All Are Welcomed
The North Carolina iFishiBelong fishing weekend is open to everyone, not just women or fly-fishing enthusiasts. The iFishiBelong mission is to advocate for all species, fishing techniques, and people, with a focus on creating a welcoming environment where diversity is celebrated and discrimination is not tolerated.
iFishiBelong’s fishing events allow attendees to explore, engage in DIY fishing, and participate in social gatherings. These events also serve as a platform to highlight local businesses and guides, building community and support.
iFishiBelong has prepared an event checklist containing links to all necessary items. This checklist will help ensure that everyone is well-prepared and informed for the event. Print the checklist HERE.
Table of Contents
Weekend Logistics
Thank you for registering for North Carolina iFishiBelong fishing weekend. This is an inclusive event where like-minded individuals can connect, empower each other, and have fun. The registration fee is instrumental in offsetting the costs associated with travel logistics, online platforms, the extensive hours dedicated to research, meticulous preparation, and the ongoing correspondence that happens behind the scenes to ensure a seamless experience for all participants.
Participants head out to fish on their own each day, with a variety of accommodation options to choose from. The event takes place in the beautiful Pisgah National Forest near Rosman, North Carolina, from April 24th to April 27th , 2025. ** This webpage is a dynamic document, and we’ll continue to update it with additional useful links and information in the coming months. **
Event Questions
Please utilize this webpage and the North Carolina Facebook Group as most of your questions will answered. Otherwise email [email protected].
Facebook Group
Join the Facebook Group to network with fellow attendees, seek advice, and exchange travel and event photos/videos. Co-hosts will share further event details there. Join the Facebook Group HERE.
Recorded Q&A Session
Dates
April 24th – 27th, 2025
Check-In Time
For camping, arrive at Headwaters Outfitters between 2:00 pm – 5:30 pm on your arrival day. If arriving later, contact Headwaters Outfitters at 828-877-3106. Refer to the weekend schedule for additional meet-up times.
Location
The event will be held in will primarily take place at Headwaters Outfitters or their private campground, located in or near Rosman, North Carolina. Due to the spotty cell coverage in this part of North Carolina, we recommend opening Google Maps while in an area with reliable service to get your directions started to these locations.
What's Included
Thank you once again for registering for the 2025 North Carolina iFishiBelong fishing weekend. Below is a breakdown of what is included and what the registration fee covers.
- An Exclusive Webpage Established Specifically for Registered North Carolina Participants.
- It includes event logistics, packing tips, fishing details, etc.
- iFishiBelong Cling Magnet ($20 Value)
- Interactive Live Q&A Session
- Online Access to the “Summer Trout Fishing Techniques” Pre-Recorded Course
- Nightly Social Events
- Friday Morning Social Fishing
- Location & Fishing Research Compiled for Easy Participant Reference
- Dedicated Co-Hosts Focusing on Education, Community, Fun
- Commitment to Support Local Businesses and Highlight Women and Underrepresented Owners and Guides in the Region
- 20% Off TroutRoutes Pro Account
What's Not Included
- Transportation to and from Rosman, NC
- Accommodation/Camping Options
- Meal Arrangements
- Fishing Gear
- Equipment Lending Options Available
- Fill out the “Borrowed Equipment” Form HERE
- North Carolina Fishing License
- Guided Fishing Opportunities
Tentative Weekend Schedule
Each day is centered on fishing adventures, concluding with social evenings. We urge individuals to engage with each other in the Facebook Group to to form fishing friendships and coordinate weekend adventures.
- Thursday 4/24/25
- Fishing Pisgah Area Presentation (Donation Based)
- Friday 4/25/25 – DIY Fishing and Exploring
- 6:30 pm – Headwaters Campground Social Evening
- Saturday 4/26/25 – Social Fishing and Exploring
- Working on Details
- Sunday 4/27/25 – DIY Fish and Depart
- DIY Fishing
- Camping is available for those who want to depart on Monday, 4/28/25
- Monday 4/28/25 – Depart
To further plan your trip check out explorebrevard.com for restaurants, lodging, and local attractions go to https://explorebrevard.com/.
Saturday Social Fishing Day
Working on details.
Cherokee Fishing Tips
Achieving drag-free drifts in the summer is essential. For optimal results, fish a dry-dropper setup with a 14-18″ dropper in swifter, more oxygen-rich waters. See the Fish Cherokee email for more information.
