115. DIY Fly Fishing North Carolina

In this episode of the Southeastern Fly Podcast, host David Perry welcomes returning guest Rob Jeeves for a deep dive into DIY Fly Fishing North Carolina. Rob—who cut his fly-fishing teeth in the Tar Heel State before moving north—shares hard-earned insights on planning and fishing a self-guided trip through the region's freestones, headwaters, and neighboring tailwaters.

They cover everything from gear and fly selection to reading water, fishing etiquette, and why Western North Carolina continues to call anglers back. Rob also gives behind-the-scenes stories from his YouTube channel and his recent post—Hurricane Helene series that revisited many of his favorite Appalachian streams.

Highlights of the Episode

• A Lifelong Connection: Rob's fly fishing story began while studying at NC State and evolved into years of exploring mountain waters like Stone Mountain, Helton Creek, and the Elk River around Banner Elk.
• Freestone Favorites: Insights into fishing high-elevation brook trout streams and valley rivers—how to pack multiple rods, pick versatile flies like the Elk Hair Caddis and pheasant tail, and read tight mountain water.
• Tailwater Talk: A look across the Tennessee line to the Watauga and South Holston—what to know about generation schedules, long leaders, and using local fly shops for up-to-date hatch info.
• DIY Done Right: How to plan a North Carolina fishing trip that balances comfort and adventure—whether you're camping along the Davidson or staying in an Airbnb near Boone or Brevard (bonus tip: bring a paper map, not just your phone).
• Beyond the Fishing: The camaraderie of the Psycho Fly Fishers, 25 years strong, reminds us that great trips are about more than fish—community, memories, and shared time on the water.
• Post-Helene Perspective: Rob's YouTube series documents the aftermath of Hurricane Helene and the resilience of mountain communities rebuilding their homes, bridges, and beloved trout streams.
• Food Stops Worth the Drive: Don't miss local gems like The Starving Squirrel, Banner Elk Café, Pie on the Mountain in Lansing, and the Old Hampton Store and Barbecue in Linville.

Whether you're plotting your first DIY fishing road trip or just want to relive time on familiar waters, this episode captures the spirit, simplicity, and soul of fly fishing in the Blue Ridge. This is for sure a must-listen for anglers who want to explore North Carolina's mountain waters.

Resources

• Instagram: @robjeeves
• YouTube: RobJeeves1972
• The Starving Squirrel — Great spot for coffee and breakfast in the High Country.
• Old Hampton Store & Barbecue — Classic Southern BBQ and live music.
• Pie on the Mountain — Must-stop for pizza in Lansing.
• Banner Elk Café — Local favorite mentioned by Rob.

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Produced by NOVA