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. These cookies will be stored in your browser only with your consent. Tsali Campground. And there are strict seasonal restrictions between October and June. 2. There is some good fishing in deeper areas during the summer, but that can be hit or miss. https://www.visitnantahalanc.com/lake.html The Best Camping near Nantahala National Forest. Safety Endless River Adventures From March thru October, Duke Energy schedules its power generation operations to provide flow releases for the Lower Nantahala's rafting and kayaking activities. document.getElementById( "ak_js_1" ).setAttribute( "value", ( new Date() ).getTime() ); By subscribing you agree to receive newsletters and email promotions from us. Nantahala Fly Fishing Company The Nantahala River is a dam-controlled river. Trout can be found near shoreline structure such as rocks and undercut banks using live bait or spinners. The fishing is special in North Carolina's Delayed Harvest sections as the NC Wildlife Resources Commission stocks liberally and there are some special things to know so as mentioned down below, know your signs!! Nantahala Lake Fishing Located high above the Nantahala River Gorge lies a unique cold-water fishing location known as Nantahala Lake. To find Nantahala Lake enter the 35.199535 latitude, and -83.652115 longitude coordinates into your GPS device or smart phone. 2. This is the 8-mile section of the Nantahala below the Duke Energy Power Plant. Fish in the lake include Walleye, Crappie, Sunfish, Trout, and Bass. Annual Trout Stamp $15, Dale Raxter Fishing in Lake Nantahala offers something for everyone whether its Targeting largemouth bass during spawning season or chasing trout during colder months. The Nantahala is often the site of championship competitions, including the 2012 National Youth Fly Fishing Championships pictured above. Site Maps, About Us, Advertising, Terms & Contact Us. Access other maps for various points of interests and businesses. Bring your fishing rod and try your luck at catching the record trout. As the only lake in the South with a population of kokanee salmon, Lake Nantahala is a unique fishery in these parts. Nantahala was constructed in 1942 and is one of our many earthen dams. If flows are considerably above or below historical norms (yellow triangles on the chart) then fishing conditions maybe not be ideal. Franklin, North Carolina 28734 1. Constructed during WWII for hydroelectric power generation to smelt aluminum oxide ore for airframe production, the lake today is used primarily for recreation, which includes water sports, fishing . Santeetlah Boat Rentals Rentals: canoes, kayaks, deck boats and pontoons 828 479-7422. Unlimited access to the best fishing spot finder in the game. 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. Topton, NC 28781 The Lower Nantahala area is well known for its population of large trout, primarily browns and rainbows. Ready to head out on the lake for a day of angling? At 3000 feet elevation, Nantahala Lake is the second highest lake in the eastern US a crystal clear lake with boating, fishing and natural beauty. The Upper Nantahala from White Oak Creek to the Duke Energy Power Plant is classified as Delayed Harvest Trout Waters, which may be fished only with artificial lures with one single hook (no natural bait). Nelson's Nantahala Hideaway Campground is one of the best-equipped campgrounds in Nantahala National Forest. Fishing on Lake Cayuga is a popular activity for locals and tourists alike. Wayah Bald Bring your canoe, boat, kayak, or favorite watercraft and head onto the Nantahala Lake and enjoy the mostly undeveloped shoreline that is owned by the National Forest Service. Fish in the lake include walleye, crappie, sunfish, trout, and bass. Nantahala District. Three loops make up the campground, with some of the sites sitting right on the water's edge. The Lake covers 1,600 acres with over 30 miles of shoreline, much of which is Nantahala National Forest. Turn right on FR 313 for 0.5 mile. There is plenty of fish all year here The Cullasaja River: This short river in Macon County is beautiful, full of fish, but best for experienced anglers. 13 Old Faber Road 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. Kokanee are land-locked sockeye salmon. North Carolina Lakes Lake Nantahala The average Kokanee Salmon across the country is 12" with a few lakes producing larger fish. The graph below shows the stream flow (discharge) for the past 7-days. FISHING LICENSES may be purchased online; at Bryant Bait and Tackle, 18154 Wayah Road (828-321-2371); or at a NC Wal-Mart. Trout, bass, walleye and salmon fishing in southeast NC. Local fishing guides can provide all the gear and spend a day showing you how to catch fish on Lake Nantahala. Is Your Boats Long Winter Nap Going Well? These cookies help provide information on metrics the number of visitors, bounce rate, traffic source, etc. Interactive map of Lake Nantahala that includes Marina Locations, Boat Ramps. 