ForneyCreek

GSMNP

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

Location From Fontana Lake by boat, or by hike in through the tunnel on Lakeview Drive. Easy to moderate access depending on location and elevation.

Species Brown Trout, Rainbow Trout, Brook Trout

License Requirements NC or TN fishing license 

Forney Creek offers outstanding fishing, and receives very little fishing pressure due to the amount of effort it takes to reach the creek. Brown trout thrive on the lower sections of the stream, with rainbow trout found throughout the watershed. Brook trout are found in high elevations and most tributaries. Forney Creek is a big watershed and has many smaller fishable tributaries. Notable tributaries are Advalorem Branch, Jonas Creek, Steeltrap Creek, and Whitemans Glory Creek.

Many backcountry campsites are located on Forney Creek and make for great multi-day excursions. Forney Creek was all but destroyed by logging operations before the creation of the National Park. Since that time the watershed has recovered well. Read about a fishing trip to Forney Creek: Southern Trout article