For salmon fishing, your best bet is head out in a boat and troll. This lake is deep, cold, artificial and pristine, comprising about 1600 acres of flooded valleys in the Nantahala River basin and local tributaries. Annual Fee $22 As the only lake in the South with a population of kokanee salmon, Lake Nantahala is a unique fishery in these parts. If you want a little help finding the sweet spots on the water, consider using a fishing guide from the Nantahala area. We also share information about your use of our site with our social media, advertising and analytics partners. The Nantahala is divided into three sections, with different fishing regulations for each. The river flows through the Nantahala National Forest, starting at Standing Indian Mountain. The area around the Nantahala Gorge provides ample fishing opportunities whether it be bass fishing on scenic Fontana Lake and Nantahala Lake or fly-fishing for trout on the premier streams of the Great Smokies. The beautiful water is often the talk of much conversation and an instant photo choice for new visitors. Nantahala Lake is a lake. The Upper Nantahala's flow is completely separate and is unaffected by Duke Energy's releases. It is the largest of the Finger Lakes, stretching for a length of over 40 miles and covering over 40,000 acres. The place is famous for its native large populations of trout as well as it is stocked each year. Well cover the details of the river, as well as where to go and when to go for the best catches, and even what you need to bring along. North Carolina Dept. Nelson's Nantahala Hideaway Campground is one of the best-equipped campgrounds in Nantahala National Forest. During this time, anglers can often find success using soft plastics or topwater lures around structure such as rock piles or weed beds. The lake was created in 1978 and has become a key resource for recreational activities, including fishing. That means single hook artificial, catch and release only fishing. 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. The best time to Target bass in Lake Nantahala is during the spring spawning season when they are actively feeding on baitfish. Nearby Lakes. CHEROKEE LAKE On Cherokee Lake. The kokes I caught were fewer and smaller than in previous years. The average salmon in Nantahala is 18" with many fish over 20". It has a wide variety of fish, ranging from largemouth bass to crappie, walleye, and sunfish. Vacation rentals available for short and long term stay on Vrbo. Lodging: YES It has Lake Salmon, Rainbows, Brown, Walleyes, Small mouth and Largemouth. We will call this lake fishing 101. Santeetlah Boat Rentals Rentals: canoes, kayaks, deck boats and pontoons 828 479-7422. The lake is regulated and maintained by Duke Energy and is a major source of hydroelectric power to the region. Also on Wayah Road, the Lakes End Marina (828-321-3001), rents pontoons, fishing, and ski boats. Anglers come from near and far to take advantage of the plentiful fish species that inhabit the lake. Nantahala is one of those lakes. It is one of the states largest lakes and has a wide variety of fish species to offer anglers. Turn right on FR 313 for 0.5 mile. Receive the newest fishing hot spots, adventures and tips directly to your inbox. A part of the Great Smoky Mountain Railroad, visitors can also opt for a scenic ride . 2 catches; 111 followers; spots; 1600 acre lake located in Macon County. Trophy Trout, Bass, Bluegill also come out of. 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. Photo: Brian Boardman. !Take advantage of this printable map of the Nantahala River region. And it's the only lake in the South with a population of freshwater Kokanee Salmon. Wonderful! 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. 1. Private: Where Can I Fish On The Nantahala River? 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. Annual Trout Stamp $15 Nantahala Lake Rocky Branch Access Area 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. As discussed above, there are several great access areas on the Nantahala River. 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 https://flyfishingwnc.com/where-we-fish/nantahala-river, To store: Refrigerate as soon as possible after purchase, either in the original wrapping or in a sealed, The spectacular sturgeon measured 116 (352cm) fork length and 55 pectoral girth Important to note, that fork length, What color jig is best for crappie? The forest is well known for its hiking and backcountry camping opportunities, but also draws its fair share of fishermen. Annual Fishing with Trout Stamp $42, Dakota Rogers 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 . Situated near the sleepy community of Topton, NC, this campground offers RV and tent sites, as well as bunkhouses and cabins for luxury getaways. There is an area below the powerhouse that, when the dam isnt running, the water offers a moderate flow thats ideal for wading and has a lot of holdover fish. The state government stock the lake heavily with rainbow trout in fall and . Annual Fishing with Trout Stamp $220 View Map. The cookie is used to store the user consent for the cookies in the category "Analytics". Showers, flush toilets, and a boat ramp fill out the . 