By Ronnie Parris
Hey folks! It’s been a great month for the local mountain anglers. The recent rains have our streams and rivers in good shape and I’m hoping we can continue to get rain regularly. If you are looking for a great fishing destination this month, I would suggest a trip to Wolf Creek Lake in Jackson County. This lake is a mountain gem and you can expect to, pretty much, have the water to yourself except on holidays and weekends.
The lake consists of 183 acres of fishable waters and is accessible to small and large boats. Its main water source comes from Tanasee Creek, then flows thru Wolf Creek’s earth dam, into Bear Creek Lake.
The main fish most anglers go after are the trout, which are a mixture of hatchery-raised fish and wild trout, coming out of Tanasee Creek. These trout can be taken on about any bait or technique you enjoy. I usually slow troll small spoons, Repalas, and plastic baits, for them.
The lake also holds a good number of walleye, crappie, small and largemouth bass, as well as bluegill. It’s a great getaway for family fishing and an angler will almost always catch a good mess of fish. The lake is a hatchery-supported lake so, be sure you have the trout endorsement on your license. Most spots on the lake will be 80 feet deep, or less. The wildlife around the lake is another good draw. I have seen wild turkey, deer, otter, and bald eagles.
The best way to get to Wolf Lake coming from Sylva is to take 107 south through Cullowhee, to the junction of 281, then turn left on 281 south, and continue 13 miles to the launch area which will be on your left, just before you cross the dam. The launch is a single lane, concrete put-in with a small parking area, which shouldn’t be a problem unless it’s a holiday or weekend. If you would like to try Wolf Lake and need a local guide to learn how, and where, to catch these Wolf Lake fish, give me a call at 828-488-9711. I would be glad to help you in any way I can!
Ronnie Parris is the Owner and Head Guide of Smoky Mountain Outdoors Unlimited-Fontana Lake Fishing Guides, headquartered in Bryson City, North Caronina, heart of the beautiful Great Smoky Mountains. www.smounlimited.com