2 catches; 111 followers; spots; 1600 acre lake located in Macon County. We recommend this stretch of the Nantahala River to the entire family and especially those who fly fish. Canoe and kayak fishing are popular here and there is thirty miles of shoreline, some of which can be accessed for shoreline fishing. 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. First on the list of our fishing tips is to start by gathering a rod and reel that is easy enough to stow in your vehicle and a backpack to carry your lures and tools in. 2. Nantahala Lake Fishing Guide Freshwater expands in volume by about 9% when it freezes and can push outward with a force of, 3 Boating Safety Tips Just Right for Fall Boating, Fall boating season has arrived, and with it come different types of risks that cold water and air temperatures bring. He created DIY Fly Fishing to help you do the same. Get directions to fishing access points and real-time stream flow data with theDIY Fly Fishing Map. This is a very popular place to fish and for good reason - there are lots of fish here! BRAND NEW LAKE FRONT CABIN W/ PRIVATE LAKE ACCESS-FISHING, KAYAKING, AND HIKING. 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. Conclusion: The cookie is used to store the user consent for the cookies in the category "Other. A photo id is necessary to obtain a license. It is a beautiful lake that is surrounded by towering mountains, with crystal clear waters and plenty of fish. Advertisement cookies are used to provide visitors with relevant ads and marketing campaigns. The lake was created in 1942 by Nantahala Power to provide electricity for war efforts. Unlimited access to the best fishing spot finder in the game. All of our guides are top notch fishermen who I personally have fished with for years. Kokanee can be caught year round with the best fishing during the heat of the summer. We use cookies to personalise content and ads, to provide social media features and to analyse our traffic. Nantahala On The Fly 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. Ready to head out on the lake for a day of angling? Fishing for spring-run salmon often peaks from June through August, and fishing for fall-run salmon can be excellent from August through November. The Marina offers dockage and mooring if you prefer to bring your own watercraft. 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. In Lake Nantahala, you'll have the opportunity to catch trout, bass and catfish in the clear water of the lake. It is one of the most popular fishing spots in the state, and for good reason. Also known as: Lake Nantahala. The first one is located off Wayah Road on the east shore, and the second can be found on the west shore. Click here for a North Carolina Fishing License. A float plan is needed: A float plan is as simple as telling a. Ken is an avid fisherman of 40+ years who loves to explore and find new places to fish. Also on Wayah Road, the Lakes End Marina (828-321-3001), rents pontoons, fishing, and ski boats. That means single hook artificial, catch and release only fishing. Towns: Franklin, Sylva, Highlands, Cashiers. Fishing in Lake Nantahala offers something for everyone whether its Targeting largemouth bass during spawning season or chasing trout during colder months. The spectacular Nantahala Gorge, located in Nantahala National Forest , is one of Americas favorite playgrounds for outdoor enthusiasts. By the time youre done, youll be on your way to a perfect trip with ease. 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. Fishing Boat Rentals. 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 Lake also holds the distinction of being the only lake in the South where you can find freshwater Kokanee salmon. Nantahala Lake is located high above the Nantahala River Gorge at a 3,000-foot elevationa pristine and serene lake with just 30 miles of shoreline. Navajo Lake is a popular spot for fishing in the Four Corners region of the United States. Fly fishing is also an option for those who prefer it, although you may have more success on the smaller panfish with this method. If flows are considerably above or below historical norms (yellow triangles on the chart) then fishing conditions maybe not be ideal. Receive the newest fishing hot spots, adventures and tips directly to your inbox. Kyle Pack. 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. We offer lake, creek and river fishing. Most residents are friendly, but still dont like unannounced guests on their property, after all. The Nantahala, or "Nanty," as locals call it, is a class II-III river kayaks, canoes and rafts are the vessels of choice. There are two public boat launching areas the Rocky Branch ramp is on the east shore just off Wayah Road and the Choga public access area is on the west shore. Analytical cookies are used to understand how visitors interact with the website. 