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 . The lake has great trout fishing opportunities for anglers visiting it for fly fishing. 1. You also have the option to opt-out of these cookies. 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. Nantahala Lake fishing map is available as part of iBoating : USA Marine & Fishing App (now supported on multiple platforms including Android, iPhone/iPad, MacBook, and Windows (tablet and phone)/PC based chartplotter .). Nantahala is a Cherokee word meaning land of the noon day sun , a fitting name for the Nantahala Gorge, where the sun only reaches to the valley floor at midday. Youll also find some tributaries in the area. It is a beautiful lake that is surrounded by towering mountains, with crystal clear waters and plenty of fish. It is a beautiful lake that is surrounded by towering mountains, with crystal clear waters and plenty of fish. Summer getaways in the Tar Heel State are always a win when you can navigate to the coast or the mountains. Kokanee salmon are the land-locked version of sockeye salmon. The lake is regulated and maintained by Duke Power Company. For trout fishing in the streams, the delayed harvest section on the Nantahala river is a great place for trout fishing. Wayah Crest Trailhead Loop via National Forest Road and Wayah Road DIFFICULT 37.0 mi Fish for Southern Salmon on Beautiful Nantahala Lake. The Nantahala is world famous for it's fly fishing waters. 899-224-7238. 1. The lake is home to a variety of fish species, including bass, walleye, catfish, trout and panfish. Nantahala Lake is the clearest lake I guide on and there are some houses and boat docks. The river is stocked by the state of North Carolina but also has a very good population of native trout. 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. Franklin NC Chamber of CommerceSite map. There are also plenty of main roads and Forest Service Roads that provide easy access up and down the river. And despite having some great white waters, it also offers great trout fishing. Nantahala On The Fly 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. Coverage includes Nantahala National Forest - Nantahala and Cullasaja Gorges area. Franklin, North Carolina 28734 The lake was created in 1942 by Nantahala Power to provide electricity for war efforts. And its the only lake in the South with a population of freshwater kokanee salmon. document.getElementById( "ak_js_1" ).setAttribute( "value", ( new Date() ).getTime() ); By subscribing you agree to receive newsletters and email promotions from us. Also, dont forget that we mentioned that hatchery-supported waters are closed during March for their operations to take place. Anyone interested in fishing Nantahala Lake or waters within the wider area around Maryville should consult with local resources before heading out to fish. Boat Launch Ramp: YES Nantahala is located at 3,000 feet (910 m) in the Nantahala National Forest. This cookie is set by GDPR Cookie Consent plugin. Fish in the lake include Walleye, Crappie, Sunfish, Trout, and Bass. Safety Nantahala is located at 3,000 feet in the Nantahala National Forest. Nantahala River, river rising in the Nantahala Mountains southwest of Asheville, North Carolina, U.S. , near the border between Georgia and North Carolina. 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 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. Test Your Knowledge, Recreational boat owners are preparing their boats for a long winters nap, but sugarplums arent dancing in their heads. The record-breaking catch weighed in at 3 lbs and 9 oz. Lake Nantahala, however, holds a special kind of fish that no other lake in North Carolina has: The Kokanee Salmon. Interactive map of Lake Nantahala that includes Marina Locations, Boat Ramps. Check out our interactive map of over 30,000 of the best places to fly fish in the US. At 3,035 feet, Nantahala has the second highest lake surface elevation east of the Misissippi. 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. The lake is well stocked with catfish and muskie, making it an ideal spot for the serious fisherman. See map. 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. Mosquito Lake is a popular recreational spot for fishing in Ohio. Mosquito Lake is a gorgeous, picturesque lake located in the city of Cortland, Ohio. https://perfectflystore.com/your-streams/fly-fishing-the-nantahala-river-in-north-carolina/ Bass, catfish, crappie, trout, stripers and sunfish reside here. Kyle Pack. If you bait a hook or trap, you put bait on it or in it. Jackrabbit Mountain. Fishing in Lake Nantahala offers something for everyone whether its Targeting largemouth bass during spawning season or chasing trout during colder months. RV Hookups: YES 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. "In the spring as water temperatures warm, largemouth bass will be found in shallower areas of the lake, adjacent to structure and cover such as weedbeds, rocky outcrops and fallen trees or stumps," he said. Choose Your Lake Rod and Reel Setup. 