Haywood County is blessed with incredible fishing opportunities in some of the purest high mountain waters east of the Mississippi River. Getting active with the Cataloochee Chapter is one of the best ways to meet passionate anglers eager to share their knowledge on where to go, how to improve your skills and what to use to find success fishing the rivers and streams we work together to restore.
Listed below are some of our best local and nearby waters with information on the fishing opportunities all around the area. Always be sure to check North Carolina’s fishing regulations at https://www.ncwildlife.gov/hunting/fishing-hunting-trapping-regulations and never hesitate to attend a Cataloochee Chapter event to meet people who can answer your questions.
West Fork of the Pigeon River
The West Fork fork of the Pigeon River is one of our region’s best trout fisheries, renowned for its prolific insect hatches and large, eager trout! It fishes well throughout the year for native and stocked brook, brown and rainbow trout. The section above Lake Logan and along NC 215 is designated Delayed Harvest (catch & release only) from October thru early June and is Hatchery Support thru the summer months. Check North Carolina fishing regulations for specific regulations for the West Fork. Limited camping opportunities exist at the Pisgah National Forest Sunburst Campground.
Jonathan Creek
Jonathan Creek flows east through the town of Maggie Valley before turning north at Dellwood and is designated a Mountain Heritage Trout Water by North Carolina Wildlife. This designation allows for reduced fees for a three day fishing license – $8 for both residents and non-residents in 2025. All other Hatchery Supported North Carolina regulations apply and can be found at https://www.ncwildlife.gov/hunting/fishing-hunting-trapping-regulations to Jonathan Creek. The creek fishes well year long although water tempretures can limit success in late July and August. Anglers must also respect private properties along the creek, both in Maggie Valley and up Jonathan Creek valley along US 276.