Rainbow and brown trout live in the river all year, with spring runs of walleye and white bass providing plenty of action before the smallmouth start showing up in mid-May. ), we were really thrilled to see what it looked like on the upstream side. The USGS measures and reports on many - not all - rivers across the state and there are independentgroups that monitor water flows as well but knowing the amount of water currently flowing down your favorite river and if it is increasing or decreasing will make or break your day. The Little Tennessee River, known locally as "The LT", it is a beautiful little river and has perfect habitat for smallmouth bass and other species. Trout Unlimited has also touted it as a Top 100 trout stream. The tactic that I primarily use is to go up river of the area I want to fish then let the current drift me down while using the trolling motor to correct my position. The gorge and its waterfalls can be accessed along US Highway 64/State Road 28 between Highlands and Franklin, NC, which is part of the Waterfall Byway. Both were amazing! I mostly fish ultralight spinning and light fly tackle for these feisty little game fish when I am looking for action and a few fish to fry up. It is a Native Fish Conservation Area which means you will spend a day floating the Little T and see very little that is man-made. Im sure that drifting a minnow, nightcrawler, or crayfish through the pools would produce smallmouth, however I just prefer using artificial lures and flies. It is also very accessible off of Needmore Road, which is a very nice hard-packed dirt road that parallels the river for many miles. The, measures and reports on many - not all - rivers across the state and there are, Your Guides will have rods, reels and flies and, with some advanced planning, waders. White Oak River. Our fly fishing guides here at Turning Stones Fly Fishing are always out on The Little Tennessee River throughout the summer months, keeping tabs on the action. The Little Tennessee River, known locally as The LT, it is a beautiful little river and has perfect habitat for smallmouth bass and other species. Your Guides will have everything you need but if you want to plan your trip or be prepared with your own favorites, NC Wildlife and Trout Unlimited offeraHatch Chart to help you with the insects that will be looking to imitate. Another attraction is the Little Tennessee River Greenway, a 6.1-mile out-and-back trail enjoyed by Franklin residents and tourists. 94% of travelers recommend this experience. Generally considered a moderately challenging route, it takes an average of 1 h 55 min to complete. We were on our honeymoon in Franklin, NC, and wanted to do something together that we hadn't done before. The loss of riparian habitat due to development has led to increased sedimentation and diminishing water quality through polluted runoff within the Little Tennessee River Basin. Jun 25, 2015Thirsty Thursdays at City Lights CafeSylva, NCCity Lights Cafe, Jul 2, 2015Thirsty Thursdays at City Lights CafeSylva, NCCity Lights Cafe, Jul 9, 2015Thirsty Thursdays at City Lights CafeSylva, NCCity Lights Cafe, Hiking & Backpacking | Siler Bald enlarge , Have Questions? It has smallmouth bass, crappie, largemouth bass, bluegill, red eye bass, walleye, brown trout, and steelhead in the late winter months! Fortunately, Smoky Mountain Blueways has 51 public access points mapped out on the upper watershed alone, including the Cheoah, Nantahala, Oconoluftee, Tuckasegee, and the Little Tennessee itself. Transylvania and Jackson. In conclusion, I hope this article on fishing the little Tennessee River in Franklin, North Carolina will help anglers understand the fishery and give this excellent and overlooked spot a try! American Rivers is prioritizing efforts on the Tuckasegee River, a significant tributary in the upper basin, focusing on restoration, recreation, and conservation opportunities surrounding the popular trout fishery. "For exceptional anglers and teachers, you won't find better than Turning Stone's. Imagine driving up to the East Outlet of the Kennebec River to fish a section that was shin deep last month to find that it is now over your head. 10 pound braided line also works well, especially when the water is stained. There are a handful of proven lures that have produced well for me on the Little Tennessee River. Directions to Nantahala Gorge for Your NC Water Adventures. Small bass are often caught doing this as well. A short river located entirely in Macon County, North Carolina. Highlands, Cashiers, Glenville, Scaly Mountain. Current fishing reports are difficult to maintain but your best bet is to reach out to