During the first weekend in May, fly fishing afficionados will have an opportunity to traipse through streams and along waterways within a boundary of 2,200 miles of fishable rivers in Western North Carolina – all in the name of fun and fundraising. The 12th Annual Three River Fly Fishing Festival is May 4-6 and will enable up to 50 teams to compete for prizes and the distinction as the most skilled regionally in regards to fly fishing. The region’s three main rivers, Chattooga, the Cullasaja and Nantahala, as well as myriad other streams and rivers, is where tournament fishing takes place. Competitors must achieve a catch in one native river; one hatchery supported river; and one delayed-harvest river. Participants have an opportunity to catch brown, brook and rainbow trout, primarily. Chris Wilkes, an owner of Highland Hiker, which is one of the main sponsors of the event, explained that all proceeds from the $500 per two-person team entry fee benefits the Town of Highlands Scholarship Fund for Highlands School graduates. This year, there is “fun for the whole family” in terms of luncheons, an opening night reception, a closing night banquet, prizes, entertainment, and more. “This event is very well supported and participated in,” said Wilkes, who noted that last year’s tournament drew at least 25 teams. “Coca-Cola is a big sponsor, encouraging teams from its corporation to participate, and it provides a 3-to-1 financial match. That’s a really big deal.” Additional sponsors are companies who manufacture fly fishing equipment as well as individuals and businesses. Pat Gleeson of Highlands-Sotheby’s, another tournament sponsor, explained that anyone can register for free online. But if they want to participate as a team, they must submit the entry fee by the start of the tournament. The schedule includes the Opening Night Cocktail & Skills Competition, set for Thursday, May 4, at 6:00 P.M., at which time the tournament’s rules will be addressed. For more information, visit 3riverflyfish.com, or contact Chris Wilkes at (828) 526-5298. by Luke Osteen
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