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    About Lake Nantahala

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What You Need to Know about Lake Nantahala

Lake Nantahala makes for the perfect summer getaway if you’re in love with fishing, swimming, and cliff jumping. Clocking in at an impressive 250 feet deep and sprawling over 1600 acres of land, this quiet lake is the best place to stay if you want a relaxing day on the water. Cherokee Mountain Cabins is only five miles from the banks of Lake Nantahala. As such, we think it would be helpful to share some of our knowledge about the lake so you can be prepared to hop in the water as soon as you arrive.

Nantahala Lake Fishing

So you want to fish in the beautiful Nantahala? You’ve made an excellent choice. This quiet lake has a huge fishing scene, and you have many resources to make your trip all the easier. Let’s see what we can do to help you out.

North Carolina Fishing License 

Interested in fishing when you stay at Cherokee Mountain Cabins? Grab a fishing license before you book with us to make sure your experience is seamless. One 10-day fishing license runs an affordable $9 if you’re a resident and only $23 if you’re a non-resident. Buy your license online today!

Nantahala Lake Fishing

Before we dive into the specifics of catching fish, you probably want to know what you can snag here:

  • Yellow Perch
  • Rainbow Trout and Brook Trout
  • Kokanee Salmon
  • Walleye
  • Bluegill and Crappie
  • Largemouth, Smallmouth, and Striped Bass
  • Catfish

Alligators in Nantahala Lake?

No, alligators only live in the southeasternmost lakes of North Carolina near Wilmington or Fayetteville. Nantahala is surrounded by the Appalachian Mountains, so gators don’t make their way over here.

Lake’s End Marina and Guided Services

Are you looking to keep your boat in a safe location on the water? Do you just want to launch it? Lake’s End Marina is very close to Cherokee Mountain Cabins, and remains one of the best places to launch your watercraft if you’re staying with us.


Lake’s End Marina allows you to reserve a pontoon boat, fishing boat, kayaks, and canoes, and has dockside gas if you’re ever getting low.


If you don’t want to take a boat out yourself, you can always work with one of the local charters surrounding Lake Nantahala. There’s a handful of people on the lake who would be more than happy to take you on a guided tour of the lake. Some may even know the best fishing locations!

Bait Shops

Whoops! Did you forget your fishing pole or some of your bait? Don’t worry, there are several bait shops near Cherokee Mountain Cabins and the Nantahala Lake area.


Bryant Bait and Tackle (H4)

  • Address: 18154 Wayah Rd, Topton, NC
  • Phone: 828-321-2371
  • Hours: 8AM - 5PM


Fish Tales Outfitters (H4)

  • Address: 29 E Main St, Franklin, NC
  • Phone: 828-421-0732
  • Hours: 8AM - 5PM

Nantahala Lake Scenic Overlook

If all you want to do is look at the lake, consider driving to the Nantahala Lake Scenic Overlook and getting some excellent pictures. The gorgeous road offers an impressive view of the mountains, lakes, and foliage common to the area.


This is close to many awesome hikes just off the Appalachian Trail hike, so it makes for a fun day near the lake if you don’t want to get in the water. Check out the best hikes in the area on another page.

A Great Place to Explore

As you can see, Nantahala Lake is an excellent place to go fishing and breathe in the beauty of nature. We hope that you take advantage of this guide so you can have the perfect vacation in the Appalachian mountains.

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