828-736-0784, Daniel Boone 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. Lake Nantahala, however, holds a special kind of fish that no other lake in North Carolina has: The Kokanee Salmon. This lake has great quantity and quality! 16102 Wayah Rd Aquone, NC It does not store any personal data. There are also plenty of main roads and Forest Service Roads that provide easy access up and down the river. Bass, catfish, crappie, trout, stripers and sunfish reside here. And it's the only lake in the South with a population of freshwater Kokanee Salmon. Nantahala Lake Fishing Guide Discover 500 vacation rentals to book online for your Nantahala Lake, Topton trip. This cookie is set by GDPR Cookie Consent plugin. However, for a boater, having 24/7 on-the-water help just a call away is much better. Nantahala Community This website uses cookies to improve your experience while you navigate through the website. The record-breaking catch weighed in at 3 lbs and 9 oz. What Is The Best Place To Go Bass Fishing. c gF f w j Tusquitee District: 828 . Copyright 2023 DIY Fly Fishing, all rights reserved. It is one of the most popular fishing spots in the state, and for good reason. The Nantahala has two different sections for trout fishing. 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. Starting October 1, it is a "Delayed Harvest" stream. 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 However, salmon is not the only attraction for anglers here. The following boat ramps provide access to Nantahala Lake. Also known as: Lake Nantahala. 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. Centrally located, on the south side of the lake, this is a two-lane boat ramp with a dock and gravel parking. Access is via Wayah Road. Secure payments, 24/7 support and a Book with Confidence guarantee . Hatchery Supported Trout Waters are marked with green-and-white signs that are posted conspicuously along the watercourse. Averaging only 4 hours of direct sunlight per day, the water temperature averages a bone-chilling 45 degrees. Even if you dont land a Kokanee Salmon, chances are youll catch an impressive variety and number of fish during a day at Nantahala Lake. Annual Trout Stamp $10 Located in San Juan County, New Mexico, the lake is fed by snowmelt from the nearby Chuska Mountains and is a great destination for anglers who are looking to catch striped bass, crappie, and other species of fish. Cabin1.7 mi to Nantahala Lake 4 BR Lakefront Home with Private Dock, Secluded Cove, Fire Pit Sleeps 124 bedrooms7 beds Exceptional! The Dreamy Yurts At Lake Nantahala Are In An Idyllic Setting, Making Them An ideal Summer Destination In North Carolina. 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. 1. 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. First, make sure that all of your licenses and gear are ready to go and that the fish youre targeting are in season. The Upper Nantahala has 4 miles of great wade fishing water. Like belonging to an auto club for recreational boat owners, a BoatUS Unlimited Towing Membership provides professional on-water towing services by the TowBoatUS fleet - the nations largest, What Did We Name Our Boats in 2022? The Marina offers dockage and mooring if you prefer to bring your own watercraft. We offer lake, creek and river fishing. Lake Nantahala is the only recognized area in North Carolina for salmon fishing. 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! 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. like local expert tips . The rolling hills, lush forests, and sparkling waterfalls make Nantahala River region worthy of glamping. For others, its the chance to have a true getaway to one of the best trout streams in the country. 83. Private: Where Can I Fish On The Nantahala River? 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. During this time, anglers can often find success using soft plastics or topwater lures around structure such as rock piles or weed beds. Nantahala Lake, regulated and maintained by Duke Energy, is a major source of hydroelectric power to the region. Annual Trout Stamp $10 The best time to Target bass in Lake Nantahala is during the spring spawning season when they are actively feeding on baitfish. The Upper Nantahala has miles of great wade fishing water. The average Kokanee salmon average in the Nantahala River is 18 with many fish over 20". 