The Cullasaja River
The Cullasaja River is without a doubt one of the most picturesque rivers anywhere in western North Carolina. This river gains its strength from high country tributaries near the town of Highlands, North Carolina, and creates Lake Sequoyah. From there, it flows drastically down the Cullasaja Gorge through the town of Franklin, North Carolina, and into the Little Tennessee River.
The river can be fished all year long except the month of March due to stocking. It is under hatchery supported regulations. This river also boasts a solid population of wild brown trout and rainbow trout.
This river is very technical in nature due to the steep terrain.
For the adventurous angler you will not find a better place to play. To be clear, I do not recommend this river for beginners! If you want to get the true trophies on the Cullasaja River you will have to get way off of the beaten path and work for them.
Not only are there fish to be caught, there are some of the most beautiful waterfalls in Macon County.
The fly fishing guides here at Turning Stone’s Fly Fishing are probably the only guides in the area that know where the truly good wild areas are in this beautiful river! The Cullasaja is within minutes of the towns of Cashiers, Highlands, Franklin, Sky Valley Georgia, Scaly Mountain, and Clayton, Georgia!
Float Trips, Wade Trips, and Rates
Turning Stone’s Fly Fishing believes that a float trip or wade fishing trip is the best way of soaking in the beauty of the Smoky Mountains. We strive to make this a comfortable and easy experience, unless an angler wants to get off the beaten path.
2-Hour
Wade Trips
(2 hours on the water)
- One or Two Anglers: $250
- Three Anglers (Max): $325
- All rods, reels, and flies are provided.
- Pending availability, waders are available for FREE.
Full-Day
Wade Trips
(approx. 8:00-4:30)
- One Angler: $350
- Two Anglers: $475
- All rods, reels, and flies are provided.
- Pending availability, waders are available for FREE.
Half-Day
Wade Trips
(4 hours on the water)
- One Angler: $300
- Two Anglers: $375
- All rods, reels, and flies are provided.
- Pending availability, waders are available for FREE.