Highlands is one of the coolest towns on the East Coast, literally and figuratively. The temperature is often ten to twelve degrees cooler than any other surrounding town, so the waters in this area are perfect for hatchery-supported and wild brown trout. Although fly fishing and the Highlands are a match made in heaven, there are a lot of other reasons why people travel there, such as:

• Hiking the area's numerous kilometers of stunning paths
• Appalachian Mountain zip lining excursions
• Water activities including whitewater rafting, kayaking, and tubing
• Townwide excellent dining and shopping
• Stunning panoramas, waterfalls, and scenery

Highlands is a little town with much to see and do. It's conveniently only a couple of hours away from places like Charlotte, Atlanta, Greenville, Knoxville, and Asheville.

Highland's history dates all the way back to the 19th century, and it is one of the communities east of the Mississippi River with the highest elevation. 

Thousands of miles of hiking and mountain biking trails are close to Highlands. Excellent dining establishments, breweries, and retail stores can be found downtown. You'll like Highlands if you're looking for a memorable fly fishing trip. Here’s what you need to know about brown trout fishing in and around Highlands, NC.

Fly Fishing for Brown Trout Near Highlands, NC

About Brown Trout

The brown trout is golden brown to olive brown with yellowish sides. Its back and sides have dark spots encircled with light yellow or white. Some brown trout also have orange or red spots on their sides.

Brown trout, which are indigenous to Europe and western Asia, were brought to North America in the late 1800s. Brown trout tend to be solitary, congregating around submerged features like fallen trees and undercut banks.

Larger specimens are frequently collected in low light conditions and following rainstorms that produce murky water. Compared to other trout species, they can tolerate somewhat higher water temperatures. Most spawning takes place in the autumn.

Where to Find Brown Trout Near Highlands, NC

Whether you’re fishing for wild or hatchery-supported brown trout, you can find all you want in Highlands, NC. The primary trout fishing area in Highlands is the Cullasaja River. Although the Cullasaja River may not be ideal for novice anglers, if you have any expertise, there is no better area to fish.

The Cullasaja runs from Highlands to Franklin, North Carolina, and is wholly inside Macon County. It carves a tiny, beautiful canyon. It can be fished all year long, except in March.

You can also venture just a short distance beyond Highlands for trout waters that fit every level of experience and expertise. Franklin, Cullowhee, Sylva, Bryson City, Dillsboro, Waynesville, Cashiers, and many other towns have substantial populations of brown trout. 

Who Can Help You Find Wild and Hatchery-Supported Brown Trout Near Highlands, NC

Our guides have fished all around the world and are skilled teachers and leaders. The waterways near Highlands are as familiar to us as the backs of our hands. We can assist you in locating the best brown trout, both wild and hatchery-supported.

If you’re ready to start fishing for brown trout in Highlands, we’re here to help! Contact us today for more information about fly fishing in western North Carolina.