Business Details
About
Fishing CharterFishing ClubTourist AttractionsHiking & Trail GuidesFishing Store
High Country Guide Service is a professional fly fishing and hiking outfitter based in Boone, North Carolina, serving the High Country region and beyond. We specialize in guided wade and float fly fishing trips on the wild trout streams of Western NC and the tailwaters of East Tennessee, including the South Holston and Watauga Rivers. We also offer fly-in fly fishing trips in Alaska. Our experienced, licensed and insured, CPR-certified guides also offer scenic hiking tours, overnight fishing & camping adventures, beginner clinics, and eco-immersion creek walks. Whether you're a seasoned angler or new to the outdoors, we tailor every trip to your goals. Explore the rivers, trails, and wild beauty of the Blue Ridge Mountains with a local guide who knows the waters by heart.
Details
- Credit cardAvailable
- DebitAvailable
- Mobile paymentsAvailable
- Cash onlyNot available
Location
Hours
Reviews
4.9
158 reviews
5 stars
155
4 stars0
3 stars1
2 stars0
1 star2
What are people saying?
AI-generated from recent customer reviews
Guides' Expertise
Customers consistently praised the guides for their extensive knowledge, patience, and ability to teach both beginners and experienced anglers.
Customer Experience
Many reviews highlighted the enjoyable and memorable experiences, with families and individuals feeling well taken care of throughout their trips.
Catch Success
Numerous customers reported high success rates in catching fish, often exceeding their expectations during guided trips.
Communication
The business received positive feedback for their excellent communication during the booking process and throughout the trips.
Overall Satisfaction
Overall, customers expressed a strong desire to return and recommended the service to others, indicating high satisfaction with their experiences.
- WWWill WaltersNov 16, 20255.0Kirby Mellot greatest fishing guide I’ve ever been with a real patient, knowledgeable, great guy. It was really good with my boys teaching. Will Walters
- JGJess GrantNov 7, 20255.0We had a wonderful experience learning to fly fish with Nate! He is so patient and so knowledgeable about the sport/art of fly fishing. This guided adventure exceeded our expectations and I am grateful for the experience. Thanks Nate for all the knowledge you passed along and for a great time!
- PMPeter MartensenOct 18, 20255.0We had a fantastic early morning fishing trip with David and Crockett. David caught two fish while he was teaching my son and his gf how to fish. We all went on to catch several beautiful rainbow trout. We also saw a bear and a deer. David and Crockett were both very patient and changed out flies, untangled lines, and got lines out of trees. The entire experience was wonderful.
- SBShannon BrookshireOct 18, 20255.0Fish on all day! We booked a 6 hr day with Kirby and the entire day exceeded our expectations. The spot he selected was perfect and he had us on fish all day. The trout were beautiful. Kirby took the time to teach us some valuable skills and we both learned a lot in a short time. We will definitely be back.
- CSCarrie SimmonsOct 15, 20255.0We had an epic trip in the mountains of NC - fly fishing & then an overnight camp. David took care of everything - highly recommend if you are seeking a true adventure but unsure how to pack & plan it. 6 stars! ⭐️ So much fun!!!
Frequently Asked Questions About High Country Guide Service
Do we need a fishing license for trips in NC and Tennessee?
Yes, contact us and we will assist you in getting one or visit our website.
What about weather? What if it's raining?
Our guides have the answers for where to find fish in all conditions. Typically we can adjust and find plenty of fishable water - in the event of danger you can refer to our cancellation policy. Details such as meeting time and location will be established upon booking, and our reservation system allows for the guide to reach out the day before the trip to firm up details as well.
What if I am a beginner? Which trip suits me the best?
Any and all of our trips can be custom fitted for all angling types. The way the booking process takes place allows for clear communication to the guide(s) of what type of trip they will be dealing with. The bigger question to ask yourself for trip type may be your own availability for time.
How are these trips for children?
