Blue Stream Fly Fishing
Fly Fishing Report for:

Tuckasegee River - Bryson City - North Carolina

Hatch Chart - Best Access/Spots - Local Fish - About

Water Flow Chart

Using Water Flow Charts & Weather Reports: Begin with our water flow charts to grasp stream velocity and volume – look for stable or rising trends to pinpoint ideal fishing times. Learn to interpret sudden spikes or drops, which can indicate potential challenges. Next, consult our weather reports to understand ambient conditions. Pairing the two, you can anticipate fish behavior, choose the right gear, and select the best fishing spots. Use these tools together for a holistic approach to your next fishing adventure.

In-Depth Weather

Directions To Location

Hatch Chart

Month Hatch Time of Day Recommended Fly Sizes Popular Fly Patterns
January Midge All Day 18-24 Zebra Midge, WD-40
Blue-Winged Olive Afternoon 18-20 Parachute Adams, Juju Baetis
February Midge All Day 18-24 Zebra Midge, WD-40
Blue-Winged Olive Afternoon 18-20 Parachute Adams, Juju Baetis
March Blue-Winged Olive Afternoon 16-18 Parachute Adams, Juju Baetis
Little Black Caddis All Day 14-18 Elk Hair Caddis, Goddard Caddis
April Blue-Winged Olive Afternoon 16-18 Parachute Adams, Juju Baetis
March Brown All Day 12-14 Adams, Pheasant Tail
May Sulphur Afternoon 14-16 Adams, Pheasant Tail
Cahill All Day 12-14 Adams, Hare's Ear
June Cahill All Day 12-14 Adams, Hare's Ear
Green Drake Afternoon 10-12 Adams, Green Drake Dry
July Terrestrials All Day 12-16 Elk Hair Caddis, Stimulator
Green Drake Afternoon 10-12 Adams, Green Drake Dry
August Terrestrials All Day 12-16 Elk Hair Caddis, Stimulator
Tricos Morning 18-24 Trico Spinner, Adams
September Terrestrials All Day 12-16 Elk Hair Caddis, Stimulator
Blue-Winged Olive Afternoon 16-18 Parachute Adams, Juju Baetis
October Blue-Winged Olive Afternoon 16-18 Parachute Adams, Juju Baetis
October Caddis All Day 10-12 Stimulator, Elk Hair Caddis
November Midge All Day 18-24 Zebra Midge, WD-40
Blue-Winged Olive Afternoon 18-20 Parachute Adams, Juju Baetis
December Midge All Day 18-24 Zebra Midge, WD-40
Blue-Winged Olive Afternoon 18-20 Parachute Adams, Juju Baetis

While we strive to ensure the precision of our hatch charts, some reflect broader river region insights. Through ongoing partnerships with local guides and fly shops, we’re committed to refining our data. Should you notice any inconsistencies or have feedback, we welcome you to reach out. 

Best Fishing Spots

The Tuckasegee River in Bryson City offers a variety of excellent spots cherished by fly fishermen far and wide:

  • Dillsboro: A highly accessible region dotted with numerous sections of pocket water, riffles, and deep holes.
  • Webster: Renowned for its slow-moving water which makes for easier wading and fly fishing.
  • Cullowhee: Offers a wider river channel with a mix of slow and fast moving water, providing ample spots for aggressive trout.

Additionally, don’t miss out on fishing during the “Tuckasegee Trophy Section” which occurs between October and June. Here, the river gets stocked with three species of trout, Rainbow, Brook, and Brown, averaging a sizable 14 – 16 inches, with some reaching up to 20 inches in length. Remember, this stretch of the river is strictly catch-and-release.

Best Access Points

The Tuckasegee River in Bryson City offers premier locations for fly fishing. Below, find some of the best access points:
  • East Laporte Park: Easy to fish from shore, this public access point is ideal for beginners.
  • Webster Access: Enjoy a quiet fishing experience, typically less crowded.
  • Dillsboro Park: Provides ample space for fly fishing, along with picnic and restroom facilities.
  • Island Park: Located in downtown Bryson City, it allows for both river and Island Park pond fishing.
Remember to follow fishing regulations and restriction periods throughout the year.
  1. Trout Fishing Season: Generally runs from late March through November.
  2. Delayed Harvest Section: Between Webster and Dillsboro, fly fishing catch and release only from October 1st to the first Saturday of June.

Local Fish

  • Brook Trout: The Brook Trout is a prized catch for fly fishermen on the Tuckasegee River with its vibrant color patterns and relatively small size making it a challenging, yet exciting catch.
  • Rainbow Trout: Characterized by its distinct pinkish stripe and silver body, the Rainbow Trout is a common, yet highly pursued fish by fly fishermen in Bryson City.
  • Brown Trout: The hearty Brown Trout is a staple of Tuckasegee River’s fish population. The high fertility of the river makes it the perfect environment for Brown Trout to thrive.
  • Smallmouth Bass: Often found in slow moving waters, these aggressive fishes are a staple in the Tuckasegee River. Fly fishermen must exercise a unique and careful approach to land these fish.
  • Largemouth Bass: Largemouth Bass are known for their voracious appetites and thrilling fights making them an exciting catch for any fly fisherman in Bryson City.
  • Walleye: These large game fishes have adapted well to the conditions of the Tuckasegee River and can often be found around deep pools and in the shadowy depths.
  • Bluegill: They are colorful and known for their violent strikes. Fly fishing for Bluegill is an experience that is both exciting and relaxing in equal parts.
  • Crappie: These panfish are known to congregate in underwater holes and structures, making them a challenging fish to land with a fly. Crappie fishing adds an interesting dimension to a day of fly fishing.

About The River

The Tuckasegee River– a treasured landmark flowing through the heart of Bryson City, is steeped in rich history and undeniable natural beauty. The river’s name originates from the Cherokee phrase “Takhsisgi”, translating to ‘Turtle Place’.

  • The river has served as a vital source of sustenance for the Cherokee tribe for centuries, fostering a diversity of fish species including trout and bass.
  • In the 1880s, the river became a hub of economic activity with the establishment of lumber industries and logging railroads along its banks.
  • Today, the serene Tuckasegee River continues to embody the soul of Bryson City, attracting anglers, kayakers, and nature lovers from all walks of life.
Relaxing on its shores, one can imagine the echo of the lumber mills, the chug of the old trains, and the whispers of the ancient Cherokee tales. So here’s to the Tuckasegee River-a testament to Bryson City’s resilient past and vibrant present.
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