OMTU Smoky Mountains Fishing Day Trip

Smoky Mountains Fishing Fall Day Trip

Saturday, October 18th

Fishing:

Fishing at Cataloochee Campground and surrounding areas in the Cataloochee valley watershed is among the most underrated fishing in Great Smoky Mountains! You can catch everything from a trophy brown, to plentiful rainbows, to even brook trout in this watershed. Few other places in the Smokies give you the opportunity for a Grand Slam (all three trout species) without having to go very far. Some will fish the larger, more accessible waters that run through the campground, others will hike short distances (1-3 miles) to more remote areas. All experience levels are welcome, and we'll happily spend time with beginners who'd like to learn how to fish small streams. 

Gear:

We recommend bringing a 7'6" 3 wt for some of the smaller waters or up to a 10' 5 wt for tight-line nymphing the largest body of water, Cataloochee Creek. An 8' or 9' 4 or 5 wt will do an excellent job covering all bases. This time of year, it's possible to still wet wade, but we can't rule out a cold front in October that may warrant bringing your pair. With lower waters typically seen during the dry month of October, dry fly fishing can be great. If rain falls before or during the trip, nymphing or even streamer fishing can truly come alive as well. 

Need gear? Let us know and we'd be happy to provide boots, waders, or fly rods or flies for you and your company. 

Logistics:

Meet at Unicoi Walmart, carpool departs at 5:30 AM, then arrive at the Cataloochee campground at 8 AM to partner up and start fishing, Depart at to 5:00 or until we tire out. 

Bring your own food & water, cash for gas (or be willing to drive), fishing gear (or we can supply gear upon advanced request), and TN or NC fishing license to fish inside GSMNP.

Meet for carpool at: 110 Rocky Bottom Dr, Unicoi, TN37692

Fish at: Cataloochee Entrance Rd, Waynesville, NC28785