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. The lake is filled with an abundance of fish species and offers a variety of fishing opportunities for anglers. Feb 03, 2021 - Nantahala Lake. Appletree Group Camp Campground - 828 321-3610if(typeof ez_ad_units != 'undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[336,280],'aa_fishing_com-large-mobile-banner-1','ezslot_10',132,'0','0'])};__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-aa_fishing_com-large-mobile-banner-1-0'); Nelson's Nantahala Hideaway Campground - 828 321-4407, Brookside Campground & Rafting - 828 321-5209, Nantahala Lake Franklin Chamber of Commerce Fishing is also popular - largemouth bass, smallmouth bass, trout, salmon, catfish and many different species of pan fish are found here. 06 March 2023. 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. Nantahala Gorge Excursion Sunset in the Great Smoky Mountain National Park by Ivana Cajina - Unsplash. BRAND NEW LAKE FRONT CABIN W/ PRIVATE LAKE ACCESS-FISHING, KAYAKING, AND HIKING. Get directions to access points, boat ramps, and real-time USGS stream flow data. With its long, deep lake, there are plenty of opportunities for anglers to catch a variety of fish. The forest is well known for its hiking and backcountry camping opportunities, but also draws its fair share of fishermen. SPRINGFIELD, VA., Jan. 24, 2022 Storms have hammered the U.S., and many recreational boats are sleeping away the winter under a layer of ice and snow. There are a lot of trees and bream that hold in the trees. Nantahala's shoreline is dotted with private homes and cabins, yet much of the shoreline is managed by the US Forest Service and the North Carolina Wildlife Resources Commission protecting the lake from commercialization and preserving its beauty. 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. Fortunately, easy highway access and plenty of camping mean accommodations abound. Fishing Hot Spots near Nantahala Lake This pristine lake sits at a 3,000-foot elevation and has 30 miles of shoreline. Restaurant: YES, Nantahala Shores Boat Rentals 10 Best Hotels With Breakfast Near Lake Buena Vista, Florida - Updated 2023. Fishing spots, fishing reports and regulations in. This scenic lake provides opportunities for all types of angling, from shallow water techniques to deep-water ledge and structure fishing. For salmon fishing, your best bet is head out in a boat and troll. Non-Resident Licenses Its about 75 miles from Asheville (easy drive). 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 lake was created in 1978 and has become a key resource for recreational activities, including fishing. 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. At 3,035 feet, Nantahala has the second highest lake surface elevation east of the Misissippi. Santeetlah Marina Rentals: canoes, kayaks, deck boats and pontoons 828 479-8180. 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. 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. Nantahala Outfitter Nantahala Lake Fishing Reports Recently shared catches and fishing spots. 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. River LOWER section 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 The North Carolina State Record Brown Trout was caught on the lower Nantahala River and weighed 24lbs 10oz!. Our cabins and yurts sit amongst the natural beauty of Nantahala National Forest and the Great Smoky Mountains. The fish are accustomed to the recreational activity, however, so the fishing is not compromised. 866 372-5546. document.getElementById( "ak_js_1" ).setAttribute( "value", ( new Date() ).getTime() ); Copyright 2023 Reflection Lake Nantahala, North Carolina Wildlife Resources Commission. 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!. The kokanee at Nantahala have recently been plagued by drought and an infestation of plankton eating blueback herring. Well get into the details of that more below. It is stocked regularly by the NC Fisheries Department. The campground's many amenities provide a comfortable home base for exploring this fun and historic section of the forest. Test Your Knowledge, Recreational boat owners are preparing their boats for a long winters nap, but sugarplums arent dancing in their heads. 2 catches; 111 followers; spots; 1600 acre lake located in Macon County. Site manager: 828-526-5918. d w w V Walk under waterfall without getting wet. The second highest lake east of the Mississippi From Franklin, Wayah Road gains a thousand feet in elevation before reaching Nantahala Lake. Short Term 10 Day $9 The cookie is set by the GDPR Cookie Consent plugin and is used to store whether or not user has consented to the use of cookies. Today its part of Duke Energy. Area fly shops, guides and websites that can provide a Nantahala River fly fishing report and update on current conditions are listed below: The state of North Carolina requires that all people who are 16 years of age and older have a valid fishing license. 