Discover Western North Carolina’s hidden trout waters on a half-day guided fly fishing trip tailored for anglers of all levels. Enjoy expert instruction, private streams, and a local taproom to celebrate your catch.
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Difficulty
moderate
Duration
4–5 hours
Fitness Level
Participants should be comfortable wading for extended periods; moderate stamina is recommended for balancing in flowing water.
Wildlife
History
These waterways have supported local communities and sport fishing since the early 20th century, with conservation efforts preserving native trout populations.
Conservation
Headwaters Outfitters emphasizes catch-and-release practices and supports sustainable water stewardship to protect fragile aquatic habitats.
Headwaters Outfitters
Discover Western North Carolina’s hidden trout waters on a half-day guided fly fishing trip tailored for anglers of all levels. Enjoy expert instruction, private streams, and a local taproom to celebrate your catch.
Headwaters Outfitters, based in Rosman, NC, operates guided fishing, paddling, camping and outdoor education on the French Broad River and surrounding lakes. The outfitter offers a wide range of experiences including guided fly-fishing lessons, trout wade trips on private waters, smallmouth and bass float trips, musky targeting adventures, and multi-hour self-guided paddling options like Hap Simpson and Island Ford runs. Classes and workshops include Fly Fishing Foundations, Advanced Casting, Spey Casting, Angler Entomology and Selecting a Fly, all taught with low student-to-instructor ratios for personalized skill-building. Paddling-focused offerings include guided Bear Lake sea kayaking trips to Sols Creek Waterfall, overnight canoe camping trips on the Upper French Broad, family-friendly floats, and festival paddles like Paddle to the Pork. Headwaters Outfitters also coordinates collaborative events with local breweries — Paddle then Pints with Ecusta Brewing Company and Cruise then Booze with Oskar Blues — and hosts seasonal community programs such as the Annual Upper French Broad River Clean-Up and Appalachian Santa Night. The business manages the first private campground on the French Broad Paddle Trail, featuring six primitive riverside campsites and options for full campground rental. Gear, shuttles and guided instruction are provided on many trips, and experienced guides such as local captains lead species-specific charters. Emphasis is placed on safety, Leave No Trace ethics, environmental stewardship and authentic local partnerships, making the outfitter a resource for anglers, paddlers and outdoor learners visiting Western North Carolina.
Base Location
Rosman, NC
Blue Ridge foothills on the French Broad
Tours Offered
28+
Guided paddles, fishing, classes, camping
Riverside Camps
6 campsites
First private campground on the trail
Community Impact
3,000+
River clean-ups since 1992
Book guided fly-fishing, paddles, classes or campground rental now; gear, shuttles and expert instruction available.
Dress for Wet Conditions
Wear quick-drying waders and boots designed for stream wading to stay comfortable and safe in cold water.
Use Barbless Hooks
Protect the delicate trout and adhere to local fishing regulations by using barbless hooks during your trip.
Stay Quiet Near the Stream
Maintain a low noise level to avoid spooking fish and increase your chances of a successful catch.
Hydrate and Protect Yourself
Bring water and apply sunscreen to guard against sun exposure during your time on the river.
Waders and Wading Boots
Necessary for staying dry and stable during springtime river wading when waters can be cold and high.
spring
Fly Rod and Reel
A lightweight 5- to 6-weight rod ideal for trout fishing in Appalachian streams.
Polarized Sunglasses
Helps reduce glare on the water, allowing you to spot fish and underwater structures.
summer
Light Waterproof Jacket
Useful for unexpected rain or cooler temperatures along the shaded rivers.
fall