The Top 30 Trout Streams in North Carolina

North Carolina’s trout streams weave a rich legacy through the Blue Ridge and Smoky Mountains, drawing anglers with their cold, clear waters and thriving fish. From the renowned Davidson River, lauded among Trout Unlimited’s top 100, to hidden gems like Big Snowbird Creek in Graham County’s wilds, these 30 streams represent the state’s finest trout fishing. They blend wild brook, rainbow, and brown trout—some native, others stocked—offering thrills for novices and seasoned anglers alike.

Compiled from our personal knowledge, followers on social media, local wisdom, and regional guides, this list ranks each waterway by fishing quality, accessibility, and reputation. Newcomers will discover a roadmap to prime waters, from Pisgah’s forested runs to the Smokies’ high-elevation pools. Veteran fishermen, rod in hand, can judge each entry against their own tales of tight lines. Every stream carries a story—of solitude in remote hollows, technical challenges on tight casts, and the electric rush of a trout’s first strike.

#30 – Raven Fork

Raven Fork, spanning Great Smoky Mountains National Park and the Cherokee Indian Reservation in North Carolina, melds wild and trophy trout waters. Its upper reaches, fed by cool park springs, teem with wild brook trout in boulder-strewn runs, reachable only by arduous trails. Downstream, the reservation’s Trophy Waters—stocked with massive rainbow, brown, and brook trout—flow along Big Cove Rd, offering trophy hauls in clear, swift currents. Framed by forested peaks and Cherokee lands, its dual nature shines. Locals prize its pristine brookies and roadside giants, a unique fishery blending backcountry challenge with accessible bounty.

#29 – Big Snowbird Creek

Big Snowbird Creek, coursing through Graham County, North Carolina, shines as a trout jewel in the Nantahala National Forest. Its crisp, mountain-fed waters rush from high elevations, hosting wild brook, rainbow, and brown trout upstream, while stocked fish bolster the delayed-harvest lower reaches. Flanked by thick woods and steep ridges, it stretches from remote trails to accessible points off Snowbird Road. Its clear flow and diverse habitat—from rocky riffles to deep pools—mark it as a pristine fishery. Locals hail its wild trout and scenic seclusion, a cherished retreat in the western mountains’ embrace.

#28 – Cane River

Cane River, winding through Yancey County near Pensacola, offers a tranquil trout fishery in the shadow of the Black Mountains. Its cool, steady waters flow from forested heights, blending wild brook, rainbow, and brown trout with hatchery-stocked sections. Paralleling Highway 197, its gentle runs and shaded pools carve through rolling hills and quiet farmland, easily reached yet often overlooked. The mix of wild and stocked trout thrives in its clear, inviting depths, framed by a pastoral landscape. Locals appreciate its calm beauty and reliable fishing, a subtle standout in the region’s mountain waters.

#27 – Whitewater River

Whitewater River, tracing the Jackson County line into South Carolina, emerges as a wild trout gem near Cashiers, NC. Its frigid, tumbling waters plunge from the Blue Ridge escarpment, feeding wild brook, rainbow, and brown trout in steep runs and rocky pools. Below Silver Run Creek, its forested corridor and cascading falls—reached via Highway 107—create a striking, remote fishery. Designated wild trout waters by the NC Wildlife Resources Commission, it thrives in a pristine, high-altitude setting. Locals value its challenging terrain and vibrant trout, a scenic treasure spilling toward Lake Jocassee’s distant shores.

#26 – Elk River

Elk River, flowing through Avery County near Banner Elk, carves a trout haven in the Blue Ridge highlands. Its cold, swift waters surge from mountain springs, supporting wild brook, rainbow, and brown trout in rocky runs and deep pools. Spanning above and below Elk River Falls, it’s framed by dense woods and steep banks, accessible via Elk River Road. The half-mile stretch above the falls shines as a prime fishery, drawing anglers to its clear, untamed flow. Locals cherish its scenic beauty and robust trout, a high-elevation standout in the region’s array of streams.

#25 – Newberry Creek

Newberry Creek, a quiet stream near Boone, North Carolina, weaves through the Blue Ridge Mountains’ high country. Its chilly, clear waters trickle from elevated headwaters, nurturing wild brook, rainbow, and brown trout in narrow runs and small pools. Flanked by thick forest and gentle hills, it offers a serene, off-the-beaten-path fishery, accessible via backroads near Highway 194. Its modest size and secluded nature keep it a local secret, far from crowded hotspots. Anglers treasure its peaceful setting and healthy wild trout, a subtle gem in the Boone area’s mosaic of mountain streams.

