The WNC Fly Fishing Trail was created in the Winter of 2008-09. The first trail maps were printed and distributed in February of 2009. Since that time over 140,000 maps have been printed and given to anglers across the nation. If anyone would like a copy of the map, or trail information, you can contact AB's Fly Fishing Guide Service at alex@abfish.org or go to
www.abfish.org, or to the trail website at www.flyfishingtrail.com. You can also visit www.mountainlovers.com or call 800.962.1911, or 828.226.3833, for a list of accommodations.

The trail consists of 15 spots throughout Jackson County and the Cherokee Indian Reservation. This report, and those to follow, will combine some of the small streams, delayed harvest section of the Tuckasegee River, and the trophy section on Raven's Fork in Cherokee. Delayed Harvest Waters revert back to catch & release and got stocked again in October and
November.

Small Streams:
As the weather gets colder and colder, the best option is to wear layers of clothing. It is always a good idea to have an extra change of clothes to change into in case you get wet. Hypothermia is a very real concern. Confusion can be one of the symptoms. so it is a prudent choice to error
on the side of caution and take the time to dry off and warm up before returning to the stream. Darker earth tones, or even camo is a good idea since most leaves will have fallen and cover is limited. It will get brisk in the early mornings, but warm up during the day. Blue Winged Olive fly's are good choices for the dry presentation. When adding a dropper, Pheasant tail nymphs bead head Hare's ears, and little rubber legged bead head Black Stone fly's will be productive.

Different types of midges will still be active in the Winter. The classic Zebra Midge pattern is still very productive. Color choices preferred by the trout seem to change daily. Therefore, have a variety of colors, such as red/white, black/white, brown/gray, green/black are just some of the
flies to put in your box. Sizes can vary from 18 - 24. Fishing squirmy worms under indicators are always a good bet. Remember to bring your camera, and to leave the stream and surrounding areas better than you found them.

Delayed Harvest Water:
Delayed Harvest waters have returned to catch & release, single hook artificial lure/fly only effective October 1. You can go to www.ncwildlife.org and check on all the regulation and license requirements as well as the stocking schedule. Fly selection offers a wide range this time of year. Anything from egg patterns, squirmy worms, wooly boogers, to girdle bugs
(Marvins). Large rubber legged stone fly's (6 - 10), down to size 16 & 18 Pheasant tails and gold ribbed hare's ears. Blue Winged Olives are always a possibility in the Winter. Don't forget your Griffith's Gnats, a good offering when midges are flying around. Fishing Zebra Midge nymphs in the colder months will produce. Vary your color selections and sizes until you find the magic combination. Find yourself some warm days this month and you will have the river pretty much to yourself. Twenty to fifty fish days are very possible during January . Bundle Up & Enjoy!!!

Wishing you Tight Lines & Bent Rods...

Winter is a good time to be on the lakes. The bass are feeding up
for the Winter and focusing on this years bream fry and whatever
other baitfish each particular lake offers. Try to simulate the colors
of the local baitfish in your lure selection. crank baits, buzz baits,
and jerk baits are good places to start. As the water continues to
get colder, slow down your presentation. Fishing finesse worms
deep and other plastics deep and slow, with slight twitches are
productive options.

Remember, mountain lakes are drawn down in the Winter, so
make sure the lake launch you are planning to use is still
adequate to launch your boat. Also, some of the lakes are having
work done on recreational areas and will be even lower than
normal. Glenville Lake is being drawn down an additional 16 feet
over normal draw down level, to put in new beach/recreational
areas and work on existing boat ramps. Duke Energy has
messages on their website that describes which lakes and more
specific lake levels.

Get out and fish and take a kid with you!!!

Wishing you tight lines & bent rods....