Is Cherokee Trout Fishing Open?

If you are a fan of trout fishing, you may have heard about Cherokee trout fishing. The question that is on the mind of many anglers right now is whether or not Cherokee trout fishing is open. In this article, we will explore the current status of Cherokee trout fishing and what you need to know before planning a trip.

What is Cherokee Trout Fishing?

Cherokee trout fishing is a popular activity for anglers in the United States. This type of fishing takes place in the Cherokee Indian Reservation, which is located in western North Carolina. The reservation covers over 56,000 acres and includes 30 miles of streams that are stocked with rainbow, brown, and brook trout.

Is Cherokee Trout Fishing Open?

The answer to this question is yes! Cherokee trout fishing is currently open for the 2021 season. However, there are some important things to keep in mind before planning your trip.

COVID-19 Restrictions

Like many places around the world, the Cherokee Indian Reservation has implemented restrictions due to COVID-19. These restrictions include:

  • All anglers must wear masks while on tribal lands.
  • Anglers must practice social distancing by staying at least six feet away from others.
  • The number of anglers allowed on certain streams may be limited to prevent overcrowding.

Licensing Requirements

In order to fish in Cherokee trout waters, anglers must obtain a permit from the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians (EBCI). These permits can be purchased online or at various locations throughout the reservation.

Types of Permits Available

There are two types of permits available for Cherokee trout fishing:

  • A general permit which allows anglers to fish all designated public waters within the reservation.
  • A catch-and-release permit which allows anglers to fish all designated public waters within the reservation, but requires that all fish be released back into the water unharmed.

Permit Fees

The cost of a general permit for Cherokee trout fishing is $10 per day or $250 for an annual permit. The cost of a catch-and-release permit is $20 per day or $500 for an annual permit.

Seasonal Restrictions

It’s important to note that Cherokee trout fishing has seasonal restrictions. The 2021 season runs from March 27th through November 30th. During this time, anglers are permitted to fish in designated public waters within the reservation.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Cherokee trout fishing is open for the 2021 season. However, anglers must adhere to COVID-19 restrictions, obtain a permit from the EBCI, and be aware of seasonal restrictions. With these things in mind, you can plan a successful and enjoyable trip to Cherokee trout waters.

Photo of author

Lindsay Collins