HOOKED ON THE WATER: find your next fishing experience
BY CHANDA RICHARDSON
T
he High Country is no stranger to its vast rivers, lakes and creeks. With many locals and tourists wanting to sit out under the sun with a nice cold drink and the feeling of your feet in the water, fishing is one of the area’s most sought after experiences. As a result, due to the natural conditions found in the High Country’s waterways, trout fishing is highly popular. In fact, the trout fishing sport and industry has become one of the biggest businesses in the area.
Fly fishing is a different method of fishing compared to the usual rod and reel and can of worms type of angling that many of us learned to do as kids. With many breeds of freshwater fish such as bass, bluegrass, crappie, catfish and more, a spinning reel or bait caster reel is used to throw out either live bait or artificial lures to fool them, catch them and bring them in, depending on the species and natural fishing conditions. Fly fishing adds a whole other layer to the fishing experience and because of that, many new fly fishing anglers soon develop a passion for the sport.
“The trout fishing sport and industry has become one of the biggest businesses in the area.”
FILE PHOTO In 2020, Zaloo’s Canoes opened up Zaloo’s Kayak and Fly Shop, perfect for all of your fly fishing needs. 100
FILE PHOTO Fishing in the High Country’s waterways, including the New River in Watauga County, is a popular summer activity.
For those who want to take the plunge and learn a wonderful new way of connecting with nature that will last a lifetime, that is where the many fly fishing outfitters located here in the High Country come in handy. Not only can you buy gear from them, they will teach you how to fly fish for trout and then guide you to the best, secret waterways where the big trout live. The sport is yet another reason why this area is a great place to vacation, visit and to live in. Located in Glendale Springs in Ashe County, Zaloo’s Kayak and Fly Shop will give visitors the best of both worlds. The establishment includes gear, bait, guides, maps and even kayak and tube rentals for your special day out on the water. Being conveniently located just on the South Fork of the New River at 3874
NC-16 S, Jefferson, this shop has all of your needs when heading out to catch some trout. For more information, call (336) 246-306. In Boone, you can visit Boone’s Fly Shop to get access to all of their products and gear. Located at 140 S Depot St #1, Boone, this is a full service fly shop and guide service in the heart of the Blue Ridge Mountains. Whether you are new to the sport of fly fishing, or a well seasoned angler, Boone’s Fly Shop can provide our customers a first class experience with some of the most seasoned and knowledgeable guides and staff in the High Country. With guides, you can fish at Watauga River, South Holston River and local streams. For more information, visit www.boonesflyshop.com. SUMMER TIMES 2022
