The Speckled Trout Outfitters

The Speckled Trout is a fly fishing outfitter located in Blowing Rock, North Carolina. Its location in the heart of the Blue Ridge Mountains makes it an ideal home base for daily fly fishing adventures including float fishing the legendary Watauga or South Holston Rivers or walk/wade fishing the plethora of wild trout streams in the area. The guides at TST are consummate professionals who will help anglers of all ability levels achieve success. With Speckled Trout, you can choose from several lodging options to fit any group size, budget, and level of amenities. Each trip is a bespoke experience, built exclusively for your group and their unique goals and preferences. From solo anglers and families to larger corporate groups, The Speckled Trout offers exceptional fishing access and flexible custom itineraries.

Who It's For

• Trout anglers
• Families, couples, and corporate groups

 

When To Go

TST offers a diverse and rewarding fly fishing experience across its renowned waters, from the tailwaters of the Watauga and South Holston Rivers to the small brook trout streams in the Blue Ridge Mountains. Spring brings abundant hatches, including sulphurs, caddisflies, and blue-winged olives, creating exceptional dry fly opportunities on both the larger rivers and pristine brook trout streams. Summer offers consistent fishing, with tailwaters staying cool for trout and terrestrials becoming a staple on the small streams, particularly in shaded, high-elevation areas. Fall is a highlight across all waters, with stunning foliage, aggressive trout behavior in the tailwaters, and vibrant brook trout preparing to spawn in mountain streams. Even winter provides opportunities, with midges and nymphs keeping trout active in the tailwaters and peaceful conditions for those braving the quiet beauty of the cold season. Each season brings unique challenges and rewards, making this special slice of Appalachia a year-round destination for fly anglers.

Rainbow Trout

Rainbow trout thrive in the tailwaters of the Watauga and South Holston Rivers, offering anglers year-round opportunities to target these vibrant fish. Known for their acrobatic fights and willingness to take a variety of attractor patterns, rainbows are most active during prolific hatches like sulphurs and caddis in spring and summer. Most rainbows in these waters average 10-14 inches, but larger fish in the 16-18 inch range are common, and trophy fish over 20 inches are landed each season.Their populations benefit from cold, consistent water flows and excellent year-round habitat. Whether targeting them with dries during a hatch or dredging deep runs, rainbow trout are a cornerstone of the tailwater experience in this region.

Brown Trout

Brown trout in the tailwaters of the Watauga and South Holston Rivers are highly sought after for their impressive size and wariness. These fish thrive in the nutrient-rich, cold waters, with many averaging 10-14 inches, though fish exceeding 20 inches are not uncommon, and trophy specimens can grow much larger. Browns are most active during low-light conditions and are especially aggressive in the fall, making October a great month for streamer junkies.

Brook Trout

Brook trout in the Blue Ridge Mountains are a cherished species, representing the only trout native to the region and thriving in the cold, clear streams of high elevations. These beautiful fish typically average 6-9 inches in length, though larger individuals over 10 inches can occasionally be found in remote, less-pressured waters. Known for their striking colors, especially during the fall spawning season, brook trout eagerly take dry flies and small nymphs, making them a joy to target. Their size may be modest, but the experience of fishing for these wild, native trout in pristine mountain settings is truly unparalleled.

Boats

With TST, you'll be fishing out of western-style drift boats, typically Clackacrafts. These boats are stable and feature clean casting decks, rod storage, and dry storage compartments.

Equipment

Successful fishing in Appalachian trout country only requires a few rods with matching reels. We recommend bringing 3 rods: an 8-9' 3wt for dry flies and wading small creeks, a 9' 5wt for dries, dropper rigs, and nymphing and a 9' 6wt for streamers. Your guides will help you rig appropriately for the day's fishing. We recommend adhering to the packing and equipment lists provided by Trident. If you do not have your own equipment, please note that this trip includes all the necessary gear for a successful trip.

 

Non-Angler Activities

Western North Carolina is home to many activities for the non-angler. First and foremost, the seasoned hiking guides of The Speckled Trout offer a wealth of knowledge and skill through customizable hiking trips into the infamous Linville Gorge and Pisgah National Forest. In addition, The Speckled Trout Outfitters can facilitate other activities such as biking, horseback rides, rafting and skiing in the wintertime.

 

Itinerary

Day 1: From Home to Blowing Rock, NC

A trip to TST begins with a flight to the Charlotte Douglas International Airport (CLT) in Charlotte, North Carolina. Once you've arrived in Charlotte, you will rent a vehicle and drive about 2 hours to Blowing Rock, North Carolina. Upon arrival, you can settle into your guest suite and prepare for the next day's fishing, enjoy a delicious meal in town, and unwind after your travel day.

Days 2 - 4: The Fishing Days

The next morning, you can prepare breakfast in your suite, or enjoy breakfast in town before departing for the river with your guide. Transportation is provided by your guide, beginning and ending at the TST fly shop just steps away from your suite. Daily fishing adventures could include float-fishing the Watauga or South Holston River, or wade-fishing one of the area's beautiful Brook Trout streams. By midday, your guide will serve a hearty cooler lunch, allowing you to rest and rehydrate. After an afternoon fishing session, your guide will return you to your suite, where you can relax, walk to dinner in town, or enjoy a local pub before turning in for the evening.

