Many of our customers are amazed at how much we know about the trout in the Smokies. We spend quite a bit of time fishing on the streams, but we’re also quick to point out that the time we spend helping fisheries biologists on the streams has added a tremendous amount to our knowledge.
Every year there are opportunities for anyone to help fisheries biologists with Great Smoky Mountains National Park for as much as a few days or as little as a few hours. We always enjoy our time on the water helping out when they shock a stream to count the trout population. It’s always impressive to see just how many fish are in a stream.
Biologists monitor trout populations by stunning them with electro-shockers.
These are great chances to ask the biologists about the streams and fish. This knowledge has made us better anglers and it will help you as well. Your volunteer time is also recorded and the park service receives grants for the number of volunteer hours that are logged. This makes the contribution of your time even more valuable.
If you need further information or want to volunteer, please conact Matt Kulp (865-426-1254) Matt_Kulp@nps.gov or Steve Moore (865-436-1250) Steve_E_Moore@nps.gov
- April 16 – Trash Pick Up on Little River with lunch and fishing to follow – Meet at Metcalf Bottoms Picnic Area at 9 AM
- May 7 – Trash Pick Up on Oconaluftee River with lunch and fishing to follow – Meet at Collins Creek Picnic Area at 9 AM
- May 13 – Help collect wild trout to display in tank at Townsend TroutFest
- May 16 -20 Help electrofish for brook trout for tissue samples
- May 23 -27 Help electrofish for brook trout for tissue samples
- June 13 – 14 Volunteers needed for Sams Creek brook trout population evaluation
- June 27 – 30 Indian Camp Creek brook trout population monitoring
- August 2 Electrofish to monitor trout population for Middle Prong of Little River
- August 22 – 23 Electrofish to monitor trout population for Bunches Creek and Flat Creek
- September 6 – 9 Lynn Camp Prong Brook Trout Restoration
- September 19 – 20 Lynn Camp Prong Brook Trout Restoration
Note: Many events take place over multiple days, but you are welcome to volunteer for a single day
