Nahtahala River - Hewitt - North Carolina
Fly Fishing River Report & Conditions
Nahtahala River – Hewitt - Water Flow Chart
Nahtahala River – Hewitt - Weather report & radar
Nahtahala River – Hewitt - General hatch chart
| Month | Hatch | Time of Day | Recommended Fly Sizes | Popular Fly Patterns |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| January | Blue Winged Olive | Noon to Dusk | 18-22 | Adams, Blue Winged Olive |
| Quill Gordons | Noon | 12-14 | Quill Gordons | |
| February | Blue Winged Olive | Dusk | 16-18 | Adams, Blue Winged Olive |
| Quill Gordons | Noon | 12-14 | Quill Gordons | |
| March | Hendricksons | Afternoon to Dusk | 12-14 | Hendricksons, Adams |
| April | March Browns | Afternoon | 10-12 | Parachute Adams, Hare’s Ear |
| May | Green Drakes | Dusk | 6-10 | Green Drake, Light Cahill |
| June | Sulphur | Evening | 14-18 | CDC Sulphur, Light Cahill |
| July | Tan Caddis | Afternoon to Dusk | 14-18 | Elk Hair Caddis, Adams |
| August | Terrestrial | All Day | 10-20 | Ant Patterns, Beetle Patterns |
| September | Caddis | Afternoon to Dusk | 14-16 | Elk Hair Caddis, Parachute Adams |
| October | October Caddis | Dusk | 8-10 | October Caddis, Elk Hair Caddis |
| November | Blue Winged Olive | Afternoon to Dusk | 18-22 | Blue Winged Olive, Adams |
| Midges | Afternoon | 20-26 | Griffith’s Gnat, Zebra Midge | |
| December | Blue Winged Olive | Afternoon to Dusk | 18-22 | Blue Winged Olive, Adams |
| Midges | Afternoon | 20-26 | Griffith’s Gnat, Zebra Midge |
Nahtahala River – Hewitt Access Points
The Nantahala River in Hewitt is renowned for its excellent fly fishing opportunities. There are several prime access points worth checking out:
- Beechertown Launch Site: Start your fly fishing adventure here. Easy access and ample parking.
- Ferebee Memorial Park: Another popular access point, complete with picnic areas. The entry to the river is gradual, making it ideal for beginners.
- Nantahala River Lodge: Offers private access to fishing spots. Ideal for those seeking a more secluded experience.
- Winding Stairs Road: Get up close to the rushing whitewater. Fish from the banks or try your luck in the plentiful eddies.
- Nantahala Outdoor Center: Offers guided fishing trips with equipment rentals, ideal for newcomers to fly fishing.
Nahtahala River – Hewitt Fishing Spots
The Nantahala River in Hewitt is a renowned spot for fly fishing, featuring diverse species such as Rainbow Trout, Brook Trout, and Brown Trout. Key spots for anglers include:
- Upper Nantahala: Packed with wild brown and rainbow trout, this section of the river is perfect for experienced anglers. The rough terrain and heavy foliage make it a challenging but rewarding spot.
- Nantahala Cascades: Offering a high volume whitewater area, this fast-flowing stretch is ideal for thrill-seekers. Fly fishing amidst the cascades promises a unique experience.
- Lower Nantahala & Delayed Harvest Section: These are easily accessible sections with generously stocked trout. Restocked several times a year, this is the go-to area for beginners and those seeking a casual fly fishing experience.
Nahtahala River – Hewitt Local Fish Species
- Rainbow Trout
- Brown Trout
- Brook Trout
- Smallmouth Bass
- Largemouth Bass
- Redeye Bass
- Striped Bass
- Cherokee Bass
About the Nahtahala River – Hewitt
The Nahtahala River is a sparkling gem nestled in North Carolina’s lush landscapes. Named from the Cherokee word meaning ‘Land of the Noonday Sun,’ its history is as fascinating as it is beautiful. Beginning its journey in the Macon County, it flows through the Nantahala National Forest, showcasing incredible biodiversity.
The Hewitt area, a significant point in the river, boasts a rich mining history. During the gold rush period in the 1800s, adventurous spirits flocked to Hewitt, transforming it into a buzzing gold mining town. Although the gold rush ended, Hewitt continues to charm with its almost mystical allure.
- 1830: The year the gold rush began in Nantahala.
- Today: Adventure seekers enjoy white-water rafting and fly fishing in the Nantahala River, playing on its class II and III rapids, and angling in its crystal-clear streams.
Indeed, the Nahtahala River’s journey – from a gold rush pulse to an adventurer’s paradise – is a story that adds depth and character to North Carolina’s scenic beauty.
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