You came to the Great Smoky Mountains to fish. You know that year-round fly-fishing is permitted in the beautiful streams of the National Park, but did you know that you can begin fishing 30 minutes before official sunrise, and must finish no later than thirty minutes after official sunset? Take this quick quiz to learn a few other rules and regulations so that you’re ready for a day of relaxing fishing.
Q: True or False: In a single day of fishing, you can keep up to five caught trout or small mouth bass.
A: True. Although the Park’s main attraction and only species native to the Southeastern United States is the Appalachian Brook Trout, it’s also common to catch wild, stream-bred rainbow trout and small mouth bass. Fishermen can keep up to five fish and any combination thereof, as long as the fish are at least seven inches long. However, once you catch five, you must stop fishing for the day.
Q: Which species of fish is federally protected within the park?
a. Spotfin Chub
b. Duskytail Darter
c. Smoky Madtom
d. Yellowfin Madtom
e. All of the above
A: (e) All of the above! All of these federally protected species live near lower Abrams creek, but if you happen to catch one, make sure to safely release it back into the water.
Q: In which Park stream can you NOT fish?
a. Anthony Creek Watershed
b. Lynn Camp Prong
c. Cosby Creek Watershed
d. Cataloochee Creek
e. Forney Creek
A: (b) Lynn Camp Prong. Fishing is allowed in all streams in the Tennessee side of the Park, except for the Lynn Camp Prong upstream and its confluence with the Thunderhead Prong. A full map of prime fishing locations, regulations, and other details can be obtained online or at any Park Visitor Center.
Q: True or False: There are no regulations on rod size and lure type within the Park.
A: False! Only hand-held rods and single-hook artificial flies or lures can be used. Dropper flies are allowed at up to two flies per leader. Bait fishing is strictly forbidden. Be aware that all fishing tackle and equipment is subject to inspection at any time.
Q: True or False: You need a fishing license or permit in the Great Smoky National Park.
A: True. Either Tennessee or North Carolina must issue a fishing license, and anglers must be at least 13 years old. No trout stamp is required. Special licenses are available for those over 65. Licenses and permits are not available for purchase within the park, but you can obtain them in nearby towns or online. Special permits are required for fishing within Gatlinburg or Cherokee.
Q: What is the most popular way to serve trout?
a. Raw
b. Sun-baked
c. Pan-fried
d. On a bed of rice
A: (c) Pan-fried. Serving trout the old-fashioned way is a delicious ending to a day full of fishing. To prepare the trout, first cut off the head and gut, but avoid removing the skin and scales. Roll the trout in flour along with a mix of your favorite herbs and spices. Fry the trout at medium to medium-high heat until the skin is golden brown and the flesh is firm and flaky. The backbone should come out easily once the fish is thoroughly cooked. Be sure not to overcook – and enjoy!
Being informed and learning the rules is the starting point for a fun and safe day of fishing in the Smokies. Before you start angling, be sure to become familiar with the Park’s guidelines on water safety. Good luck!
And of course don’t forget that nothing can make fishing in the Smokies more pleasant than going back to a beautiful cabin for a good night’s sleep, so please visit our website at www.patriotgetaways.com to find a perfect post-fishing lair.
About The Author
Born and raised in the Smoky Mountain region, Bob Foster became a passionate expert on this part of the country even as a child. Years later Bob turned that childhood passion and expertise into a profession when Bob became a general manager for the family business that specializes in rentals of Gatlinburg cabins and Pigeon Forge cabins, both towns being in the heart of the Smokies. The company motto is “Creating guests for life by offering an experience of a lifetime” and it is with that thought in mind that Bob started a blog fully dedicated to information about the Smokies, which can be found at blog.patriotgetaways.com.
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Hope you enjoy the read as much as I did and please if you have something to say, use the comments form below to let everyone know your thoughts.
Have a great day!
Most people who visit the Smoky Mountains have 2 options as far as where to choose their lodging.
It is either Pigeon Forge or Gatlinburg. The two towns are separated by a very beautiful river and a forest that is called The Spur. The drive is about 5 minutes.
Each town has some advantages and disadvantages.
Gatlinburg is at the center of The Smoky Mountains and you can get to the park entrance through 2 entrances. Gatlinburg is labeled the heart of Gatlinburg. It is located in between large mountains that offer the most breathtaking views of the mountains. Gatlinburg is an older town and most of its rental cabins are old. Some wear and tear would be expected. The roads in Gatlinburg are somewhat rugged which makes the driving harder for older people and visitors that are used to flat roads. Gatlinburg does not offer too many shopping malls but is closer to The Aquarium and Ober Ski Resort.
On the other hand Pigeon Forge is nestled on the foothills of the smoky Mountains. it is flat and more tailored towards shopping malls and restaurants. Some of the cabins in Pigeon Forge offer some views of the Smoky Mountains but are nowhere near the ones available at Gatlinburg. The national Park is about 10 to 15 minutes away, and Dollywood is closer. Pigeon Forge is a newer city and most rental cabins are modern and well taken care of.
If you come to the smoky mountains to enjoy the views then Gatlinburg would be the best option. If on the other hand you would like to check the different attractions in the area and do not like mountain roads then Pigeon Forge is going to be your choice.
Whether you visit the area in the winter or summer, you can visit our Pigeon Forge Cabins and you would most certainly enjoy your stay here.
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