Fishing In The Smokies
Fishing in The Smokies
You came to the Great Smoky Mountains to fish. You know that year-round fly-fishing is permitted in the beautiful streams of the National Park, but did you know that you can begin fishing 30 minutes before official sunrise, and must finish no later than thirty minutes after official sunset? Take this quick quiz to learn a few other rules and regulations so that you're ready for a day of relaxing fishing.
Q: True or False: In a single day of fishing, you can keep up to five caught trout or small mouth bass.
A: True. Although the Park's main attraction and only species native to the Southeastern United States is the Appalachian Brook Trout, it's also common to catch wild, stream-bred rainbow trout and small mouth bass. Fishermen can keep up to five fish and any combination thereof, as long as the fish are at least seven inches long. However, once you catch five, you must stop fishing for the day.
Q: Which species of fish is federally protected within the park?
a. Spotfin Chub
b. Duskytail Darter
c. Smoky Madtom
d. Yellowfin Madtom
e. All of the above
A: (e) All of the above! All of these federally protected species live near lower Abrams creek, but if you happen to catch one, make sure to safely release it back into the water.
Q: In which Park stream can you NOT fish?
a. Anthony Creek Watershed
b. Lynn Camp Prong
c. Cosby Creek Watershed
d. Cataloochee Creek
e. Forney Creek
A: (b) Lynn Camp Prong. Fishing is allowed in all streams in the Tennessee side of the Park, except for the Lynn Camp Prong upstream and its confluence with the Thunderhead Prong. A full map of prime fishing locations, regulations, and other details can be obtained online or at any Park Visitor Center.
Q: True or False: There are no regulations on rod size and lure type within the Park.
A: False! Only hand-held rods and single-hook artificial flies or lures can be used. Dropper flies are allowed at up to two flies per leader. Bait fishing is strictly forbidden. Be aware that all fishing tackle and equipment is subject to inspection at any time.
Q: True or False: You need a fishing license or permit in the Great Smoky National Park.
A: True. Either Tennessee or North Carolina must issue a fishing license, and anglers must be at least 13 years old. No trout stamp is required. Special licenses are available for those over 65. Licenses and permits are not available for purchase within the park, but you can obtain them in nearby towns or online. Special permits are required for fishing within Gatlinburg or Cherokee.
Q: What is the most popular way to serve trout?
a. Raw
b. Sun-baked
c. Pan-fried
d. On a bed of rice
A: (c) Pan-fried. Serving trout the old-fashioned way is a delicious ending to a day full of fishing. To prepare the trout, first cut off the head and gut, but avoid removing the skin and scales. Roll the trout in flour along with a mix of your favorite herbs and spices. Fry the trout at medium to medium-high heat until the skin is golden brown and the flesh is firm and flaky. The backbone should come out easily once the fish is thoroughly cooked. Be sure not to overcook and enjoy!
Being informed and learning the rules is the starting point for a fun and safe day of fishing in the Smokies. Before you start angling, be sure to become familiar with the Park's guidelines on water safety. Good luck!
And of course don't forget that nothing can make fishing in the Smokies more pleasant than going back to a beautiful cabin for a good night's sleep, so please visit our Gatlinburgcabins website to find a perfect post-fishing lair.
Featured Products
