Swain County is truly a fisherman’s paradise, offering a diverse array of fishing experiences that attract anglers from all over the world. Whether you’re an avid fly fisherman or a novice looking to try your hand at catching some of the local species, there’s something here for everyone.
1. **Mountain Streams**: For those seeking the thrill of fly fishing, the cold, clear mountain streams are ideal for catching native brook trout. These streams, nestled within the lush landscapes of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park and the Nantahala National Forest, offer a serene and challenging fishing experience.
2. **Fontana Lake**: Known for its picturesque beauty, Fontana Lake is a prime destination for bass fishing. Anglers can try their luck at catching both smallmouth and largemouth bass, surrounded by the stunning backdrop of the Smoky Mountains.
3. **Stocked Streams and Rivers**: If you’re aiming for rainbow or brown trout, you won’t be disappointed by the many stocked streams and rivers throughout the area. These waters are regularly replenished, ensuring a plentiful supply of fish for all to enjoy.
### Deep Creek
Just a short drive from Bryson City, Deep Creek is a favorite spot for fly fishing enthusiasts. Its sparkling waters are not only a delight for the eyes but also home to a variety of fish species that challenge anglers of all skill levels.
### Nantahala River
The Nantahala River, especially the section above the powerhouse on Wayah Road, is another popular fishing destination. Known for its pristine waters and lush surroundings, it provides a perfect setting for a day of fishing.
With its abundant natural beauty and rich fishing opportunities, Swain County is a must-visit destination for anyone who loves the great outdoors and the thrill of fishing. Don’t forget to check local regulations and secure any necessary permits before heading out to enjoy these fantastic fishing spots!
## Delayed Harvest Waters
The Wildlife Resources Commission has designated 2.2 miles of the Tuckasegee River in downtown Bryson City as Delayed Harvest Trout Waters. This section of the river, from the US 19 bridge at Darnell Farms to the Slope Street bridge in town, offers excellent opportunities for trout fishing. The Delayed Harvest (DH) regulations and map provide detailed guidelines for anglers, ensuring a sustainable fishing experience.
## Little Tennessee River
Located just west of Bryson City, off Needmore Road, the Little Tennessee River is a wide, cold, and boulder-strewn river. It is an ideal habitat for smallmouth bass, brim, rock bass, and muskie, making it a popular spot for anglers seeking a diverse fishing experience.
## Cherokee Indian Reservation
The Cherokee Indian Reservation presents a variety of fishing opportunities tailored for trout fishermen. The area features regularly stocked streams, trophy waters, and three trout ponds. The reservation hosts several fishing events throughout the year, including tagged fish tournaments, a fly-fishing tournament in the trophy waters, and a trout derby designed for children. These events offer both competitive and recreational fishing experiences for anglers of all ages.
We’ll show you the best fishing in the rivers & lakes of the Smoky Mountains. Fish with International Game Fish Association Professional Guides. Half day & full day trips. Pontoon boat, kayak & paddle board, wade & walk, and night fishing trips offered year round. Choose fly fishing or spinning tackle with top of the line gear. We provide everything. We have a trip for any skill level or budget. HD photos & videos of your trip available upon request. Ask about our lodging packages.
Katala Outdoors is committed to providing a great fly fishing adventure for you, your friends and family. We provide the best customer experience by hiring the best guides in the region, who are friendly, knowledgeable, experienced and passionate about bringing others into the great sport of fly fishing. Offering trips on the Tuckasegee River, Nantahala River, Davidson River, French Broad River Drainage, Cherokee Trophy Waters, North Mills River, South Mills River, and exclusive fishing on Green River private waters.
Located on Panther Creek, 1-1/2 miles off NC 28, between Bryson City and Fontana Dam. Outdoor trout farm with free pole, bait and cleaning – and trout is only $6.00 per pound! Open March 16th to November 30th. Full hook-up campground offers hot showers and clean restrooms available for all campers as well as a volleyball court, horseshoe pit, pavilion with full kitchen and coin laundry.
Located on the Tuckasegee River. Live bait: shinners, trout fingerlings (seasonally), nightcrawlers, wax worms, meal worms, and crickets. Complete line of tackle for lake, river, and fly fishing. Locally hand tied flies. Single hook lures for the Great Smoky Mountain National Park.Fishing license purchases on site. On site taxidermy (fish only). Open year round.
Located in Almond NC on beautiful Fontana Lake. We offer pontoon & johnboat rentals, anchored & covered slip moorings for boat storage, dock store with fuel, propane exchange, boat supplies, ice, bait, tackle & tube rentals.
Katala Outdoors is committed to providing a great fly fishing adventure for you, your friends and family. We provide the best customer experience by hiring the best guides in the region, who are friendly, knowledgeable, experienced and passionate about bringing others into the great sport of fly fishing. Offering trips on the Tuckasegee River, Nantahala River, Davidson River, French Broad River Drainage, Cherokee Trophy Waters, North Mills River, South Mills River, and exclusive fishing on Green River private waters.
This full service trout farm offers all the amenities in a beautiful mountain setting that includes hiking trails, waterfalls, and picnic tables. No license required, no limit, and all fishing equipment is provided. Guided fishing tours are also available. Stay an hour or the entire day!
Located on the Tuckasegee River. Live bait: shinners, trout fingerlings (seasonally), nightcrawlers, wax worms, meal worms, and crickets. Complete line of tackle for lake, river, and fly fishing. Locally hand tied flies. Single hook lures for the Great Smoky Mountain National Park.Fishing license purchases on site. On site taxidermy (fish only). Open year round.
We’ll show you the best fishing in the rivers & lakes of the Smoky Mountains. Fish with International Game Fish Association Professional Guides. Half day & full day trips. Pontoon boat, kayak & paddle board, wade & walk, and night fishing trips offered year round. Choose fly fishing or spinning tackle with top of the line gear. We provide everything. We have a trip for any skill level or budget. HD photos & videos of your trip available upon request. Ask about our lodging packages.
We offer fly fishing, spin fishing and lake fishing. We specialize in catching Bass and Walleye on Fontana Lake and catching Rainbow and Brown Trout on Cheoah Lake. We also catch Steelhead Trout on Santeetlah Lake. All bait and equipment is furnished. A shore lunch is provided for full-day trips. Half day trips are also available. Open year round.
Located on Panther Creek, 1-1/2 miles off NC 28, between Bryson City and Fontana Dam. Outdoor trout farm with free pole, bait and cleaning – and trout is only $6.00 per pound! Open March 16th to November 30th. Full hook-up campground offers hot showers and clean restrooms available for all campers as well as a volleyball court, horseshoe pit, pavilion with full kitchen and coin laundry.
Bryson City NC’s only full service fly shop! We are your headquarters for local fly patterns, fly fishing gear, guided trips, and fly fishing advice. We carry products from many well known vendors such as Redington, Rio, Catch Fly Fishing, Montana Fly Company, Scientific Angler, Umpqua, TFO Fly Rods, Chota, Brodin Nets, Simms Logo Apparel, and our very own Tuckaseegee Fly Shop logo hats and shirts. We welcome all locals and travelers to stop in and say hi!
Endless River Adventures offers full and half-day fly fishing adventures for both beginning and experienced anglers. Options include float trips on the Nantahala River, as well as wade trips on the Upper Nantahala for trout; float and wade trips on the Tuckasegee River and Little Tennessee River for trout and small mouth bass. All equipment, rods, reels, waders and wading boots are included. Over 20 years experience in Western North Carolina. Licensed by the US Forest Service. Complete fly fishing shop.