top of page

fly fishing for bass

If you wish to explore beyond Lake Toxaway and hook into some of the most aggressive fish of the summer,  explore day-long guided float trips down some of the most scenic rivers in the Southeast: The French Broad, Little Tennessee, Tuck, Nolichucky, and the Pigeon.  These slow-moving rivers flow past large rock formations and through remote gorges not only making for the ideal habitat for fishing but also incredible views as you drift downstream. While smallmouth bass are the primary target on these trips, you never know what else you might catch. Walleye pike, white bass, striped bass, largemouth bass, freshwater drum, carp, and bream have all been caught on smallmouth bass float trips. If you are floating the French Broad or the Nolichucky, don’t be surprised if you end up hooking into a musky.

Smallmouth bass float trips are open to all anglers. You are welcome to use a fly rod, conventional tackle, or a combination of both.  If you plan on using conventional gear, we recommend a medium or medium-light rod that is about 7’ in length. If you prefer to fly-fish, you will find that Smallmouth will readily take a well-presented fly. When fly-fishing for these Smallmouth, we recommend that you be able to accurately cast 50 feet. While you can catch bass on a shorter cast, the longer cast will allow you to fish water that is less pressured.

guided float trip for smallmouth bass

Regardless of your skill level, your Guides will work to ensure that you enjoy a day on the water. Your Guides are excellent instructors and invaluable sources of information and a large part of their day involves teaching the finer points of fishing. Whether you are a beginner looking to land your first Smallmouth, or a seasoned angler who wants to target the largest fish in the river, your Guides will do whatever it takes to make your Float Trip experience one of the most memorable of your life.

DRO Smallmouth.jpg

All three of our Partners excel at delivering a client experience that rivals and in many cases exceeds any that you will find across the United States so know that Western North Carolina hospitality and professionalism will accompany your Smallmouth Float to bring you back year after year.

bottom of page