Fly Fishing Trail in Western North Carolina with Chris Maney



Segment 2, July 1st, 2023

Jackson County, North Carolina offers excellent opportunities for fly fishing enthusiasts, with its pristine rivers, streams, and mountainous landscapes. The county is home to several renowned fly fishing destinations that attract anglers from near and far.  Home of the Western North Carolina Fly Fishing Trail, the only fly fishing trail in the United States, featuring fifteen prime fishing spots along its route. The trail encompasses a variety of waters, including the Tuckasegee River, the West Fork of the Tuckasegee River, and various creeks and tributaries. Each spot along the trail offers a unique fishing experience, from challenging wild trout streams to larger rivers and stocked waters.

Chris Maney from Southeast Trading Co. is a Jackson County, NC, native.  He shares some of the popular fly fishing destinations in Jackson County.  One is Scott Creek, that flows right through Sylva.  It’s filled with stocked & wild trout.

Maney also shares his knowledge on the Tuckasegee.  The “Tuck” is known for its abundance of trout, including rainbow, brown, and brook trout. The river provides a diverse range of fishing experiences, from wide-open sections with gentle currents to smaller, more secluded areas. Fly anglers can test their skills in both wade and float fishing, depending on their preferences. Additionally, the Tuckasegee River is a year-round fishery, with excellent fishing opportunities in every season.

As the weather warms the smallmouth fishing becomes better.  Best equipment for this is a 5-weight or 6-weight fly rod.

You can check the Duke Energy water release schedule.

Jackson County, North Carolina is a true delight for anglers. With its diverse fishing spots, pristine rivers, and stunning mountain scenery, the county offers a memorable experience for both seasoned fly fishermen and beginners looking to try their hand at this rewarding sport.

Jesse Brown’s Outdoors is a renowned outdoor specialty store located in Charlotte, North Carolina. Founded in 1970, Jesse Brown’s has been serving outdoor enthusiasts for over five decades, offering a wide range of high-quality outdoor gear, clothing, and equipment.

Jesse Brown’s is a destination for those who enjoy activities such as hiking, camping, fishing, travel, and more. The store prides itself on providing exceptional customer service and expertise, ensuring that customers find the right gear and equipment for their outdoor adventures.

One of the highlights of Jesse Brown’s is its extensive selection of outdoor gear. The store carries top outdoor brands in Charlotte like Patagonia, Free Fly, Simms, & L.L. Bean.

They also do hiking boot & shoe fittings.