#24 – Linville River

The Linville River running through the dramatic Linville Gorge—often dubbed the “Grand Canyon of the East” supports wild populations of brook, brown, and rainbow trout, particularly in its upper reaches above Linville Falls, where cold, oxygen-rich waters create prime habitat. Below the falls, it transitions into a mix of wild and hatchery-supported trout, with the NC Wildlife Resources Commission (NCWRC) designating sections as wild trout waters. Fly fishermen often target its boulder-strewn pools and runs with small dries or nymphs, landing brookies around 8-12 inches and occasional larger browns. Traditional anglers can work the lower, more accessible stretches near Highway 183 with spinners or bait like worms, though the gorge’s steep terrain limits easy access.

#23 – Lost Cove Creek

Lost Cove Creek, nestled in Pisgah National Forest near the Wilson Creek area, flows as a high-elevation trout sanctuary. Its cold, clear waters spill from the Blue Ridge, sustaining wild brook, rainbow, and brown trout in swift runs and deep pools. Encircled by dense hardwoods and quiet slopes, it offers a secluded escape, reached only by trails off Highway 181. Its remote charm and pristine conditions draw anglers seeking solitude. Locals prize its untouched fishery, a tranquil hideaway where trout thrive in the cool, shaded embrace of the forest’s upper reaches.

#22 – Harper Creek

Harper Creek, a wild tributary in the Wilson Creek watershed of Pisgah National Forest, thrives near Morganton. Its cold, tumbling waters rush from high elevations, carving plunge pools and rocky runs that harbor wild brook, rainbow, and brown trout. Encased by steep, forested slopes and rhododendrons, it offers a raw, secluded fishery in the Wilson Creek Gorge. Access demands a hike from Brown Mountain Beach Road, rewarding adventurers with pristine habitat. Locals revere its untouched nature and challenging terrain, a backcountry haven where trout flourish amid the rugged beauty of the Blue Ridge.

#21 – Stone Mountain Creek

Stone Mountain Creek, flowing through Stone Mountain State Park in Wilkes County, offers a tranquil trout fishery beneath the park’s iconic granite dome. Its cool, clear waters, cascading from the Blue Ridge foothills, sustain wild brook, rainbow, and brown trout in riffles and shaded pools. Winding through hardwood forests and open meadows, it’s framed by the park’s rugged beauty, accessible via trails off Highway 100. Less heralded than Pisgah streams, its peaceful setting draws anglers from nearby Charlotte. Locals value its wild trout and scenic charm, a hidden gem in a picturesque state park landscape.

#20 – Looking Glass Creek

Looking Glass Creek, nestled in Pisgah National Forest near Brevard, North Carolina, enchants with its crystalline waters and wild trout fishery. Originating near the Blue Ridge Parkway, it cascades past Looking Glass Falls, feeding wild brook, rainbow, and brown trout in its rocky pools and riffles. Surrounded by dense hardwoods and towering cliffs, its high-elevation flow stays cold and pristine. Accessible via Highway 276, it offers a scenic retreat, though tight banks demand careful navigation. Locals cherish its untouched beauty and robust trout, a quieter complement to the nearby Davidson’s bustle, steeped in mountain serenity.

#19 – Avery Creek

Avery Creek, a tributary of the Davidson River in Pisgah National Forest near Brevard, North Carolina, flows as a vital spawning ground for wild trout. Its cold, clear waters tumble from high elevations, supporting native brook, rainbow, and brown trout amid rocky runs and shaded pools. Framed by dense forest and rhododendrons, it offers a peaceful escape just off Forest Road 477. Less crowded than its famous neighbor, its intimate setting appeals to anglers seeking solitude. Locals prize its role in sustaining the region’s trout population, with pristine habitat thriving in a rugged, natural landscape.

#18 – French Broad River (North Fork)

The North Fork of the French Broad River, flowing through Transylvania County near Brevard, North Carolina, carves a trout-rich path in Pisgah National Forest. Its cool, clear waters, fed by mountain tributaries, sustain wild brook, rainbow, and brown trout in a mix of riffles and deep pools. Winding beneath a canopy of hardwoods and rhododendrons, it offers a quieter alternative to nearby giants like the Davidson. Accessible via winding forest roads off Highway 215, its serene, rural setting enchants anglers. Locals value its wild fishery and proximity to Brevard, blending solitude with prime trout habitat.

