Where Are The Prime Fishing Spots On The Little River?

The Little River runs through the Great Smoky Mountains National Park in Tennessee and is an angler's paradise. The three forks—East Prong, Middle Prong, and West Prong—are full of trout (rainbow and brown), and the lower sections have smallmouth bass. You can choose your spot based on what you want to catch, how you fish, and how much crowds you can handle. Let's go deeper into the prime fishing spots on each of the prongs of the Little River, exploring the different sections and species available for fishing Little River.
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The East Prong is the smallest of the three prongs and is a gem for fly fishermen looking for various trout. This section is known for its wild rainbow trout, but they are smaller, 4" to 7" on average. If you prefer catching smaller, more agile fish, the East Prong is a beautiful fishing spot and fun trip. However, it is important to note that finding easy access can be tough due to the size of the stream and the rough terrain.
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The Sinks, up the East Prong, is for experienced anglers looking for a more wild ride. It's got a big plunge pool where the river drops over rocks. The hike is tough, but the rewards are huge. There are more wild trout and bigger brown trout than downstream, but the terrain is rough, and the water is fast and navigable only with the right gear and skill. However, it is known to be one of the most popular areas for experienced fishermen. 

This section of locations is more accessible for fishing, with pull-offs and the Metcalf Bottoms Picnic Area to get to the bank. In the deeper pools, you'll find rainbow and brook trout, with some bigger browns. It gets crowded in peak season, especially with families at the picnic area. If you want to fish quieter, go further up or fish on weekdays.
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Tremont, also known as the Middle Prong, is a favorite among anglers in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. This small to medium stream has a good population of rainbow trout with some brown trout mixed in, especially in the lower sections. Unlike the East Prong, Tremont has a good mix of accessible and wild sections. The paved road to the Great Smoky Mountains Institute follows the stream for the first two miles, making it easy for beginners or those with limited mobility.

The water is cooler here year-round, so it's a good summer fishing option. But this section can get crowded with fishermen, especially during peak season; for a more secluded experience with potentially bigger fish, head further upstream, where the road ends, and the trail along the river gives you access to more remote fishing holes. Just be prepared to try and hike to get to these hidden gems.

Tremont Road, also known as Upper Tremont Road, follows the Middle Prong for several miles. The first two miles are paved and have pull-offs for bank fishing. This is a great spot for beginners or just a relaxing fishing experience. The cool water and mix of rainbows and browns make it a good spot all year. However, with easy access, it can get crowded during peak season. If you want a more secluded spot, continue up Tremont Road, where it turns to gravel.
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The Townsend Y is the intersection of Laurel Creek Road and Wears Valley Road, where Tremont Road starts. This isn't a great fishing spot itself, but it's the access point for driving to the Middle Prong fishery on Tremont Road. From the Townsend Y, it's a short drive to the paved section of Tremont Road, where you can start your fishing. Keep in mind this area can get busy during peak season, so be prepared for some traffic, especially if you're trailering a boat.
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The West Prong, also known as the Little Pigeon River, is a fast water stream with great fishing opportunities for fishermen. This prong is for anglers who like pocket water with riffles, runs, and pools. While the average rainbow trout size is smaller here (5-8 inches), you can catch some bigger fish (up to 13 inches) and occasional brook trout in the uppermost reaches. Accessibility varies on the West Prong.
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