Visiting Tennessee

[jason linzmaier]

I am planning a late summer/early fall vacation to visit the GSMNP area.  I purchased Ian Rutter’s book, GSMNP Anglers Companion and Don Kirk’s Fly Fishing Guide to the GSMNP.  Both are great books with lots of helpful information on where to fish.

My question is, where should I stay?  The research I’ve done shows that perhaps Townsend, TN is the best place to stay.  Townsend seems to be off the beaten path and close to lots of good water.

A cabin with all the amenities is a must for the Mrs.

Thanks in advance,
CheeseHead

[Zach Matthews]

Cheesehead –

The Smokies may be busy this year.

[jason linzmaier]

The Smokies may be busy this year.

Thanks for the tips Zach.

[mike hartup]

If you are looking for first class lodging, excellent food, and private water to fish, you may want to check out Blackberry Farm in Townsend. http://www.blackberryfarm.com/

[Zach Matthews]

Shew.

[Mike Cline]

Cheesehead,

Although its been a few years since I’ve been there.

[Zach Matthews]

Cheesehead –

GSMNP is the most visited Park in the country, with over 11 million entrants a year.

[jason linzmaier]

Thanks for the help everyone!

[steve howard]

Cheesehead,

I will make this my first post. Townsend is a beautiful area and is more practical as a base station than Gatlinburg. There is plentiful fishing in the Little River and then you can head to the GSMNP for even more fishing. I would highly recommend reading everything you can as there is a lot of unpressured fishing in the park if you are willing to get off the beaten path.

As well you may want to consider doing some reasearch here or even getting guide service from Ian and Charity Rutter. He is a wealth of knowledge for the park: http://www.randrflyfishing.com/.

Enjoy and I am glad I found this board!
Steve

[Don Thompson]

I’d suggest going to Townsend and checking in at Little River Outfitters for the latest hatch info, buying the flies they suggest, then hitting Middle Prong by taking your first right just inside the park, then an almost immediate left up the road to the Tremont Institute.
Zach

I second Zach on LRO. Last year I visited Townsend on a family vacation and accidently (stupidily) left most of my gear in my garage (everything but my rod). I went into the shop to check on the prices of the gear I would need. Since my fishing time would be limited, I didn’t want to spend the money it would take to replace. I asked about renting, which they don’t offer) I explained what happened and they provided me with a reel (one they use for casting classes) and a line. I bought the rest of what I needed, flies, leaders, etc and went fishing. They help prevent what would have been a huge disappointment. I can’t say enough about how helpful they are.

[steve howard]

LRO is excellent and their prices are great. I replaced a pair of glasses while I was there two years ago. They gave me nice discount just for purchasing the Action Optics and a few flies.

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