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. The Nantahala River has two different sections for trout fishing. 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!! The rolling hills, lush forests, and sparkling waterfalls make Nantahala River region worthy of glamping. Endless River Adventures The lake is regulated and maintained by Duke Power Company. Lake Meredith is a popular fishing destination located in the Texas Panhandle. There is an unpaved service road, Forest Road 67, which follows the stream for about six miles from Mooney Falls. 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. The campground's many amenities provide a comfortable home base for exploring this fun and historic section of the forest. Fishing can be from the shoreline or by boat Fishing from canoes and kayaks is popular at the lake. Lake Nantahala is located in the Appalachian Mountains of North Carolina and is one of the most popular fishing spots in the state. And despite having some great white waters, it also offers great trout fishing. Apr. There are resident and non-resident sport fishing licenses available. 4.8/5 . Best season: Spring, summer, fall. 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. Nantahala Lake Fishing Guide: Big Smallmouth! This lake is deep, cold, artificial and pristine, comprising about 1600 acres of flooded valleys in the Nantahala River basin and local tributaries. 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) Franklin Area Chamber of Commerce 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. Secure payments, 24/7 support and a Book with Confidence guarantee . Find Local Fishing Spots on the Interactive Map! In addition to the kokanee salmon, anglers can catch trout, bass and crappie among other species. The Upper Nantahala's flow is completely separate and is unaffected by Duke Energy's releases. The pristine beauty of the lake and clean nature of the water make it a site of exceptional natural splendor for visitors to the area and lake residents. If you need fishing tackle, or are looking for a fishing guide or fishing charter please visit Tackle, Guides, Charters Jarret Creek and Buck Creek, near the lake, both have a great selection of wild rainbows for those who want a quiet shallow stream that isnt part of the main river for a slower pace. In fact, the Nantahala River is listed in Trout Unlimited's Guide to America's 100 Best Trout Streams. https://www.middletennesseeflyfishers.org/nantahala-river.html The forest is well known for its hiking and backcountry camping opportunities, but also draws its fair share of fishermen. https://perfectflystore.com/your-streams/fly-fishing-the-nantahala-river-in-north-carolina/ Lake Nantahala is the only recognized area in North Carolina for salmon fishing. The Nantahala has two different sections for trout fishing. I understand that everyone has different physical capabilities and limitations. Find out the glamping spots near Nantahala River, USA. It flows 40 miles (64 km) north through Nantahala National Forest. Below White Oak Creek and continuing about 4 miles to the powerhouse, the Nantahala River is designated as delayed-harvest waters. This cookie is set by GDPR Cookie Consent plugin. Early spring offers a short window when the fish can be caught on the surface with fly and spinning tackle. Franklin Area Chamber of Commerce Be sure to check with the North Carolina fishing regulations before you plan a trip. The lake has a wide variety of fish, from smallmouth bass and largemouth bass to yellow perch and rainbow trout. Every fall, the salmon run up from lake Nantahala, up the Nantahala River , finally ending in the Standing Indian Wilderness Area. From March thru October, Duke Energy schedules its power generation operations to provide flow releases for the Lower Nantahala's rafting and kayaking activities. Short Term 10 Day $7 The river is stocked by the state of north carolina but also has a very good population of native trout The Nantahala is divided into three sections, with different fishing regulations for each. For your stay, rent a mountain top cabin from Cherokee Mountain Cabins and experience the magical sunrises that will leave you speechless or stay Creekside in a cozy Yurt . Coverage includes Nantahala National Forest - Nantahala and Cullasaja Gorges area. I have marked large bait balls in the lake. Search specifically along the areas of the river discussed here for the best fishing. Nantahala Lake is the clearest lake I guide on and there are some houses and boat docks. Campsite type: Tent, RV, car camping. Situated near the sleepy community of Topton, NC, this campground offers RV and tent sites, as well as bunkhouses and cabins for luxury getaways. Learn the processes and strategies successful entrepreneur's employ to achieve and maintain top search engine rankings. The weed beds that lead to deeper water and create a break line are typically the best. Big largemouth and smallmouth rule these waters and can be caught shallow and deep! Lake Minnetonka is a popular destination for recreational fishing, located just outside of Minneapolis, Minnesota. 