Toe River - Cleo - North Carolina
Fly Fishing River Report & Conditions
Toe River – Cleo - Water Flow Chart
Toe River – Cleo - Weather report & radar
Toe River – Cleo - General hatch chart
| Month | Hatch | Time of Day | Recommended Fly Sizes | Popular Fly Patterns |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| January | Midges | Afternoon | 18-22 | Zebra Midges |
| Blue Winged Olives | Late Morning – Afternoon | 16-20 | BWO Emergers, Parachute Adams | |
| February | Midges | Afternoon | 18-22 | Zebra Midges |
| Blue Winged Olives | Late Morning – Afternoon | 16-20 | BWO Emergers, Parachute Adams | |
| March | Blue Winged Olives | Late Morning – Afternoon | 16-20 | BWO Emergers, Parachute Adams |
| Caddis larvae | All day | 12-16 | Green Rock Worm, Holy Grail | |
| April | Blue Winged Olives | Late Morning – Afternoon | 16-20 | BWO Emergers, Parachute Adams |
| Hendrickson Mayflies | All day | 12-14 | Red Quill, Hendrickson Dry Flies | |
| May | Hendrickson Mayflies | All Day | 12-14 | Red Quill, Hendrickson Dry Flies |
| Caddis | Evening | 14-16 | Elk Hair Caddis, X-Caddis | |
| June | Sulphurs | Afternoon – Evening | 14-16 | Sulphur Dun, CDC Sulphur |
| Caddis | Evening | 14-16 | Elk Hair Caddis, X-Caddis | |
| July | Terrestrials (hoppers, ants, beetles) | Afternoon – Evening | 10-14 | Dave’s Hopper, Foam Beetle |
| Tricos | Early Morning | 18-22 | Trico Spinner, Hi-Vis Trico Spinner | |
| August | Terrestrials (hoppers, ants, beetles) | Afternoon – Evening | 10-14 | Dave’s Hopper, Foam Beetle |
| Tricos | Early Morning | 18-22 | Trico Spinner, Hi-Vis Trico Spinner | |
| September | Terrestrials (hoppers, ants, beetles) | Afternoon – Evening | 10-14 | Dave’s Hopper, Foam Beetle |
| Blue Winged Olives | Late Morning – Afternoon | 16-20 | BWO Emergers, Parachute Adams | |
| October | Terrestrials (hoppers, ants, beetles) | Afternoon – Evening | 10-14 | Dave’s Hopper, Foam Beetle |
| Blue Winged Olives | Late Morning – Afternoon | 16-20 | BWO Emergers, Parachute Adams | |
| November | Blue Winged Olives | Late Morning – Afternoon | 16-20 | BWO Emergers, Parachute Adams |
| Midges | Afternoon | 18-22 | Zebra Midges | |
| December | Midges | Afternoon | 18-22 | Zebra Midges |
| Blue Winged Olives | Late Morning – Afternoon | 16-20 | BWO Emergers, Parachute Adams |
Toe River – Cleo Access Points
The Toe River in Cleo is a hidden gem for fly fishing enthusiasts. Below, are a few key access points to explore:
- Cane River Park : Located in the heart of Yancey County. Public restrooms and ample parking are available.
- Riverside Park : This spot in Spruce Pine provides an excellent area to fly fish. Multiple species can be caught here.
- Kona Bridge : An access point south of Burnsville. A serene location with a diverse aquatic life.
- Bakersville : A perfect place to start, right in the town of Bakersville. The river here is stocked with trout regularly.
- Micaville : Situated downstream of the confluence of Cane River and the South Toe.
Remember to check local regulations and get your fishing license before you hit the water.
Toe River – Cleo Fishing Spots
The Toe River in Cleo is a haven for flying fishing enthusiasts. Here’s a list of some of the prime spots to enjoy this relaxing pastime and reel in some great catches:
- Penland Bridge: This location is known for large numbers of rainbow trout and offers deep pools and fast runs.
- Pine Root Branch: With a bit of hiking involved to reach the spot, it’s not only a fishing area but also a great adventuring site.
- Large’s Creek: This site, located off Highway 19E, is a delightful hub for brown trout.
- Tubing Area: The area near the Cane River Park is not just popular for tubing, but also a prime fishing locale due to its riffles and pools.
- Dellinger Mill: If historical sites appeal to you, this ancient mill on Cane Creek is a fantastic fishing spot.
Toe River – Cleo Local Fish Species
- Brook Trout: The native Brook Trout is a top target for fly fishers on the Toe River due to its vibrant color and challenging catch.
- Brown Trout: The European import, Brown Trout, is abundant in the Toe River and renowned for its aggressive behavior making it a popular target.
- Rainbow Trout: Known for their strong fight and beautiful coloration, Rainbow Trout are a beloved species among fly fishers.
- Smallmouth Bass: Although not a traditional fly fishing species, the Smallmouth Bass flourishes in the Toe River, offering a different challenge to trout.
- Walleye: The Walleye can be a relatively rare catch in the Toe River, but their size and delicious taste make them a prized target.
- Bluegill: Ideal for beginner fly fishers, Bluegill can be found in plenty in the shallower parts of the Toe River.
- Largemouth Bass: Largemouth Bass is a popular target due to their aggressive nature and bigger size compared to other local species.
- Redbreast Sunfish: Known for their beauty and palatable taste, Redbreast Sunfish are a local favorite among fly fishers.
About the Toe River – Cleo
The Toe River, flowing gently through North Carolina, has a rich history just as vibrant as the landscapes it nourishes. This river got its quirky name from early settlers who thought it looked like a toe! It’s one of the unique waterways that feeds into the renowned Nantahala National Forest.
The Toe evoked the interest of many throughout the 19th and 20th centuries, and still does today. One noteworthy location is the quaint community of Cleo, situated on the river’s picturesque banks.
- Cleo’s birth dates back to the late 19th Century, blooming during the region’s timber and mining boom.
- Despite the decline of these industries, Cleo remained, transformed by the hearty spirit of the locals who stayed, shaping it into a beloved riverside town.
- Today, it’s beloved for its tranquil setting, outdoor activities and a tightly-knit community, where the river’s serene flow mirrors the rhythm of life.
It’s a journey of transformation – from a bustling hub of enterprise, to a peaceful retreat huddled by the Toe River.
Community Contributions
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