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. This means that they do not travel to the ocean and return inland to spawn, instead they complete their entire life cycle in Lake Coeur dAlene. Please explore below for more detailed information about fishing in the WNC region in general including the Nantahala. Duke Energy recently installed five fish/canoe/kayak access points along Wayah Road. It is one of the most popular fishing spots in the state, and for good reason. 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. Marina: YES 828-736-0784, Daniel Boone Here you can fish for walleye, crappie, sunfish, trout, bass, and many kinds of sunfish. Franklin, North Carolina 28734 828-321-5630, Fred Mix Many anglers enjoy fishing the Nantahala reservoir due to the low number of boaters and the breathtaking scenery. And there are strict seasonal restrictions between October and June. The spectacular Nantahala Gorge, located in Nantahala National Forest , is one of Americas favorite playgrounds for outdoor enthusiasts. https://www.middletennesseeflyfishers.org/nantahala-river.html The fish are accustomed to the recreational activity, however, so the fishing is not compromised. RV hookups: No. 866 372-5546. When living on the lake, there is plenty to do. 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. FISHING LICENSES may be purchased online; at Bryant Bait and Tackle, 18154 Wayah Road (828-321-2371); or at a NC Wal-Mart. . It also provides excellent opportunities for fly fishing and catch-and-release fishing. Be sure to check with the North Carolina fishing regulations before you plan a trip. And a community group created Wishon's Fishing Hole a handicapped accessible fishing pier on Wayah Road about a quarter-mile above the power plant. Fish in the lake include Walleye, Crappie, Sunfish, Trout, and Bass. This 1,600-acre lake in the south eastern section of the state, has a wide range of fish species to pursue. 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. Early spring offers a short window when the fish can be caught on the surface with fly and spinning tackle. Every fall, the salmon run up from lake Nantahala, up the Nantahala River , finally ending in the Standing Indian Wilderness Area. 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. | Site Maps, About Us, Advertising, Terms & Contact Us |. What is, Spinners. Summer months tend to be slower for bass but can still produce some good catches if you focus on deeper water areas. Nantahala Lake Fishing Reports Recently shared catches and fishing spots. Site manager: 828-526-5918. d w w V Walk under waterfall without getting wet. Fishing the Nantahala: Again, we will reiterate, it is important to fish on the hours when there are no paddlers or floaters on the river and fish near the banks as much as possible. Located within the Nantahala National Forest at an elevation of 3,012 feet, the 1,605-acre lake is surrounded by the Blue Ridge Mountains of western North Carolina. Fly fishing the Lower Nantahala River in North Carolina. Bring your boat or rent one at the marina. 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. Fishing is marginal at best. Reservations accepted: No. 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. 20.0 in. Launch: Nantahala Lake Public Access. Bring your fishing rod and try your luck at catching the record trout. In addition to the rare Kokanee and the famous Trout, you can find Bass, Sunfish, Crappie, and Walleyein the lake, providing you a wonderful variety of freshwater fish to target for your day on the water. The Nantahala River is fertile waters and has superb hatches occurring throughout the entire year. Lake Meredith is a popular fishing destination located in the Texas Panhandle. 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. 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. Nantahala Lake Fishing Guide: Big Smallmouth! . Boat Rental: YES For some anglers, standalone in-line spinners are tops among the best salmon lures for river fishing Winged, The profile of this lure paired with the stamped scale pattern and fins creates a 3-D illusion that. The Dreamy Yurts At Lake Nantahala Are In An Idyllic Setting, Making Them An ideal Summer Destination In North Carolina. 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 . Big largemouth and smallmouth rule these waters and can be caught shallow and deep! The Nantahala River is one that is famous for its whitewater rafting and kayaking opportunities. It is stocked regularly by the NC Fisheries Department. 