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!. Cabin1.7 mi to Nantahala Lake 4 BR Lakefront Home with Private Dock, Secluded Cove, Fire Pit Sleeps 124 bedrooms7 beds Exceptional! Nantahala Fly Fishing Company North Carolina Dept. 3. 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. 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. 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. Dale Raxter - Your Nantahala Guide Dale Raxter is a Native American and also a Nantahala Native with years of fishing experinece on Nantahala Lake. There is a lot to love about a good fly fishing trip, but what makes a trip good? Click images for fishing tips and details about each species. Bass are the most sought-after species, as they can be found year-round in the lakes depths. 7; Phone 828-321-BOAT (2628) Off Lake Nantahala (1/4 mile from Old Rocky Branch Boat Launch) Copyright 2023 DIY Fly Fishing, all rights reserved. The Upper Nantahala has miles of great wade fishing water. During this time, anglers can often find success using soft plastics or topwater lures around structure such as rock piles or weed beds. 16102 Wayah Rd Aquone, NC However, for a boater, having 24/7 on-the-water help just a call away is much better. This river is popular for whitewater activities, so make sure that youre not looking to those areas for your fly fishing destination. Nantahala is one of those lakes. Fish in the lake include walleye, crappie, sunfish, trout, and bass. Anglers come from near and far to take advantage of the plentiful fish species that inhabit the lake. 2. Can You Keep Fish On The Fryingpan River? The cookie is set by GDPR cookie consent to record the user consent for the cookies in the category "Functional". Nantahala Community Franklin, North Carolina 28734 10 Day $12 Pattons Run, the first rapid just around the corner from the put-in, sometimes gives beginners a hard time. Nelson's Nantahala Hideaway Campground is one of the best-equipped campgrounds in Nantahala National Forest. https://diyflyfishing.com/nantahala-river-north-carolina/ For others, its the chance to have a true getaway to one of the best trout streams in the country. Enjoy eight miles of crystal clear water and constant waves that make the Nantahala River a delight for all ages and groups. 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. Find out about fishing licenses here. The Kokanee Salmon is a variety of sockeye salmon that lives in landlocked, freshwater bodies around the United States. Want to set a record? For salmon fishing, your best bet is head out in a boat and troll. It has Lake Salmon, Rainbows, Brown, Walleyes, Small mouth and Largemouth. Duke Energy's presence in Nantahala is evident from the large pipe on Old River Road that carries water directly from Nantahala Lake to the Duke Energy Hydroelectric Plant at the bottom of the mountain. This cookie is set by GDPR Cookie Consent plugin. Lake Nantahala also provides excellent opportunities for trout fishing during the colder months from late fall through early spring. Fish in the lake include Walleye, Crappie, Sunfish, Trout, and Bass. This cookie is set by GDPR Cookie Consent plugin. Annual Fee $22 Short Term 10 Day $9 Also, dont forget that we mentioned that hatchery-supported waters are closed during March for their operations to take place. 306 Thunderstruck Rd, Nantahala, NC Many anglers enjoy fishing the Nantahala reservoir due to the low number of boaters and the breathtaking scenery. Located high above the Nantahala River to the best trout Streams in the state for whitewater activities, make... Salmon can be caught year round with the best trout Streams season chasing... ; spots ; 1600 acre lake located in the country 's Guide to America 's best! The Lakes depths in North Carolina for salmon fishing, located in Macon County those... Or weed beds your best bet is head out on the west shore I have marked large bait in... Anglers can often find success using soft plastics or topwater lures around structure such rock. And serene lake with just 30 miles of crystal clear waters and can be caught year round the! 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And kayak fishing are popular here and there is a beautiful lake that is surrounded by towering,...