Hazel Creek Fly Fishing

The legendary Hazel Creek, often referred to as the world famous Hazel Creek, is a storied stream and one of the finest streams and largest creeks in the Southeast for fly fishing. Renowned for its scenic beauty, rich history, and exceptional wild trout populations, Hazel Creek fly fishing is a bucket-list experience for anglers seeking solitude and adventure in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Hazel Creek is renowned for its diverse trout population, including wild Rainbow, Brown, and Brook trout, making it a prime fishing destination in the Great Smoky Mountains. The creek flows through the remnants of the old Proctor community, with Proctor Creek serving as a significant feeder stream, and is surrounded by pristine wilderness that enhances its legendary status.

Accessing and fly fishing Hazel Creek is an adventure in itself. Most guided fishing trips on Hazel Creek include a boat shuttle across Fontana Lake, often departing from Fontana Lake Village , a key access point for anglers seeking remote wilderness fishing. Once across the lake, anglers follow the Hazel Creek Trail, which parallels the stream and provides access to its many tributaries. The creek and its feeder streams stretch for several miles, offering anglers the opportunity to explore extensive pristine mountain trout habitat. Backcountry campsites are available along Hazel Creek, allowing for multi-day camping trips and immersive fishing experiences in the upper reaches. For those with limited time, day trips are also possible, providing convenient access to Hazel Creek’s fishing opportunities.

Generally speaking, Hazel Creek offers a variety of fishing experiences for all skill levels. The lower portion of the creek features big water and is home to robust populations of wild trout; during the fall, Hazel Creek is known for producing some of the largest wild brown trout found in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. The middle reaches provide classic mountain trout water, while the upper reaches are known for their native Brook trout, which thrive in the high-elevation waters.

Hazel Creek has a rich and complex history. In the early 1900s, it was a thriving mining and logging community, which was significantly impacted by the establishment of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park and the creation of Fontana Lake, isolating the area. The history of Hazel Creek is documented in books such as Dan Pierce’s ‘Hazel Creek: The Life and Death of an Iconic Mountain Community.’ The area was once home to notable figures such as Horace Kephart, Granville Calhoun, and Aquilla Rose, who were influential in the early development of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Today, professional guide services are commonly offered on guided trips to Hazel Creek, providing expert instruction and local knowledge. Guided fishing trips on Hazel Creek are available from April 15 to November 26, aligning with the best fishing seasons in the area. Hazel Creek offers a variety of fishing experiences, from big water in the lower reaches to classic mountain trout water in the middle portions and small stream fishing in the upper reaches.

Directions to Fontana Lake

Take I-40W to exit 27 (US 74W/US 19/US 23). Follow 74W for 48.9 miles. Turn right onto US 28N and continue for 21.3 miles. Turn right onto Fontana Dam Road; the Marina is on the left for ferry access, often referred to as a boat shuttle, or continue across the dam to reach the Lakeshore Trail trailhead. Cable Cove is another common launching point for boat shuttles, providing remote access to Hazel Creek and other backcountry streams. Guided fishing trips on Hazel Creek typically include a boat shuttle across Fontana Lake to reach these remote fishing areas. These are both backcountry streams that require hiking or taking a boat shuttle from the marina or Cable Cove to access their waters.

Hazel Creek Description

Hazel Creek is one of the largest creeks in the region, and along with Eagle Creek, is among the most beautiful backcountry streams flowing into Fontana Lake. Trails follow right next to both streams and lead high into the Smokies. Hazel Creek and its tributaries offer several miles of fishable water, providing anglers with a variety of fishing experiences—from big water in the lower reaches, to classic mountain trout water in the middle portions, and small stream fishing in the upper reaches. Expect to find rainbow, wild brown and brook trout with an occasional bass near the lake. Due to the larger stream size, the fish are slightly larger in Hazel Creek, ranging up to 16”, but see much more pressure and can be picky, especially near the lake. As you get higher on both of these creeks the fish see fewer anglers and are eager to take a well-presented fly.

Fly Fishing Tactics

A 2-5 weight rod with matching floating line will work well.  Lighter tippet is a good idea for the fish near the lake that see more pressure.  You can always start with a simple assortment of flies.  Parachute Adams and Elk Hair Caddis for dries.  Pheasant Tails, Hare’s Ears, Tellico nymphs and a few bead heads for the deeper runs serve a solid foundation.  A hopper pattern and a few terrestrials in your box are great for summer months.

Other Great Smoky Mountains Information

A North Carolina fishing license is required to fish in the park, but will permit you to fish on either the NC or TN side of the Smokies. There is no closed season in the park and anglers are permitted to keep up to 5 trout larger than 7”. Hazel Creek is one of the most popular streams in the Smokies and can be crowded on weekends. For anglers planning multi-day fishing trips, there are backcountry campsites along Hazel Creek (permit required), which are ideal for establishing a base and exploring the upper reaches of the stream while avoiding weekend crowds. Camping at these designated backcountry sites allows you to fish this beautiful stream and experience greater solitude.