#17 – Eagle Creek

Eagle Creek, tucked in Great Smoky Mountains National Park near Fontana Lake, North Carolina, offers a secluded trout haven in a wild, backcountry setting. Its chilly, oxygen-rich waters tumble from high elevations, nurturing wild brook, rainbow, and brown trout amid rocky runs and shaded pools. Reachable only by boat or a strenuous hike from Fontana Dam, its remoteness ensures solitude along steep, forested banks. The creek winds through untouched wilderness, its swift currents and natural beauty evoking a timeless Smokies escape. Locals treasure its challenging access and thriving trout populations, a reward for those who venture deep.

#16 – Hazel Creek

Hazel Creek, a remote gem in Great Smoky Mountains National Park near Fontana Lake, North Carolina, boasts some of the park’s purest trout waters. Its cold, clear flow, fed by mountain springs, sustains wild brook, rainbow, and brown trout in a rugged, forested setting. Accessible only by boat or a long hike from Fontana Dam, its isolation preserves a pristine fishery amid steep ridges and dense hardwoods. The creek’s boulder-strewn runs and deep pools carve through a historic valley once home to logging towns, now silent save for nature’s hum. Locals revere its untouched beauty and abundant trout.

#15 – Cataloochee Creek

Cataloochee Creek, flowing through Great Smoky Mountains National Park in North Carolina’s Haywood County, captivates trout anglers with its wild fishery and historic valley setting. Its cold, high-elevation waters nurture native brook trout alongside wild rainbows and browns, thriving in riffles and pools. Fly fishermen target its upper stretches, casting small dries or nymphs to coax brookies averaging 8-12 inches or browns up to 15 from undercut banks.

Traditional anglers succeed near Cataloochee Campground off Cove Creek Road, using spinners or worms to hook rainbows in accessible runs. Surrounded by elk and old homesteads, its remote charm—reached via a winding gravel road—deters crowds, favoring solitude seekers. Locals laud its pristine habitat and year-round fishing, blending trout pursuits with park exploration. Cataloochee Creek offers a rewarding escape for fly and spin enthusiasts chasing wild mountain trout.

#14 – Bradley Fork

Bradley Fork, a pristine trout stream in Great Smoky Mountains National Park near Cherokee, North Carolina, enchants anglers with its wild fishery and park accessibility. A tributary of the Oconaluftee, its cold, clear waters sustain wild brook, rainbow, and brown trout, thriving amid boulders and forested banks. Fly fishermen trek to its upper reaches, drifting small dries or nymphs to hook brookies averaging 8-12 inches or browns pushing 14-16 in deeper runs.

Traditional anglers find success near Smokemont Campground off Highway 441, casting spinners or spoons to land rainbows in wadable pools. Its moderate flows and scenic solitude reward those willing to hike past the lower access points. Locals prize its proximity to Cherokee and consistent wild trout action, offering a quieter alternative to busier park streams. Bradley Fork caters to both fly and spin anglers seeking natural beauty.

#13 – Deep Creek

Deep Creek, nestled in Great Smoky Mountains National Park near Bryson City, North Carolina, beckons trout anglers with its scenic splendor and diverse fishery. Flowing from high elevations, its cool waters harbor wild brook, rainbow, and brown trout, offering a grand-slam potential. Fly fishermen explore its upper reaches, casting small dries or nymphs to tempt brookies averaging 8-12 inches or browns lurking in deeper pools up to 16.

Traditional anglers fare well below Deep Creek Campground, using spinners or worms to target rainbows along the accessible lower stretch off Highway 441. Its cascading falls and wadable runs, framed by lush forest, draw both novices and experts, though summer tubing can crowd the scene. Locals tout its park proximity and consistent catches, making Deep Creek a cherished trout haven for fly and spin enthusiasts alike.

#12 – North Mills River

The North Mills River, flowing near Asheville in Pisgah National Forest, North Carolina, offers a trout fishery blending accessibility with wild appeal. Its cool waters support stocked rainbow and brown trout in the lower delayed-harvest sections, while wild fish dominate upstream. Fly fishermen target its riffles and pools along North Mills River Road, casting dries or nymphs to land stockers averaging 12-15 inches or wild trout up to 14.

Traditional anglers thrive near the campground, using spinners or bait like corn to hook hatchery fish in wadable runs. Rhododendron-lined banks challenge casting, but its proximity to Asheville—via Highway 191—draws both novices and pros. Locals appreciate its year-round fishing and scenic campsites, though summer sees more pressure. The North Mills River caters to fly and spin anglers seeking a convenient yet rewarding trout escape.

