About This Route
The Little River offers some of the best trout fishing in Great Smoky Mountains National Park, with over 2,900 miles of streams supporting wild brook, brown, and rainbow trout populations. Accessible along Little River Road between the Sugarlands Visitor Center and Elkmont Campground, this area features roadside pullouts and short trails like the Little River Trail, ideal for anglers seeking native brook trout in remote headwaters or rainbows in larger pools. Follow NPS regulations: use one hand-held rod with artificial flies or single-hook lures only, no treble hooks. A valid Tennessee or North Carolina fishing license is required for ages 13+ in TN or 16+ in NC; purchase online or in nearby Gatlinburg. Note the precautionary fish consumption advisory for smallmouth bass from the Tennessee Department of Environment and Conservation.
Safety Considerations
Fishing safety in Great Smoky Mountains demands vigilance against flash floods, common due to sudden mountain thunderstorms; check weather via NPS apps and avoid streams during rain. Slippery moss-covered rocks and swift currents pose slip-and-fall risks, especially in waders. Black bears frequent the area, attracted to fish; store gear properly per Leave No Trace principles and use bear canisters from REI. Ticks and copperhead snakes thrive in warm months; wear long pants and check yourself daily. Hypothermia threatens in cold spring waters, even in summer; wear wool layers under quick-dry clothing. Crowds peak in fall; arrive early at popular spots like the Metcalf Bottoms picnic area.
Essential Gear
Pack a 4-6 weight fly rod like the Orvis Clearwater series, polarized sunglasses from Maui Jim for spotting fish, neoprene waders with felt soles for traction, a compact first aid kit with waterproof bandages, whistle, and emergency blanket. Include a PFD for deeper pools, pliers for hook removal, and a net with rubber bag to minimize fish injury. REI recommends a headlamp for dawn patrols and a waterproof GPS like Garmin inReach for off-trail spots.