Stream Fishing

You are wading in knee-high water, cold, clear, swift running.  Sun dapples the water, but mostly you are in shade, under a canopy of poplar,  rhododendron and mountain laurel.  Suddenly, a strike, a flash of color.  The brookie fights bravely, and once you hold him, you gently release him to fight another day.  You smile, knowing your day is complete.

The waters on Balsam Mountain are among the purest anywhere, so it's not surprising that our 38 miles of streams are home to the southern Appalachian brook trout, a prized and rare species.

You can strike out on your own in Dark Ridge Creek, or take a guided trip with our one our naturalists.  If you don't have your own equipment, no worries - we have an Outfitters Post in the Nature Center that will supply you and your family with everything you need to experience the wonders of natural stream fishing.  We can even provide fly fishing lessons to help beginners get off to the right start.

Of course, a guided fishing trip with one of our naturalists can also offer educational opportunities. You never know when you’ll spot a Blue Ridge two-lined salamander, a pileated woodpecker, or an unusual tree that only your guide can identify.