Western NC Fishing Stream Report | Davidson River Outfitters

Stream Report November 18th, 2021

Overview

Pisgah area streams are fishing well for late fall. There have been hatches of Blue Wing Olives, small Caddis, and Midges on sunny days on most of our local streams. The leaves are still coming down in the afternoons so and abundance of patience is needed once the wind begins to blow.

Davidson River

The Davidson is fishing well, but the water is a little low, and extremely clear. Midges, and Blue Wing Olives are hatching on warmer days, and there has been some fair dry fly fishing in the slower pools. The area near the fish hatchery continues to be a turkey shoot, as the fish that have escaped from this year's floods are still lingering in the river near their home.

Delayed Harvest

Pisgah area Delayed Harvest streams have all received their November stockings, and are fishing well. Standard "fast food" fly patterns such as eggs, and worms, will do the trick. Add a small, flashy nymph for the picky fish, and you should have your bases covered.

Wild Trout

Wild trout fishing is good during the mid day hours when the most sun is on the water. Hair wing dry flies with bead head nymph droppers will get it done in almost every situation outsided of deepest of plunge pools. Use caution entering and exiting the river, as the banks are still very unstable from the floods earlier this fall.

Flies to Try

Blue Wing Olive 20-22, Comparadun Olive 18-2, Adams 18-22, Cream Midge 22-26, Lightning Bug 16-18, Sassi's Solution 18-20, Soft Hackle Pheasant Tail 18-20

What's Biting on the Davidson - November and December

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Blue Wing Olive
Often active in fall and early winter on cloudy days.

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Howell's Trip Saver
The name says it all this fly will often times produce a fish saving your trip when nothing else will work. Designed by Kevin Howell, this fly was his secret weapon that he carried during his tournament fishing days. Kevin said he knew it was just different enough to catch those highly pressured fish. For a more subtle presentation the front legs can be removed.

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Soft Hackle Pheasant Tail
Soft Hackles have been used by anglers for over 200 years. They are a staple in ever serious guides fly box. A proven guide fly and a go to when the times are tough.

Looking for more? Check out our Regional Rivers & Streams Overview and Hatch Chart with Fly Recommendations.

overhead shot of man fly fishing on the Davidson