[shakespear]

I'm going in May I hope and I stay right by the NOC (at the lost mine campground)

I mainly go to raft/kayak but this time I really wanted to bring a rod with me this time and try some fishing but I dont want to pay a guide but I dont know where I can fish at.

I also assume a 3/4 lb rod would be fine, right?

thanks for your help

[Crowbuster]

Slow down there, looks like you missed a coma or two .

Are you asking about 3/4 pound test line on your rod? Are you asking about spin-fishing or fly-fishing?

Once I know just what you're after I'll help you in any manner I can.

[shakespear]

opps

Fly Fishing.

I was wondering what size rod to bring.

[Crowbuster]

Thanks, I think I gotcha now.

I think that alot of people turn trout fishing into rocket science, and I'm not going to give you the "perfect formula" to go catch a 24 inch fish. I would rather fish with a comfortable set-up, than an Orvis outfit. If were you, I would go with a 4-5wt rod. Preferably 8ft?? I'm not crazy about really long rods, that's alot of stick to be waving around.

As far as your line, the smaller the line, the harder for the fish to see, but the easier they break off. It's also difficult to cast and turn-over large flies with light line. You just need to think that one through by yourself.

Patterns and anything alse you may want to know, I suggest you call a local shop/guide and see what kind of free info you can get over the phone.

Buster

[Get Bent]

The NOC has a fly shop located right across the street from the main NOC building. Also Riversedge outfitters will be open in Cherokee by the time you visit.

You have two options to fish, one is the lower river which is under hatchery supported regs, or the upper river, which is under delayed harvest regs.

My sugestion would be a 5wt rod 8.5 to 9 ft in length. Unless its a blue line, you will be fine. I rarely use a shorter rod, longer rods are great for nymph fishing. Talk to the fly shop staff for what flies are hot at the time of your visit. if you are fishing DH, stock up on WB', PT nymphs, Hares Ears, etc.. carry an few spools of 4x thru 6x tippet and you will be fine.

[Fishbones]

I would definitely take the time to fish the Upper Nanty.

If you fish the lower Nanty, just remember you need a lot of weight to fight the faster deeper water.

A good dry fly in mid to late May is the Light Cahill...size 14-16.

Good luck,

On a side note, if you looking for camping on the river, I think the only one that remains is The Big Nantahala Campground.828-488-6504. I don't think they start taking reservations until March 1.

Also go in and see JEB Hall, at the new NOC fly shop across the road from the NOC Outfitters Store and River's Edge Restaurant. They have a good fly selection and can point you in the right direction.