Smallmouth Float Trips

(maximum 2 anglers per boat)
Suited for: Intermediate to Expert Fly Fishers
Possible destinations: the French Broad River, the Tuckasegee River or the Little Tennessee River

Trip Description:

Summer is the perfect time to take advantage of this trip, because the hard-charging smallmouth bass have moved out of the depths and into feeding positions where we can more easily tempt them with flies.

Fueled by coffee and breakfast biscuits, we’ll put in at the boat ramp and drift through woods and old Indian weirs as we work poppers and streamers along the banks, grass beds and mid-stream shoals. If our luck holds, the quiet serenity of the river will be broken by the explosive strikes of smallies, which have been aptly called “pound-for-pound, the hardest fighting fish in freshwater.” Occasionally, a toothy muskellunge will follow our fish to the boat in a predatory frenzy that is not to be missed!

Osprey, herons, beavers, muskrats and waterfowl will be our regular companions as we drift lazily downstream to the take-out. Sunbathing spouses enjoy this trip almost as much as the anglers.

Rates include:

•  A licensed, knowledgeable fishing guide who can assist you with casting, locating fish and presenting the fly properly to your quarry
•  Transportation from the River Shop at Headwaters Outfitters
•  Fly-fishing equipment, including waders, felt-soled boots, rod, reel, line and backing.
•  A shore lunch consisting of your choice of sandwich, chips, dessert, soft drinks and water.

Rates DO NOT include:

These can be purchased before your trip at our Fly Shop:
•  A North Carolina fishing license and trout stamp.
•  Flies and leaders that you will need for the day. Your guide can help with the selection of the best patterns for the water and season you are fishing.
•  We recommend that you wear polarized sunglasses, which will help to reduce glare for clearer vision and safer wading.
•  Whether you use waders or wade wet, it is a good idea to wear quick-dry clothing made of material such as nylon or Supplex. During the colder months of early spring and late fall, we recommend wearing fleece pants or polyester underwear.
•  The Blue Ridge Escarpment is known for its wet weather. A good rain jacket is highly recommended, no matter the forecast.
•  Thick socks will increase your comfort while in wading boots, which are sized wider than regular boots. We carry Smart Wool socks, which wick moisture away from your skin and dry quickly.
•  A brimmed hat, sun block, lip balm, camera, insect repellent and a change of clothes are recommended.
Please avoid brightly colored shirts and hats, which increase the chances you will spook fish. Earth-toned clothing is better, especially olive, green and brown.

Guide Rates:
PRIVATE WATERS:
One angler, full day	$325
Two anglers, full day	$425
PUBLIC WATERS:
One angler, full day	$235
Two anglers, full day	$305
FLOAT TRIPS:
1 -2 anglers, full day	$425