Fly fishing is a form of fishing in which you use a rod and an artificial fly. It seems simple enough, and you can catch a variety of different fish using this method. The streams and creeks of the Smokies are also overflowing with rainbow trout, smallmouth bass, and so many other species. To help you make the most of your experience, here are 5 of our favorite places to go fly fishing in the Smokies.
1. Abrams Creek
Abrams Creek flows through limestone geology and then emerges and runs through Cades Cove. The limestone combined with the rich soils enables this creek to maintain a neutral pH, which is excellent for both trout and the insects they eat. This environment allows the trout to thrive and grow to some of the largest sizes in the entire national park! You can also find smallmouth bass in these waters. Just keep in mind that there are size and possession limits when it comes to fishing in the national park.
2. Dudley Creek
Another one of the best places to go fly fishing in the Smokies is Dudley Creek, which is located on Highway #73. You might have to work a little bit to get to the best parts of this stream, but it’s well worth the effort! You can find an abundance of rainbow trout in the lower sections of this stream, and brook trout toward the upper section.
3. LeConte Creek
If you’re looking for a smaller stream to fish in, LeConte Creek is a great option. To get there, you just have to drive up Cherokee Orchard Road, just past the national park’s new office building. This is a convenient place to go if you want to be surrounded by nature, but don’t want to travel too far out of the way from Gatlinburg or Pigeon Forge. This fishing area is also open to all ages and is full of rainbow and brook trout.
4. Herbert Holt Park
The gem of Herbert Holt Park is undoubtedly the municipal trout farm, which is the only one of its kind in the state of Tennessee. All of the fish that are reared at the farm are released into the Little Pigeon River every Thursday.Herbert Holt Park is also home to the only handicap and wheelchair accessible fishing pier! The pier is open to both children and physically handicapped people of all ages. The best part is that you aren’t required to have a permit to enjoy fishing here.
5. Mynatt Park
Another children only fishing spot is located at Mynatt Park. Your kids will have a fun time walking along the stream to select the perfect spot to set up for the day. They can even enjoy fishing off of the bridge in this park. Spots like these are great because the kids can take their time and learn without more experienced adults catching all the fish.
There are plenty of excellent spots where you and your family can enjoy this fun and rewarding activity together. Be sure to learn more about fly fishing in the Smokies before you arrive so that you can have the best experience possible!
