3 Best Fishing Spots in Madison County, North Carolina

Published May 28, 2021

Grab your rod and hit the water! Madison County has many hatchery-supported and natural waters for anglers to cast a line in. Just north of Asheville, come and land your next catch in Madison County, North Carolina.


Shelton Laurel River

The Shelton Laurel River is a popular spot for fly-fishing in Madison County. Put on your waders and get ready to catch some brook, brown or rainbow trout in this hatchery-supported favorite!

Just minutes from Hot Springs and Marshall, this stretch of water is excellent for beginner and veteran anglers and there is ample parking available.

Find out more about fishing the Shelton Laurel River here.


Max Patch Pond

Fishing at Max Patch Pond is a blast! Outside of Asheville, in the far western part of Madison County, you can get to this great pond off the beaten path.

The pond is stocked periodically with brook, brown and rainbow trout and is a fun spot to fish with kids. This is a great pond to go to throughout most of the year. The location is very remote and provides anglers a great opportunity to connect with nature.

Find out more about fishing at Max Patch Pond here.


The French Broad River

The French Broad River cuts through Madison County and has many access areas to try your luck on the water. Smallmouth bass are the most common fish in the French Broad River but many anglers also catch muskies as well.

There are some great spots to cast a line in the French Broad River near Downtown Marshall and in Hot Springs. Find out more about fishing in the French Broad River here.