Stream / River · Swain
Nantahala River
Official trout-water information for Nantahala River in Swain, North Carolina.
Location and source context
Waterbody overview
- Mapped location
- 35.22008, -83.61034
- Mapped source length
- 15.04 miles
Classification
Designations and characteristics
Designations
Characteristics
Fishery
Documented trout
Species are not identified in the matched state records.
Management
3 documented reaches
Nantahala hydropower discharge canal to Swain County line
Length: 0.55 miles
Classification: Hatchery Supported Trout Waters, Wild Trout Waters
Source layer: PMTW_Streams_2026
waters on Nantahala National Forest Game Land, Cherokee, Clay, Graham, Jackson, Macon, Swain and Transylvania counties, are classified as Wild Trout Waters unless otherwise noted
Length: 7.27 miles
Classification: Hatchery Supported Trout Waters, Wild Trout Waters
Source layer: PMTW_Streams_2026
Macon Co. line to existing Fontana Lake water level
Length: 7.22 miles
Classification: Hatchery Supported Trout Waters, Wild Trout Waters
Source layer: PMTW_Streams_2026
Stocking
Published stocking information
Current plans and schedules
Regulations
Reach-specific notes
Harvest regulation
Seven trout per day with no minimum length; the stream season closes March 1 through the first Friday in April.
Restrictions
No bait restriction during the open season; reservoir exceptions and current NCWRC rules may apply.
Harvest regulation
Four trout per day, each at least seven inches; season is open year-round.
Restrictions
Artificial lures with one single hook only; possessing natural bait while fishing is unlawful.
Harvest regulation
Seven trout per day with no minimum length; the stream season closes March 1 through the first Friday in April.
Restrictions
No bait restriction during the open season; reservoir exceptions and current NCWRC rules may apply.