Few People Realize The Fly Fishing Capital Of The South Is Right Here In North Carolina

There are few things more relaxing than a day of fishing, and it just so happens that one of the most beautiful towns in the United States also happens to be known as the fly fishing capital of the South. That, of course, is Bryson City, North Carolina. This popular vacation town, known as the gateway to the Smoky Mountains, is an outdoors-lover's dream come true, and it's not hard to see why. This picturesque area is full of small streams and lakes that are perfect for fly fishing in Bryson City.

Fly fishing is a unique form of fishing that uses a lightweight lure that resembles a flying insect to target predatory fish. It's one of the easiest forms of fishing to master, as it doesn't require force for a deep cast, and it is perfectly suited for close-quarters fishing in streams. And Bryson City's waterways are packed with freshwater fish like trout. This region is considered one of the most diverse fishing habitats in the world, attracting both casual fishing hobbyists and experienced fishers every year. In fact, a whole culture has sprung up around fly fishing in Bryson City -- and the fun doesn't stop when you step away from the water!

As the Outdoor Adventure Capital of the Great Smoky Mountains, Bryson City is one of our country's geographical marvels and also doubles as heaven for avid fishers.

Everywhere you turn, you'll find a bevy of mountain streams and lakes, many loaded with both native and stocked trout.

There are over 2,900 miles of streams within the national park, as well as a Delayed Harvest stocked trout stream, stocked by the North Carolina Wildlife Resources Commission in the Tuckasegee River that runs through downtown Bryson City and is used for catch-and-release fishing.

And that's not even talking about the lakes - including Fontana Lake, the fourth-deepest lake in the country. It's usually filled with fishing boats, and there's more than enough catch for everyone.

Fly fishing is a great group activity, and Bryson City is one of those places where there is so much more to do than just casting a lure.

Keep an eye out around the Great Smoky Mountains National Park and its streams - you never know when you'll see some majestic wildlife making an entrance.

A fly fishing adventure in Bryson City doesn't begin and end with the national park, either; it continues into the culture of the town. Fly Fishing the Smokies is one of the country's best for fly fishing supplies and advice.

The town is also home to a small museum, the Fly Fishing Museum of the Southern Appalachians, which has an impressive array of exhibits dedicated to the history of the pastime and the tools used.

Next door, you'll find the Appalachian Rivers Aquarium, which is a great family activity that shows off the biodiversity with live species of the region.

It's not hard to see why Bryson City is such a popular destination for fly fishers, and why many find themselves spending the whole day and more enjoying the town's fishing culture.

Have you gone fly fishing in Bryson City before? Let us know your favorite spots to cast your lure in the comments section, and feel free to boast about that one that got away! To find out more about what makes fly fishing in this area of North Carolina so unique, make sure to check out the fly fishing section on the Explore Bryson City website.

The Facebook page for Bryson City, North Carolina will have the latest information on the fishing season, as well as some incredible pictures of the area. And if you're planning a multi-day fishing expedition, make sure to check out our recommendations for the most unique places to stay in Bryson City.