Western NC Fishing Stream Report | Davidson River Outfitters

Fishing Report for March 14th, 2025

Spring is here, and the fish are biting. With Daylight Savings time in effect, we have been able to spend much longer days on the river, and now you can get on the river for a few hours after work even. While on the river, be sure to keep an eye out for bugs hatching, especially around evening time. Lots of reports of bugs in the area and the fish are now taking note and looking towards the surface waiting for the right one to pass for them to eat. Expect to find fish starting to find their way from the deep pools into the shallower runs and riffles as the rest of the spring progresses.

Local fishing report

Davidson & Area Rivers

The lower Davidson is fishing well with the fish left over after the storm. Winter Stoneflies and small midges will be some of the best this time of year. Water will be clear from rain and snowfall, so be prepared with small flies and light tippet. You will find most of your fish in the deeper pools of the river and slower water this time of year. This time of year, and especially after Hurricane Helene, the fish seem to be very bunched up so don't be afraid to fish a lot of water until you find a group of fish, then slow down and pick that area apart.

Flies: Girdle Bug 12-14, Tripsaver 14-16, Kevin's Stone 14-18, BWO 18-24, RS2 Midge 18-22, Memory Maker 14-16, Soft Hackle Hare's Ear 14-16

Rod: G-Loomis IMX-Pro V2

Reel: Lamson Remix

Line: Rio Gold Line

Delayed Harvest

Fishing on the Delayed Harvest rivers during the winter can be a great way to have lots of success this time of year. While the fish might be slow and lethargic, once you find them there will be plenty of fish in that area. Fishing light line will be a big key to success as these fish still see a fair amount of pressure this time of year. Downsizing your flies can also help you get more bites when the going gets tough.

Flies: Girdle Bug 12-14, Mop Fly 12-14, Zebra Midge 18-22, Jig Perdigon 16-18, Sparkle Minnow 4-6

Rod: Redington Wrangler Kit

Small Streams

Most trails are open to get to wild trout, but if you find yourself a long way from the beaten path, you might run into some fallen trees or washed-out banks from the storm. Fish can still be aggressive this time of year, usually covering water is a solid plan to make sure as many fish see your flies as possible. Fishing BWOs and even Stimulators will work as a dry fly with fish often taking the dropper this time of year.

Flies: BWO 18-22, Stimulator 16-18, Sassi Solution, Soft Hackle Hare's Ear 14-18, RS2 Midge 18-22, Pheasant Tail 20-22

Rod: Tenkara Rhodo

Smallmouth/Warmwater

After the storms, we are not sure of the state of the French Broad, While fish might have survived the flood, we are sure that there are many down trees, flooded cars, and small debris that is in the river and will not move for a while. With DuPont State Forest being open, now would be a prime time to hike back into a small lake and throw small streamers for bass and bluegill. Lots of fish will be hugging the bottom this time of year, so fishing low and slow will be your best bet for getting bites from smallmouth and panfish.

Flies: Slump Buster 1/0-#2, Meat Whistle 6, Wolly Bugger 6-10, Sparkle Minnow 8, Near Nuff Crayfish 4-6

Rod: Sage R8 Core

Reel: Sage ESN Reel

Line: Rio Predator Line

Great Guides!

"My son and I went on our first fly fishing trip and it did not disappoint. While mid August is not the ideal time of year to be fishing for trout necessarily, our guide put us on a lot of quality fish. He was very patient and clearly enjoys what he does which made the experience even better. We had a blast and can't wait to get back out there."

Fantastic Fishing

"Fulfilled a life long dream of going fly fishing. My guide was incredible and very patient. I know I am hooked and everyone at Davidson River Outfitters were great."

Davidson River Fishing Conditions

The current fishable window on the Davidson is from first light until around 11:00 am. Terrestrials and midges teamed up with long leaders ending in no heavier than 7x tippet, are the recipe for getting takes from wary fish. Be prepared to share the river with other user groups, as well. The weather is hot, and there will be plenty of tubers and swimmers enjoying the water.

Avoid the crowds. Learn about our unguided trips on private waters.

Recommended Flies for March 2025