“This event is the first to be located in Bryson City, the heart of the North Carolina Smokies’ rich fly fishing waters,” said Dale Collins, co-owner of Tuckaseegee Fly Shop and festival organizer. “We’re excited to have the opportunity to showcase not only the highest quality brands and craftsmen in the fly fishing industry, but also the heritage and tradition of fly fishing in the region. We look forward to watching this event grow over the coming years.”

Vendors will set up 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Frye Street at the train depot, with wares for sale including the new Simms 2016 lineup and gear from Flood Tide Co., Crooked Creek Holler and Umpqua. 

Licensed anglers will have a chance to demo rods on the new 2.2-mile delayed harvest section of the Tuckasegee River, which flows right through Bryson City and will be full of fish from an Oct. 7 stocking.

Meanwhile, local fly tyers will display their handiwork and casting demonstrations from the Smokies’ best, including Bryson City master casting instructor Mac Brown, will be held. 

A performance by bluegrass singer-songwriter Donna Hughes will follow the festival at 6:30 p.m. at the Great Smoky Mountains Railroad Depot, part of Bryson’s free June through October Music in the Mountains Concert Series. 

Tuckaseegee Fly Shop, 828.488.3333 or This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.. www.greatsmokiesfishing.com/fly-fish-fest.html.