EagleCreek

GSMNP

medium-size freestone creek in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park (GSMNP).

Location From Fontana Lake by boat, or by hike in from Fontana Dam, or hike down from Kuwohi (formerly Clingmans Dome). Easy to moderate access.

Species Brown Trout, Rainbow Trout, Brook Trout

License Requirements NC or TN fishing license 

EAGLE Creek offers some excellent fishing and receives very little angling pressure. Brown trout are present in the lower elevations. Fall is an excellent time to catch some of the biggest browns entering the creek from Fontana Lake. Landlocked steelhead trout that were stocked in Fontana Lake in the 1970s also enter the creek from the lake in the early spring to spawn. Plentiful rainbow trout are found in all but the highest elevation sections and tributaries. Brook trout are found in the higher elevations and many of the tributaries. Great stream access, and easy wading are what set Eagle Creek apart from other more famous streams nearby.

Mostly spared by the logging industry of years ago, Eagle Creek has several nice campsites and a maintained trail all along the main stem of the watershed. Tributaries include Lost Creek, Pinnacle Creek, Ekaneetlee Creek, Gunnas Creek and Tub Mill Creek.