our Partners. This is probably due to both Burningtown Creek and Tellico Creek emptying into the Little Tennessee River. Bryson City, NC 28713. Nice place for dog walks as well. It is more a "numbers' stream, giving up lots of smaller fish. > North Carolina > Little Tenneessee River . Largemouth bass are without a doubt the premier freshwater game fish species. Capt Jim Klopfer grew up in Maryland and learned to fish in the waters of Chesapeake Bay. Most Scenic Fly Fishing in Western NC - Cullasaja River. Capt Jim Klopfer has been a fishing guide in Sarasota, Florida since 1991. Olive and white are my top colors. Little Tennessee River Large freestone river Location West of Bryson City on NC 28 South and also Needmore Road (off US 19/74). They went above and above to help us find fish throughout our half-day on the lake, and they were completely involved throughout the trip. Popular attractions Sheffield Mine and Mason Mountain Mine are located nearby. Nice paved walking path along the Little Tenn river near downtown Franklin. The Forest Service has also established several new boat ramps to launch canoes, kayaks, and drift boats. I pretty much stick with Clouser Minnow patterns in chartreuse over white and olive over white along with black and olive woolly buggers. Top water plugs are obviously a good option. it will be winter here. While soft plastic lures will work, anglers must be prepared to snag the bottom quite often. Brochures are available at various places in town or at the Smoky Mountain Visitors Center on Georgia Road. Another added benefit of this section of the Little Tennessee River is that this is where anglers are much more likely to encounter trout as well. The population was 3,490 as of the 2000 census. I'm looking forward to going out again soon! Lake Emory is a very easy lake to fish. However, if you prefer your own equipment, please see What to Bring for suggestions. I have landed bluegill, longear sunfish, rock bass, and even crappie casting small jigs and spinnerbaits. Did you know that while white water rafting in North Carolina youll likely see Olympic hopefuls training for kayaking? The interactive Fishing Areas Map may be used to locate fishing area locations throughout the state sponsored by or provided in partnership with the North Carolina Wildlife Resources Commission and non-affiliated areas (NCWRC fishing regulations apply).While every effort is made to provide accurate and up-to-date information, the conditions and accessibility of these areas is subject to change. Smoky Mountain Fish Camp is a short 2 miles up the road for kayak, canoe and tube rentals. It also has a few musky left over in the lower reaches. Enjoy free WiFi, onsite parking, and an arcade/game room. Stay at this chalet in Franklin. This is a popular trail for birding, fishing, and hiking, but you can still enjoy some solitude during quieter times of day. 81 Bennett Road, Franklin, NC 28734. But the basins most impressive feature is its ability to nurture a vast array of aquatic life. Fly Fishing The Little Tennessee River S And Service Your Smokies Experience. For both of these reasons, this is an excellent section of the Little Tennessee River to wade. Have run up the Little Tennessee tributary, from Fontana to the headwaters of the Little Tennessee (another story for later, with schooling bass! Daily permit is required October 1 through August 15. When we go back for a visit, this will be a daily visit. Looking for something beyond white water rafting? It is paved and has several parking areas. Youll discover world-class guides and instruction to make sure you have a safe day of fun in the mountains of Western North Carolina. It is a great place to have fun and cool off on a warm Summer day. Smallmouth bass in the Little Tennessee, or "Little T love top-water popping bugs, making it a favorite smallmouth bass destination. Little Tennessee River River in Cherokee NF, Chattahoochee NF, Blue Ridge, Appalachian Mountains in Vonore in NC, TN, GA Fishing Report Top Fish Species 1. Download PDFs of our preplanned trips, tips and advice for visiting Western North Carolina. 