Submitted by the City of Gadsden
Anglers will once again be able to enjoy trout fishing in Gadsden as Black Creek at Noccalula Falls Park has been stocked with approximately 1,000 pounds of rainbow trout, officials announced on Jan. 20. Fishing is expected to begin after the trout acclimate to the creek over the next several days.
The annual trout stocking program, now in its seventh year, allows local residents and visitors to fly fish without traveling to north Georgia or Tennessee. The project is a partnership between the City of Gadsden’s Noccalula Falls Park, the Rainbow Fly Fishing Club, Rep. Craig Lipscomb and Greater Gadsden Area Tourism.
All anglers fishing in Black Creek are required to have a valid Alabama fishing license and a trout permit. Alabama fishing licenses can be purchased at Coosa Landing Boat Launch, located at 200 Lake St. in Gadsden, by calling 256-549-4677, or online. An Alabama fishing license must be presented before a trout permit can be obtained.
Trout permits for the 2026 season are available at the Noccalula Falls Campground office, open daily from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m., or online through the City of Gadsden. Permits cost $10 for a one-day pass or $35 for a seasonal pass, which is valid through June 30. Anglers are required to clip the permit to their clothing while fishing. Plastic permit holders are available for purchase.
Fly fishing regulations will be enforced throughout the season. Only fly rods may be used, and anglers must use barbless hooks with artificial bait only. Each angler is limited to one pole and line. Fishing is allowed from dawn to dusk, and fishing is prohibited in the pool directly below Noccalula Falls.
New regulations are in place for the 2026 season. Fishing will be catch-and-release only until April 1, a change from previous years when harvest season began May 1. During harvest season, from April through June, anglers may keep up to five trout per day.
Officials also remind anglers to practice “leave no trace” principles and help keep Black Creek and surrounding areas clean.
Visitors planning a trip to Gadsden can find information on lodging, campgrounds, dining and outdoor recreation at GreaterGadsden.com, which also highlights additional fishing locations and activities such as hiking, mountain biking and golf.
