By - J. P. Greene
Freshwater fishing is abundant in the High Country, from lazy largemouth bass and bluegills in various ponds and impoundments to the aggressive trout of various species that inhabit the numerous cold whitewater streams in the area. It is possible to fish license and tackle-free at a commercial fish farm, gear up with a professional outfitter and guide, or go it alone in search of the wild “brookie” or rainbow.
Knowledge of the regulations of the responsible bodies is always important before setting out on a fishing expedition. For information relating to North Carolina regulations in general, please visit www.ncwildlife.org. The special trout regulations will also list the various streams and stream segments that area available for trout fishing. It will also specify which streams are stocked and which are reserved for wild trout. For information specific to fishing in the waters of the Blue Ridge Parkway, such as Bass Lake, Price Lake or any of the creeks along the Parkway, go to www.blueridgeparkway.org/v.php?pg=51.
Trout may be found in the Watauga River and various tributaries. A favorite spot for a number of anglers is the Valle Crucis Community Park, www.vallecrucispark.com, located behind the Mast General Store in Valle Crucis.
The south and north forks of the New River provide some of the best smallmouth and redeye bass fishing in the region. The south fork downstream from the US 221 bridge is stocked with muskellunge. Good access to the New River is provided at several points within the New River State Park, http://www.ncparks.gov/Visit/parks/neri/activities.php. Trout fishing is excellent in the smaller, faster tributaries, most of which are designated general trout waters and are stocked regularly with rainbow and brown trout.
Other Links:
www.flyfishingnc.com
www.ecoflyfishing.com
www.foscoefishing.com
www.grandfathertroutfarm.com
www.rivergirlfishing.com
