There are few fisheries in the world as diverse as North Carolina. One of the best ways of discovering the riches of the “Tar Heel State” is by fly fishing. The journey starts on the world-renowned Western North Carolina Fly Fishing Trail and travels through Trout streams, lakes, and brackish rivers to the Outer Banks’ sounds.
With such a range of hunting grounds on offer, it’s no wonder that fly fishing in North Carolina is so popular! In this guide, we’ll take you through what you can catch, how to go about it, and where to go, along with much more. By the time you’re done reading, you’ll be reaching for your fly rod to explore this angler’s paradise. So without further ado, let’s dive in.
What can I catch when fly fishing in North Carolina?
After hearing about the diversity of fishing grounds at your disposal, it should come as no surprise that there’s a range of incredible fish to target. However, we think you’ll still be a little taken aback by just how impressive the list of species available is. Whether in fresh, brackish, or saltwater, you’re in for a treat.
Trout
We’ll start our exploration of North Carolina’s fly fishing targets with the bread and butter of the sport. Trout are the prime target for any freshwater fly angler, and there are plenty of good reasons for that. They live in remote shallow streams that are often hard to reach. That means you can get lost in the wilderness and focus on testing your skills.
And boy will you have ample opportunities to do so! Incredibly, North Carolina is home to four different varieties of Trout. Your staple Brook and Brown Trouts speak for themselves, and the addition of the dazzling Rainbow Trout would usually be enough to make for a world-class fishery. Well, here there’s even the coveted Palomino Trout to add to your to-catch list. These golden creatures are stocked along with the rest, so you’ve got the chance of landing ‘em all!
The Tar Heel State’s authorities have realized the potential of these fish, and have marked out the famous Western North Carolina Fly Fishing Trail for you to explore. Come during the spring spawning season or fall run for the best of the action. And, with over 40 miles to explore, you’re sure to find a spot away from the crowds!
Bass
If you’ve ever been freshwater fishing before, there’s a good chance you’ve come across a Bass of some kind. The nation’s most-loved creature, Largemouth Bass, can be found in abundance in North Carolina, along with its small-mouthed brother. These provide fun for the whole family on regular tackle, but can also give fly anglers a real run for their money.
Hit the rivers in the north and west or explore the plentiful lakes in the heart of the state, and you could land a Bass or two. The best time to come is actually in summer, so it provides the perfect getaway between the two Trout seasons.
But that’s not all! Just like with Trout, the fish keep on coming. White Bass are also on offer, with a winter and spring season to keep you entertained. And, when casting for any kind of Bass, you could end up with a Walleye or Musky on the end of your line. Now that wouldn’t be a bad consolation prize!
Striped Bass
Although they share a name with the aforementioned creatures, Striped Bass are actually a Seabass relative. That means it’s a different kettle of fish altogether – pun intended! While these beasts can be found in freshwater all across the country, it’s saltwater fishing that will see you land one in North Carolina.
Hit the brackish rivers leading to the bays in the Outer Banks or in the south of the state, and there’s a good chance you could do battle with an oversized “Striper.” Known for their propensity to fight and their incredible meat, they’re a joy to behold for fly anglers. Come in spring to take advantage of their annual run. Just make sure to cast your fly around structure, as that’s where they’re likely to be feeding.
Redfish
If Trout are the preserve of freshwater fly fishing, then it’s all about Redfish when saltwater fly fishing in North Carolina. These huge, tough-fighting, and delicious creatures call the inshore backcountry and flats home. That means you can try wading, fishing from shore, or head out on a boat to cast your line.
Much like Trout, they also have a spring and fall run, when they reach their fattest. That means they’ll put up an even tougher battle and that you’ll get more meat when you hook one. And, you can make the trip without having to worry about all the crowds that come to beaches in summer. Everyone’s a winner!
Cobia
Now you may be surprised to see Cobia make the list of fly fishing targets. However, there’s nothing quite like battling it out with one of these monsters. While they usually don’t come close enough to shore to target with a fly, North Carolina is like no other fishery.
Forget about deep sea fishing to land these beauties. Time your visit right (in late spring), and you could find a Cobia in the sounds or bays. Get ready for a serious battle, as these monsters promise to do whatever they can to escape your clutches. Despite feeding in schools, we think you may find it difficult to get the energy to go after a second!
