Largemouth Bass

Bryson City sits nestled near some fantastic largemouth bass fishing in the western North Carolina mountains. Fontana Lake, a large TVA reservoir, is your primary target. Its deep, clear waters hold some surprisingly hefty largemouth. Spring and fall are prime times, with the fish moving shallower to spawn or fatten up for winter. Focus on the lake's many coves and creek arms, particularly around structure like submerged timber or rocky points. Summer can be productive too, but you'll need to fish deeper, using Carolina rigs or deep-diving crankbaits. Be aware that Fontana's water levels can fluctuate significantly, impacting access and fish location. The Alarka Boat Ramp is a popular access point. Largemouth here tend to be opportunistic feeders, so experiment with different lure presentations to find what they're hitting on any given day. Local tip: Don't overlook the smaller creeks and rivers that feed into Fontana; they can hold some hidden gems, especially after a rain.