This river gets its start in the mountains, where several tributary streams join to create two forks, known as East and West. Both branches of the river are dammed, creating a cold water discharge that combines into a single river for trout that offers year-round fishing. There are several areas of this river to consider adding to your bucket list.
First, of course, you need to know all about the river and what it offers. For starters, this river is a lot like some western tailwaters in several ways, offering rock ledges and lots of riffles and runs, making ideal trout feeding grounds which means you’ve also got prime fishing grounds. The scenery might be different, but the water is very similar to other streams and creeks in the area.
The most popular areas of this river are the two Delayed Harvest sections which spans for about seven miles combined. Most of the creek is easy to wade, so long as the dam isn’t running. Small drift boats can be used in some areas when the waters are high or the dams are releasing water. Make sure that you check water levels before you plan a trip so that you’re prepared.
The two different dams can affect the flows significantly, but there is also a scheduled list of discharges that you can follow to help you in your planning. If the flows are low, you can wade almost the entire river and find plenty of room for casting a good line. This is one of the first delayed harvest streams in the state and has proven the program successful.
There is more pressure and crowding on this stream, but generally, it’s worth the experience.
Best Places to Fish the Tuckasegee River
The most popular reach of the river is the upper delayed harvest section that starts in Webster at the lowest NC 107 crossing and continues down to the old dam site in Dillsboro. There are several parking pull-offs and options on North River Road, which means access is not an issue. You can also float this section when the water levels are high enough.
There are a few miles below the delayed harvest section that are still prime with fish, but not as popular among fly fishers so you might find fewer crowds. Be careful of deep holes when you’re wading, but that’s usually easy to avoid if you’re paying attention.
The trout are generally cooperative in all areas of the river, so you won’t have to worry as much about finding the perfect location here. Even the heavily-fished sections still have plenty of fish thanks to heavy stocking and the delayed harvest program.
Best Time to Fish the Tuckasegee River
You can find good fishing on this river almost all year long. The delayed harvest status means that keeping fishing is restricted from October to June, and all hatchery-supported waters are closed in March to allow for their operations to take place.
The spring is the best time since the hatches are ripe and the fish are ready to move. You’ll find browns, rainbows, and brook trout stocked all along the river, and will generally have good results fishing in the fall and winter months, as well. Just remember to follow the regulations and guidelines based on the section of river that you’re in.
Fortunately, signs and information are easy to find. If you do travel during the summer months, you may find the occasional good fishing since the dam releases create more cool water inflow. However, it may be harder to find good fishing on warm days when the water levels are low.
Like most rivers, there is really no “wrong” time to visit the Tuckaseegee River for a fly-fishing trip, so long as you plan ahead and check the water levels to know what type of fishing to expect. Just follow the regulations for posted sections that are not open year-round.
Stream Flow and Current Conditions
Be sure to check the stream conditions before heading out to fish the Tuckasegee River. The USGS stream gauge at Barker’s Creek, NC provide a good indication of current conditions