The West Prong of the Little River has some small tributaries such as the Bee Cove Creek but Laurel Creek is the main tributary. From the confluence of Laurel Creek it runs for about 2 miles along Laurel Creek Road until it merges with the Middle Prong of the Little River and then the East Prong of the Little River at the Townsend “Y”.
Summer:
The upper headwaters fish well during the summer when attractor flies will be effective. Mahogany dunns, and cream cahills are good choices.
Fall:
Autumn is also a good season to fish the West Prong. It is a good time to use terrestrials such as hoppers, beetles and ants due to the overhanging tree limbs. Nymphs will also prove effective.
Winter:
Winter can be a good time to fish the lower section of the stream since the automobile traffic will be somewhat abated. This might be a good time to dust off those streamers.
Spring:
Spring is the best time to fly fish the West Prong and there will be some nice hatches of blue winged olives.
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The Laurel Creek Road provides 2 miles of access to the stream with several pulloffs to provide parking. For access to the upper portions, it will be necessary to hike along the West Prong trail for about 2 miles to the West Prong Campsite #18.
Maps:
Check out our full color, waterproof map and fly fishing guide measures 11" x 17"
Scroll down to view the Google Map.
Recommended DVDs:
Fly Fish Fishing the Great Smoky Mountains Park,
Stoneflies Imitating Aquatic Insects
Fly Fishing for Small Stream Brown Trout
Shop our TroutU Store for the “Perfect Fly” line of flies.
Also see Trout University for free classes, Fly fishing Instructional DVDs and much more.
Other Info: National Weather Service
Trail maps are availavle at the GSMNP Visitor Centers.
Recommended Reading: The best book about the GSMNP. Fly Fishing in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park: An Insider’s Guide to a Pursuit of Passion. by Jim Casada.
View Great Smoky Mountains National Park Fly Fishing Guide in a larger map