Family-Owned Fly Shop, Paddling Outfitter & Guide Service Since 1992
Headwaters Outfitters is a family-owned outdoor outfitter, fly shop, and guide service based in Rosman, North Carolina, at the headwaters of the French Broad River in Transylvania County. Since 1992, we've helped anglers, paddlers, and families explore the rivers and mountains of Western North Carolina, and this online store brings the gear we use and trust every day on the water straight to you.
We've been named a TripAdvisor Travelers' Choice winner ten years in a row, and we operate in the Pisgah Ranger District of Pisgah National Forest under a U.S. Forest Service permit.
What You'll Find in Our Online Store
Everything here is chosen by the same guides and shop staff who fish and paddle the French Broad, Davidson, and surrounding mountain streams year-round. We carry:
- Fly fishing gear: rods, reels, line, leaders, tippet, flies, waders, and accessories suited to Southern Appalachian trout and smallmouth water
- Paddling gear: canoe, kayak, and stand-up paddleboard (SUP) essentials
- Outdoor apparel and Headwaters merch for days on the river, trail, and around town
- Gifts for the anglers and paddlers in your life
Not sure what fits your trip? Call us at 828-877-3106 or email info@headwatersoutfitters.com. We'll give you honest, local advice, the same way we would if you walked into the shop.
Visit Us in Rosman and Downtown Brevard
Main Outfitter, Fly Shop & Forks of the River Taproom
25 Parkway Rd, Rosman, NC 28772
Phone: 828-877-3106
Our riverside home base for guided fly fishing, canoe and kayak trips, tubing, shuttles, rentals, and the full fly shop. It's also home to the Forks of the River Taproom and Stonefly Coffee.
Downtown Brevard Fly & Merch Shop
67 East Main Street, Brevard, NC 28747
Flies, gear, and Headwaters apparel in the heart of downtown Brevard, plus our monthly Sips & Seminars community talks.
Current hours are posted at headwatersoutfitters.com.
Guided Trips and River Adventures
This online store is for gear. To book a trip, visit headwatersoutfitters.com, where you'll find:
- Guided trout wade trips and trout float trips with licensed North Carolina fly fishing guides
- Smallmouth bass float trips and musky float trips
- Fly fishing education, including the Premier School of Trout, Fly Fishing 101 classes, and youth classes
- Self-guided canoe and kayak trips on the French Broad River, from a few hours to overnight canoe camping
- Family-friendly river tubing all summer long
- Guided hikes, seasonal guided paddles, and community events
For current conditions, see our fishing report and river level chart.
Rooted in the River Community
For more than 30 years, our family has worked to protect and share the Upper French Broad River. We host the annual Upper French Broad River Clean-Up, the Hellbender 20-Miler Canoe Race, and the Forks of the River Fly Fishing & Music Festival, and we run conservation and education programs that connect kids and families with the river.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Headwaters Outfitters?
Headwaters Outfitters is a family-owned fly shop, paddling outfitter, and guide service in Rosman and Brevard, North Carolina, established in 1992. We offer guided fly fishing, canoe and kayak trips, river tubing, outdoor gear, and an online store.
Where is Headwaters Outfitters located?
Our main outfitter and fly shop is at 25 Parkway Rd, Rosman, NC 28772, on the French Broad River. Our downtown fly and merch shop is at 67 East Main Street, Brevard, NC 28747. Both are in Transylvania County, Western North Carolina, near Pisgah National Forest.
Can I book a fishing or paddling trip through this online store?
No. This store sells gear and apparel. Guided fly fishing trips, paddling trips, tubing, and classes are booked at headwatersoutfitters.com or by calling 828-877-3106.
Can I get help choosing fly fishing or paddling gear?
Yes. Our guides and shop staff are happy to recommend rods, reels, flies, waders, and paddling gear for your trip. Call 828-877-3106 or email info@headwatersoutfitters.com.
What rivers are near Headwaters Outfitters?
We sit on the Upper French Broad River, near the Davidson River, the North Fork and West Fork of the French Broad, and dozens of mountain trout streams in Pisgah National Forest.