3. Our guides helped us hook and release numerous rainbow, brown, and brook trout. A mile further is an access spot near a produce stand. Wade fishing the Little T is possible, but floating and covering lots of water is much more productive. Geologic, Recreational, Scenic, Wildlife. - Brookings Anglers, Google Maps will not only provide driving directions but will show you where to park. Anglers targeting those fish will need to bump up the tackle and lure selection to what they would normally use for largemouth bass in other lakes. Within sight of the greenway is the Nikwasi Mound, once the center of a thriving Cherokee village. Please explore below for more detailed information about fishing in the WNC region in general and the Little Tennessee generally. The Dillsboro Dam removal in 2012 saw the return of endangered Appalachian elktoe mussels and the Citico Dam removal gave new life to three endangered fish, including the exceedingly rare Citico darter. Save The Sicklefin Redhorse. This number is based on the percentage of all Tripadvisor reviews for this product that have a bubble rating of 4 or higher. Capt Jim is a proponent of catch and release, but will fillet and bag a few fish for a meal if desired. While there are hundreds of miles of Wild Trout waters, NC generously stocks, Western North Carolina has a number of Tailwaters and Freestone rivers. Go left for the "NOC" or Nantahala Outdoor Center, Andrews, NC and Wayah Road (another scenic drive back to Franklin, NC). A good reason for this is the very limited access to it. This stretch of the Little Tennessee River between Franklin and Lake Fontana offers anglers some fantastic smallmouth bass action! There are some larger bass in the lake as well for anglers willing to put in the time. Nestled amid some of the oldest mountains on Earth, the basin harbors an incredibly rich ecosystem. We found the Greenway in downtown Franklin and it became our daily habit in the morning to walk several miles. It is one of the most sought after smallmouth bass fisheries in western North Carolina. This number is based on the percentage of all Tripadvisor reviews for this product that have a bubble rating of 4 or higher. A 6 foot to 6 1/2 foot light or ultralight spinning rod with a 1000 series reel spooled up with 6 pound monofilament line is an excellent all round combo. It is a Native Fish Conservation Area which means you will spend a day floating the Little T and see very little that is man-made. They will not, however, provide you with clothing to keep warm though they would be happy to sell it to you and with more of that advanced planning, will even bring it to you when you meet for the day or will have it waiting for you at the Greystone. From Franklin follow the winding and picturesque Highway 28. For information about parking and access, view the Little Tennessee River Greenway map or contact : Little Tennessee River Greenway 573 E. Main St. Franklin, NC 28734 Longear sunfish are plentiful, along with bluegill, yellow perch, and the occasional crappie. The variety really is part of the fun of fishing this stretch of the Little Tennessee River! The 24-mile reach of the Little Tennessee River between the town of Franklin and Fontana Reservoir is believed to contain all of the same aquatic wildlife that was present when British colonists arrived in North America. 100% of travelers recommend this experience. Little Tennessee River; About Katala Outdoors. It is his passion for his clients that makes him a fantastic instructor. River Front Log Cabin Fishing, Floating and Fun - On the Little Tennessee River, Franklin River Front Log Cabin Fishing, Floating and Fun - On the Little Tennessee River Overview Amenities & Policies Franklin, NC 1-844-663-2269 Price Guarantee Get more as an Orbitz Rewards member 1/49 Room Franklin NC Hotel highlights Free in-room WiFi He explained the experience and assured me it would be enjoyable for newbie river fishers such as us. 92% of travelers recommend this experience. Lure selection for river fishing does not need to be complicated. There is also a tube/canoe/raft rental business located near here, that boasts it's own supply store with fishing tackle and guide service, as well as a campground area. This stretch of gravel and paved road connects Macon County and Swain County. Here are a few of our favorite companies to work with: Tuckaseegee Fly Fishing Guide. what fishing gear and clothing will i need? Little Tennessee River. The trail is a mostly flat mix of asphalt and gravel that runs along the river and provides pedestrians, bicyclists and boaters access for fishing, birdwatching and launching watercraft. Where is the best place to park to walk across the bridge? There are some shady sections and some are sunny. We had two, Forrest and Ryan. We rented a cabin in the mountains for a month, but there was no good walking near it. Dont let the latest river news and actions pass you by. It is a gorgeous stream that flows from the dam at Lake Emory to Fontana Lake. There are areas for fishing, canoe put-ins, a play area, shelter and more. Location West of Bryson City on NC 28 South and also Needmore Road (off US . Anglers with canoes, kayaks, and small rafts can put in just