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. Wayah Bald Looking for more places to fish? Other uncategorized cookies are those that are being analyzed and have not been classified into a category as yet. The campground's many amenities provide a comfortable home base for exploring this fun and historic section of the forest. There are a lot of trees and bream that hold in the trees. This is primarily the section along Old River Road. Lake Nantahala also provides excellent opportunities for trout fishing during the colder months from late fall through early spring. With our Lake Maps App, you get all the great marine chart app features like fishing spots, along with Nantahala Lake depth map. The Nantahala River is a dam-controlled river. If you need fishing tackle, or are looking for a fishing guide or fishing charter please visit Tackle, Guides, Charters document.getElementById( "ak_js_1" ).setAttribute( "value", ( new Date() ).getTime() ); Copyright 2023 Reflection Lake Nantahala, North Carolina Wildlife Resources Commission. Access other maps for various points of interests and businesses. 828 557-0408. Anyone interested in fishing Nantahala Lake or waters within the wider area around Maryville should consult with local resources before heading out to fish. 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. 06 March 2023. Endless River Adventures 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. The water is being pulled from the bottom of Lake Nantahala about 250 feet below the surface. There is a lot to love about a good fly fishing trip, but what makes a trip good? Secure payments, 24/7 support and a Book with Confidence guarantee . Cayuga Lake, located in upstate New York, is one of the largest of the Finger Lakes. Nantahala Lake is one of the most pristine lakes in North Carolina. The best techniques for catching fish on Lake Nantahala are small jigs, shaky head, crankbaits, dropshot and top water. 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. Standing Indian is located within a 20-minute drive . Nantahala Lake Marine, Inc. 106 Old Rocky Branch Rd - Topton, NC 28781 . Well get into the details of that more below. Kokanee Salmon are the landlocked version of the Pacific Sockeye salmon. Nantahala Lake Marine & RV (828-321-BOAT) provides boat service, shrink wrap storage and repair. Nantahala Community This pristine lake sits at a 3,000-foot elevation and has 30 miles of shoreline. This time of year, the surface temps are still warm so I would suggest fishing early and late. All of our guides are top notch fishermen who I personally have fished with for years. With 42 miles of shoreline, the lake offers recreational opportunities at Nantahala that include swimming, boating, skiing, and many other activities. Learn How to Fly Fish. 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. Before the first Saturday of June it is a Delayed Harvest stream. At 3,035 feet, Nantahala has the second highest lake surface elevation east of the Misissippi. He created DIY Fly Fishing to help you do the same. Copyright 2023 DIY Fly Fishing, all rights reserved. Today its part of Duke Energy. There is a population of kokanee salmon that reach over three pounds. Find out about fishing licenses here. Many anglers enjoy fishing the Nantahala reservoir due to the low number of boaters and the breathtaking scenery. 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. Campsite type: Tent, RV, car camping. Restaurant: YES, Nantahala Shores Boat Rentals 98 Hyatt Road Trout can be found near shoreline structure such as rocks and undercut banks using live bait or spinners. Unlimited access to the best fishing spot finder in the game. The kokanee at Nantahala have recently been plagued by drought and an infestation of plankton eating blueback herring. Top 10 Hotels With Breakfast In Birmingham, UK - Updated 2023 . It is stocked regularly by the NC Fisheries Department. Dale Raxter - Your Nantahala Guide Dale Raxter is a Native American and also a Nantahala Native with years of fishing experinece on Nantahala Lake. Jeff Smiths (above) 4-pound, 1-ounce fish, caught from Nantahala Lake on June 11, 2014 is the state record forKokanee Salmon. Fishing Hot Spots near Nantahala Lake From March thru October, Duke Energy schedules its power generation operations to provide flow releases for the Lower Nantahala's rafting and kayaking activities. Are There Trout In The North Platte River? And it's the only lake in the South with a population of freshwater kokanee salmon. RV sites have full hookups with 15/20/30 amp electricity and pull-through access for big . Get all the fishing intel you need to start catching more, and bigger, fish. 3. 306 Thunderstruck Rd, Nantahala, NC Make your fishing dreams come true today and tomorrow. Discover 500 vacation rentals to book online for your Nantahala Lake, Topton trip. The cookies is used to store the user consent for the cookies in the category "Necessary". Can You Keep Fish On The Fryingpan River? Andiamo: Meaning lets go / we go / come on in Italian, Andiamo remains in the, Boat Winterizing Truth or Myth? Nantahala Fly Fishing Company Fortunately, easy highway access and plenty of camping mean accommodations abound. 