What gear should I use?
Just as no two fish are the same, no two rods are the same. So you’ll want to mix up your line and weight depending on what you target.
Anywhere between 7–9 feet should be good enough for your line wherever you fish, but you’ll need different rod weights depending on where you cast your line. A 6 wt rod will do the trick in the rivers and lakes, but you’ll want to up it to an 8 wt for Redfish. If going after Cobia and bigger creatures such as Tarpon, try anything from 10–12 weights.
When it comes to the flies you’ll be using, foxy minnows are popular with locals. These work well in both freshwater and saltwater, as they’re very versatile. However, if you want to specialize, especially in freshwater, try patterns, such as Griffith’s Gnat or Caddis Nymph. We suggest experimenting, as every angler will find something different that works for them!
North Carolina Fly Fishing Spots
So we’ve mentioned that there’s a wealth of fishing grounds for you to explore in North Carolina. But where are they? We’d need an entire encyclopedia to cover them all, but here’s our pick of the best places to go fly fishing in North Carolina:
- Western North Carolina Fly Fishing Trail: We’ll start with the cream of the crop. This world-class fishery needs no introduction, but we’ll give it one anyway. It’s located along the Tuckasegee River, and it’s your best bet for a “Tuckasegee Slam,” achievable by landing the holy trinity of Trout species.
- Nantahala River: Named among the top 100 Trout fisheries in the country, this is another prime fly fishing destination not to be missed. Located in the Smoky Mountains, it just oozes beauty, with plenty of action, too.
- Watauga River: Another Smoky Mountains fishing destination, the Watauga has something for all angling levels. Bring the whole family along and make the most of it as you fish from shore, wade, or hop aboard a charter. And after it all, you can relax in the charming town of Boone.
- Oconaluftee River: This productive body of water is in a Native American reserve, and the locals take real pride in maintaining their fishery. It’s stocked twice a week with all four Trout species, so you’re in for a treat whenever you visit.
- Lake Fontana: If Bass fishing tickles your fancy, then this is the place for you. Boasting over 400 miles of shoreline, there’s no way you could go wrong here. Although, hopping aboard a boat is the best way to make sure you land Bass, Walleye, Musky, and more!
- Dare County Bridges: We move from Black Bass to Striped Bass with this next spot. We mentioned structure, and nothing quite captures these monsters’ attention like bridges. Cast your line from this vantage point, and you could test your skills and strength like a pro.
- Pamlico Sound: North Carolina’s premier inshore fishery, the Pamlico Sound promises plenty of action. Experience the fishing culture that’s shaped the Outer Banks, and you could join the locals in getting your hands on oversized Cobia, Redfish, and even Tarpon!
North Carolina Fly Fishing Regulations
Before you start booking your fly fishing adventure in the Tar Heel State, there’s just a few more things you need to know. Yes, we’re talking about staying within the law!
Every freshwater angler, regardless of whether fishing with a guide or not, will need to buy a North Carolina inland fishing license of some sorts. There’s the option of a cheaper Mountain Heritage permit in some areas, and some separate licenses exist if fishing on Native American land.
Meanwhile, casting a line in brackish and saltwater fisheries will mean that you need a saltwater license. Unless you’re on a fishing charter, that is. It’s pretty straightforward to get one, though, and you can find out how in our handy guide.
As with everywhere else, there are also regulations concerning the number and size of the fish you can take home. While going for food is not the aim of the game when fly fishing, there’s no harm in taking a tasty treat home – within limits! The bag and size limits differ from fish to fish, so it’s worth checking the NC DNR website to make sure you’re sticking to the rules.
And You’re Good to Go!
So, now you’re ready to go fly fishing in North Carolina. The Tar Heel State is full of plentiful fisheries that are sure to keep you entertained. Whenever you visit, there’s no shortage of action to be had, with something for the whole family. Explore the wild mountain rivers, discover open rivers, or combine a beach vacation with some prime angling. There aren’t many places with so much to offer. What are you waiting for? Come and make the most of it!
Have you ever been fly fishing in North Carolina? How was it? Do you have any tips or tricks to share? We’d love to hear from you in the comments below!