- Flies –
- Dries – Yellow Stimulators, Parachute Adams, Yellow Sally, Sulphur, March Brown, Large Golden Stone, Caddis (Tan, Cream, Grey, Olive), Green Drake, Brown Stones.
- Subsurface – Pheasant Tails, Mops, Squirmies, Yellow Stimulators, and Parachute Adams’ #14 – 16.
- Leaders –
- Longer Leaders for a more subtle approach.
- 10 – 12’ 5x Leaders
- TroutHunter finesse leader is Michael’s go-to.
- Tippet –
- 5x – 7x
- Add Additional Tippet to Dry Fly
- Use 6x – 7x for Nymphs Under Dry Flies
Independent Angler workshop Available
The Independent Angler workshop is designed to enhance your fly fishing abilities and boost your confidence on the water. Participants are encouraged to have basic equipment and a foundational knowledge of fly fishing. Prior to the workshop, attendees will have access to pre-recorded online classes, ‘Intro to Fly Fishing’ and ‘Reading Trout Water’, to prepare for the hands-on session. No equipment is required for the workshop. Register HERE.
Workshop Topics –
- Leader and Tippet Talk
- Basic Fly Fishing Knots and Leader Set-Ups
- Fly Types
- Casting Drills
- Mending Demonstrations
- ABCs of Fly Fishing
- How to Approach the Water
- Searching vs Targeting
- How to Choose the Correct Fly
Camping
To locate the campground, you can search for “Headwaters Outfitters Campground” in Google Maps or click on this link HERE which will take you directly to the location in the app. Camping Reservations available 4/24/25 – 4/28/25. Register for camping HERE.
- Check In – Arrive at Headwaters Outfitters between 2:00 pm – 5:30 pm on your arrival day. If arriving later, contact Headwaters Outfitters at 828-877-3106. Everyone camping must sign a liability waiver through Headwaters Outfitters.
Camp Equipment Suggestions
For your camping trip, you have the option to sleep in either your car, van, trailer or tent. Make sure to bring essential items such as a tent, sleeping bag, air mattress, water, and food. Other useful items to pack include a headlamp, camp chair, and bug spray. It is advisable to bring your own water supply as well.
Lodging
If you’d rather not camp, then there are several other lodging options. We recommend staying in the Rosman or Brevard NC Area. Need help with lodging? CLICK HERE.
Food
You’re in charge of your meals. On Saturday, 4/26/25, we’ll meet at Headwaters Outfitters, offering a food truck and taproom. Additionally, there are several local grocery stores, eateries, and delis in the vicinity for your convenience.
Education Opportunities
- Live Q&A Session:
- Dive into event logistics and gain valuable fishing information.
- Engage on Facebook:
- Join the North Carolina Facebook Group.
- Pose your questions; our co-hosts and community members will help answer the questions.
- Co-Host Guidance:
- Our co-hosts will be available throughout the event.
- Get answers on topics like knots, leaders, flies, and prime fishing locations.
- In-Person Workshop Opportunity:
- Participate in the “Independent Angler” Workshop.
- Led by Heather Hodson and Hannah Meyers Overgaard
- Duration: 4 hours.
- Learn More HERE.
- Live Q&A Session:
We’re here to help, so don’t hesitate to ask!
Area Resources
The NC Wildlife site, https://www.ncwildlife.org/, is a valuable resource for fishing enthusiasts in our area. They offer a wealth of information, including detailed maps with fishing regulations, the ability to purchase your inland fishing license, and comprehensive information on the species found in our area. Make sure to visit the North Carolina State Wildlife Resources page to enhance your fishing experience.
- Transylvania County –
- Top 15 Waterfalls in the Pisgah Area –
- Pisgah National Forest –
- NC Fishing Maps
- Pisgah Area National Forest Map
Fishing
The western mountains of North Carolina host approximately 4,000 miles of coldwater streams, surpassing any other southeastern state in trout-supporting waters. In Transylvania County, there are nearly 500 miles of coldwater creeks, streams, and rivers. This abundance ensures exceptional trout fishing opportunities, from intimate brook trout streams to lively rivers meandering through deep gorges inhabited by rainbows and browns.
Water Safety
Western North Carolina is a rainforest. Please be prepared for water conditions to change quickly. We will keep you all updated on the conditions to keep everyone safe. This event will happen rain or shine.