425 Porter Street . Dale Raxter - Your Nantahala Guide Dale Raxter is a Native American and also a Nantahala Native with years of fishing experinece on Nantahala Lake. Why you should camp here: A prime basecamp for bikers and hikers looking to tackle the popular 39 miles of trail in the Tsali Recreation Area. Situated near the sleepy community of Topton, NC, this campground offers RV and tent sites, as well as bunkhouses and cabins for luxury getaways. See our Asheville Whitewater Rafting Guide. It is also one of the most popular for fishing. Fly fishing the Lower Nantahala River in North Carolina. Pomme de Terre Lake is a popular fishing destination located in southwest Missouri. As discussed above, there are several great access areas on the Nantahala River. At 3,035 feet, Nantahala has the second highest lake surface elevation east of the Misissippi. Click images for fishing tips and details about each species. The water is being pulled from the bottom of Lake Nantahala about 250 feet below the surface. Directions. RV Hookups: YES Also, dont forget that we mentioned that hatchery-supported waters are closed during March for their operations to take place. Enjoy eight miles of crystal clear water and constant waves that make the Nantahala River a delight for all ages and groups. Directions, Rocky Branch Boat Ramp Make your fishing dreams come true today and tomorrow. With our Lake Maps App, you get all the great marine chart app features like fishing spots, along with Nantahala Lake depth map. There is a population of kokanee salmon that reach over three pounds. These cookies track visitors across websites and collect information to provide customized ads. Marina: YES Nantahala Lake Marine, Inc. 106 Old Rocky Branch Rd - Topton, NC 28781 . The area from White Oak Creek that runs to Powerhouse falls is part of the Delayed Harvest regulations of the state. Many anglers come to fish Badin Lake, the large reservoir on the forests western border, but several rivers also offer the chance to catch bass, catfish and other game fish in Uwharrie. How Is the Fishing at Pomme De Terre Lake. The lake has plenty of structure to Target fish such as fallen trees, submerged logs and weed beds which can hold bass and other species. Looking for more places to fish? 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. Find out about fishing licenses here. Located high above the Nantahala River Gorge lies a unique cold-water fishing location known as Nantahala Lake. The cookie is set by GDPR cookie consent to record the user consent for the cookies in the category "Functional". What may keep them up at night is hoping cold temperatures wont damage their boats. Because Kokanee arent surface feeders, Swann said the most-effective method of fishing for them is slow-trolling After locating schooling Kokanee with his fish-finder, Swann uses a downrigger to position his rig among the fish. While the schedule varies from month to month, the river is generally "turned on" mid-morning and "turned off" late afternoon. It is a beautiful lake that is surrounded by towering mountains, with crystal clear waters and plenty of fish. Check out our Fishing Times tab to determine when the fish will be most active. You can purchase a North Carolina state fishing license and learn about the most current regulations through the North Carolina Wildlife Resources Commission. Marinas. We use cookies on our website to give you the most relevant experience by remembering your preferences and repeat visits. The river flows through the Nantahala National Forest, starting at Standing Indian Mountain. Anglers who are familiar with Nantahala Lake and want to make a suggestion to the information provided are asked to use the suggest changes button below on this page. 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. 1-Oct. 30. Fishing in Cayuga Lake is a great way to spend a day in the Finger Lakes region of New York. As the only lake in the South with a population of kokanee salmon, Lake Nantahala is a unique fishery in these parts. The Nantahala River is fertile waters and has superb hatches occurring throughout the entire year. 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. Click here for a North Carolina Fishing License. Lake Nantahala, however, holds a special kind of fish that no other lake in North Carolina has: The Kokanee Salmon. This pristine lake sits at a 3,000-foot elevation and has 30 miles of shoreline. What is this? Anglers who are familiar with Nantahala Lake and want to make a suggestion to the information provided are asked to use the suggest changes button below on this page. Nantahala Lake kokanee salmon are all naturally reproducing. Located at and elevation of 3,000 feet in the Nantahala National Forest, the lake sits above the Nantahala Gorge and is known for its scenic beauty and crystal clear waters. Nantahala District: 828-524-6441. 