Nolichucky River Fly Fishing is an exceptional outdoor experience for anglers visiting the Knoxville area. Known for its breathtaking scenery and rich aquatic biodiversity, this river offers an opportunity to catch a variety of fish, including brown and rainbow trout. The combination of tranquil waters and stunning Appalachian surroundings makes it a unique destination for both novice and seasoned fishers.
Adventure Guide To Nolichucky River Fly Fishing
Nolichucky River Campground
Located about 40 minutes from Knoxville, this campground provides access to prime fly fishing spots along the river. The facility features clean restrooms, picnic areas, and direct river access. The serene environment and well-maintained grounds are perfect for a day of fishing and relaxation.
Watauga Lake
While technically upstream from Nolichucky, Watauga Lake's accessibility from Knoxville makes it worth mentioning. This body of water is renowned for its trophy-sized trout, and fishing guides are readily available for hire. The picturesque backdrop of the Cherokee National Forest elevates the fishing experience, drawing many to its shores.
Nolichucky River Sporting Adventures
This local outfitter offers guided fly fishing trips tailored to your experience level. They provide equipment rentals and insider knowledge of the river, which enhances your chances of a successful catch. Their experts know the best spots and can teach casting techniques suitable for the river’s unique conditions.
Local Insights
The Nolichucky River holds significant historical value; it was once a vital transport route for Native Americans. The area around the river is rich in cultural heritage, with numerous hiking trails that celebrate this history. Knowing about local wildlife can also enhance your fishing experience.
Visitor Tips
Best Times to Visit: Late spring and early fall are ideal for fly fishing, as fish are most active during these seasons.
What to Bring: Fly rods, waders, polarized sunglasses, and sunscreen are essential for a successful fishing trip.
Driving Directions: To reach the Nolichucky River from Knoxville, take I-40 E toward Asheville, then exit to TN-81 N, estimated travel time is approximately 40 minutes.
Reviews
Ron Howard2 months ago
I wanted to learn to fly fish so I booked a float trip with High Country Angler. Had a great experience and learned a lot. The guide and owner, Evan was very knowledgeable and patient. His teaching style is effective, showing you what to do but also why to do it. I highly recommend this company to anyone looking for a guided trip.
David Gilmore5 months ago
Evan did an excellent job!
I regularly hire guides for customer/business fishing trips throughout the southeastern US. So, when my 80 year old dad visited from Florida recently, I contacted Evan to take us out for the day.
What a great experience! Evan is a great teacher, very patient and knowledgeable. After about 15 minutes with one fly, he “read the water” and switched to another. From there, we caught fish all morning (despite our questionable skills LOL!).
Being very familiar with guides, I say with confidence that Evan is one of the best.
Alexander Valecilloa year ago
Evan is a true trout MASTER, a natural teacher, and a great person to talk to/be around. He’s extremely knowledgeable in all things trout fishing and is a super patient guy. I had almost no fly fishing experience before fishing with Evan, which caused for me to lose a few fish on the beginning of my first morning fishing, but Evan was EXTREMELY patient and showed me multiple times what the proper techniques are for this very technical type of fishing and continued to remind me throughout the day of his pointers. Pretty soon we had broken 30+ fish! I fished with Evan for two half days and had an amazing time catching fish almost nonstop with some AMAZING views (especially on the upper part of the Watauga river, which is between the mountains). In Evan’s own words: “Trout bring us to beautiful places.” I will definitely be back very soon.
Regis Coccia3 months ago
We had an amazing outing with Evan of High Country Angler on the Watauga River, drifting down about 6 miles of the river and catching trout almost the entire way. Evan is a patient, knowledgeable and friendly guide who made our trip extra special. We're already looking forward to booking our next trip with him. Highly recommend High Country Angler for anyone seeking to experience fly fishing in one of the most beautiful settings in America!
Alex Birneya year ago
My husband and I just finished a half day float trip with Evan and it was everything you could hope for and more for two beginner fly fishers. Evan was a great guide, patient, and was a wonderful teacher for us newbies! It was a perfect day and we caught loads of trout!
