How to Fish for Trout

Vacations are all about relaxing, unwinding, and releasing the stress of day-to-day life – and nothing quite does that like a fishing trip. With friends and family all together, you can simply enjoy each other’s company without the need for technology or even games.

Trout fishing is a step above that, being one of the most popular outdoor sports in the United States. The abundance of lakes and rivers in North America offer a vast abundance of different types of trout, giving both professional and casual fishers an exciting activity to take part in year round.

To learn more about trout fishing and better understand how trout fishing works in North Carolina, keep reading!
 

Where to Begin: Trout Fishing 101

Let us preface by saying that trout fishing is for everyone: beginners, intermediate, and advanced. You don’t need to splurge on an entirely new set up, however, we’ve put together a basic breakdown of a few important starting points you may want to have if you’re looking to get into the engaging sport.

The best place to start, when looking to trout fish, is where to actually fish. As there are many different species of trout, you’re likely to find a variety of trout in any fresh water spot with cold water (including ponds, lake, streams, rivers, and creeks.)

To learn more about the best trout fishing areas, check out our comprehensive trout fishing checklist that breaks down all you’ll need to know about diversity, conservation, affordability, abundance, and more!
 

Get a Permit

One of the most important factors to remember when learning how to fish for trout is getting a fishing license . Each license will differ depending on your state, however if you’re fishing on protected or private land, such as the Cherokee Qualla Boundary, it’s important to do your research and take all necessary legal precautions before actually stepping into the water.

For Cherokee anglers, you can purchase a fishing permit online easily here!
 

Find the Right Gear

Compared to other fishing activities like fly fishing, you don’t actually need a sophisticated gear set to enjoy the sport. What you will need is a few key items in order to make the experience more enjoyable and conducive to catching trout!

Here are the gear items you’ll want to have when trout fishing:

• Medium-weight fishing rod (6-7 feet in length)
• Spincast reel
• Monofilament line (6-8 pound weight)
• Swivels, hooks, bobbers, and sinkers
• Bait (research what is legal for your fishing location)
   

Start Your Fishing Adventure in Cherokee, North Carolina!

Ready to start trout fishing for yourself? Grab the friends and family and head on over to historic Cherokee, North Carolina and explore the many opportunities for trout and fly fishing in the Great Smoky Mountains.

Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned trout fishing professional, there’s always something new to experience and learn in beautiful Cherokee.

Plan your next trip today and see why we’re the ultimate trout fishing destination!