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. The average Kokanee salmon average in the Nantahala River is 18 with many fish over 20". All equipment, rods, reels, waders and wading boots are included. In fact, the Nantahala River is listed in Trout Unlimited's Guide to America's 100 Best Trout Streams. Conclusion: This pristine lake sits at a 3,000-foot elevation and has 30 miles of shoreline. This small, but efficient, one-lane boat ramp has a dock and limited, paved parking. It is a beautiful lake that is surrounded by towering mountains, with crystal clear waters and plenty of fish. That means single hook artificial, catch and release only fishing. Bass are the most sought-after species, as they can be found year-round in the lakes depths. 3360 Big Choga Rd Topton, NC Fly fishing the Upper Nantahala River in North Carolina. The lake is filled with an abundance of fish species and offers a variety of fishing opportunities for anglers. For others, its the chance to have a true getaway to one of the best trout streams in the country. 3. Find out about fishing licenses here. Nantahala Gorge Excursion Sunset in the Great Smoky Mountain National Park by Ivana Cajina - Unsplash. Private: Where Can I Fish On The Nantahala River? Topton, NC 28781 These cookies will be stored in your browser only with your consent. 866 372-5546. 828 557-0408. The first one is located off Wayah Road on the east shore, and the second can be found on the west shore. Fortunately, easy highway access and plenty of camping mean accommodations abound. Resident Licenses Three loops make up the campground, with some of the sites sitting right on the water's edge. Avey Branch Boat Ramp This is a small concrete boat ramp with unimproved parking. Access scenic overlook. Nantahala Outfitter The Kokanee Salmon is a variety of sockeye salmon that lives in landlocked, freshwater bodies around the United States. The cookie is set by GDPR cookie consent to record the user consent for the cookies in the category "Functional". Click images for fishing tips and details about each species. The lake is home to walleye, northern pike, largemouth bass, smallmouth bass, muskie, panfish, and more. You can also store your boat at U-Stor Boat (828-321-2614). Kyle Pack. For a cool, mountain retreat the family is sure to love, scoot on over to the shores of beautiful Lake Nantahala to . Short Term 10 Day $9 Nantahala Lake (/nnthel/) is located in Macon County , North Carolina in the western part of the state. 828-524-3161, Franklin Area Chamber of Commerce It also provides excellent opportunities for fly fishing and catch-and-release fishing. Copyright 2023 DIY Fly Fishing, all rights reserved. You'll be in great company for Lake Nantahala's fishing or playing on the water in one of the summer's hottest spots! This cookie is set by GDPR Cookie Consent plugin. Standing Indian is located within a 20-minute drive . 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. Annual Trout Stamp $10 Trophy Trout, Bass, Bluegill also come out of. Functional cookies help to perform certain functionalities like sharing the content of the website on social media platforms, collect feedbacks, and other third-party features. This campground is located on a peninsula jutting into Lake Chatuge and has fabulous mountain views from almost every site. https://perfectflystore.com/your-streams/fly-fishing-the-nantahala-river-in-north-carolina/ Nantahala is one of those lakes. We use cookies on our website to give you the most relevant experience by remembering your preferences and repeat visits. 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 record-breaking catch weighed in at 3 lbs and 9 oz. We also share information about your use of our site with our social media, advertising and analytics partners. Cayuga Lake, located in upstate New York, is one of the largest of the Finger Lakes. Receive the newest fishing hot spots, adventures and tips directly to your inbox. Nantahala Lake 1600 acre lake located in Macon County Followers 111 Catches 2 Spots 0 Chilhowee Lake Followers 62 Catches 6 Spots 0 Featured People on Fishidy Sign in to your account to find other friends and anglers who are using Fishidy. Fishing is marginal at best. North Carolina Game and Fish named it one of the state's ten best trout streams and Trout Unlimited listed it as one of the nation's 'Top 100' trout streams. There are also plenty of main roads and Forest Service Roads that provide easy access up and down the river. Many anglers enjoy fishing the Nantahala reservoir due to the low number of boaters and the breathtaking scenery. Nantahala Lake Fishing Located high above the Nantahala River Gorge lies a unique cold-water fishing location known as Nantahala Lake. The Upper Nantahala offers a consistent flow and is arguably one of the most scenic mountain rivers in the nation with its many cascades and waterfalls. 