Smoked in the Smokies

The Little River. A great place to spend a day, regardless of success.

Luckily, fly fishing isn't all about catching fish.  For months my friend and coworker Ryan has been telling be about the fly fishing opportunities in Great Smoky Mountains National Park.  Despite a large cold front in the forecast, last weekend we decided to give it a shot.

Weathered roots.

We spent most of two days fishing and all we had to show for it were two small rainbows.  I use the term rainbow liberally - fingerlings may be more accurate!  On the other hand, we had an awesome time.  I got to explore a new, beautiful area of the country.  Although it drizzled nearly the entire time we were there, occasionally the patter of rain on the rain fly of a tent is welcomed.  Pancakes never taste as good as they do on a brisk morning in the middle of a mountain forest.  Looking upstream at a freestone creek cascading through a tunnel of yellow leaves while the drizzle silences the forest enlivens the senses and makes one feel alive.  I had the most successful unsuccessful fishing trip I've had in a while.

Sweet success!

Pretty water.