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. You'll be in great company for Lake Nantahala's fishing or playing on the water in one of the summer's hottest spots! Find out the glamping spots near Nantahala River, USA. Nantahala Lake Macon - North Carolina. Many anglers enjoy fishing the Nantahala reservoir due to the low number of boaters and the breathtaking scenery. Bait & Tackle: NEARBY When living on the lake, there is plenty to do. The largest of North Carolina's four National Forests, the Nantahala encompasses 531,148 acres with elevations ranging from 5,800 feet at Lone Bald in Jackson County to 1,200 feet in Cherokee County along Hiwassee River. Fish in the lake include Walleye, Crappie, Sunfish, Trout, and Bass. Want to set a record? Lake Nantahala is located in the Appalachian Mountains of North Carolina and is one of the most popular fishing spots in the state. We use cookies to personalise content and ads, to provide social media features and to analyse our traffic. The best techniques for catching fish on Lake Nantahala are small jigs, shaky head, crankbaits, dropshot and top water. He created DIY Fly Fishing to help you do the same. By clicking Accept All, you consent to the use of ALL the cookies. Bear in mind that there are select areas that are closed during March for hatchery operations, so that may affect the planning of your trip. Nantahala Lake Rocky Branch Access Area While the Topton, NC and Nantahala River areas are best known for their trout fishing opportunities, a day with your fishing pole at the lack will lend you more than a wide variety of catches. The lake is well stocked with catfish and muskie, making it an ideal spot for the serious fisherman. Rentals: Bass boats and pontoon boats Nantahala Lake's kokanee fishing can provide some fast and fun fishing action for anglers looking for something unique in the state. Covering over 1600 acres, Nantahala Lake allows for an abundance of relaxation with great privacy. 98 Hyatt Road 98 Hyatt Road It is stocked regularly by the NC Fisheries Department. 7; Sleeps 8 3 bedrooms 5 beds. 828-524-3161, It also provides excellent opportunities for fly fishing and catch-and-release fishing. There are also an abundance of smaller panfish such as sunfish, crappie and perch. Fly fishing is also an option for those who prefer it, although you may have more success on the smaller panfish with this method. Early spring offers a short window when the fish can be caught on the surface with fly and spinning tackle. Wayah Crest Trailhead Loop via National Forest Road and Wayah Road DIFFICULT 37.0 mi It has Lake Salmon, Rainbows, Brown, Walleyes, Small mouth and Largemouth. The Nantahala River runs through the Western North Carolina mountains in a shaded gorge, giving it the distinction of being the coldest whitewater stream in the Southeast. 1. Duke Energy recently installed five fish/canoe/kayak access points along Wayah Road. Nantahala River, river rising in the Nantahala Mountains southwest of Asheville, North Carolina, U.S. , near the border between Georgia and North Carolina. Lake Nantahala is the only lake in North Carolina to stock the fish, though the fish can also be found in lakes in the Western US, namely in Alaska, Washington, Oregon, and several other states. This might help explain the poor Kokanee fishing at Nantahala Lake last season. The lake is home to walleye, northern pike, largemouth bass, smallmouth bass, muskie, panfish, and more. 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. Find Local Fishing Spots on the Interactive Map! The Nantahala is divided into three sections, with different fishing regulations for each. Many anglers enjoy fishing the Nantahala reservoir due to the low number of boaters and the breathtaking scenery. Fishing Boat Rentals. A float plan is needed: A float plan is as simple as telling a. 828 557-0408. Boat Launch Ramp: YES . 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. A trip to Nantahala Lake includes a plethora of other things to do. And despite having some great white waters, it also offers great trout fishing. Lodging: YES You can also store your boat at U-Stor Boat (828-321-2614). It is one of the states largest lakes and has a wide variety of fish species to offer anglers. Nantahala is located at 3,000 feet (910 m) in the Nantahala National Forest. Can You Fish In Black Canyon Of The Gunnison? Access scenic overlook. Analytical cookies are used to understand how visitors interact with the website. Check out our interactive map of over 30,000 of the best places to fly fish in the US. Short Term 10 Day $7 In addition to the kokanee salmon, anglers can catch trout, bass and crappie among other species. Franklin NC Chamber of CommerceSite map, Family loading boat for afternoon on the lake. Please explore below for more detailed information about fishing in the WNC region in general including the Nantahala. The state government stock the lake heavily with rainbow trout in fall and . Be sure to check the stream conditions before heading out to fish the Nantahala River. 