Delayed Harvest Fly Fishing Season in Western North Carolina

Delayed Harvest trout fishing on the Nantahala

When fly fishermen talk about the delayed harvest season – Western North Carolina is always mentioned as one of the top destinations. 

 

What is Delayed Harvest

Delayed harvest is a trout management strategy that provides a high quality catch and release trout opportunity from fall through spring. It runs from October 1st to June 01.  During that time, there are strict regulations set up by NC Wildlife that must be followed.  Regulations include catch and release only and the use of single artificial hook. There are specific stocking days set up  rivers are generally stocked in October and November, and then again in March, April, and May.

Where to Go for Delayed Harvest

The Tuckasegee River is one of our favorite go-to’s in early spring.  With Rainbow, Brown and Brookies, as well as Bass, the Tuck is great fishing during delayed harvest. Float fishing is preferable on the Tuck. In addition, the Upper Nantahala from White Oak Creek to the Duke Energy Power Plant is a delayed harvest section as well. Wade fishing is the go-to on the Upper Nantahala.

What About the Lower Nantahala

The Nantahala River has two distinct sections of river, supporting all three species of trout:  rainbow, brook and brown.  Between the quality of stocked and native trout and the beautiful scenery on both sections of river, it is no wonder that the Nantahala is ranked as one of Trout Unlimited’s  Top 100 Trout Rivers in North America. The lower Nantahala sees some of the better hatches in North Carolina.  It is important to keep in mind that the lower section of the Nantahala is a hatchery supported section of river. During the month of March, you cannot fish hatchery supported rivers. This is because The N.C. Wildlife Resources Commission closes approximately 1,000 miles of Hatchery Supported Trout Waters to fishing at 11:59 p.m. on Feb. 28 and reopens them at 7 a.m. on April 2.  This includes the main section of the Nantahala River – which is open for year-round fishing with the exception of March.

What flies work best during Delayed Harvest?

Dry Flies work best in the early morning and late afternoon. Small wet flies, streamers, and nymphs work best during the day. Delayed Harvest Fishing Nantahala A current NC fishing license is necessary for fishing on either section of river.  You can obtain a 10-day short term license, or annual license at our Outfitters shop overlooking the Nantahala River.  Stop by for a license, and to spend time in our fly fishing section to check out what flies and gear you can use to spend time out on the water.