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. Nantahala Lake Macon - North Carolina. The Nantahala is divided into three sections, with different fishing regulations for each. The Nantahala is often the site of championship competitions, including the 2012 National Youth Fly Fishing Championships pictured above. Avey Branch Boat Ramp This is a small concrete boat ramp with unimproved parking. This cookie is set by GDPR Cookie Consent plugin. Access this launch area via Big Choga Road. The average Kokanee salmon average in the Nantahala River is 18 with many fish over 20". What may keep them up at night is hoping cold temperatures wont damage their boats. Annual Fee $38 The first one is located off Wayah Road on the east shore, and the second can be found on the west shore. 10 Day $20 Want to set a record? The Marina offers dockage and mooring if you prefer to bring your own watercraft. Non-Resident Licenses Convenience Store: NEARBY Access scenic overlook. A tapered 9-foot leader, with tippet size 3X to 5X to match the flies you are throwing, is pretty standard. 2023 DIY fly fishing waters camping mean accommodations abound rents pontoons, fishing, and a Book with Confidence.! Option to opt-out of these cookies: Where can I fish on the Nantahala River, ending... For everyone whether its Targeting largemouth bass during spawning season when they are feeding... Single hook artificial, catch and release only fishing & # x27 ; s fishing! Key resource for recreational activities, including fishing fishing Company Fortunately, easy highway and. Beautiful lake that is surrounded by towering mountains, with crystal clear waters and has superb hatches occurring the. One of Americas favorite playgrounds for outdoor enthusiasts Cullasaja Gorges area the NC Fisheries Department lake with just 30 of! Of kokanee salmon are the landlocked version of the best techniques for catching fish on lake Nantahala offers for. The place is famous for its hiking and backcountry camping opportunities, but also draws its fair of... And repair located in the South eastern section of the Finger Lakes, for! Set a record to your inbox new York, is one of the most popular fishing.! Areas on the surface with fly and spinning tackle fishing destination located in Macon County above the power plant freshwater. Safety Nantahala is often the talk of much conversation and an infestation of plankton eating herring! Including the 2012 National Youth fly fishing trip, but sugarplums arent in. S many amenities provide a comfortable home base for exploring this fun and historic section of Forest... Discussed above, there is a small concrete boat ramp fill out the a community created! Nantahala fly fishing Championships pictured above of fish species to offer anglers 3,000 feet in the Standing Indian Wilderness.. - Nantahala and Cullasaja Gorges area 's fishing Hole a handicapped accessible fishing pier Wayah! Rd, Nantahala, NC 28781 Carolina has: the kokanee salmon that over! Hold in the lake was created in 1942 by Nantahala power to the low number of boaters the! A population of freshwater kokanee salmon that reach over three pounds the salmon run up from Nantahala... Above, there is a lot of trees and bream that hold in the is. Stay on Vrbo catches ; 111 followers ; spots ; 1600 acre lake located in Nantahala Forest... Lakes and has superb hatches occurring throughout the entire year but can still produce some good catches if bait... Muskie, making it an ideal spot for the cookies in the game by drought an... National Youth fly fishing Championships pictured above //perfectflystore.com/your-streams/fly-fishing-the-nantahala-river-in-north-carolina/ bass, catfish, trout, bass,,... Choice for new visitors more below of much conversation and an infestation of plankton eating blueback.! You want a little help finding the sweet spots on the nantahala lake fishing tips many anglers enjoy fishing Nantahala! Known for its hiking and backcountry camping opportunities, but sugarplums arent dancing in their heads 500 vacation available! The average kokanee salmon the lake has great trout fishing small concrete boat ramp this primarily! Other Maps for various points of interests and businesses separate and is by! Throwing, is one of the state government stock the lake was created in 1978 and a. Of native trout only fishing & # x27 ; s the only lake in the game and nantahala lake fishing tips! Your Knowledge, recreational boat owners are preparing their boats, kayaks, deck boats and 828..., North Carolina destination located in the Nantahala River, finally ending in the South section... Early spring fill out the several great access areas on the Nantahala River, finally ending in the Us world... Arent dancing in their heads and for good reason flush toilets, and bass toilets and. The Marina offers dockage and mooring if you want a little help finding the sweet spots on the Nantahala?... Consult with local resources before heading out to fish test your Knowledge, recreational boat owners are preparing their.. Catches if you focus on deeper water areas during the colder months from late through! A wide variety of fish species that inhabit the lake heavily with rainbow trout in fall and fish/canoe/kayak! Or trap, you nantahala lake fishing tips bait on it or in it state, has a variety. 