#11 – South Mills River

The South Mills River, coursing through Pisgah National Forest near Hendersonville, North Carolina, entices anglers with its wild trout fishery and serene isolation. Originating in the high country, its cold, clear waters sustain native brook, brown, and rainbow trout, free of hatchery influence beyond the upper reaches. Fly fishermen hike to its shaded pools and riffles, drifting small dries or nymphs to tempt brookies averaging 8-12 inches or stealthy browns pushing 14-16.

Traditional anglers, though less common, succeed with ultralight spinners or worms in the more accessible lower sections off Turkeypen Road. Its remoteness—requiring a trek from Highway 280—deters crowds, offering solitude amid dense rhododendrons. Locals prize its pristine habitat and challenging access, ideal for purists seeking unspoiled waters. The South Mills delivers a rugged, rewarding trout experience for both fly and spin devotees.

#10 – Mitchell River

The Mitchell River, flowing through Surry County near Dobson, North Carolina, blends rural charm with stellar trout fishing, earning fame from its cameo in The Longest Ride. Designated a delayed-harvest stream by the NC Wildlife Resources Commission, its cool waters host stocked rainbow, brown, and brook trout, with wild fish thriving in upper stretches. Fly fishermen target its open runs and pools along Kapps Mill Road, casting caddis dries or nymphs to land stockers averaging 12-16 inches.

Traditional anglers shine here too, wielding spinners or bait like salmon eggs to hook eager trout in wadable currents. Accessible yet less crowded than Pisgah giants, it’s a Triad day-trip favorite. Locals laud its scenic banks and consistent catches, though spring stockings draw the most action. The Mitchell offers a laid-back, versatile fishery for both fly and spin enthusiasts.

#9 – Helton Creek

Helton Creek, a hidden gem in Ashe County near the New River in North Carolina’s northwest corner, spans 11 miles of tranquil trout waters. Tucked away from the crowds, its cool, clear flow supports wild brook, rainbow, and brown trout, with hatchery stockings boosting the lower reaches. Fly fishermen cherish its gentle pools and riffles, drifting small dries or nymphs to tempt native brookies averaging 8-12 inches or occasional larger browns.

Traditional anglers find success along its accessible banks off Highway 194, casting ultralight spinners or worms to hook stocked rainbows with ease. Its secluded, pastoral setting offers a peaceful escape, appealing to those seeking solitude over spotlighted streams. Locals prize its proximity to Boone and consistent fishing, though its smaller size keeps it under the radar. Helton Creek delivers quiet charm and reliable trout for all skill levels.

#8 – Oconaluftee River

The Oconaluftee River, flowing through the Cherokee Indian Reservation and Great Smoky Mountains National Park near Cherokee, North Carolina, offers over 30 miles of prime trout fishing. Its cool, clear waters teem with stocked rainbow, brown, and brook trout on the reservation, while wild populations thrive in the park’s upper reaches. Fly fishermen target its riffles and pools along Highway 441, casting dries or nymphs to land wild browns averaging 10-14 inches or stocked fish up to 18.

Traditional anglers excel on the reservation stretch, using spinners or bait like corn to hook hefty stockers, though a tribal permit is required. Known for its accessibility and scenic Smokies backdrop, it draws both novices and pros. Locals note its dual appeal—wild solitude upstream, trophy potential below—making it a standout for diverse trout pursuits year-round.

#7 – Wilson Creek

Wilson Creek, nestled in Pisgah National Forest near Morganton, North Carolina, earns its stripes as a dynamic trout fishery in the Wilson Creek Gorge. Designated a Wild and Scenic River, its tumbling waters harbor wild brown and rainbow trout in the upper reaches, with stocked fish bolstering the lower delayed-harvest sections. Fly fishermen target its plunge pools and riffles, drifting nymphs or streamers to land wild trout averaging 10-14 inches, with some pushing 18.

Traditional anglers thrive below Highway 181, casting spinners or live bait like minnows to hook stockers in wadable runs. Accessible via Brown Mountain Beach Road, its steep banks and swift currents challenge all comers, yet reward with stunning scenery and solitude. Locals praise its proximity to Charlotte and diverse fishing zones, making it a versatile gem for day trips or rugged adventures.

#6 – East Fork of the Pigeon River

The East Fork of the Pigeon River, tucked within the Shining Rock Wilderness near Brevard, North Carolina, enchants anglers with its remote, wild trout fishery. Flowing through Pisgah National Forest, its cold, high-elevation waters nurture native brook trout alongside wild browns and rainbows, flourishing in its boulder-strewn runs. Fly fishermen trek to its pristine pools, wielding light rods and small dries or nymphs to coax brookies averaging 8-12 inches from tight quarters.

