for both locals and tourists, so it’s important to arrive early and be prepared for crowds.
Culture
The culture of trout fishing in North Carolina is steeped in tradition and passion. Anglers from all over the state flock to its rivers and streams to experience the thrill of catching these elusive fish. There are numerous fly fishing clubs and organizations in North Carolina, and the state hosts a variety of trout fishing tournaments and festivals throughout the year.
The local culture is warm and welcoming, and anglers are always willing to share their knowledge and expertise with newcomers. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or just starting out, you’re sure to find plenty of helpful advice and camaraderie among the trout fishing community in North Carolina.
Best Months to Visit
The best months to visit North Carolina for trout fishing are April through June and September through November. During these months, the weather is mild and the fish are active. However, it’s important to note that trout fishing can be enjoyed year-round in North Carolina, as the climate is relatively mild even in the winter months.
Nearby Transportation
North Carolina is easily accessible by plane, train, and car. The state is served by several major airports, including Charlotte Douglas International Airport (CLT), Raleigh-Durham International Airport (RDU), and Asheville Regional Airport (AVL). There are also a number of Amtrak train stations located throughout the state. If you’re driving to North Carolina, you can take I-95, I-40, or I-85.
Local Food
North Carolina is known for its delicious food, and there are plenty of great places to eat near the trout fishing rivers. Some of the local favorites include barbecue, fried chicken, and seafood. You can also find a variety of international cuisines, such as Mexican, Italian, and Asian.
Best Hotels
There are a number of great hotels located near the trout fishing rivers in North Carolina. Some of the most popular options include the following:
- The Lodge at Old Edwards Inn and Spa (Highlands)
- The Esmeralda Inn (Asheville)
- The Omni Grove Park Inn (Asheville)
- The River’s Edge Hotel (Waynesville)
- The Nantahala Village Resort (Bryson City)
Conclusion
North Carolina is a great place to go trout fishing, with a variety of rivers and streams to choose from. The state’s mild climate makes it possible to fish year-round, and there are plenty of local resources to help you plan your trip. Whether you’re a seasoned angler or just starting out, you’re sure to find plenty of opportunities to catch your limit in the Tar Heel State.
