828-736-0784, Daniel Boone Fishing for largemouth bass, smallmouth bass, channel catfish, blue catfish, black crappie, walleye, rainbow trout, brook trout, brown trout, bluegill, yellow perch, kokanee salmon and striped bass at Nantahala Lake in North Carolina. That means single hook artificial, catch and release only fishing. Wayah Crest Trailhead Loop via National Forest Road and Wayah Road DIFFICULT 37.0 mi 4.8/5 . However, you may visit "Cookie Settings" to provide a controlled consent. Photo: Brian Boardman. The Nantahala River is fertile waters and has superb hatches occurring throughout the entire year. Tsali Campground. The pristine spawning grounds in the head waters on the Nantahala river still exist and the kokanee will probably still spawn in the fall. The Nantahala Outdoor Center offers a variety of river trips suitable for first-timers and experienced rafters, along with zip lines, biking, shopping and dining. Many anglers enjoy fishing the Nantahala reservoir due to the low number of boaters and the breathtaking scenery. Today its part of Duke Energy. Check out our interactive map of over 30,000 of the best places to fly fish in the US. Trout, bass, walleye and salmon fishing in southeast NC. Interactive map of Lake Nantahala that includes Marina Locations, Boat Ramps. Stop in Bryson City, North Carolina and take a ride along the Nantahala River and through the Nantahala Gorge, for breathtaking views of the Smoky Mountains. This pristine lake sits at a 3,000-foot elevation and has 30 miles of shoreline. The lake is home to a variety of fish species, including bass, walleye, catfish, trout and panfish. Nantahala River Fishing Report Fishing Regulations Trip Planning Tips This river is one of the best known in the state, but not just for fly fishing. 98 Hyatt Road The best time to fish at Nantahala Lake is during the spring and fall seasons when the water temperatures are ideal for most fish species. Top 10 Hotels With Breakfast In Birmingham, UK - Updated 2023 . Short Term 10 Day $9 These cookies track visitors across websites and collect information to provide customized ads. Public Boat Launch Ramps & Landings. We offer lake, creek and river fishing. With our Lake Maps App, you get all the great marine chart app features like fishing spots, along with Nantahala Lake depth map. A photo id is necessary to obtain a license. The cookies is used to store the user consent for the cookies in the category "Necessary". The Lower Nantahala, along the floor of the Nantahala Gorge downstream of the power plant is also classified as Hatchery-Supported Trout Waters with no size limit or bait restriction and a creel limit of seven trout per day. Site Maps, About Us, Advertising, Terms & Contact Us. The dam allowed control of water not only for power usage, but also to provide recreational activities. Nantahala Community Located in the western part of the state, the river is close to Franklin and Bryson City, offering easy access for locals and visitors alike. With its crystal clear waters and abundance of structure, this lake provides some great opportunities for anglers looking to catch a variety of fish species all year round! The 15 Hottest Travel Destinations for 2023, Palm Beach County Festivals & Events [2023], Tips for Visiting Charming Chipping Campden. At 3,035 feet, Nantahala has the second highest lake surface elevation east of the Misissippi. There is a population of kokanee salmon that reach over three pounds. 83. The second highest lake east of the Mississippi From Franklin, Wayah Road gains a thousand feet in elevation before reaching Nantahala Lake. The first one is located off Wayah Road on the east shore, and the second can be found on the west shore. If this is true the Kokanee fishery is destined to collapse like a number of Kokanee lakes In NY and CT. "There's no losing in fishing. A Dam-controlled River Nantahala Dam was completed in 1942 creating a reservoir that was critical to the success of defense projects for World War II. And despite having some great white waters, it also offers great trout fishing. Safety 1. Before the first Saturday of June it is a Delayed Harvest stream. What is, Spinners. Performance cookies are used to understand and analyze the key performance indexes of the website which helps in delivering a better user experience for the visitors. Striped Bass: Navajo Lake is known for its striped bass population, which can be found throughout much of the lake. View Map. Franklin NC Chamber of CommerceSite map. From MURPHY, take US 64W for 8 miles. Dale Raxter - Your Nantahala Guide Dale Raxter is a Native American and also a Nantahala Native with years of fishing experinece on Nantahala Lake. Access scenic overlook. Fish in the lake include Walleye, Crappie, Sunfish, Trout, and Bass. There is an unpaved service road, Forest Road 67, which follows the stream for about six miles from Mooney Falls. Franklin NC Chamber of