Guide To Great Trout Fishing In North Carolina

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

By AA-Fishing Staff Writers

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.

The purpose of this page is to share basic information about trout fishing and identify trout fishing waters in the state. Trout fishing in North Carolina can be enjoyed in both lakes and rivers. Many lakes in the western part of the state are stocked with trout and offer fantastic fishing opportunities. Some popular trout lakes include Lake Glenville, Lake Junaluska, and Lake Lure. These lakes provide anglers with the chance to catch rainbow trout and brown trout, which are known for their acrobatic jumps and strong fights.

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.

Additional trout information

Trout Conservation
Trout Unlimited

Trout locations and info, by state.