below the dam. The data relating to real estate on this web site comes in part from the Internet Data Exchange program of North Carolina Regional MLS LLC, and is updated as of 2023-02-27 20:19:39 PST. He caters to anglers of all experience levels. Recognizing the importance of the resource to the regions outdoor-tourism economy, officials in Jackson County, NC, have even drafted legislation aiming to designate their community the trout capital of North Carolina, where mountain trout fishing has an annual economic impact of $174 million. Capt Jim has been creating an writing articles about fishing for decades, contributing to many regional and national publications. We went fly fishing in Cherokee with Turning Stone's. Cross the bridge and bear to the right for another 1.2 miles to "Needmore Road" on your right. The road is winding and narrow. Marinas, Fly Shops, Bait & Tackle, Trout Ponds, Fly Fishing Museum of the Southern Appalachians. Flying from Arkansas to North Carolina was, without a doubt, the finest decision I've ever made in terms of improving my tightline nymphing skills!! Western North Carolina has a number of Tailwaters and Freestone rivers. A fantastic day on the water! Species Brown Trout, Rainbow Trout, Smallmouth Bass, Largemouth Bass, Kentucky Spotted Bass, Walleye, Muskie, Catfish, Carp License Requirements NC fishing license The exception would be when I am fishing for panfish in Lake Emory and the slower moving sections of the river. (Getty Images . The section upriver of Franklin goes through quite a bit of flatland areas. Turning Stone's guides are fantastic tour leaders. They took a great picture with us to help make sure we get to remember the experience. Miles of solitude and beautiful scenery make this one fishing trip you'll not want to miss. I passed others along the way but it wasnt crowded at all. The Greenway is the perfect for hiking, jogging and bicycling. Once across take the immediate Right onto "Sanderstown Road" and to gravel pull off on the Right a few hundred feet from Hwy-28. Waterfalls and Breweries Tour from Bryson City, NC 18 Recommended Full-day Tours from $168.00 per adult (price varies by group size) Guided Horseback Ride through Flame Azalea and Fern Forest 13 Recommended from $109.50 per adult Skip the Line: Museum of the Cherokee Indian Admission Ticket 74 Attractions & Museums from $12.31 per adult Regardless of your level of experience, you'll have a good time and learn something. $$ - $$$ French American Vegetarian Friendly, $ American Diner Vegetarian Friendly, $$ - $$$ Mexican Latin Vegetarian Friendly, $$ - $$$ Italian Vegetarian Friendly Vegan Options, $$ - $$$ American Bar Vegetarian Friendly. . Anthony and Forrest are exceptional tour guides, perhaps the best I've ever experienced. Jigs and other deeper running lures can be used in the slower, deeper pools. ", located at the corner of Iotla Bridge. It flows from manmade Lake Sequoyah, which is fed by Mirror Lake and other creeks . This stretch of gravel and paved road connects Macon County and Swain County. Yes. Be aware that the river runs through a mixture of Forest Service property and private lands. The park also has a water feature that runs from 10 AM to 7 PM daily from mid-April to mid-October. I recommend fishing with Turning Stone's if you want to master the art of fly fishing or just have a fantastic day catching fish. Fishing In Townsend Fly Little River Permit Information The Little Tennessee drains portions of three national forestsChattahoochee, Nantahala, and Cherokee, and provides the southwestern boundary of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Gordon took my wife and me on a fantastic half-day fishing expedition. There are a handful of proven lures that have produced well for me on the Little Tennessee River. You might even see Native American fish weirs along the river as you paddle. Discover a host of outdoor activities in Franklin, NC for the whole family. It is small enough to catch numbers while large enough to entice larger fish. This number is based on the percentage of all Tripadvisor reviews for this product that have a bubble rating of 4 or higher. Everyone was friendly and courteous. Stay and Play in the Smokies email is your Western North Carolina connection to vacation planning tips, valuable regional information and fresh-from-the-area insights. 2023American Rivers, All Rights Reserved. Website developed by designsensory. We make available only the highest quality fly fishing gear at deep discounted prices such as fly fishing rods, fly boxes, waders or wading boots, fly fishing reels, flies, and tackle. 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