JACKSON COUNTY, N.C. (February 5, 2016) – From the waters of the only Fly Fishing Trail in the country to the tables of nearby restaurants, fresh trout is a prized catch in Jackson County’s pristine part of North Carolina. Made up of more than 70 miles of rivers and streams, the picturesque Western North Carolina Fly Fishing Trail features some of the best trout waters in the crystal-clear streams of the Great Smoky Mountains with a downloadable map, descriptions and GPS coordinates for 15 excellent spots for catching brook, brown and rainbow trout.

During the fall, the delayed-harvest waters of Jackson County are stocked with 20,000 trout. With freshly-stocked waters, the winter months provide an optimal fishing season, and expert guides Brookings, Hookers, The Mountain Outpost Outfitters, Fontana Guides, BlackRock/Orvis Outdoor and AB’s Fly Fishing Guide Service read the river with years of experience to guide both novice and experienced anglers to the best spots to fish.

“Jackson County, North Carolina provides a unique and diverse variety of fly fishing,” said Alex Bell, owner of AB’s Fly Fishing Guide Service. “When helping to create the trail, we wanted to make sure that we had water appealing to all fly fishers. From wade fishing to float fishing and from small streams to big water, guests of all skill levels can experience 15 prime fishing stops along the WNC Fly Fishing Trail.”

Jackson County also offers accommodations along the trail that are as diverse as the area itself, including resorts and historic country inns to charming B&Bs and a variety of quaint mountain cottages. In fact, Jackson County’s new hiking map includes directions to 19 waterfalls, hiking trails, multiple-use trails for riding or biking, semi-private or public golf courses, whitewater rafting and water sports outfitters, horseback riding locations and recreational rental service locations.

For more information on lodging options or outdoor activities in Jackson County, visit MountainLoversNC.com.