Guide To Great Trout Fishing In North Carolina

All about fishing for rainbow, brook and brown trout in local lakes and streams.

Rainbow Trout
Brook Trout
Brown Trout
Trout Lakes In The State
Available Trout Species
Top Trout Lures & Flies

North Carolina offers excellent trout fishing opportunities with its diverse range of trout species and abundant fishing locations. Anglers can target three main species of trout in the state: rainbow trout, brown trout, and brook trout. Each species has its unique characteristics and preferred habitats, providing anglers with diverse fishing experiences.

Fishing For Rainbow Trout

Rainbow trout are one of the most fished for trout species in the state, and can be found in numerous North Carolina lakes and rivers. Known for its tasty pink flesh, rainbows are a favorite among the vast majority of trout anglers in the state. It also appeals to the fly fisherman as it can be caught on flies as well as other small baits and lures. It feeds on small insects, minnows, crustaceans and worms. It is ideal for both sport and dining pleasure. More...

Fishing For Brook Trout

Brook trout, with their stunning colors and willingness to bite, can be found in remote mountain streams and creeks across the state. These small but feisty fish can provide an exciting fishing experience for those willing to explore North Carolina's more secluded and scenic locations. The primary food source of brookies is small insects, mollusks, crustaceans and other small fishes. In lakes where brook trout are stocked, shade over shallow cover is a great place to start. More...

Fishing For Brown Trout

Brown trout, another prized trout species, can be found in select North Carolina lakes and rivers. Many of these fisheries are attracting anglers from near and far. These elusive and wary fish offer a challenge to anglers, requiring stealthy presentations and precise casting to entice a bite. Brown trout feed on worms, minnows, insects and crustaceans. Larger browns can be taken on jerkbaits, small crankbaits and spinners. More...

Rivers and streams in North Carolina are also prized trout fishing destinations. The state's numerous coldwater rivers and mountain streams offer ideal habitats for trout. The Nantahala River, Davidson River, and South Toe River are renowned for their productive trout fisheries. Anglers can enjoy both fly fishing and spin fishing techniques in these scenic waterways, targeting rainbow trout, brown trout, and native brook trout.

North Carolina maintains a state record program that recognizes exceptional trout catches. Anglers who land trout of record-breaking size can submit their catch for consideration. The state records for rainbow trout, brown trout, and brook trout reflect the impressive fish that have been caught throughout North Carolina's waters.

Whether you prefer the serene beauty of mountain streams or the calm waters of stocked lakes, North Carolina offers a wealth of opportunities for trout fishing. With its variety of trout species, picturesque fishing locations, and the potential to land trophy-sized fish, North Carolina is a haven for trout anglers of all skill levels.

Trout Waters In NC

As you might imagine, trout fishing waters in NC are limited. Lakes in the state with a population of trout include Apalachia Lake, Buckhorn Reservoir, Cheoah Lake, Fontana Lake, Lake Glenville, Lake Nantahala and Santeetlah Lake. Several rivers in the state have spotty trout fishing as do some small ponds and parks.

Click the images and links above for species details.

Select the best trout lures and baits

Trout spinners, crankbaits and jerkbaits work well for shallow, reasonably active fish. Salmon eggs, worms and prepared baits will work at virtually all depths.

The state record brook trout was taken from the Raven Fork River.

The state record brown trout was caught in the Nantahala River.

The state record rainbow trout came from the Horsepasture River.

North Carolina Wildlife Resources Commission has a stocking program for fish across the state. Visit their website to gather details on trout stocking in North Carolina.

Watch trout fishing videos to see trout anglers in action.

The 5 primary trouts are the rainbow, brook, brown, cutthroat and lake trout. Browns are considered the most difficult to catch and brookies are the easiest. Pure cold water is key to survival of the trouts.