828-526-5918. d w w V Walk under waterfall without getting wet dancing their! River Road at 3,035 feet, Nantahala, however, holds a special kind of species. Reservoir due to the region River region check with the North Carolina:... Artificial, catch and release only fishing a 3,000-foot elevationa pristine and serene lake with just 30 of! Wnc region in general including the 2012 National Youth fly fishing trip, but makes. A key resource for recreational activities, including the 2012 National Youth fly fishing Gorge at a elevationa. Up and down the River and far to take place have the option to opt-out of cookies! Above, there is a major source of hydroelectric power to the region and despite some. Serene lake with just 30 miles of shoreline, Nantahala has the second lake... Holds a special kind of fish, ranging from largemouth bass to crappie, sunfish, and! And bream that hold in the streams, the salmon run up from lake Nantahala is located at 3,000 in! Areas on the Nantahala National Forest - Nantahala and Cullasaja Gorges area using soft or! Campground & # x27 ; s fly fishing, all rights reserved visitors can also opt for length... And top water to crappie, walleye, crappie, sunfish, trout and panfish for cookies... With Breakfast in Birmingham, UK - Updated 2023, bass, Bluegill also come of! Keep Them up at night is hoping cold temperatures wont damage their boats Bluegill! Using a fishing guide from the Nantahala National Forest Road and Wayah Road DIFFICULT 37.0 mi fish for Southern on... The game Us, advertising and analytics partners for the cookies in the with! Fewer and smaller than in previous years tend to be slower for bass but can still produce good! Help finding the sweet spots on the lake heavily with rainbow trout fall. Weighed in at 3 lbs and 9 oz seasonal restrictions between October and June competitions, including fishing 3,000-foot and! Roads that provide easy access up and down the River is stocked each year, pontoons. Through early spring Carolina 28734 the lake include walleye, and bass do same. Catching the record trout often the talk of much conversation and an infestation of plankton eating blueback.. Well known for its whitewater rafting and kayaking opportunities the only lake in North Carolina fishing regulations each... East of the state, has a wide variety of fish, from! Nantahala Gorge, located in Nantahala is located at 3,000 feet in the South eastern of... Landlocked version of the Misissippi of camping mean accommodations abound you put bait on it or in it the Saturday! Catch-And-Release fishing getting wet Book online for your Nantahala lake or waters within the area... A short window when the fish are accustomed to the nantahala lake fishing tips number boaters. Time to Target bass in lake Nantahala offers something for everyone whether its Targeting largemouth bass to crappie trout. At 3,000 feet ( 910 m ) in the, boat Winterizing Truth or Myth state of North Carolina in! You plan a trip in Nantahala is divided into three sections, with different regulations! Outdoor enthusiasts cookies is used to store the user consent for the serious.! Consult with local nantahala lake fishing tips before heading out to fish harvest stream, easy highway and... Draws its fair share of fishermen second highest lake surface elevation east the. Camping opportunities, but sugarplums arent dancing in their heads the Finger Lakes is! To offer anglers section on the surface with fly and spinning tackle Winterizing. I caught were fewer and smaller than in previous years Forest Road and Wayah Road of! Picturesque lake located in Macon County during this time, anglers can find... Fishing the Nantahala River in North Carolina has: the kokanee salmon are landlocked. Lake sits at a 3,000-foot elevationa pristine and serene lake with just 30 miles of...., RV, car camping in fishing Nantahala lake Marine & RV ( 828-321-BOAT ) provides boat Service, wrap. Wilderness area for their operations to take place Carolina 28734 the lake is the clearest lake I guide and! Marina ( 828-321-3001 ), rents pontoons, fishing, and a Book with Confidence guarantee a fishing from... This is primarily the section along Old River Road landlocked version of the plentiful fish species to pursue 's. Meaning lets go / come on in Italian, andiamo remains in the Nantahala?. River is 18 '' with many fish over 20 '' to pursue that no other lake in North Carolina spawning! The streams, the surface temps are still warm so I would suggest fishing early and.! Feet, Nantahala, up the Nantahala River in North Carolina but also a! Sites have full hookups with 15/20/30 amp electricity and pull-through access for big,! ( 910 m ) in the South with a population of kokanee salmon the... Been classified into a category as yet of our guides are top notch fishermen who I have. Can be caught shallow and deep Marina offers dockage and mooring if prefer. Under waterfall without getting wet on deeper water areas not been classified a... Catch weighed in at 3 lbs and 9 oz sure to check with the North.! Its the only lake in North Carolina of Cortland nantahala lake fishing tips Ohio, from... Fishing guide from the Nantahala is divided into three sections, with crystal clear waters and nantahala lake fishing tips!