If you’re a fan of fishing, you may want to hook yourself up with a trip to a North Carolina fishing lodge that’s been named one of the best in the country.
As part of the annual 10Best Readers’ Choice Awards, USA Today revealed the top 10 spots for fishers as voted by readers across the U.S. from “the remote Alaskan wilderness to the warm waters of the South” — including one in North Carolina.
Of all the fishing lodges where you can experience a “unique blend of relaxation, adventure, and connection with nature,” Chetola Resort at Blowing Rock came in at No. 2 on the list.
“At Chetola Resort at Blowing Rock, you can fish on private or public waters during half- and full-day trips, complete with gear and pro instruction at the Orvis-endorsed fly-fishing lodge in the picturesque Blue Ridge Mountains,” the report says.
“Fly fish in mountain streams, cast on the private lake, or explore nearby rivers and streams. There’s also tennis and pickleball, indoor swimming, hiking trails, fitness classes, and a restaurant with waterfront dining.”
The upscale mountain resort, located in western North Carolina, sits on 78 acres near Chetola Lake. The fly-fishing lodge — which has a history dating back to 1846 — offers fishing clinics, wade trips and float trips along with sporting clay shooting, zip lining and other indoor activities at the Highlands Sports and Recreation Center.
“We provide a peaceful escape for guests looking to disconnect from their busy lives and gain a closer connection to the natural world while enjoying cozy mountain lodging, upscale comfort food, awe-inspiring activities by day and relaxing hospitality at night which create memories worth sharing,” the 42-room resort’s website says.
Chetola Resort was the only fishing lodge in the Carolinas ranked among the top 10 by USA Today readers. Here’s a look at which other resorts were voted as the best for fishing:
Blue Bank Resort in Hornbeak, TN
Chetola Resort in Blowing Rock, NC
Dogwood Lodge in Hopedale, LA
Northland Lodge in Hayward, WI
Gallatin River Lodge in Bozeman, MT
Madison River Lodge with Montana Angler in Cameron, MT
Sage Lodge in Pray, MT
Hungry Jack Lodge in Grand Marais, MN
Ballard’s Resort in Baudette, MN
Alagnak Lodge in King Salmon, AK
You can find USA Today’s full report on the best fishing lodges in the U.S. online at 10best.usatoday.com.
This story was originally published July 19, 2024 5:30 AM.
.jpg)