Great Smokies Inn

04/26/2026

03/28/2026

Great Smoky Mountains National Park Fishing Report

We’re in a true early spring crossover window right now, and the fishing has been strong across the park.

The main driver at the moment is Quill Gordons, especially in faster broken water from late morning into the afternoon. Blue Quills are still present and important, particularly on overcast days in softer seams. Black caddis are starting to show more consistently in the afternoons, and little black stoneflies are active along the banks.

Nymphing remains the most productive approach. Quill Gordon nymphs, pheasant tails, soft hackles, and green weenies are all producing. A dry-dropper setup has been the most effective overall, with a parachute Adams, elk hair caddis, or stimulator up top and a light nymph below.

Fish are beginning to look up, but most consistent action is still subsurface with better dry fly windows developing from late morning into the afternoon.

The Oconaluftee, Deep Creek, Bradley Fork, and Cataloochee are all fishing well. High elevation brook trout water is starting to turn on during the warmest parts of the day.

Water temps are climbing through the 40s into the low 50s. Best fishing window has been late morning through the afternoon.

Guided trips available through Rivers Edge Outfitters in Cherokee, North Carolina.

03/05/2026

02/09/2026

Fishing Season will be closed from March 14-27, 2026 with the exception of Trophy Waters (Fly Fishing Catch & Release). Fishing Season will reopen March 28, 2026.
The KOA ponds will be ready for Opening Day and the Opening Day Fishing Tournament.

02/03/2026

🐻 Soda‑can small 🥤

Right now, in the Smokies, black bear moms are beginning to welcome cubs that weigh only 8–12 ounces—about the size of a soda can! These tiny, hairless, cubs stay tucked in the den until April, when they waddle out weighing about—wait for it—5 pounds! (Still smaller than your house cat 🐈).

Most litters in the Smokies have two cubs, but anywhere from 1–5 is possible. Cubs stick with mom for about 18 months, so you might spot last year’s “teenagers” tagging along with their mom too.

Remember:
It’s illegal to approach a bear within 50 yards (150 feet) or disturb them in the park. Give them space—never feed, crowd, or interfere with their natural behavior.

Learn more about black bears: https://www.nps.gov/grsm/learn/nature/black-bears.htm



NPS Photo: Ranger Ryan checks a cub’s teeth during a den visit. This visit was part of an ongoing research project. The mother bear was tranquilized so biologists could inspect her tracking collar and download data. While she was sedated, the cubs were weighed, sexed, microchipped, and kept warm in rangers’ coats until the mother was returned to the den.

11/19/2025

🎉 Thanksgiving Night Pajama Drop! 🎉

🛍️ One Night Only — PAJAMA DROP + FREE GIFT!

This Thanksgiving night, cozy up, shop, and save! 💤✨

Wear your favorite pajamas to our Pajama Drop and receive a FREE gift with purchase! 🎁

🗓️ Thanksgiving Night
🕖 Starts at 9pm and goes until 12am
📍 A&A boutique and design

🩷 Snag the cutest styles before they’re gone
👚 New arrivals dropping in pajamas only
🎄 Perfect pieces for Christmas season!

Bring the fam, bring the comfy vibes... just don’t forget the PJs! 📸

11/06/2025

It’s always a good time at Darnell Farms!!

09/25/2025

Just in time for fall!

09/17/2025

With the reopening of Newfound Gap Road through the National Park, it's easy to come experience authentic Cherokee history and culture at Oconaluftee Indian Village

Take in the beautiful fall colors on your guided tour through our living history museum. Enjoy the cool mountain air as you watch experienced artisans creating traditional crafts using centuries-old techniques. Stay for a joyful dance demonstration, and don't forget to pick up a one-of-a-kind souvenir on the way out. Oconaluftee Indian Village is an entertaining and educational experience for the whole family, so don't miss your chance to visit!

Your ticket includes a guided tour, two additional info sessions, and a dance demonstration (conditions permitting). Tickets are $25 for adults, $15 for youth, and free for children ages 5 and under

Oconaluftee Indian Village is open Tuesday through Saturday, from 9:30am to 5:30pm, through November 1st. Tours begin every 15 minutes, and last entry is at 4:30pm. Book now at https://cherokeehistorical.org/attractions/oconaluftee-indian-village/

09/12/2025

So excited the mountain is open!!