World-Class Fishing Lakes in Western North Carolina

Imagine basking in the warm sun, fishing rod bobbing, cold beverage in-hand, and a delicious lunch waiting for you on the banks. With the tranquil and turquoise water as your backdrop, this sounds like a perfect day to us.

Fishing is a wonderful way to spend a warm, sunny day and provides peaceful outdoor relaxation. Thanks to North Carolina’s diverse aquatic environments, there are plenty of local fishing spots for anglers of all skill levels

Fish Species in North Carolina

North Carolina is a fisherman's paradise. The bodies of water in NC are teeming with trout and bass;  two of the most abundant types of fish in Western North Carolina. You can also find many types of catfish, crappie, panfish, and walleye.

Let’s take a closer look at some of the best places to fish in North Carolina, specifically on the west side of the state. We’ve also included information about staying at our property in case you want to make it a multi-day trip. Let’s go!

Fishing Rivers & Lakes in Western North Carolina

Many of the rivers, streams and lakes in the area flow into the Little Tennessee River, and the entire region is stunning to look at. Here’s a few nearby picks, listed in order of distance from our property in Franklin, NC.

Wayah Creek

Location: Franklin, NC

Distance From Us: 17 minutes

Types of Fish: Trout and small/largemouth bass

Want to cast your line from right outside your door? When you stay with us, you get access to our exclusive creek. Our property sits right next to Wayah Creek, and although the water is shared with the owners, guests are encouraged to kick back and savor the outdoor beauty and property amenities.

Wayah Creek offers 1000 feet of serene fishing and is restocked yearly with rainbow trout, so even the most inexperienced anglers are sure to get lucky.

Emory Lake

Location: Franklin, NC

Distance From Us: 17 minutes

Types of Fish: Trout and small/largemouth bass

A local favorite! Found in our neck of the woods in Franklin, Emory Lake covers 59 acres, and offers abundant fishing opportunities.

Spend the morning catching some trout, have a picnic, and then head home and catch up on some reading or take an afternoon nap at our property.

Cullasaja River

Location: Macon County, NC

Distance From Us: 23 minutes

Types of Fish: Varying sizes of brown, rainbow and brook trout

The Cullasaja River is a perfect spot for some fly fishing as the river is stocked with multiple types of trout.

The river is located in northwest North Carolina, and offers a beautiful setting with plenty of cascades–perfect for a tackle box morning.

Nantahala River

Location: Swain and Macon Counties, NC

Distance From Us: 35 minutes

Types of Fish: Trout, bass, and panfish

A world-class fishery, Nantahala River runs southwest of Asheville, North Carolina. It flows 40 miles through Nantahala National Forest and offers anglers premier fly fishing opportunities.

The river is also known for its powerful rapids that provide intense whitewater rafting, canoeing, and kayaking opportunities.

Tuckasegee River

Location: Jackson County, NC.

Distance From Us: 1 hour and 6 minutes

Types of Fish: Brown and rainbow trout, smallmouth bass, walleye, muskie, and more.

Known as one of the top trout streams on the entire east coast, “Tuck” as it is sometimes referred to, is heavily stocked and is one of the best fishing spots in North Carolina.

Tuck is located near major cities in the state and showcases stunning emerald-pools. You’ll have to travel a bit to reach it, but based on the steady flock of anglers it receives, we promise Tuckasegee River is worth the trip.

Fontana Lake

Location: Graham and Swain Counties, NC

Distance From Us: 1 hour and 13 minutes

Types of Fish: Smallmouth and largemouth bass, catfish, walleye, muskie, bluegill, catfish, and yellow perch

This lake is not one to miss if you’re fishing in Western NC. Fontana is actually the largest lake in the region and is surrounded by captivating mountain vistas.

Enjoy fishing on the tributary rivers and streams with the striking Great Smoky Mountains surrounding you. Not only is Fontana Lake worth a visit, but the drive to get there offers several overlooks worthy of a photo or two.

Outdoor Attractions Near Franklin, NC

Although this guide is focused on fishing, our enchanting homebase offers abundant outdoor sights and is only 15 minutes away from the Appalachian Trail. We have information on thrilling nearby activities like waterfall chasing, gem mining, and more.

Stay at Treehouse Hollow and Cabin Rentals

Pair your outdoor vacation with a stay at our rustic property in the Smoky Mountains. We offer luxury cabins that are pet-friendly and feature convenient amenities. Guests can also experience the thrill of trout fishing along our well-stocked creek. 

Take a leisurely stroll along the banks, go for a refreshing swim in the crisp mountain water, and be sure to bring your fishing gear when you visit! Come experience Smoky Mountain luxury at Treehouse Hollow & Cabin Rentals in Franklin, NC.