Fishing License
North Carolina fishing licenses are required. Do Not purchase Mountain Trout. You will need an Inland Fishing License for our area. Purchase a NC fishing license HERE.
Fish Species
These are the fish species tha you might encounter while fishing in western North Carolina.
Brook Trout – Native
Brook Trout – Stocked
Brown Trout
Rainbow Trout
Smallmouth Bass
Mark your calendars for the Live Q&A Session in March 2025, where we’ll explore weekend logistics and share local fishing information. The North Carolina fishing weekend involves some preparation and proactive involvement. To provide attendees with the essential information for a successful weekend, please utilize this website outlining the weekend’s logistics to assist in crafting your fishing itinerary.
DIY Fishing Blogs
- DIY Fishing the Davidson River –
- River and Stream Fishing Areas –
- Trout Unlimited “30 Great Places: Pisgah National Forest” –
- Fly Fishing Guide to North Carolina Mountain Trout Streams –
Hire a Fishing Guide
We recognize that not everyone wants to DIY Fish and may prefer the expertise of a fishing guide. If you need last-minute gear and professional guidance for the weekend, check out these two local fly shops where you can find everything you need and hire a knowledgeable fishing guide.
Clothing
Weather in our area can be very unpredictable, so plan for anything. Spring is generally cool. Temperatures range from the 30s to the 70s, depending on the day. These temperatures can happen on the SAME day! Be prepared with shedable layers to either add or shed throughout the day.
Another fun fact, the Pisgah National Forest is also considered a temperate rainforest. Do not forget a rain jacket! A thick pair of wool socks will be in your favor while wearing waders. Everyone should have a pair of polarized sunglasses as they are extremely beneficial to see what is going on under the water–whether that be for spotting fish, finding a sturdy rock to stand on or protecting your eyes from flies. A typical outfit for a day on the water here consists of leggings, long wool socks, a light baselayer shirt, a vest, a light puffy jacket, a hat, and sunglasses.
- Fly Rods – 4wt – 6wt.
- Rod Length – Average 9’.
- Fly Lines – Typical Floating Fly Lines
- Leader – 9’ 4x – 6x
- Tippet Spools – 4x – 6x
Pisgah Area Flies
Here are the top 20 flies for the Pisgah National Forest.
- Chubby Chernobyl
- Crackback Slim Shady
- Elk Hair Caddis
- Girdle Bug
- Goddard Caddis
- Guide Choice Hare’s Ear
- Fat Albert
- Jedi Master
- Jig Duracell
- Micro Girdle Bug
- Parachute Adams
- Pat’s Rubber Legs with Tied Legs
- Pink Dry Flies
- Smethhurst’s Heater Bomb
- Rio Foam Fly
- Sparkle Caddis Pupa
- Soft Hackle (Bead and No Bead)
- Trina’s Montana Prince Nymph
- Yellow Sally
- Water Walker
Need to Borrow Equipment?
Each angler is expected to bring their own equipment and flies. We have rod/reel setups, boots and waders available for borrowing on a first-come, first-served basis. Please fill out the “Borrowed Equipment” form by April 10th, 2025 if you wish to borrow equipment. Click HERE.
Pisgah Area Hatch Chart
Leader Examples
Here are a few commonly used leader examples for fishing in the Pisgah National Forest Area. Please note that these examples are intended for personal use only and should not be distributed. © Copyright 2020 Fly Fish Instruct, LLC. All rights reserved.
Local Fisheries
Below are a few local places to find fish, along with a general 1-5 scale on angling difficulty and wading difficulty. 1 being the easiest, 5 being the most difficult.
- Avery Creek (3)
- Davidson River (4)
- Davidson River Gorge (5)
- Davidson River Hatchery Area (3)
- East Fork of the French Broad (2)
- Little River (Hooker Falls Access Lot) (2)
- Mills River (North & South) (3)
Safety Policy
For the safety of all, if you show any signs of illness or have a positive test result, kindly remain at home. Stay informed about the weather, dress for the occasion, and stay alert to any shifts in water conditions.
Weekend Disclaimer
We aim for a memorable weekend, emphasizing community for everyone present. Educational resources will be available, and connections among anglers encouraged. We expect a drama-free setting and clarify that while co-hosts will be around, the weekend is self-guided. Attendees can coordinate fishing plans with other participants via the Facebook Group. This is not an exclusive women’s weekend. Partners, friends, and family are encouraged to join.
