Transition Month

Pisgah National Forest, nestled in the Appalachian Mountains of North Carolina, is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts. While famous for its rugged hiking trails and breathtaking vistas, the forest also offers a unique and rewarding fly fishing experience, particularly during the enchanting fall season. The combination of vibrant foliage, cool temperatures, and abundant trout make Pisgah National Forest an angler's paradise. This essay explores the joys and challenges of fly fishing in Pisgah National Forest during the autumn months.

As summer fades and autumn sweeps across the forest, Pisgah National Forest transforms into a vivid tapestry of red, orange, and gold. The changing foliage reflects in the serene mountain streams, creating a picturesque backdrop for fly fishing. The crisp, cool air invigorates the senses, while the soothing sound of flowing water adds a sense of tranquility to the entire experience. Immersed in nature's splendor, anglers can cast their lines against a backdrop that is as breathtaking as it is calming.

Pisgah National Forest is home to an abundant population of wild trout, with the these Rivers being one of the most renowned spots for fly fishing. Fall brings a flurry of activity as trout prepare for winter. They become more active and eager to feed, making this season ideal for anglers seeking to test their skills. Whether you are an experienced angler or a novice, the forest's diverse streams and rivers provide ample opportunities to hook Brook, Brown, and Rainbow trout.

Fall fly fishing in Pisgah National Forest presents a unique opportunity to connect with nature and challenge oneself as an angler. The forest's resplendent autumn colors, combined with its thriving trout populations, create an unforgettable experience. Whether you seek solitude, adventure, or an escape from the bustle of everyday life, Pisgah National Forest offers a serene sanctuary where the art of fly fishing can be celebrated and cherished.

The transition these fish go into can fluctuate depending on species. Brown trout will begin there push to feed, and prepare for the annual spawn, as well as the Native Book trout. Rainbows will feed heavily till late winter, and begin to dominate feeding lies till the predatory fish decide otherwise. Over the course of the next few months we will see Caddis hatches, midges, and the blue wing olive be the entrees for these fish. We had plenty of anglers this year night fishing hot water so well have to see if that effects anything this year. For all the guys who night fished the Davidson while it was warm I hope it was worth it. Your fish pics have dates on them, and I recommend you go and look at the temperature of water you caught your trophies.(USGS has them recorded) Some folks will understand this, and some won’t.

Small Mouth Fishing might be winding down, but we still have a solid month as long as temperatures don’t plummet drastically. We had our best season yet on smallies, as far as getting anglers to try something new. I’d say mostly everyone who tried it this year was shocked by how fun these trips were. If your guide constantly tells you to try something, I recommend you give it a shot. Were in this to give you a good time, and wouldn’t have it any other way. Surface action this year was pretty good in my opinion, but most days these fish wanted it on the bottom. Well continue to float for them till we feel like its not worth it. The Summer sun is starting to lower, as will the Small Mouth Bass.

Tail waters remain stable with TVA giving us more water which is keeping most of the river cool for the most part. The Blue Ridge Guide Association has a lot to do with this. They’ve fought for water and conservation which is just great to see. I recommend joining, or going to a meeting to see what is in store for East Tennessee’s future. Really good to see anglers coming together to help fisheries and not control them. The Soho will see many midges and blue wing olives in the coming months, and we’ll be there with you to enjoy it.

Fall is just around the corner folks! Dont miss out on this magical time of year. So many species to fish for, along with a beautiful background. Im very grateful to everyone who continues to push us to do better as we get busier. By far our busiest Spring and Summer we’ve had, and I owe it to everyone who shows up. Seriously cannot thank y’all enough. We are in the process of a new venture for HEFF, and Ill be keeping everyone updated when I can spill the beans. Slow growth has been our motto since day one, and remains true to this day.

Thanks to our guides and clients!