Day 5: From Blowing Rock, NC to Home

On your final morning, enjoy breakfast and coffee in town before driving approximately 2 hours to the Charlotte Douglas International Airport (CLT). From there, you'll board your flight back to your home destination.

Note: All packages are customizable in length and inclusions. Speckled Trout Outfitters does not have set arrival and departure days.

 

Lodging

Accommodations

The Speckled Trout offers anglers a selection of comfortable lodging options to enhance their fly fishing experience. Rising On Main Suites 200 and 210 are centrally located on Main Street, providing easy access to local attractions. Suite 200 features a bright, open living space with upscale furnishings, a well-stocked kitchen, a king bedroom, and a queen bedroom, with a shared front deck overlooking downtown. Suite 210 offers a similar layout with additional sleeping arrangements, making it suitable for larger groups. Brinkwaters, in Damascus, VA, provides various room layouts designed to suit different travel needs, featuring common spaces for relaxation and group gatherings. Rhodes Motor Lodge in Boone combines the nostalgia of a drive-up motor inn with the warmth of a mountain lodge, offering modern amenities and an on-site bar and restaurant to unwind after a day on the water. These accommodations cater to individuals, couples, families, and corporate groups, ensuring a comfortable and convenient stay for all guests.

Food

Fishing packages do not include meals, except for lunches on full-day fishing trips. River lunches are taken seriously here, no PB&J. You can expect to be very delighted with the delicious culinary delights served midday! For breakfast and dinners, you may choose to prepare meals in your suite, or enjoy the excellent restaurants in Blowing Rock, Boone, or Damascus. Guests staying in Blowing Rock enjoy The Speckled Trout Restaurant, just a short walk from their suite. TST's restaurant offers a unique dining experience that celebrates Appalachian cuisine by preserving and reviving local heritage ingredients. Their seasonal menu features fresh locally sourced meats and produce, complemented by a selection of regional craft beers, ciders, and prohibition-style cocktails. The on-site bottle shop allows guests to purchase craft beers and approachable wines to enjoy at home.

Connectivity

Complimentary WiFi is available in your suite. Although it is generally a reliable service, it can be affected by adverse weather conditions. Cell service may be available at the lodge depending on your service plan and provider.

 

Rates

2026 Fishing Packages

Trident Travel's expert planning service is free of charge. Our rates are the same as you would pay by booking directly with the lodge.

Note: TST Packages are customizable. Contact us for availability and pricing.

Double Occupancy / Shared Boat (Per Boat)

4 Nights / 3 Days = $2,650

What's Included:

• Guided fishing
• Lodging accommodations in Blowing Rock, Boone, or Damascus
• Cooler lunches on guided trips
• Ensuite WiFi
• Rental fishing equipment if needed
• Flies and terminal tackle on guided trips

What's Not Included:

• Airfare to/from Charlotte, NC (CLT)
• Round-trip airport transfers / rental car
• Fishing License
• Gratuities

 

 

FAQ

 

What skill level is required for this trip?

The Speckled Trout offers something for everyone, from beginners to advanced anglers. No previous experience is required for this trip, although we highly recommend practicing your casting to get the most out of your experience.

 

How should I prepare for a trip to North Carolina?

Most importantly, you should practice casting, as accuracy and presentation are paramount in trout fishing. Also, purchasing the right gear, tackle, and clothing is important - use our recommended packing lists. Additionally, you should think about your goals for the trip so that you can relay them to your guides. Lastly, figure out your travel logistics well in advance.

 

How physically demanding is this trip?

All packages at The Speckled Trout are fully customizable for your group, so they can be as physically challenging as you prefer. For those who prefer a less physical trip, float trips cover a lot of water without the need for any wade fishing. For those who prefer to wade, walk/wade trips are a great way to fine tune your casting and presentation techniques with more 1:1 instruction from your guide.

 

Is The Speckled Trout Family Friendly?

Yes! North Carolina is a fantastic place to bring the entire family. The Speckled Trout offers various styles of lodging to fit the size and needs of your group. Additionally, they offer non-fishing activities such as mountain biking and hiking.

 

What is the weather like?

The mountains of North Carolina offer ideal fishing weather from April through October. Spring brings moderate temperatures and increasing water flows, creating excellent conditions for trout fishing. Summers are warm, with average highs in the upper 70s F, and provide consistent fishing opportunities, especially in the cool mountain streams. Fall offers crisp, pleasant weather and stunning foliage, paired with fantastic nymph and streamer fishing, it is a favorite season among anglers.

Is tipping customary?

Yes, tipping is customary although it is at your discretion. Tipping 20% of your trip total is recommended. Trident Fly Fishing will provide gratuity guidelines upon booking. Please plan on tipping in cash.

 

What happens if I’m injured during the trip, and should I purchase travel insurance?

Medical emergencies and evacuations can happen in remote destinations, which is why we strongly recommend enrolling with Global Rescue before your trip. Global Rescue provides industry-leading medical and security evacuation services, and they also offer comprehensive travel insurance plans serviced through IMG. This all-in-one solution allows anglers to secure both emergency evacuation coverage and travel insurance through a single provider, helping ensure you’re protected if something unexpected occurs before or during your trip.