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🎟️ LICENSE INFORMATION

Western North Carolina is home to a unique mix of state-managed public waters and Cherokee tribal-managed waters. Because of this, anglers sometimes get confused about which license is required where. This page makes it simple.

Before any guided trip with WNC Trout Adventures, please make sure you have the correct permit for the water we’re fishing. If you’re unsure which one you need, just ask — I’ll help point you in the right direction based on our trip plan.

🎣 North Carolina Inland Fishing License (Public Waters)

Most rivers in Western North Carolina — including the Tuckasegee, Nantahala, Davidson, and Pigeon River — require a standard NC Inland Fishing License.

This license covers:

  • All state-managed public trout waters

  • Wild trout streams

  • Delayed Harvest streams

  • Hatchery-supported waters

  • Catch-and-release sections

Best for:
Most of your guided trips unless we are specifically fishing Cherokee waters.

Where to buy:
🟢 NC Wildlife Licensing Portal
https://www.ncwildlife.org/Licensing

You can choose a 10-day, annual, or lifetime license. Digital copies are valid — no need to print unless you prefer.

🎣 Fish Cherokee Tribal Permit (Cherokee Reservation Waters)

The Oconaluftee River, Raven Fork, and other Cherokee waters are managed separately by the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians.
These waters do not accept NC state licenses — you must purchase a Fish Cherokee permit.

This permit covers:

  • Oconaluftee River (Cherokee sections)

  • Raven Fork general waters

  • Trophy Waters Section

  • Multiple stocked creeks on the reservation

Special note:
The Raven Fork Trophy Waters require a specific Trophy Permit and are home to some of the largest trout in the Southeast.

Where to buy:
🟡 FishCherokee.com
https://fishcherokee.com

You can buy daily, multi-day, or annual permits online.

❓ Which One Do I Need?

Here’s a quick guide:

                          River                                                                                                                                           License Required

                  Tuckasegee, NC                                                                                                                                 Inland License

                   Nantahala, NC                                                                                                                                   Inland License

                   Davidson, NC                                                                                                                                     Inland License

                 Pigeon River, NC                                                                                                                                 Inland License

           Oconaluftee (Cherokee)                                                                                                                    Fish Cherokee Permit

         Raven Fork Trophy Waters                                                                                        Cherokee Trophy Permit + Cherokee Permit

 

If your trip crosses boundaries (which happens on some Oconaluftee sections), I’ll let you know ahead of time.

📞 Still Not Sure?

Text or call me anytime at 828-269-7845 — I’m happy to confirm which license your trip requires.

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