Guided Nantahala Fly Fishing Trips
Enjoy a guided fly fishing trip on the scenic Nantahala River targeting wild trout. Includes instruction, equipment, lunch, and stunning river views.
Overview
Experience one of the Southeast’s most exciting trout fishing on a guided float trip on the Nantahala River. This full-day adventure takes place aboard an oar-rigged fishing raft, accommodating two anglers and one professional guide. The Nantahala is a cold, clean tailwater that supports both hatchery-supported and wild trout, offering consistent fishing opportunities throughout the summer and fall. Fast current, classic trout structure, and stunning mountain scenery combine to create a dynamic and memorable day on the water.
Your guide will expertly position the raft to create productive drifts through deep pools, lively riffles, and smooth runs, while offering instruction on fly selection, reading water, and improving presentation.
Wading
Our wading trips are perfect for anglers of all skill levels! Experience one of Western North Carolina’s most reliable and inviting trout streams up close. The Nantahala River offers cold, clear water, healthy trout populations, and year‑round fishing. Our guided wade trips keep you on foot and in the water, exploring productive runs, riffles, and pocket water at a relaxed, enjoyable pace.
We offer full and half-day adventures, tailored to seasonal conditions, water flows, and your personal experience level. Our guides choose the stretches of river that will fish best that day.
Wade Trip Half Day: $360
Wade Trip Full Day: $510
For more information or to book your trip, call 1-800-232-7238.
Floating
Experience a guided float fishing trip down the scenic Nantahala River in a specialized fishing raft. This trip focuses on accessing remote and productive trout water that’s difficult to reach on foot. Casting from the raft, you’ll fish deep pools, riffles, and runs as your guide positions the boat for optimal drift and presentation.
Important Note: This float trip is designed for anglers who already know how to fly cast. While guides will coach positioning, drift, and presentation, there is limited time and few locations to stop for foundational casting instruction. Anglers should arrive with prior fly-fishing experience.
Float Trip Full Day: $1,100
For more information or to book your trip, call 1-800-232-7238.
What to Expect
Full day trips take approximately eight hours, starting at 8:00am and ending around 4:30pm. Lunch, drinks, and gear will be provided.
Expect expert instruction in reading water, choosing flies, and refining your technique throughout the 4–6-mile float. We’ll pause at prime spots to wade-fish or target rising trout and enjoy a riverside lunch in the heart of the Nantahala Gorge. Your guide will tailor the day to your goals, whether you’re learning the basics or honing advanced skills.
Call Nantahala Outdoor Center at 1-800-232-7238 to book!
Our premier partner, Brookings, is joining our professional guide team and organizing our fly fishing trips with Nantahala Outdoor Center, Inc.
Before You Visit
All participants must be at least 10 years old. No prior experience necessary for wading trips. All minors (17 and under) must be accompanied by a participating adult during the activity.
Participants must meet age, weight, and chest size minimums and maximums for the specific trip they are partaking. Participants must have a valid North Carolina fishing license.
Please read our General Participant Eligibility & Recommendations for more information specific to your trip.
- Professional Guide
- Rods, reels, flies, waders, and boots
- Lunch and Drinks
- Fishing raft and safety equipment
- Dry Storage
- Shuttle
- Hat
- Sunglasses (Polarized Recommended)
- Sunscreen
- Rain shell
- Valid North Carolina Fishing License