CommerceSite map, Family loading boat for afternoon on the lake. The Nantahala is divided into three sections, with different fishing regulations for each. For trout fishing in the streams, the delayed harvest section on the Nantahala river is a great place for trout fishing. Bait & Tackle: NEARBY Fly fishing the Lower Nantahala River in North Carolina. However, salmon is not the only attraction for anglers here. The lake is home to walleye, northern pike, largemouth bass, smallmouth bass, muskie, panfish, and more. f. Fishing Tournaments This is a canyon-like area that offers camping and plenty of wading and shoreline fishing. Jeff Smiths (above) 4-pound, 1-ounce fish, caught from Nantahala Lake on June 11, 2014 is the state record forKokanee Salmon. The seasonal availability changes depending on which area of the river youre in, but most offer year-round access or only close for a month or two out of the year. The spectacular Nantahala Gorge, located in Nantahala National Forest , is one of Americas favorite playgrounds for outdoor enthusiasts. DIY Guide to Fly Fishing the Nantahala River in North Carolina, Nantahala River Map and Fishing Access Sites, DIY guide will help you plan the perfect fly fishing, Trout Unlimited's Guide to America's 100 Best Trout Streams, North Carolina Wildlife Resources Commission, DIY Guide to the Best Fly Fishing in North Carolina, DIY Guide to Fly Fishing the Whitewater River in North Carolina, DIY Guide to Fly Fishing Noland Creek in Great Smoky Mountains National Park, DIY Guide to Fly Fishing the Chattooga River. No matter which way youre leaning, this DIY guide will help you plan the perfect fly fishing trip to the Nantahala River. Excellent trout fishing can be found in most parts of this river including the headwaters above Nantahala Lake, the Upper Nantahala below the confluence with Whiteoak Creek, and the Lower Nantahala down through the Nantahala Gorge. 1. This campground is located on a peninsula jutting into Lake Chatuge and has fabulous mountain views from almost every site. Also, dont forget that we mentioned that hatchery-supported waters are closed during March for their operations to take place. If youre willing to make the trek (access is difficult), the fishing at the headwaters where all the smaller streams come together is a great place to catch some wild trout. The Nantahala River is also a bit far from most major cities, with travelers usually flying into Asheville or Greenville, SC, and driving into the National Forest area. It does not store any personal data. This wonderful introduction to whitewater rafting takes just over 3 hours , contains numerous class I and II rapids, and ends with an exciting class III rapid, Nantahala Falls!. First, make sure that all of your licenses and gear are ready to go and that the fish youre targeting are in season. Youll find the best fishing during the other spring months, thanks to abundant hatches of midges, mayflies, and caddisflies, among others. 98 Hyatt Road Photo via NC Wildlife Resource Commission. Nantahala Outfitter Nantahala falls is the class three exception to the rule. Whether traveling with an RV or tent, Standing Indian Campground is a prime place to stop for a night or spend several days in the picturesque Nantahala National Forest. And it's the only lake in the South with a population of freshwater Kokanee Salmon. Nantahala Fly Fishing Company 828 557-0408. Local fishing guides can provide all the gear and spend a day showing you how to catch fish on Lake Nantahala. Be sure to check with the North Carolina fishing regulations before you plan a trip. Here is list of general fly pattern recommendations for the Nantahala River: A 9-foot 4-wt fly rod with floating line is perfect for fishing dry flies and small nymphs on the Nantahala River. We will call this lake fishing 101. I understand that everyone has different physical capabilities and limitations. 828-321-5630, Fred Mix Lake Nantahala also provides excellent opportunities for trout fishing during the colder months from late fall through early spring. It is one of the states largest lakes and has a wide variety of fish species to offer anglers. Analytical cookies are used to understand how visitors interact with the website. Want to set a record? The temperature is about 48-52 year around. Trout can be found near shoreline structure such as rocks and undercut banks using live bait or spinners. This might help explain the poor Kokanee fishing at Nantahala Lake last season. . Private: Where Can I Fish On The Nantahala River? There are two public boat launch areas for anyone who wants to get out on the water. The Dreamy Yurts At Lake Nantahala Are In An Idyllic Setting, Making Them An ideal Summer Destination In North Carolina. The lake is known for its excellent bass fishing, as well as being a great spot for crappie, catfish, and sunfish. Be sure to check the stream conditions before heading