Cherokee Blog

The Rainbow and Ramps festival celebrates two of Cherokee's seasonal delicacies: rainbow trout and ramps, both with deep roots in Cherokee culture. The event takes place on March 28th from 10:30 to 2 pm and includes a traditional meal of fresh-caught trout, ramps, and other seasonal vegetables, as well as popular regional music and an all-ages Horseshoe Tournament. 

Beginners and top anglers agree: there's nothing like fishing the beautiful, bountiful waters of Cherokee for some peace and quiet, and trout...lots of trout! The Eastern Band of the Cherokee Indians Fisheries and Wildlife Management program stocks fish twice a week in over 150 spots on the Qualla Boundary, making it the most heavily stocked waters in the region. Wondering where to go to catch the big one? Read on for the insider's scoop. 

A free fishing event for children ages 3 to 11! Enjoy a weekend of fun in the sun with the kids--the biggest catches get the biggest prizes, worth up to $20,000. Friday, July 31, is pre-registration and kids get free bait, hooks, sinkers, a fishing pole, and a free T-shirt and hat. At the derby, August 1st, registered children can catch up to five fish apiece to take home. The weekend is jam-packed with fun activities including a zip line, selfie station, 40-foot obstacle course, inflatables, educational programs, and more. Make memories and new friends--you don't want to miss it! 

Michael Bradley has been fishing the waters in and around Cherokee for as long as he can remember. Now 25, Michael is considered one of the best fly fishermen in the area, and is competing for a spot on the national 2016 Fly Fishing Team USA. Wondering where this champion angler thinks the best fishing is in Cherokee? Read on to find out. 

Have you planned your Spring trip to Cherokee? There's so much to do and see!  March 26th is the annual Rainbow and Ramps Festival in Cherokee, and for only $10 a plate you can enjoy the local fare. Ramps, or wild mountain leeks, taste like a cross between garlic and onion and are served alongside friend rainbow trout, fresh caught from the crystal clear waters in Cherokee. If you're an angler, March 26th is also the Opening Day Fishing Competition with $20,000 in tagged fish! Whether you buy a plate of fish at Rainbow and Ramps festival or catch your own, this is where you'll want to be for a true "taste of Cherokee."