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.
The event will be held in will primarily take place at the Deerwoode Reserve in Brevard North Carolina where the Forks of the Water Fly Fishing and Music Festival will be held. 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.
- Deerwoode Reserve, 395 Riversedge Rd, Brevard, NC 28712
- Headwaters Outfitters
- Brevard Location – 67 E Main St, Brevard, NC 28712
- Rosman Location – 25 Parkway Rd, Rosman, NC 28772
- Pisgah National Forest – Area Website Click HERE
These events require advance preparation and proactive engagement. Please note that our DIY Fishing events are truly do-it-yourself. Each angler is responsible for their own planning and preparation prior to arrival. While iFishiBelong and our event co-hosts provide helpful resources, links, and key information, it is the participant’s responsibility to carefully review all emails and thoroughly explore the event website.
The more prepared you are, the better your experience will be. Familiarizing yourself with the area, understanding the logistics, and reviewing all provided materials in advance will help ensure a smooth, enjoyable, and successful event.
Our goal is to equip each participant with knowledge of the area, how to fish it, and suggested fishing locations. Shared through the event webpages and reinforced during the Live Q&A session.
Please mark your calendars for the Live Q&A Session on February 18th, 2026, at 6 pm ET. Register HERE.
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.
The Social Fishing Day is an opportunity for participants to come together and spend a few hours fishing as a group. Our co-hosts will be on-site to help answer questions about fishing setup and techniques and to share insights into fishing the area. This is a communal, social experience. If you’re seeking solitude on the water, this may not be the right fit. But if you’re excited to learn, fish alongside others, and connect with new angling friends, this opportunity is for you.
Sunday 3/8/26 – Meet at Headwaters Fly Shop
- 9:00 am – Meet at the Headwaters for Coffee
- 9:30 am – Head to Fishing Location(s)
- 10:00 am – 12:00 pm – Social Fish
- 12:00 pm Depart
Exact fishing location will be decided the morning of the Social fish based on water conditions and what’s fishing well.
Fish Species
These are the fish species that you might encounter while fishing in western North Carolina.
Brook Trout – Native
Brook Trout – Stocked
Brown Trout
Rainbow Trout
Smallmouth Bass
Tiger Musky
As you explore the rivers and streams of Transylvania County, please watch your step and tread carefully to protect eastern hellbenders and other amphibians that live along the riverbank. Hellbenders shelter beneath large, flat rocks and within streambeds, making them especially vulnerable to accidental harm from wading, rock flipping, or careless foot placement.
Their populations have declined significantly, and they are considered endangered or at serious risk throughout much of their range due to habitat loss, sedimentation, and declining water quality. Avoid moving rocks, step lightly in shallow water, and remain aware of changing water conditions. By moving mindfully near waterways, you help protect these ancient amphibians and the clean, healthy rivers they depend on.
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 –
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 February 23rd, 2026 if you wish to borrow equipment. Click HERE.
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.
Local Fisheries
River Safety and Wading Concerns
Western North Carolina is a temperate rainforest, and water conditions can change quickly and unexpectedly. With over 250 waterfalls and its well-earned title as the Land of Waterfalls, this region is known for swift currents, fluctuating river levels, and rapidly rising water after rain events. Please be mindful of where you are fishing at all times and assess conditions carefully before entering the water.
Safe wading is your responsibility. Always use caution, wear appropriate gear, and know your limits. Pay close attention to weather forecasts, water clarity, and flow levels, and be prepared to adjust your plans as conditions change.
We will continue to share updates on river and weather conditions leading up to and during the event to support everyone’s safety. Please note that this event will take place rain or shine, and preparedness is essential.
Clothing
Weather in our area can be very unpredictable, so plan for anything. Winter/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. Waders are recommended.
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.
- 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
Western North Carolina 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.