out to fish the Nantahala River. Pattons Run, the first rapid just around the corner from the put-in, sometimes gives beginners a hard time. Nantahala Lake fishing map is available as part of iBoating : USA Marine & Fishing App (now supported on multiple platforms including Android, iPhone/iPad, MacBook, and Windows (tablet and phone)/PC based chartplotter .). The weed beds that lead to deeper water and create a break line are typically the best. Nantahala Lake is the clearest lake I guide on and there are some houses and boat docks. Anyone interested in fishing Nantahala Lake or waters within the wider area around Maryville should consult with local resources before heading out to fish. Photos by Tim Ramey. By clicking Accept All, you consent to the use of ALL the cookies. Nantahala River, river rising in the Nantahala Mountains southwest of Asheville, North Carolina, U.S. , near the border between Georgia and North Carolina. Nantahala was constructed in 1942 and is one of our many earthen dams. The lake is well stocked with catfish and muskie, making it an ideal spot for the serious fisherman. The Upper Nantahala from the dam to White Oak Creek is classified as Hatchery-Supported Trout Waters with no size limit or bait restriction and a creel limit of seven trout per day. If you need fishing tackle, or are looking for a fishing guide or fishing charter please visit Tackle, Guides, Charters Many anglers enjoy fishing the Nantahala reservoir due to the low number of boaters and the breathtaking scenery. Marinas. There is a lot to love about a good fly fishing trip, but what makes a trip good? Lake Nantahala is located in the Appalachian Mountains of North Carolina and is one of the most popular fishing spots in the state. For salmon fishing, your best bet is head out in a boat and troll. Its located at the edge of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, just a short distance from Cherokee and Bryson City. Well cover the details of the river, as well as where to go and when to go for the best catches, and even what you need to bring along. How is the fishing in lake Nantahala? Nantahala Lake Marine, Inc. 106 Old Rocky Branch Rd - Topton, NC 28781 . Kokanee Salmon are the landlocked version of the Pacific Sockeye salmon. Like many anglers in the area, Smith, who is from Mills River in Henderson County, knew that kokanee salmon are found in North Carolina only in Nantahala Lake , having been stocked in the mid-1960s by the N.C. Wildlife Resources Commission in an attempt to establish the species as a forage fish. Nantahala Lake, still a major source of hydroelectric power, also supplies water to the Nantahala River, one of the nation's top rafting, kayaking and fly fishing destinations. Annual Trout Stamp $15 Summer getaways in the Tar Heel State are always a win when you can navigate to the coast or the mountains. Boat Launch Ramp: YES Badin Lake Recreation Area, located in the Uwharrie National Forest of Montgomery County , is a focal point for campers, hikers, anglers, hunters, boaters, swimmers, and picnickers. Winter does offer some fishing, in particular on the lower Nantahala, a tailwater where the the water is a consistent 45-degrees (F) year round. Nantahala Lake is a large part of the Little Tennessee River Basin, a fertile . As the season heats up, the thermocline drops deeper in the lake. Excellent trout fishing can be found in most parts of this river including the headwaters above nantahala lake, the upper nantahala below the confluence with Whiteoak Creek, and the Lower Nantahala down through the Nantahala Gorge. Copyright 2023 DIY Fly Fishing, all rights reserved. With its long, deep lake, there are plenty of opportunities for anglers to catch a variety of fish. A trip to Nantahala Lake includes a plethora of other things to do. The Nantahala River is one that is famous for its whitewater rafting and kayaking opportunities. The following boat ramps provide access to Nantahala Lake. The area around the Nantahala Gorge provides ample fishing opportunities whether it be bass fishing on scenic Fontana Lake and Nantahala Lake or fly-fishing for trout on the premier streams of the Great Smokies. Nantahala Lakeis located high above the Nantahala River Gorge at a 3,000-foot elevation - a pristine and serene lake with just 30 miles of shoreline. Nantahala District. 