5/5 5.0 (150 reviews) Free cancellation up to 60 days before check-in $350 avg/night Premier Host Cabin10.4 mi to Nantahala Lake Steps to Shooting creek Sleeps 42 bedrooms2 beds 5.0 (3 reviews) The weed beds that lead to deeper water and create a break line are typically the best. The temperature is about 48-52 year around. I use only local guides who have years of fishing experience to guarantee you will have a great time in our smoky mountain streams and lakes. This river is popular for whitewater activities, so make sure that youre not looking to those areas for your fly fishing destination. Bass, catfish, crappie, trout, stripers and sunfish reside here. The Nantahala is divided into three sections, with different fishing regulations for each. Nantahala Lake, regulated and maintained by Duke Energy, is a major source of hydroelectric power to the region. Nantahala and Cullasaja Gorges Trail Map This Trails Illustrated topographic map is the most comprehensive and complete recreational map for the Nantahala and Cullasaja Gorges area of North Carolina. Can You Keep Fish On The Fryingpan River? Fly fishing the Lower Nantahala River in North Carolina. As the only lake in the South with a population of kokanee salmon, Lake Nantahala is a unique fishery in these parts. At 3,035 feet, Nantahala has the second highest lake surface elevation east of the Misissippi. The lake was created in 1942 by Nantahala Power to provide electricity for war efforts. 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. Duke Energy recently installed five fish/canoe/kayak access points along Wayah Road. What is the Kokanee Salmon? Ken is an avid fisherman of 40+ years who loves to explore and find new places to fish. Averaging only 4 hours of direct sunlight per day, the water temperature averages a bone-chilling 45 degrees. A trip to Nantahala Lake includes a plethora of other things to do. Nantahala Fly Fishing Company The fall is another peak time to visit, especially on the lower river where you have the chance to hook-up with some large holdover browns. Photos by Tim Ramey. The campground's many amenities provide a comfortable home base for exploring this fun and historic section of the forest. Lake Meredith is a popular fishing destination located in the Texas Panhandle. https://diyflyfishing.com/nantahala-river-north-carolina/, https://perfectflystore.com/your-streams/fly-fishing-the-nantahala-river-in-north-carolina/, https://www.visitnantahalanc.com/lake.html, https://www.middletennesseeflyfishers.org/nantahala-river.html, https://flyfishingwnc.com/where-we-fish/nantahala-river. 843-683-3474, Nantahala is the South's only lake with freshwater Salmon. And there are strict seasonal restrictions between October and June. Want to set a record? Locate some weed beds in the lake your fishing in and try getting your bait and/or lure in that area to see if you can coax a fish to bite. Restaurant: YES, Nantahala Shores Boat Rentals Its about 75 miles from Asheville (easy drive). 13 Old Faber Road The hazards for fishing this area when the river is "on" are the rapid rise of water level, very swift water, and fishing between the kayakers and rafters. Tsali Campground. We offer lake, creek and river fishing. Cayuga Lake is home to largemouth and smallmouth bass, walleye, yellow perch, and even some northern pike. 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. And it's the only lake in the South with a population of freshwater Kokanee Salmon. Lake Nantahala is only drawn down a fraction of that and usually is within 10%-15% of full pool except three months in the Winter. The lake has a wide variety of fish, from smallmouth bass and largemouth bass to yellow perch and rainbow trout. Pisgah National Forest is home to the Davidson River, one of the best fly fishing destinations in the Southeast With a 14 mile stretch thats regulated by catch and release, the river offers opportunities for every angler. Fishing Hot Spots near Nantahala Lake Nelson's Nantahala Hideaway Campground is one of the best-equipped campgrounds in Nantahala National Forest. Ashley Swann with her record setting Kokanee Salmon from Lake Nantahala. There are plenty of campgrounds and natural preserves that this river passes through, as well. The rolling hills, lush forests, and sparkling waterfalls make Nantahala River region worthy of glamping. 7; Jeff Smiths (above) 4-pound, 1-ounce fish, caught from Nantahala Lake on June 11, 2014 is the state record forKokanee Salmon. If youre a lake area resident, such as a homeowner in the Reflections on Lake Nantahala Community, youll even get to save on your license as they are cheaper and last longer for area residents. This scenic lake provides opportunities for all types of angling, from shallow water techniques to deep-water ledge and structure fishing. Some of its species are catfish, walleye, smallmouth, largemouth, and spotted bass along with crappie, salmon, yellow perch, bluegill, rainbow, and brown trout. of Wildlife Resources stocked kokanee salmon, onchorynchus nerki, in Nantahala and a couple other lakes in western North Carolina in the 1950s or 1960s as forage fish for northern pike, which . Nantahala Lake is the clearest lake I guide on and there are some houses and boat docks. Franklin, North Carolina 28734 Apr. Stocked in Nantahala Lake in the early 1960's as forage for the predator population of Walleye, Smallmouth and Largemouth Bass, the salmon have been naturally reproducing ever since. With its long, deep lake, there are plenty of opportunities for anglers to catch a variety of fish. It is one of the most diverse and abundant fisheries in the state, offering anglers a wide range of fish species to Target. The stream is stocked from March through August, providing plenty of fish for the catch-and-release season and the catch-and-keep season. And its the only lake in the South with a population of freshwater kokanee salmon. The fish are accustomed to the recreational activity, however, so the fishing is not compromised. The average Kokanee Salmon across the country is 12" with a few lakes producing larger fish. 