Blue Stream Fly Fishing
Fly Fishing Report for:

Watauga River - Grove - 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 Midges Mid Day 20-26 Zebra Midges
February Blue Wing Olives 12pm-4pm 18-20 Rs2, Pheasant Tail
March Blue Wing Olives Afternoon 18-22 Adams, RS2
Quill Gordons Afternoon 12-14 Quill Gordon dry
April Caddis Afternoon-Evening 14-16 Elk Hair Caddis
Blue Wing Olives Afternoon 18-22 Adams, RS2
Sulphurs Early Evening 14-18 Sulphur Parachute, Sulphur Comparadun
May Sulphurs Early Evening 14-18 Sulphur Parachute, Sulphur Comparadun
Caddis Morning-Evening 14-16 Elk Hair Caddis
June Sulphurs Evening 14-18 Sulphur Parachute, Sulphur Comparadun
Terrestrials All Day 10-16 Ant Patterns, Beetle Patterns
July Terrestrials All Day 10-16 Hopper Patterns, Beetle Patterns
August Terrestrials All Day 10-16 Ant Patterns, Hopper Patterns
September Terrestrials All Day 10-16 Ant Patterns, Hopper Patterns, Beetle Patterns
October Blue Wing Olives Afternoon 18-22 Adams, RS2
October Caddis Evening 10-12 October Caddis Pupa
November Blue Wing Olives Afternoon 18-22 Adams, RS2
December Midges Mid Day 20-26 Zebra Midges

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

Fly fishing enthusiasts will find the Watauga River – Grove an outstanding location with diverse options. Some of the best spots include:

  • Valle Crucis Community Park: This area offers easy water access and has a variety of fish species.
  • Upper Watauga River: Known for its wild trout population, it offers a challenging experience for seasoned anglers.
  • Foscoe Fishing Company: It offers guided tours and has a wide variety of fish including rainbow and brown trout.

Additionally, there are several points on the river that are stocked with trout, offering excellent fly fishing opportunities. As always, remember to follow local regulations when fishing at these locations.

  • Check for dates when stocking occurs to ensure great catches.
  • Practice catch and release to sustain the fish populations.

Best Access Points

The Watauga River – Grove offers perfect opportunities for fly fishing. Here are the top access points:

  • Foscoe Fishing Company: Located just off Highway 105, Foscoe allows carry in and carry out access. It is a game-land trout water that is recommended for fishing.
  • Valle Crucis Community Park: This 28-acre park offers excellent river access, allowing fly-fishing along its 0.8-mile meandering trail.
  • Sugar Grove: This point gives access to a wide, rocky-bottomed section of the Watauga River, ideal for wade fishing.
  • Bulls Bridge Access: Found on Watauga River Road, this offers easy river access for fly fishing.
  • Watauga River Access Point at High House: Known for its deep waters, it is suitable for both float and wade fishing with numerous species of fish.

Bear in mind public access laws and always respect private properties along the river shoreline.

Local Fish

  • Brown Trout: This desirable species is quite common in the Watauga River and is targeted by many fly fishermen.
  • Rainbow Trout: A colorful game fish, the Rainbow Trout attracts numerous fly fishers to the Watauga River with its striking appearance and challenging fight.
  • Brook Trout: Native to eastern North America, Brook Trout are a favorite among fly fishers on the Watauga River for their beautiful colors and feisty nature.
  • Smallmouth Bass: Known for their aggressiveness and strength, Smallmouth Bass are a top target for fly fishing enthusiasts in the Watauga River area.
  • Walleye: Valued for their size and delicious taste, Walleye are a prized catch for fly fishers in the Watauga River.
  • Striped Bass: These powerful swimmers are a real challenge to catch, which makes them a popular target among experienced fly fishers on the Watauga River.
  • Bluegill: Despite their small size, Bluegill are a delight to catch on the fly due to their spirited fight and their abundance in the Watauga River.
  • White Bass: White Bass make for an exciting target for fly fishers on the Watauga River, not least because of their powerful fights and the action-packed fishing sessions they provide.

About The River

The Watauga River, known for its verdant beauty and remarkable history, originates from North Carolina’s peaks near Grandfather Mountain and gracefully meanders its way to Tennessee. Its name implies ‘beautiful water’ in the Native American dialect, a fitting title for such a splendid river.

Over the centuries, the Watauga hasn’t just been a source of natural beauty, but a lifeline for various communities. Around the 18th century, the Watauga River was home to the frontier settlement, known as the Watauga Association. Local lore tells of the fierce yet brave pioneers who settled in the region, despite the challenges and adversities they faced.

Today, it’s best known for endless recreational activities. From trout fishing and kayaking, to scenic picnics along the serene Grove, the Watauga is more than just a river; it’s a site of heritage and a haven of tranquility.

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