The Best Trout Fishing Hot Spots in the Southeastern U.S. 

Trout fishing is a beloved pastime, a way to connect with nature, and a skill passed down through generations. There’s no shortage of idyllic trout fishing spots for those residing or traveling in the southeastern United States. Whether you’re a seasoned angler or a newbie looking to cast your first line, these destinations offer some of the finest trout fishing experiences in the region. Below are the best traditional trout fishing hot spots in the southeastern U.S., where anglers can look forward to the thrill of the catch amid the serenity of nature.

Smoky Mountains, Tennessee

The Smoky Mountains are a sightseer’s dream and a haven for trout fishermen. You’ll find a mix of wild and stocked trout here, including Brook, Brown, and Rainbow Trout. One of the most famous spots is Abrams Creek, renowned for its large Brown Trout. Little River is another prized location, where the diversity of pools and runs promises a rewarding experience for anglers.

Best time to go:

Late spring to early fall

Technique: Dry Fly Fishing and High-Sticking

The fast-moving, high-gradient streams in the Smokies make high-sticking an effective technique. This involves holding the fly rod high to keep as much of the fly line off the water as possible, reducing drag. Dry fly fishing is also popular, especially during mayfly hatches, which usually occur from late spring to early fall.

Nearby Attraction: Cades Cove

Cades Cove is a lush valley surrounded by mountains, offering some of the best opportunities for wildlife viewing in the park. Deer, black bears, and coyotes are commonly spotted here. You can explore the 11-mile loop by car, bike, or foot, and there are various historic buildings like churches and log cabins to visit.

Chattahoochee River, Georgia

Originating in the Blue Ridge Mountains, the Chattahoochee River flows through Atlanta, offering an outstanding trout fishing experience. Its chilly waters are stocked with Rainbow and Brown Trout, making it a year-round fishing destination.

Best time to go:

Year-round, though fall and winter offer fewer crowds.

Technique: Nymphing and Streamer Fishing

Nymphing is one of the most effective techniques on the Chattahoochee. Using weighted nymphs can be especially effective in deeper pools. Streamer fishing is also highly effective, especially in attracting larger Brown Trout that are looking for a bigger meal.

Nearby Attraction: Georgia Aquarium

Located in Atlanta, the Georgia Aquarium is one of the largest aquariums in the world. It features a wide variety of marine life, including whale sharks and beluga whales. This is an ideal place for families or anyone interested in marine biology.

Davidson River, North Carolina

The Davidson River in North Carolina is a tributary of the French Broad River and is often cited as one of the best trout streams in the southeastern U.S. With both stocked and wild Rainbow, Brown, and Brook Trout, the river is suitable for anglers of all levels. For a particularly rewarding experience, explore its upper reaches.

Best time to go:

Late spring and early fall, avoiding the summer crowds.

Technique: Euro Nymphing and Dry-Dropper Rig

Euro nymphing, also known as tight-line nymphing, is particularly useful in the Davidson River due to its clear waters. Dry-Dropper Rigs, which combine a dry fly with a trailing nymph or emerger, are effective for covering different water columns, offering the chance to catch both surface-feeding and bottom-feeding trout.

Nearby Attraction: Biltmore Estate

Located in Asheville, the Biltmore Estate is America’s largest privately-owned home. The mansion is built in the style of a French château and the estate includes beautiful gardens and a winery. It offers a glimpse into the lives of the Vanderbilt family who built it.

White River, Arkansas

Although not technically in the southeastern corner of the U.S., the White River in Arkansas deserves a mention for its world-class trout fishing. It has some of the largest Brown Trout in the country, thanks in part to the cold water releases from the Bull Shoals Dam.

Best time to go:

Year-round, though late fall to early spring is ideal for big catches.

Technique: Sowbug and Scud Patterns

The tailwaters of the White River are teeming with sowbugs and scuds, and imitating these with your fly can be extremely effective. Drift fishing with natural or scented baits is also popular, especially when fly fishing may be less effective at higher water levels.

Nearby Attraction: Ozark Folk Center

Located in Mountain View, this center is dedicated to preserving and showcasing Ozark Mountain folkways and traditions. Here, you can enjoy traditional American folk music, learn about pioneer skills, and explore Ozark culture.

Little Red River, Arkansas

Like the White River, the Little Red River offers superb trout fishing conditions. Located just a couple of hours from Little Rock, this river became famous when it produced a world-record Brown Trout in 1992. The river is perfect for fly-fishing and is stocked regularly.

Best time to go:

Year-round, but spring offers excellent water conditions.

Technique: Midges and San Juan Worms

Midges are extremely abundant in the Little Red River, making midge patterns particularly effective here. San Juan worms, typically bright red or pink, are also incredibly effective, especially after a rain when the water is a little murky and natural earthworms might get washed into the river.

Nearby Attraction: Greers Ferry Lake

Close to the Little Red River, Greers Ferry Lake offers a variety of water sports, including boating, waterskiing, and diving. The lake is also known for its cleanliness and stunning natural scenery.

Elk River, West Virginia

While West Virginia is not typically part of the southeastern U.S., it’s within easy reach for many in the region. The Elk River provides the chance to catch Brown, Brook, and Rainbow Trout in a picturesque setting. Many stretches of the Elk are suitable for wading, and the river is often less crowded than other popular fishing spots.

Best time to go:

Spring and fall, as the summer can get hot and crowded.

Technique: Terrestrial Patterns and Soft Hackles

Summer and early fall bring a lot of terrestrial insects like ants, beetles, and hoppers to the Elk River, making patterns imitating these insects highly effective. Soft hackles are also highly effective, especially during caddis and mayfly hatches, which occur most frequently in spring and fall.

Nearby Attraction: New River Gorge National Park and Preserve

New River Gorge is renowned for its whitewater rafting and offers excellent hiking, rock climbing, and bird watching. The area is known for the New River Gorge Bridge, one of the most photographed places in West Virginia.

Final Thoughts

When planning a trip to one of these traditional trout fishing hot spots, always remember to check for local fishing regulations, acquire the necessary permits, and practice ethical fishing to ensure these beautiful locations remain abundant for future generations. Happy fishing!