By Matt Evans
Curtis Creek:
Curtis Creek gives anglers the unique ability to target stocked fish in its delayed harvest section and native trout in the wild water section near Curtis Creek Campground. When fishing the delayed harvest section, be prepared to think outside the “Fly Box”. Obviously, yellow egg patterns, squirmy worms, and girdle bugs will consistently catch fish. However, black brown, and gray caddis patterns in size 12-16 will bring even the most hesitant trout to the surface with a good drift.
By early spring, stocked fish have wised up to larger flies. Therefore, a lighter tippet and a smaller fly will yield best results. Shallower water is the norm on Curtis Creek, making dry dropper combos most effective.
Catawba River Delayed Harvest:
The Catawba River runs parallel to the Greenway in Marion, North Carolina. This section is easily accessible and offers some great fishing year round. This stretch consists of riffles and deep pools that hold countless fish. Brown or black size 12 pat’s rubber legs are going to be your most effective flies on this section. Fish these flies using a tight line nymphing rig or under a thingamabobber indicator.
Do not overlook the smallmouth bass and largemouth bass fishing through this section during the hot summer months. The top water bite can be most effective in the morning and evening with a frog imitation fly or lure.
Catawba River Wild Water Section:
Typically, The Catawba River and wild rainbow trout are not synonymous with one another. However, at the river’s headwaters near the Catawba Falls in Old Fort, North Carolina, gorgeous wild rainbow trout can be found. These fish range anywhere from 6 to 12 inches. For those wanting to target larger fish that make their home in the deep pool below the falls, you will have to be prepared for a challenging hike up to upper Catawba Falls. Trout at the summit can be selective due to hikers feeding them remnants of sandwiches and snacks. A Little Debbie cake can make even the juiciest dry fly or nymph seem unattractive.
Newberry Creek:
Newberry Creek is the only catch and release/artificial lure only stream in McDowell County, NC. It is the county’s most prized stream, since it holds a healthy population of Southern Appalachian Brook Trout. The fish are the only trout native to western North Carolina, so please handle these fish with care and release them so they can live to fight another day! The fish on Newberry Creek require anglers to use their hunter instincts because, if these fish see you, they disappear in an instant. Stealth is vital when fishing Newberry.
Matt Evans is the Owner of The Catawba Angler. It is the only fishing guide service located in Old Fort, North Carolina. TCA offers the highest quality fishing trips with entertaining guides at the most reasonable prices. The Catawba River and the Catawba River Tailrace located below the Bridgewater Dam at Lake James are their specialties.
