Fly Fishing Frequently Asked Questions
Can I fish year-round?
Yes, don’t let cold air or precipitation deter you! Fishing during late fall, winter, and early spring is considered some of the best fishing of the season. With fewer insects alive and active during colder temperatures, the fish are happy to bite at all the flies you throw.
What is your cancellation policy?
*For all outdoor adventures we require either a deposit of 50% trip total or full payment at the time of booking. Final Payment due two days before your trip start date and may be paid online or be collected automatically.
There is no charge for trips canceled 15 days in advance and will receive a full refund of their deposit. Trips that are canceled within our 14-day cancellation policy will forfeit the entirety of their deposits.
'No Show's' or trips canceled day-of by a guest will forfeit 100% of trip total
Covid 19 Requirements- 'Ride Alongs' are no longer provided by the fishing guides and guests are expected to provide personal transportation to and from the fishing location. Trip canceled due to any reason will be issued a deposit credit that is valid for up to one year from the original trip date. Excluding 'No-show' reservations and reservations that have been moved more than 3 times.
Do I have to be a Chetola guest to take a fishing trip?
No. We welcome the opportunity to guide anyone on a fly fishing adventure, whether you are a Chetola guest, a local, or a guest at another hotel. Just call the Concierge, Zak Linkins, at 828-295-5509 to book your excursion.
Do I get a room discount at Chetola with a fly fishing package?
Yes. While fly fishing packages are available with or without overnight accommodations, overnight accommodations are priced lower when purchasing a room and fishing arrangements together. Value-priced accommodations are available for Chetola Lodge, the Bob Timberlake Inn, and our 1, 2, 3, and 4-bedroom condominiums.
Do I need to get a fishing license?
Fishing Licenses are required for all Fly Fishing Trips. Please confirm the exact location of your fishing trip before purchasing a license- most float trips are held in TN, most wade trips are held in NC but conditions may change last minute. Casting Clinics do NOT require a fishing license. Local NC Licenses can be purchased at Village Hardware in Blowing Rock, Walmart in Boone, or online at ncwildlife.org or Here.
Please Do Not purchase a fishing license until confirming fishing destination with a guide.
Signed Waivers are required for every participant.
What equipment should I bring with me?
Chetola guides provide all fly fishing equipment, from rods and flies to waders and nets. We recommend that you dress for current weather conditions and bring a raincoat and sunglasses for eye protection.
Your guide will contact you before your trip to answer any questions you may have.
How many people can go on a trip?
The number varies based on whether you choose a wade trip versus a float trip. Guides prefer a ratio of 2 people per guide, so the number will depend on how many guides are available for a particular day and time. Of course, we will do our very best to accommodate your needs based on your number of guests.
How should I dress?
Dress for comfort and flexibility (jeans, t-shirts, flannel shirts, etc.) and, most importantly, in layers. We have a saying in the mountains: "If you don't like the weather, just wait 10 minutes." Your guide will provide the necessary equipment for your trip, including rain and snow gear. Please bring sunscreen and wear closed-toe shoes that have good traction, breathe easily, and dry quickly after getting wet. Your guide will inform you of any particulars that may be needed regarding the season.
Where do I go to meet the guide?
You will meet your guide in the Chetola Lobby unless you and the guide personally plan otherwise. We encourage your party to meet at least 10 minutes before your trip is scheduled to depart to take care of any last-minute questions, sign waivers, and use the facilities before departing.
Are there restrooms at the fishing locations?
Most of our fishing destinations are located deep in the woods in the heart of the mountains. If you require indoor facilities, please inform the guide when reserving your fishing adventure so that we can best accommodate your needs.
Are any of the locations handicapped accessible?
We are proud to be working with organizations such as Healing Waters that encourage those with special needs to enjoy the therapeutic benefits of being outdoors, working with others, and experiencing the rejuvenating activity of fly fishing. We do our best to meet guests' requirements based on specific needs or limitations. We are currently working on a new section of water that is being specifically engineered for guests confined to wheelchairs.
Is gratuity included in the cost of the adventure?
Gratuity is not included but is accepted and appreciated.
Can I request a particular guide?
All Chetola trips provide an Orvis Endorsed fly fishing adventure. Certain guides are approved by Chetola to guide specific waters. Each trip is customized by the Orvis guide to meet each guest's specific needs and wants. Guide requests are not guaranteed but will try to be honored.
