Community Giving, Fly Fishing, and the Art of Blacksmithing
Explore Western North Carolina, from the Tuckasegee River to Daniel Boone’s hunting grounds
This week, learn about nonprofits doing God’s work, navigate the Western North Carolina Fly Fishing Trail, discover an event featuring traditional blacksmiths, and explore a town named after a famous frontiersman.
The Heart of Community Giving
Support local nonprofits this holiday season
By Erica de Flamand
Nonprofits provide food to families in need, shelter for homeless people and animals, educational programs for children, medical care for vulnerable populations, and countless other services that improve lives—the impact of which is often felt directly by people who may otherwise go without support.
If charitable holiday giving is within your budget, make sure your donation goes to an ethical and trustworthy organization. Click the link below for information about nonprofits worth considering.
Note to free subscribers: Our features are typically paywalled. This week, our feature spotlights important nonprofits across the Southeast, so we’ve removed the paywall. Next week, we’ll send out our annual holiday gift guide, featuring unique gifts from rural artists and vendors. It will be previewed for free subscribers and fully accessible to paid subscribers.
The Western North Carolina Fly Fishing Trail
The Western North Carolina Fly Fishing Trail in Jackson County is the first of its kind in the country, showcasing fifteen prime trout fishing spots throughout the Great Smoky Mountains. Ideal for catching brook, brown, and rainbow trout, the trail encompasses open streams and small creeks. Popular areas include the Tuckasegee River, Scott Creek, and Panthertown Creek. Check out the Facebook page for updates on fly fishing reports, trail news, and more.
Gear Stop: Need fly fishing gear? Tuck Fly Shop operates stores in Bryson City, Sylva, and Waynesville where you can purchase premium gear from brands like Sage, Winston, Orvis, Rio, Scientific Anglers, Umpqua, and Simms. Whether you need rods or waders, Tuck Fly Shop has you covered.
Forge After Dark
November 7, 2025
Brasstown, North Carolina
This family-friendly event from 6 to 10 p.m. coincides with John C. Campbell Folk School’s Forging for the Future Live Auction on November 8 (details below), and illuminates the art of blacksmithing. Attendees can watch blacksmiths forge items for the next day’s auction. Enjoy food trucks, axe throwing, music, and a special screening of the new Clay Spencer documentary.