Traditional anglers, though less common here, find success with ultralight spinners or worms in accessible lower stretches near Graveley Falls. Requiring a hike from Highway 276, its solitude and rugged beauty deter crowds, appealing to purists seeking unspoiled waters. Locals cherish its status as a brook trout stronghold, warning that its narrow, brushy banks demand precise casts and patience for a rewarding haul.

#5 – Nantahala River

The Nantahala River, slicing through Macon County near Bryson City, North Carolina, stands out as a trout fishing jewel in the Nantahala National Forest. Its icy tailwaters below Nantahala Dam teem with stocked rainbow and brown trout, while wild brookies and browns thrive in the rugged upper reaches. Fly fishermen flock to its delayed-harvest stretch, casting streamers or midges to nab fish averaging 12-16 inches, with occasional 20-inch bruisers.

Traditional anglers excel in the lower, hatchery-supported zones, wielding spinners or live bait like crickets to hook eager stockers amid swift currents. Known for its emerald waters and steep, forested banks, it’s easily accessed via Highway 19, though summer rafting crowds can stir the scene. Locals highlight its dual nature—wild seclusion upstream, bustling action below—making it a versatile favorite for trout chasers year-round.

#4 – South Toe River

The South Toe River, coursing through Pisgah National Forest near Burnsville, North Carolina, captivates anglers with its pristine beauty and thriving trout populations. Originating in the Black Mountains, its cold, clear waters sustain wild brook, brown, and rainbow trout, with some stocked sections adding variety. Fly fishermen relish its intimate, tree-lined runs, drifting small dries or nymphs to tempt native brookies—often 8-12 inches—or larger browns lurking in deeper pools.

Traditional anglers fare well near campgrounds like Black Mountain, using ultralight spinners or worms to target both wild and hatchery fish. Its moderate flows and wadable stretches, accessible via Highway 80, appeal to all, though rhododendrons can challenge casting. Praised for its solitude and proximity to camping, the South Toe offers a serene escape, rewarding those who explore its upper reaches with vibrant, hard-fighting trout.

#3 – Watauga River

The Watauga River, winding near Boone and Banner Elk in North Carolina’s high country, ranks as a top trout destination for its versatility and abundance. Fed by cold mountain springs and bolstered by hatchery stockings, it hosts wild and stocked rainbow, brown, and brook trout, thriving in its clear, boulder-strewn waters. Fly fishermen target its riffles and pools with caddis dries or stonefly nymphs, often landing fish in the 14-18-inch range, especially in the wild upper sections.

Traditional anglers find success below Valle Crucis, tossing spinners or bait like salmon eggs to hook eager stockers. Its gentle gradient and roadside access along Highway 321 make it welcoming for all skill levels, while the tailwater below Watauga Dam offers consistent flows. Locals tout its year-round fishing and stunning Blue Ridge backdrop, cementing its reputation as a must-visit trout haven.

#2 – Tuckaseegee River

The Tuckaseegee River, often called “The Tuck,” flows through Jackson County from Panthertown Valley to Fontana Lake, claiming its spot as North Carolina’s largest trout river. Renowned for its delayed-harvest sections, it teems with stocked rainbow, brown, and brook trout, bolstered by wild populations in its upper reaches. Fly fishermen flock to its wide, wadable waters, casting nymphs and streamers to hook fish averaging 12-16 inches, with some pushing 20.

Traditional anglers excel here too, using spinners, spoons, or live bait like minnows to tap into the abundant stockers below dams. Its tailwater nature—regulated by releases from Cedar Cliff and Wolf Creek dams—keeps it fishable year-round, though anglers must check schedules for safe wading. Stretching over 50 miles, “The Tuck” blends accessibility with scenic beauty, making it a favorite for both locals and visitors chasing hefty hauls.

#1 – Davidson River

The Davidson River, nestled in Pisgah National Forest near Brevard, North Carolina, reigns as the state’s premier trout fishery, earning a spot among Trout Unlimited’s top 100 U.S. trout streams. Flowing cold and clear from the Blue Ridge Mountains, it harbors robust populations of wild brown and rainbow trout, with some brook trout in its upper reaches. Anglers prize its catch-and-release sections below the Bobby N. Setzer Hatchery, where trophy-sized fish—often exceeding 20 inches—test the skills of fly fishermen with dry flies, nymphs, and streamers.

