NOLICHUCKY
The Nolichucky is the best smallmouth river in our region.
Starting as the North Toe, a freestone trout river in the high elevations of Western North Carolina, the Nolichucky proper is formed at the confluence of the North Toe and the Cane river below Burnsville, NC.
Gaining momentum, the river twists and turns through a deep, remote gorge with more than a few must make maneuvers. With over 70 miles of river designated as Wild and Scenic, the river is characterized by limestone walls, giant boulders, and the smallmouth that roam the pristine waters. Making its way out of the gorge, the river takes on a more gentle character as it flows through the rolling hills and farmland of east Tennessee.
Float trips on the Nolichucky are full of explosive topwater eats, unparalleled scenery and solitude. The smallmouth season on the Nolichucky begins in May and continues through October.