Guided Trout Float Trips
Explore our larger rivers from our drift boats and rafts
Full-day and half-day float trip options are available depending on the time of year and river conditions. With Headwaters Outfitters, you can enjoy a unique experience fishing from one of our comfortable drift boats on a variety of scenic local rivers.
Our knowledgeable guides tailor each float trip to your experience level, goals, and the season—whether you’re looking to learn, improve your technique, or simply enjoy a memorable day on the water. It’s a great way to access productive stretches of river while taking in the beauty of Western North Carolina.
Trip Cost
Full Day Trout Float
$650 / 1 or 2 Anglers
**Starting April 1, 2026**
To continue providing the quality fly fishing experience our guests expect, we’ve made a necessary update to our trip rates. Rising costs for flies, fuel, and overall operations have made this adjustment important as we head into the season. This change also helps us continue supporting the great team that makes every trip possible. We truly appreciate your understanding and continued support.
If you have already booked your 2026 trip, our old rates will be honored. If you have any questions for all current of future bookings please email us at [email protected]
INCLUDED IN TRIP COST:
-
Every float trip with Headwaters Outfitters includes a licensed, knowledgeable fishing guide who can help with casting, reading water, locating fish, and answering any questions along the way.
Your trip also includes all essential fly fishing equipment, including:
- Rod and reel
- Fly line
- Leaders and tippet
- Flies
Please note: if you’d prefer conventional gear, let us know in advance so we can make arrangements. Our guides’ standard boat setup is geared toward fly fishing.
You’ll fish from a fully outfitted raft or drift boat designed to provide a comfortable and enjoyable day on the water.
Not Included in Trip Cost
- A North Carolina Fishing License. You will need an “Inland Fishing License”, available in either a 10 day, or annual option. You can purchase this ahead of time by visiting NCwildlife.org.
- A ride to and from the water you’ll be fishing. Your guide will set a meeting time and place and plan shuttling, if needed, with you prior to the trip.
- Lunch, beverages and snacks are not provided.
Trout Floats Overview
Best Suited for:
Intermediate to more advanced fly anglers. As well as Anglers with mobility issues.
Seasons To Fish: Year Round Options. But avoiding the crowded summer time waters are ideal.
Destinations:
- French Broad River
- Pigeon River
- Tuckasegee River
- Catawba River
Trip Description:
Float trips start around 6:30-7:30 AM and lasts 8 hours for full day or 4 hours half day trips. On full days, half way through, you can expect an hour for lunch. Lunch is not provided, please bring your own.
Before checking in for your trip please fill out our online release waiver and make sure you have your North Carolina Inland Fishing License.
Our guides have a fleet of drift boats and rafts perfect for navigating local rivers and lakes.
