Plan to drive the Blue Ridge PKWY from GSMNP to Shenandoah NP this spring and am researching the accessibility/availability of DIY fishing in the area. I will wet a line for most anything if cost to do so is reasonable . I have fished with drop lines to winch lines so I'm experienced/equipped enough for most methods. Have fished around the world and it is more and more complicated and limited to fish than the past so I try to learn what I can beforehand to see if it is worth carrying the rod tube on the plane, lol. But I do really enjoy the fishing of other areas. Any info would be appreciated. The wife will be along so I won't be able to devote days or mile to getting anywhere(she's not a fisherperson but doesn't complain about my trapping so I'' accommodate her).

The south fork Shenandoah River is a decent place to fish during the week. The weekends can get a bit busy during warmer weather. It's on the west side of the Shenandoah National Park. Outside of the Park.

I live exactly one mile from the Parkway in Asheville (Southwestern NC). We have lots of trout fishing spots near me. The Holston River in NC/TN is probably the most popular.

I don't know the area but I do know there are folks who seek out the native brookies way back in the mountains. If I were planning a bucket list trip a native would be on the list for me.

But you've got to work for those as the most accessible waters are usually stocked with rainbows.

I'm not looking for any trophies or any bucket list species just a little fishing to balance all the wife's shopping. Looks like the waters are heavily stocked(hatcheries every where on the maps, lol) but that's OK too as we won't be harvesting any this trip. Are most the waters wadeable open to public? Are there fishing easements along them? I have more fun persuing small fish with super light gear than 50"+ muskies. I like numbers over size

The Cherokee have a hatchery and stock the waters on the Reservation. A few of the streams are for Cherokee only. The other ones you get a permit from them to fish. You also would need a NC non resident license. The Reservation is near Asheville.

One issue you run into in the mountains is "navigable waters" and private property when wading. Best to stick to public lands.

In Virginia as long as you are in the water, it's public property. Since 2016.