Fishing FAQs

Answers to Your Fishing Questions

What do trips include?

Guided fly fishing trips include necessary gear such as rods, reels and wading apparel, a fishing guide and transportation to and from the water we'll be fishing. Flies are not included in the cost of the trip. However, flies are available for purchase in the shop at a 10% discount, or you may choose to opt for a fly tally to be kept by the guide. Full day guided trips include lunch. Kayak fishing trips include a fully-rigged fishing kayak, paddle, pfd and all necessary fishing gear. Transportation is also provided. Full day kayak fishing trips include lunch. Fishing instruction includes all necessary gear and materials. All NOC fishing clients receive a 10% discount at the famous Outfitters Store.

What should I bring?

• Current fishing license for the state in which their trip is taking place. North Carolina licenses are available at NOC.
• Any personal fishing gear you would like to use such as:
  -Waders and boots
  -Fly rods and reels (we suggest 8-9ft, 4 and 5 weights for trout and 9ft, 6 and 7 weights for bass.)
  -Spinning rods and reels (we suggest 6'6" rods with a medium-light to medium action. 6-10lb line.)
  -Flies for fly fishing or lures for conventional fishing. (Clients may call the guide or fly shop for suggestions.)
• Rain Jackets (no matter the forecast)
• Polarized Sunglasses (preferably with amber, yellow, or brown lenses)
• Dress should be according to weather but clients are asked to wear muted natural colors for fly fishing trips. No brights and no whites.

Where will I be fishing?
Your guide will decide where the day's fishing will take place based on season, water levels and current fishing conditions/reports. You may request to fish a particular stream but your guide will give the best recommendation for the day's outing.

Can we keep the fish?
NOC adheres to a strict catch-and-release policy. This ensures the sustainability of fish populations in our area.

Can we fish with bait?
NOC does not allow bait fishing on guided trips, except for children 11 and under (where regulations allow).

What time do we show up?
Most trips will meet at 9:00 am at the Wesser General Store and Fly Shop, located across the street from the NOC Outfitters Store. Meet times are at the discretion of the guide, and are based on current fishing conditions, release schedules and water temperatures. If the meet time is earlier or later than 9:00am, your guide will contact you. We can try to accommodate your schedule concerning trip times if you have special needs. Please let us know if this is an issue.

Where do we meet you?
Most trips leave from the Wesser General Store and Fly Shop, located across the street from the NOC Outfitters Store. Float trips other than on the Nantahala and Little Tennessee will meet near the chosen river. Your guide will contact you if he or she would like to meet at another location.

Do you guide and teach children?
Sure. We love kids, but be aware that NOC does not provide youth sized wading gear. Also be aware that full day trips, especially float trips, can be long and fishing isn't always easy or fast paced. Before you bring your little fishing buddy along, make sure he or she is up to the challenge. NOC strongly recommends half day trips for groups with kids. Parents may also bring an additional child on half day trips without hiring two guides for a charge of $75.00. (Children 11 and under)

Are we guaranteed to catch fish?
Fishing is just that, fishing. Some days are better than others. Ultimately whether or not an angler lands a fish is up to the fish themselves and the angler's ability. Our guides will do their very best to pick the best fishing locations, flies and lures for that day. We can't guarantee a fish but we can guarantee great instruction and winning attitudes.