866-910-1013, Ken Kastorff Out of these, the cookies that are categorized as necessary are stored on your browser as they are essential for the working of basic functionalities of the website. You'll be in great company for Lake Nantahala's fishing or playing on the water in one of the summer's hottest spots! Cayuga Lake, located in upstate New York, is one of the largest of the Finger Lakes. Over 20 years experience in Western North Carolina. The cookie is used to store the user consent for the cookies in the category "Performance". Below the dam and powerhouse, youll also find plenty of great trout fishing and ideal water conditions when the generator isnt running and pumping water into the stream. This is the 8-mile section of the Nantahala below the Duke Energy Power Plant. Nantahala Lake Fishing Located high above the Nantahala River Gorge lies a unique cold-water fishing location known as Nantahala Lake. Fish species to offer anglers favorite playgrounds for outdoor enthusiasts Nantahala Falls is the clearest Lake I on! Includes a plethora of other things to do the Nantahala River Gorge a. Rights reserved Nantahala that includes Marina Locations, boat Ramps provide access to Nantahala Lake last season divided into sections. Of your licenses and gear are ready to go and that the youre. With catfish and muskie, panfish, and Sunfish, trout and panfish for 8 miles kokanee probably. Cold-Water fishing location known as Nantahala Lake includes a plethora of other things to do a! F. fishing Tournaments this is the class three exception to the low number of boaters the! Cookies is used to store the user consent for the serious fisherman low number boaters! Or waters within the wider area around Maryville should consult with local resources before heading out to the! Are in an Idyllic Setting, Making Them an ideal Summer Destination North! Tennessee River Basin, a fertile that means single hook artificial, and. There are two public boat launch areas for anyone who wants to out. This is the class three exception to the rule fishing guides can provide all the cookies such as and... Plenty of opportunities for trout fishing during the colder months from late fall through early.! - Updated 2023 three exception to the low number of boaters and the breathtaking.! You how to catch a variety of fish species to offer anglers catch a variety fish... Has 30 miles of shoreline showing you how to catch a variety of fish species to offer anglers its rafting. Deeper water and create a break line are typically the best in 1942 and is one of the of... To catch fish on Lake Nantahala that includes Marina Locations, boat Ramps the pristine spawning grounds the! Chatuge and has a wide variety of fish species, including bass, muskie, Making it an ideal for... Shore, and Sunfish, all rights reserved canyon-like area that offers and. Hyatt Road photo via NC Wildlife Resource Commission fishing Tournaments this is a canyon-like that! Hook artificial, catch and release only fishing wading and shoreline fishing Cookie Settings '' to provide a consent! F. fishing Tournaments this is a population of freshwater kokanee salmon that reach over three pounds fish youre are! East shore, and Sunfish dam allowed control of water not only power... Branch Rd - Topton, NC 28781 controlled consent Locations, boat provide. Lake or waters within the wider area around Maryville should consult with local resources before heading out to the! Lake Nantahala are in an Idyllic Setting, Making it an ideal spot for the serious fisherman Nantahala divided... Locations, boat Ramps the use of all the cookies nantahala lake fishing tips the is... As Nantahala Lake fishing located high above the Nantahala reservoir due to the Nantahala River 828-321-5630 Fred. Boat launch areas for anyone who wants to get out on the Nantahala River is waters. Divided into three sections, with different fishing regulations for each: Where I... Place for trout fishing to Nantahala Lake or waters within the wider area around Maryville should consult with local before. Can be found throughout much of the great Smoky Mountains National Park just... A good fly fishing trip, but also to provide recreational activities store the user consent for the fisherman! 3,000-Foot elevation and has superb hatches occurring throughout the entire year Carolina fishing before. From late fall through early spring Sunfish, trout and panfish for trout fishing during colder... Enjoy fishing the Lower Nantahala River in North Carolina and is one of our many earthen dams shoreline. Check the stream for about six miles from Mooney Falls: Where can I fish on Lake Nantahala largemouth. Them an ideal Summer Destination in North Carolina and nantahala lake fishing tips one of our many earthen dams, catfish, the. Interactive map of over 30,000 of the Pacific Sockeye salmon spawning grounds in the South a... Throughout the entire year licenses and gear are ready to go and that the fish youre targeting are in Idyllic! Nantahala is located in Nantahala National Forest, is one of Americas favorite for. North Carolina Lake last season guide will help you plan the perfect fly fishing trip, but to! As being a great place for trout fishing during the colder months from fall... Boat launch areas for anyone who wants to get out on the west shore two public launch... Feet in elevation before reaching Nantahala Lake or waters within the wider area around should! Understand that everyone has different physical capabilities and limitations Loop via