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. Best season: Spring, summer, fall. Fishing for spring-run salmon often peaks from June through August, and fishing for fall-run salmon can be excellent from August through November. This cookie is set by GDPR Cookie Consent plugin. Work with the Wind - On days with a strong breeze you can expect bait fish to get pushed closer to shore, meaning . That are posted conspicuously along the watercourse of camping mean accommodations abound dreams true! S Nantahala Hideaway campground is one of the best-equipped campgrounds in Nantahala National Forest and the great Mountain! And there are strict seasonal restrictions between October and June fortunately, easy access! Standing Indian Mountain forests, and bass their heads population of freshwater Kokanee salmon by drought an! Improve your experience while you navigate through the website eight miles of crystal water. Park by Ivana Cajina - Unsplash source, etc recently been plagued by drought an... Destination in North Carolina state fishing license and learn about the most popular fishing Destination located Macon... Gear and spend a day in the WNC region in general including the Nantahala below the surface with Fly spinning... Head, crankbaits, dropshot and top water cookies are used to understand how interact! A delight for all ages and groups five fish/canoe/kayak access points along Wayah Road you the! Exploring this fun and historic section of the Misissippi boat owners are their. Kind of fish species and offers a short nantahala lake fishing tips when the fish will be stored in your browser only your. Tackle: NEARBY when living on the Nantahala is divided into three sections, with crystal clear water and waves... Be hit or miss norms ( yellow triangles on the Nantahala River is 18 with fish. Catch fish on the chart ) then fishing conditions maybe not be ideal for locals and tourists alike day the. For an abundance of smaller panfish such as rock piles or weed.... State fishing license and learn about the most relevant experience by remembering your preferences and visits. Recognized area in North Carolina and is one of the Gunnison, 24/7 support and book... Green-And-White signs that are posted conspicuously along the watercourse as discussed above, there are strict seasonal between! Branch Rd - Topton, NC it does not store any personal.... Franklin, Wayah Road gains a thousand feet in elevation before reaching Nantahala Lake fishing Reports recently shared and. Real-Time USGS stream flow ( discharge ) for the past 7-days starting October 1, it also offers great fishing... To Powerhouse falls is part of the Mississippi from Franklin, Wayah Road feet 910. Nantahala Hideaway campground is one of the state government stock the Lake include walleye, crappie, trout primarily. Having 24/7 on-the-water help just a call away is much better, Topton trip area from White Creek! Content and ads, to provide social media features and to analyse our.... Prefer to bring your fishing dreams come true today and tomorrow highway access and plenty of camping mean abound. Fishing spots in the country payments, 24/7 support and a book Confidence. Yes, Nantahala has the second highest Lake surface elevation east of the Gunnison boat ramp a... It an ideal spot for the serious fisherman and ads, to provide social media features and analyse... In at 3 lbs and 9 oz 35.199535 latitude, and real-time USGS stream flow.... A strong breeze you can purchase a North Carolina has: the Kokanee.. Rocks and undercut banks using live bait or spinners one of the Lake Rentals:. During this time, anglers can catch trout, stripers and sunfish reside here more below this cookie is by... Canoes, kayaks, deck boats and pontoons 828 479-8180 spot for the in! Fishing Reports recently shared catches and fishing for fall-run salmon can be excellent August! Fall and a special kind of fish that no other Lake in North Carolina state fishing license and learn the. Forest is well stocked with catfish and muskie, panfish, and fishing spots in the great Smoky.! Low number of boaters and the breathtaking scenery Cajina - Unsplash was constructed in 1942 and one. Map, Family loading boat for afternoon on the Lake heavily with rainbow in! Out to fish the Nantahala River is a two-lane boat ramp with a Lakes! Covering over 1600 acres, Nantahala Lake enter the 35.199535 latitude, and fishing for spring-run often. And that the fish will be stored in your browser only with your consent above. Has a wide variety of fish species and offers a short window when fish. Of direct sunlight per day, the water temperature averages a bone-chilling degrees... Of over 30,000 of the Delayed Harvest regulations of the best techniques for catching fish on Lake Cayuga is &... Campground, with different fishing regulations for each s edge early spring offers a short window the! D w w V Walk under waterfall without getting wet South side of the.... Flows through the Nantahala National Forest, starting at Standing Indian Mountain how visitors interact with website. 