We take a lot of family trips and try to accommodate the young ones as much as possible. In NC anyone 16 years and older has to have a fishing license. In TN anyone 13 years and older have to have a fishing license - also all participants on float trips in TN who are 12 years and younger must wear a PFD (Personal Floatation Device).
We have lots of waders and boots for the younger kids - but please be prepared for them to get wet. This is an experiential activity and some kids just cant help themselves. A change of clothes are always welcome along with lots of snacks and drinks.
Program Details / Trip Preparation
We offer a variety of fishing trips that require various levels of preparation and organization. Our full service fly shop and guiding program allows for your guide to come prepared with all gear necessary; Rods, Reels, Lines, Leaders, Tippets, Terminal Tackles along with any type of flies or tackle necessary for the day, and a net for releasing and capturing that perfect photo!
What should I bring?
A simple gear checklist for any beginner or anyone traveling without gear at all can be as easy as:
Hat / Ballcap / Sun Protection for glare
Sunscreen for Sunny Trips
Raingear if forecasted (We can provide waders and boots)
Socks to Wear Under Waders (Any kind of socks)
Comfy lightweight pants under waders in Summer
Please Refrain from BRIGHT COLORED CLOTHING
Sunglasses (Mostly for safety)
Phone (For Photos)
Gratuity for your Guide
Smile and Good Attitude
Guest are more than welcome to bring:
Rod and Reel – whether it’s your favorite or if you’d like for us to help you set it up, bring it on! We fish a lot of 9' 4 and 5 weights - and 7/8 for streamers if you would like to bring your own.
Leader and Tippet (9+ foot leaders)
Waders and Boots
Snacks / Food
Drinks including Beer/Wine/Liquor
Water (Preferably a Water Bottle to reduce single use)
Do I need a fishing license for trips in North Carolina and Tennessee with High Country Guide Service?
Yes, you need a fishing license for trips in NC and Tennessee. You can contact High Country Guide Service for assistance or visit their website.
What if it rains during a scheduled fishing trip?
Guides can adjust to find plenty of fishable water in all conditions. If danger arises, refer to the cancellation policy. Meeting time and location will be arranged upon booking.
Are High Country Guide Service trips suitable for beginners?
Yes, trips can be customized for all angling types and skill levels. Booking allows communication so the guide knows the trip type and your availability.
How does High Country Guide Service accommodate children on trips?
Family trips are welcome. In NC, anyone 16+ requires a fishing license; in TN, anyone 13+ requires one. On TN float trips, children 12 and under must wear a PFD. Waders and boots for kids are available; expect them to get wet.
What gear should I bring on a fishing trip?
Suggested items include sun protection, sunscreen, raingear if needed, socks for waders, comfortable pants, non-bright clothing, sunglasses, phone for photos, gratuity for guides, and a good attitude.
What payment options does High Country Guide Service accept?
They accept American Express, Android Pay, Apple Pay, cash, check, contactless payments, Discover, MasterCard, Samsung Pay, and Visa.
Where is High Country Guide Service located and what are their hours?
Located at 140 S Depot St #1, Boone, NC 28607. They are open daily from 9 AM to 5 PM.
What nearby places can visitors explore before or after their trip with High Country Guide Service?
Visitors can explore The Happy Persimmon grocery store, Magic Cycles for bike rentals, and Grandpa Joes bakery—all great spots for snacks or shopping around Downtown Boone.
Are there outdoor and recreational shops near High Country Guide Service?
Yes, Footsloggers offers outdoor gear and clothing, and Boone's Fly Shop provides fishing supplies nearby, perfect for enhancing your fishing or hiking experience.
Can visitors find dining and cultural attractions close to High Country Guide Service?
Yes, nearby places include Black Cat Burrito Mexican restaurant, Little Wing Ice Cream shop, and art galleries like Nth Degree Gallery and Art Mart & Academy for cultural exploration.