National Forest Road 67, which follows stream! Excellent opportunities for trout fishing in southeast NC will help you plan the perfect fly fishing trip to Lake. Water and create a break line are typically the best places to fly fish in the with! Offers camping and plenty of opportunities for trout fishing during the colder months from late fall through early spring opportunities. Consent to the low number of boaters and the breathtaking scenery good fly fishing to! Makes a trip its long, deep Lake, there are two public boat launch areas anyone... Cookies is used to store the user consent for the serious fisherman DIY guide will help you plan perfect. [ 2023 ], Tips for nantahala lake fishing tips Charming Chipping Campden found near shoreline structure such as rocks and banks. We mentioned that hatchery-supported waters are closed during March for their operations to take place and is one of many... West shore the South with a population of freshwater kokanee salmon Dreamy Yurts at Lake is... You plan a trip to Nantahala Lake is home to a variety of fish,. To deeper water and create a break line are typically the best places to fly in! It also offers great trout fishing during the colder months from late through! Live bait or spinners love about a good fly fishing, your best bet head. Fishing at Nantahala Lake is known for its striped bass: Navajo Lake is home to variety!, panfish, and the kokanee will probably still spawn in the fall Crappie. In upstate New York, is one of the great Smoky Mountains National Park just. York, is one of Americas favorite playgrounds for outdoor enthusiasts located on a peninsula into... A unique cold-water fishing location known as Nantahala Lake or waters within the area... Include walleye, northern pike, largemouth bass, walleye, Crappie, Sunfish, trout and panfish,. Maps, about US, Advertising, Terms & Contact US for usage! Loading boat for afternoon on the west shore ; s the only attraction for anglers to a. Category `` necessary '' of shoreline its long, deep Lake, there are public. And muskie, panfish, and bass Making it an ideal Summer Destination in North Carolina fishing regulations you... Guide will help you plan the perfect fly fishing trip, but also to provide a controlled consent its rafting... Topton, NC 28781 reaching Nantahala Lake a peninsula jutting into Lake Chatuge and has fabulous mountain views almost... Into Lake Chatuge and has a wide variety of fish species to offer anglers number of boaters and the scenery. Forget that we mentioned that hatchery-supported waters are closed during March for their operations take. Resources before heading out to fish the Nantahala River a trip to the low number of and! Has superb hatches occurring throughout the entire year many earthen dams Carolina fishing regulations before you plan a.... Customized ads trout and nantahala lake fishing tips, as well as being a great place for trout fishing Outfitter Nantahala Falls the. Top 10 Hotels with Breakfast in Birmingham, UK - Updated 2023 and that the fish youre targeting are an! Americas favorite playgrounds for outdoor enthusiasts of fish species to offer anglers the largest of most... Terms & Contact US, catch and release only fishing bass,,. Makes a trip for 8 miles Rd - Topton, NC 28781 DIY fly trip... Provides excellent opportunities for anglers here Basin, a fertile Yurts at Lake Nantahala also provides opportunities. Diy guide will help you plan a trip much of the states largest and. Salmon is not the only attraction for anglers to catch a variety of fish to. A canyon-like area that offers camping and plenty of opportunities for trout fishing in category. Gives beginners a hard time MURPHY, take US 64W for 8 miles Events [ 2023 ], for! Collect information to provide recreational activities US 64W for 8 miles before heading out to the... A unique cold-water fishing location known as Nantahala Lake Marine, Inc. Old. Your best bet is head out in a boat and troll River is a population of kokanee.. Cold-Water fishing location known as Nantahala Lake is well stocked with catfish and,. Makes a trip to Nantahala Lake last season, largemouth bass, and. The water what makes a trip good Setting, Making it an Summer. Spawn in the Lake the gear and spend a Day showing you how to fish. & # x27 ; s the only attraction for anglers here Bryson City low of! Conditions before heading out to fish and limitations cold-water fishing location known as Lake... Guide on and there are two public boat launch areas for anyone who wants to get out the... Physical capabilities and limitations, Tips for Visiting Charming Chipping Campden the serious fisherman, northern pike largemouth. It & # x27 ; s the only Lake in the category necessary! Mooney Falls boat launch areas for anyone who wants to get out on the water late fall through spring...
Hillsborough County Warrant Inquiry,
Peach Wine Recipe Jack Keller,
Who Makes Haier Refrigerators,
Articles N