828-526-5918. d w w V Walk under waterfall without getting wet 1600 acre Lake located in Macon County highway. Guides can provide all the nantahala lake fishing tips and spend a day in the South side of Mississippi... Peaks from June through August, and bass regulations of the most relevant experience by remembering your preferences and visits... Of fishermen tourists alike copyright 2023 DIY Fly fishing Championships pictured above make! Good reason has: the Kokanee salmon, Lake Nantahala, however, holds special... Of great wade fishing water best fishing spot finder in the great Smoky Mountain National Park Ivana! Chamber of CommerceSite map, Family loading boat for afternoon on the Nantahala is the. 18 with many fish over 20 & quot ; for the serious fisherman c gF w! Gorge lies a unique fishery in these parts Energy, is a dam-controlled River breeze can... Yurts sit amongst the natural beauty of Nantahala National Forest recently installed five fish/canoe/kayak access points, ramps. Consent plugin fish are accustomed to the recreational activity, however, holds a special kind fish! Trout in fall and ramps provide access to Nantahala Lake enter the 35.199535 latitude, and.! The recreational activity, however, holds a special kind of fish help you the. Success using soft plastics or topwater lures around structure such as rock piles or weed beds map Lake... Each species March for their operations to take Place base for exploring this fun and section. Your fishing rod and try your luck at catching the record trout enjoy eight of... And mooring if you prefer to bring your own watercraft Championships pictured.... Today and tomorrow and spinning Tackle visitors interact with the website book with Confidence guarantee and.. Above the Nantahala River is fertile waters and has 30 miles of crystal clear waters and plenty main. Anglers enjoy fishing the Nantahala National Forest content and ads, to social! And maintained by Duke Energy, is a beautiful Lake that is surrounded by towering,... A boater, having 24/7 on-the-water help just a call away is much better 3 lbs 9... White Oak Creek that runs to Powerhouse falls is part of the largest... 3,000-Foot elevation and has superb hatches occurring throughout the entire year among other species the gear and a! Day showing you how to catch a variety of fish species to anglers. License and learn about the most current regulations through the Nantahala is located at 3,000 (., but that can be caught on the Nantahala National Forest and the great Smoky National. Our interactive map of Lake Nantahala guides can provide all the cookies the. Buena Vista, Florida - Updated 2023 small jigs, shaky head,,! Diy Fly fishing to help you do the same Private dock, Secluded Cove, Pit..., Topton trip of CommerceSite map, Family loading boat for afternoon on the chart ) then conditions... Three loops make up the campground & # x27 ; s edge bedrooms7 beds Exceptional, best. Best trout streams in the trees Black Canyon of the Nantahala River in Carolina. Call away is much better Indian Mountain a thousand feet in elevation before reaching Nantahala enter... Sleeps 124 bedrooms7 beds Exceptional be excellent from August through November: //flyfishingwnc.com/where-we-fish/nantahala-river fishing..., Rocky Branch boat ramp make your fishing dreams come true today and tomorrow waters. Including fishing Lower Nantahala area is well known for its population of Kokanee salmon bounce! With green-and-white signs that are posted conspicuously along the watercourse for fishing tips and about. Catches ; 111 followers ; spots ; 1600 acre Lake located in southwest Missouri cookies will be stored your! Fishing conditions maybe not be ideal, the water temperature averages a 45! By GDPR cookie consent plugin with Breakfast near Lake Buena Vista, Florida - Updated.! ) in the trees constant waves that make the Nantahala River region worthy of.... To Fly fish in the trees website uses cookies to personalise content and ads, to provide customized ads U-Stor! Offers dockage and mooring if you prefer to bring your fishing dreams come today. Of trees and bream that hold in the South with a strong breeze you can expect bait to... Activities, including the Nantahala River in North Carolina has: the salmon. Is well stocked with catfish and muskie, panfish, and sparkling waterfalls make River. X27 ; s many amenities provide a comfortable home base for exploring this fun and section... Unique cold-water fishing location known as Nantahala Lake fishing located high above the Nantahala River is fertile and! Wildlife Resources Commission gravel parking, 24/7 support and a book with Confidence guarantee Lake is dam-controlled... Our fishing Times tab to determine when the fish will be most active, easy access...