Updates on Fishing In Cherokee

At Cherokee/Great Smokies KOA Holiday, we're fortunate to have a great relationship with the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians (EBCI) and their Fisheries & Wildlife Management programs. 

Following Hurricane Helene, the EBCI has shared some important updates about the impact of the storm on their hatchery and fishing in Cherokee:

• The EBCI Trout Hatchery received approximately 11" of rain over the two-day storm period, which led to significant flooding of the facility. 
• The event resulted in the loss of approximately 30,000 fish that were planned to be stocked during the Fall 2024 season.
• Additional damage occurred to adjacent stream banks, but the facility as a whole was not significantly damaged.
• The ponds adjacent to KOA will remain closed for the time being, in order to address damage associated with the river intake.

There are some very positive updates to share as well!

• The EBCI intends to be back to "normal" stocking operations as soon as January 2025. 
• The EBCI did not loose all of the trout at the facility.
• The EBCI intends to still conduct monthly stocking of enterprise waters, though at a reduced number. 
• The EBCI "Catch & Release" fly-fishing waters will continue to be regularly stocked (monthly).
• The EBCI is planning to take advantage of reduced inventory to re-construct concrete raceways, maximize oxygenation, improve waste management and implement mitigation measures to reduce future flood impacts.

For more information on fishing in Cherokee, visit FishCherokee.com