Lakes and Rivers
Bryson City's rivers and lakes are teeming with some of the best…
Creeks and Streams
The streams, creeks, and rivers of the Fly Fishing Capital of the…
Fly Fishing Museum
Learn about the history of fly fishing in the Southeast.
Aquarium
Explore this native species aquarium on the banks of the Tuckasegee…
Fishing on Fontana Lake
About:
Fontana Lake is a unique fishery that is home to several species of fish typically associated with cold northern lakes. Spring runs of walleye, white bass, and steelhead look for the many river and creek mouths that feed Fontana Lake. These runs start in early March and last until the end of May and will offer incredible fishing for both anglers fishing from the bank, or by boat. Spring also brings fantastic fishing for crappie, bluegill, and yellow perch. Great fishing all year for smallmouth and largemouth bass; and catfish can be found throughout spring into fall. Several catfish are caught each year on Fontana weighing in excess of 50 lbs. Because of the cold deep water, Fontana was stocked in the 1970s with walleye, and the population has thrived. Walleye are caught all year long by a variety of tackle and techniques. With a lake the size of Fontana, there is bound to be an apex predator and Fontana has such river monsters: Muskie. These native species prowl the waters of Fontana in search of smaller fish to ambush.
License Requirements:
Fish Species:
Brown Trout, Rainbow Trout, Steelhead, Smallmouth Bass, Largemouth Bass, Kentucky Spotted Bass, Walleye, Muskie, Flathead Catfish, Channel Catfish, Yellow Perch, Crappie, Bluegill, Carp
Find a Local Fishing Guide in Bryson City
Our local fishing guides offer a variety of guided fishing trips including lake fishing, walk & wade and float trips in Bryson City, Swain County, Cherokee NC, and the Great Smoky Mountains National Park.
Carolina Bound Adventures
Provisions include Professional Guide, all fly fishing gear, rods…
Endless River Adventures - Fly Fishing
Whether you're new to fly fishing or a seasoned angler seeking the…
Fly Fishing the Smokies
Welcome to Fly Fishing the Smokies, your gateway to an unforgettable…
Fly Fishing the Smokies - Fishing Guide
Welcome to Fly Fishing the Smokies, your premier guided fly fishing…
Fontana Guides - Fishing
Looking for an unforgettable fishing experience in the Great Smoky…
Hyatt Creek Outpost
We, the Hyatt’s, are locals to Bryson City, NC. Our family has lived…
Mac Brown Fly Fishing
Ready to dive into the world of fly fishing in the breathtaking Great…
Rivers Edge Outfitters
Nestled in the heart of the Cherokee Indian Reservation, right at the…
Smoky Mountain Outdoors Unlimited
The streams and lakes of the Smoky Mountains are teeming with fish…
Tuckaseegee Fly Shop
Nestled in the heart of the Great Smoky Mountains, our retail fly shop…