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 lake has great quantity and quality! However, salmon is not the only attraction for anglers here. The Upper Nantahala has 4 miles of great wade fishing water. The spectacular Nantahala Gorge, located in Nantahala National Forest , is one of Americas favorite playgrounds for outdoor enthusiasts. 98 Hyatt Road The lake has a good population of largemouth, smallmouth, walleye, yellow perch, sunfish, kokanee salmon, and lake trout. Secure payments, 24/7 support and a Book with Confidence guarantee . Mosquito Lake is a popular recreational spot for fishing in Ohio. 1. Endless River Adventures like local expert tips . 225 subscribers Subscribe 6K views 5 years ago Lake Nantahala is located in the western part of Macon County, NC and is a water adventurer's dream. But opting out of some of these cookies may affect your browsing experience. Other uncategorized cookies are those that are being analyzed and have not been classified into a category as yet. The dam allowed control of water not only for power usage, but also to provide recreational activities. Cabin1.7 mi to Nantahala Lake 4 BR Lakefront Home with Private Dock, Secluded Cove, Fire Pit Sleeps 124 bedrooms7 beds Exceptional! The lake is home to a variety of fish species, including bass, walleye, catfish, trout and panfish. Pattons Run, the first rapid just around the corner from the put-in, sometimes gives beginners a hard time. Franklin NC Chamber of CommerceSite map. Many anglers enjoy fishing the Nantahala reservoir due to the low number of boaters and the breathtaking scenery. Get all the fishing intel you need to start catching more, and bigger, fish. Trout can be found near shoreline structure such as rocks and undercut banks using live bait or spinners. Dale is a retired Park Ranger, and worked for 13 years for the National Park Service in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park as a certified boating instructor and a Wildlife Technician. Directions, Rocky Branch Boat Ramp Youll find the best fishing during the other spring months, thanks to abundant hatches of midges, mayflies, and caddisflies, among others. 306 Thunderstruck Rd, Nantahala, NC You can purchase a North Carolina state fishing license and learn about the most current regulations through the North Carolina Wildlife Resources Commission. Our cabins and yurts sit amongst the natural beauty of Nantahala National Forest and the Great Smoky Mountains. Anyone interested in fishing Nantahala Lake or waters within the wider area around Maryville should consult with local resources before heading out to fish. From MURPHY, take US 64W for 8 miles. 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. A float plan is needed: A float plan is as simple as telling a. Fishing in Cayuga Lake is a great way to spend a day in the Finger Lakes region of New York. The cookie is used to store the user consent for the cookies in the category "Performance". With 42 miles of shoreline, the lake offers recreational opportunities at Nantahala that include swimming, boating, skiing, and many other activities. If you store your boat outside and havent checked up on her lately, Boat Owners Association of The United States (BoatUS) has five tips for a midwinter, What Every Boater Wants for the Holidays: 24/7 On-Water Assistance from TowBoatUS, Gadgets may make good holiday gifts. . Check out our Fishing Times tab to determine when the fish will be most active. The Nantahala has two different sections for trout fishing. Get directions to access points, boat ramps, and real-time USGS stream flow data. 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. Navajo Lake is a popular spot for fishing in the Four Corners region of the United States. If you want a little help finding the sweet spots on the water, consider using a fishing guide from the Nantahala area. As the only lake in the South with a population of kokanee salmon, Lake Nantahala is a unique fishery in these parts. Wayah Bald Resident Licenses The lake was created in 1942 by Nantahala Power to provide electricity for war efforts. Wayah Crest Trailhead Loop via National Forest Road and Wayah Road DIFFICULT 37.0 mi 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. Nantahala Lake - 14 min walk Appalachian Rivers Raft Company - 18 min drive Wilson Lick Ranger Station - 21 min drive Queens Creek Lake - 24 min drive Wayah Bald Lookout - 30 min drive Restaurants Lakes End Marina - 1 min walk Lakes End Roofing Fire Ant Grill - 8 min drive About this property Entire place 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. document.getElementById( "ak_js_1" ).setAttribute( "value", ( new Date() ).getTime() ); By subscribing you agree to receive newsletters and email promotions from us. Sleeps 8 3 bedrooms 5 beds. The upper part of the river is home to a number of creeks and streams that are part of the wild trout waters program and are managed by the Forest Service as such. . This lake is known for its deep, cold waters and offers a wide variety of fish species, such as walleye, smallmouth bass, northern pike, and muskellunge.