The Fourth of July Weekend is almost here which means free fishing in North Carolina on Independence Day! Residents and out-of-state visitors at any age can fish public waters from 12:00 a.m. to 11:59 p.m. on July 4 without a license. Other regulations would still apply, specifically bait-and-tackle restrictions, along with daily-possession and length limits.
Although waters are low in Tennessee, fishing should be good in Western North Carolina (WNC) hatchery-supported streams where levels are higher and temps are cooler. But get your day started early while the water’s coolest. These days, trout are hitting Caddisflies, Yellow Sallies and Sulfurs. Anglers have had success with Mepps spinners and Rooster Tails, too.
There’s still time to register for the Tim Hill Memorial Trout Tournament in Cherokee scheduled for Saturday, July 9 to Sunday, July 10. For $32 ($15 registration fee; $17 two-day permit), anglers will compete for $10,000 worth of tagged fish which can be redeemed for a range of monetary prizes. And if you need fishing gear while you’re in Cherokee, stop by Rivers Edge Outfitters at 61 Big Cove Road. They’ll have everything you need!
Have wonderful holiday weekends!