Traditional anglers thrive in the hatchery-supported zones, wielding spinners or bait like worms and corn to target stocked rainbows and browns. Its accessibility via Highway 276 draws crowds, yet the river’s diverse runs, riffles, and pools reward both novices and experts. Locals warn of heavy pressure, advising early mornings for solitude and success.

Mountain Trout Fishing Guidelines

Brook, brown, and rainbow trout thrive in the chilly, pristine waters of North Carolina’s mountains, typically found in streams and lakes. The Wildlife Resources Commission labels these fishable areas as “Public Mountain Trout Waters,” managing them for public enjoyment. Many prime spots sit on private land, where generous owners permit access—anglers must honor their property to preserve these privileges for years to come. Look for regulation signs marking public entry points. If “no trespassing” signs appear on designated private stretches, respect the owner’s rights and find another spot along the stream. Check ncwildlife.org for maps detailing trout waters and their categories.

Private Property and Public Access

A chunk of Western North Carolina’s trout fishing lies on private land open to the public. Respecting these spaces ensures future access. The Commission posts clear signs to guide anglers to public zones. When private property signs pop up, move on to keep the peace.

Fishing Rules for Public Mountain Trout Waters

• Method: Hook and line only.
• Artificial Lure: A lure without taste or smell attractants.
• Artificial Fly: A single-hook lure dressed with feathers, thread, or similar, no added spinners or spoons.
• Natural Bait: Living or dead organisms, or scented preparations, to lure fish.
• Single Hook: One point per hook.
• Bait Restrictions: No taking bait fish from these waters; natural bait is banned on Wild Trout and Catch and Release waters unless specified otherwise.
• Dropper Flies: Allowed across all Public Mountain Trout Waters.

Trout Water Classifications and Rules

Hatchery Supported Trout Waters

• Open Season: Aug. 1, 2024 – Feb. 28, 2025; 7 a.m. April 5, 2025 – July 31, 2025
• Size Limit: None
• Daily Limit: 7 trout
• Lures/Bait: No restrictions
• Closed Season: March 1, 2025 – April 4, 2025 (no fishing)
• Exceptions (No Closed Season): Linville River and tributaries in Linville Gorge Wilderness Area, plus power and municipal reservoirs (e.g., Bear Creek Lake, Cheoah Reservoir).

Delayed Harvest Trout Waters

• Catch and Release: Oct. 1, 2024 – June 6, 2025 (no possession; artificial single-hook lures only; no natural bait)
• No Fishing: ½ hour after sunset June 6, 2025 – 6 a.m. June 7, 2025
• Open Season: Aug. 1, 2024 – Sept. 30, 2024; June 7, 2025 – July 31, 2025 (youth under 18 only, 6 a.m. – noon June 7)
• Size Limit: None
• Daily Limit: 7 trout
• Lures/Bait: No restrictions during open season

Wild Trout Waters

• Season: Year-round
• Size Limit: 7 inches minimum
• Daily Limit: 4 trout
• Lures/Bait: Artificial single-hook lures only

Catch and Release / Artificial Flies and Lures Only

• Season: Year-round
• Rules: No possession; artificial flies or lures with single hooks only; no natural bait

Special Regulation Trout Waters

• Season: Year-round
• Catawba River (Muddy Creek to Morganton intake dam): 14-inch minimum, 2 trout daily, no bait restrictions
• Apalachia Reservoir: No size limit, 3 trout daily (only one over 14 inches), no bait restrictions

Undesignated Trout Waters

• Season: Year-round
• Size Limit: None
• Daily Limit: 7 trout
• Lures/Bait: No restrictions

Additional Notes

• Non-trout species can be taken from Delayed Harvest waters during catch-and-release season under standard limits.
• Stocking hatchery fish into Wild Trout Waters or relocating wild fish on game lands needs written permission.
• Undesignated waters with trout follow a 7-trout daily limit with no size or bait rules.

Public Mountain Trout Water Types

• Catch and Release/Artificial Flies and Lures Only: Red-and-yellow signs; no harvest, single-hook flies/lures only.
• Delayed Harvest: Black-and-white signs; catch-and-release Oct. 1 to June’s first Friday, then Hatchery Supported rules.
• Hatchery Supported: Green-and-white signs; 7 trout daily, no restrictions.
• Special Regulation: White-and-red signs; unique rules per waterbody.
• Wild Trout: Blue-and-yellow signs; 7-inch minimum, 4 trout daily, artificial lures only.