Fall in Western NC with Chris Maney

Sylva, North Carolina, home to the Western Fly Fishing Trail, is a popular destination for anglers, hikers, and tourists of all kinds. The Carolina Outdoors welcomes Chris Maney, native of Sylva and sales representative for Abel, Ross Reels, and Fishpond, onto the show this week.

Looking to visit Western North Carolina this fall? Learn more about fall tourism, hike recommendations, fishing the Tuckasegee River, and the leaf change in Sylva.

Hiking

Sylva and Jackson County are home to many great hikes, from loop trails to out-and-back’s to overnight camping spots.
Check out hikes along the Blue Ridge Parkway, but be aware of closures. The Smokies are open for the most part and also offer great trails.

Fly Fishing

Scott Creek and the Tuckasegee River are great spots for fly fishing.
This year, the water has had good quality, clarity, depth, and temperature, especially as it starts to cool down at night.
The Tuckasegee River can see up to 100 anglers per day in the fall. It’s a popular spot, but still great for catching fish! The Tuck is also the #1 most stocked river in the state of North Carolina.

Leaf Change

Leaves are beginning to change from green to yellow near Newfound Gap. In the next few weeks, the leaf change will begin to make its way down the mountains into the valleys.
Peak week for leaves in the Sylva area will be around the third week of October to the first week of November.