The Pisgah National Forest is a land of mile-high peaks, cascading waterfalls, and heavily forested slopes. Comprising over 500,000 acres, the Pisgah is primarily a hardwood forest with whitewater rivers, waterfalls, and hundreds of miles of trails. 

From the streams that can be easily reached from a parking site on the side of a forest service road to the remote streams that require overnight camping, the Pisgah National Forest offers spectacular trout waters, including nationally known trout waters on the Davidson and Pigeon Rivers. 

There are hundreds of miles of trout waters, some of which are stocked by the Wildlife Resources Commission, and the professional guides at Turning Stone's Fly Fishing are your key to unlocking their potential.

Fly Fishing Excursion in the Pisgah National Forest Backcountry

The Pisgah National Forest is within the natural habitat of the southern strain of the Appalachian brook trout, which, thankfully, are still found throughout the region. The two other species include brown trout and rainbow trout, which were first introduced over 100 years ago. The first documented introduction of brown and rainbow trout into the forests was by loggers working in the area around 1910.

Many of the streams within the backcountry of the forest itself are remote and difficult to get to. You may wish to fish a day or so in some of the waters on public land that are easier to access before venturing deep into the wilderness. Many of these streams are stocked with trout, which can improve your success rate during your fly fishing excursion before you tackle the backcountry waters.

Although maps of the area can provide the locations of many of the streams and rivers that are available, unless you are familiar with the mountain roads, public lands, and areas where fly fishing is not allowed, then it is imperative that you have one of our professional guides at Turning Stone's Fly Fishing lead you to success. 

Hatchery Supported Trout Waters in the Pisgah National Forest

The trout waters within the forest are managed for the brook trout; however, brown and rainbow trout are found as well. There are many streams and rivers within the forest that are stocked with all three species by the state of North Carolina and are covered by state license requirements.

Some of the more popular hatchery-supported destinations within the Pisgah National Forest include the Davidson River, Linville River, Pigeon River, and Wilson's Creek.

Fishing and hunting are permitted throughout the national forests in North Carolina. While the Forest Service manages the habitat and protects water quality in the national forests, the North Carolina Wildlife Resources Commission regulates fishing. Anglers should have a fishing license. For information on licenses and more, contact the Wildlife Resources Commission at www.ncwildlife.org or call 888-248-6834.

Utilize One of Turning Stone’s Fly Fishing Guides 

• Our guides research the streams in the Pisgah National Forest to find the best location for trout.
• Our guides know the local stream conditions and the best fly patterns to utilize.
• Our guides can work with any fly fishing experience level and can pick locations that best suit the experience and physical condition of the angler.
• If you need the right fly fishing gear for the local conditions, our guides can assist you with finding the right gear to catch trout.
• Our guides have a lot of experience in backcountry fly fishing and know plenty of great spots to get away from the crowds.

Benefits of Scheduling a Fly Fishing Excursion With Turning Stone’s Fly Fishing Guides 

• You will be surrounded by some of the tallest mountains on the East Coast.
• You will have the opportunity to reconnect with nature.
• You will be able to bring your friends with you.
• You will be able to forget about the world's troubles for a few days. 
• You will have the opportunity to learn from some of the best fly-fishing experts in the country. 

The majestic southern Appalachians in North Carolina and Tennessee provide some of the most beautiful, rugged, remote streams and rivers for fly fishing adventures. And if you are interested in catching trout, then the region offers multiple opportunities to do so.

If you wish to experience the excellent trout waters found in the Pisgah National Forest, then book a trip with Turning Stone’s Fly Fishing today. For more information, contact us today.