What are the best NC smallmouth streams?

[The Dude]

I live in SC now and am familiar with the Virginia smallmouth rivers, but with gas prices, I'm hoping to try out some in NC since it is closer.  I know the French Broad is close, but I'd like to try something other than that.  Any help would be appreciated.  Also, I will be on foot, so streams that can be waded would be best.

[Woolly Bugger]

1. New River

2. Nolichucky River (NC and TN)

3. Toe River

4. The Little Tennessee River

5. The Hiwassee River

[The Dude]

Many thanks.  I had been wondering about the Nolichucky.  Is it better in NC or Tenn?  I happen to already have a NC fishing license, so NC streams might save me from having to purchase a Tenn license (not sure how they run for OOS fees).  But, I do know that there appears to be easy access to the Nolichucky from I-26 in Tenn.

[The Dude]

Also, if you don't mind.....on the Little Tennessee, does that include above the lake as well?

[Woolly Bugger]

I'm pretty much going on hearsay! Perhaps someone else will pipe up and answer your more specific questions. I've only fished the chucky above Poplar.

[kylemc]

There is plenty of access to the chucky from I-26 on down on hwy 81..i also fishes like there is plenty of access. There are fish but they see alot.

[Woolly Bugger]

you might get the boys on http://www.riversmallies.com to give up some...

[Txfly]

What are the best NC smallmouth streams?

The ones with water in them


The Chucky is much better on the Tenn. side. Wider and more wade-able.

You shouldn't need a boat for any smallmouth river around here right now.