Being a warm water fly fishing specialist, bass trips are also very popular and unique trips that  I offer. I primarily fish for spotted, largemouth and hybrid bass. White bass and smallmouth bass can also be arranged. Depending on the season and timing, trips may be done wading, floating or from my skiff. These trips can be done just about anytime of the year with spring and fall being prime. Anglers will learn the nuances of warm water  environments and the different techniques involved to be successful. Opportunities to learn to cast and use larger poppers and streamers exist. Learn to read structure, retrieve flies, fish in the wind, establish patterns, and which flies to choose. Along with floating lines, I use a variety of intermediate, sinking lines and float-fly techniques. Light tackle can be mixed in if desired.

The mountain streams of Western NC and SW VA offer up some of the finest trout habitat in the East. Many of these areas lack the size of the bigger rivers in the West but will make up for it with their tranquil beauty and intimate settings. Best accessed by foot, these trips offer anglers a true mountain fly fishing experience. Anglers have options in hatchery supported, private or wild trout water. All wild trout are strictly catch and release. Rainbow, brook and brown trout can all be targeted. Beginners welcomed. You will learn species of fish, techniques to be successful, waters to fish, rigging, fly selection along with basic entomology, how to wade and read water. Euro style tight line nymphing , dry fly or streamers can all be used and taught. Since fly fishing for trout has so many options, locations and techniques my standard pre-trip planning chat and interview will ensure I can meet your needs and expectations for this trip.

These trips cater to anglers and families new to the sport of fly fishing. Local lakes have a wide variety of species eager to take a fly. Besides carp and bass, bluegill, crappie, gar, catfish are readily available. This is often a numbers game particularly with panfish on small 2-3 wt rods and smaller flies.

Focusing on where, when and how to fish which for the beginning fly angler can be crucial for some success. Anglers will learn basic casting, rigging, fly selection, hooking and landing multiple fish close to home. These trips are are typically around Charlotte, NC. Casting lessons can be integrated into this trip. Designed as an introduction to fly fishing close to home, it’s a fun relaxed day on the water. Some light tackle with spinning rods can be introduced as well.

Carp on the fly is how Carolinabonefishing.Com came to be and I am now in my 21st year. Carp like to tail and mud with their large golden tail glistening under Carolina skies in gin clear water. This reminded me so much of a bonefish scenario that the name was coined. I was the first to offer this unique trip in the Southeast and it still remains my most popular trip. I have introduced countless anglers and guides to the joys of carp on the fly whether on a guided trip, my articles, TV episodes, book references, podcasts or in my carp presentations. Today many great guides and outfitters offer the experience all over the country. I still chuckle at some of the good natured “shit talk” in the early years of carp fishing!

Your day of fishing will be from a Hellsbay Waterman 18ft skiff poled or trolled along flats, points and coves found all over the Catawba chain around Charlotte, NC. This is a 100 percent sight fishing experience requiring accuracy, stealth and delicate presentations. Moderate casting skills are necessary. I do suggest one of my casting lessons if you mainly roll cast on a trout steams or maybe just feel a bit rusty with your loops. The trip can also be a great intro or primer for an upcoming saltwater trip. I feel it’s the best prep course for any saltwater excursions you have planned as it incorporates all the skills necessary for success.