Fishing Right Fork of Beaver Creek: A Floyd County Adventure
There’s something magical about fishing a quiet mountain stream, where the world slows down, and it’s just you, the water, and the fish. In Floyd County, Kentucky, Right Fork of Beaver Creek is one of those special places—a hidden slice of Eastern Kentucky that beckons anglers with its clear waters, rocky pools, and small-town charm.
Whether you’re chasing smallmouth bass with a fly rod or teaching a kid to cast for sunfish, this creek near Wayland offers a perfect mix of adventure and peace. Grab a coffee, settle in, and let’s explore why Right Fork of Beaver Creek deserves a spot on your fishing list.
A Creek That Feels Like Home
Picture this: a cool morning in Floyd County, mist rising off a creek that twists through hills covered in ash, oak and pine. Right Fork of Beaver Creek flows through the rugged beauty of Appalachia, past little communities like Wayland, where folks still talk about the good old days. The creek’s gravel bars and riffles sparkle under the sun, and every bend feels like it’s hiding a fish just waiting for your lure.
What I love about Right Fork is how it’s not some overhyped tourist spot. It’s a local hangout, the kind of place where you might bump into a neighbor who’s been fishing these waters since they were a kid. It’s not about trophy fish or Instagram fame—it’s about the simple joy of casting a line in a place that feels like it’s yours. And in a county known for bluegrass and coal camp history, that’s a vibe worth soaking up.
What’s Biting on Right Fork?
Here’s the rundown on what you can expect to hook:
Smallmouth Bass: These are the creek’s MVPs. Scrappy and full of fight, smallmouth love the rocky runs and deeper pools. Most run 10 to 16 inches, but if you hit the right spot—say, a shady undercut bank—you might tangle with a 17- or 18-incher. They’re at their feistiest in spring and fall.
Sunfish: Bluegill and rock bass are everywhere, making this a great spot for beginners or a family outing. These little guys hit hard and keep things fun, whether you’re using a worm or a tiny jig. Perfect for kids learning to love fishing. Crappie aren’t common but can be caught.
Kentucky Spotted Bass: Less common, but you might hook one in slower pools. They’re a nice surprise if you’re used to smallmouth.
Catfish: Channel catfish are present in Right Fork of Beaver Creek, especially in slower pools and deeper holes.
Trout? Yes!
Right Fork of Beaver Creek is being stocked with rainbow trout by the KDFWR in April 2025. This is a recent addition, so if you’re hoping to catch trout close to Wayland, this spring is your chance. Be sure to check current regulations and creel limits before you go
How to Fish Right Fork Smallies Like a Local
Gear Up Light: This isn’t a place for heavy tackle. A 5- to 6-foot spinning rod with 4- to 8-pound line is your sweet spot. Toss small crankbaits, inline spinners, or soft plastics like crawfish mimics for bass. Topwater poppers at dawn or dusk? Pure magic. For sunfish, a worm or cricket under a bobber never fails.
Fly Fishing Fun: If you’re into flies, bring a 4- or 5-weight rod with a floating line. Woolly buggers and small streamers get bass fired up, while poppers or nymphs are sunfish candy. The creek’s tight, so practice your roll casts, and aim for rocks or logjams where fish hide.
Work the Water: Smallmouth hang out in current breaks—think boulders, fallen trees, or deep runs. Early morning or late afternoon is when they’re most likely to smash a topwater lure. Sunfish love slower pools or grassy edges; you’ll find them almost anywhere. Wade carefully—the water’s clear, and fish bolt if you stomp around. Sturdy shoes are a must for those slick rocks. (unless you are floating)
When to Fish: Spring (April to June) is gold for smallmouth—they’re hungry and hitting hard post-spawn. Summer’s great for sunfish, though you’ll want shaded spots when it’s hot. Fall brings cooler water, active bass, and those fiery mountain colors. Winter’s tough, but a mild day might yield a fish or two in deep pools.
Planning Your Right Fork Fishing Trip
Where to Fish: Right Fork of Beaver Creek flows through southwestern Floyd County, Kentucky, with the small community of Wayland situated along its banks. Nearby, the town of Maytown lies along Wilson Creek, another important tributary in the area. Both Wilson Creek and Right Fork of Beaver Creek feed into the larger Levisa Fork River system.
Access to Right Fork of Beaver Creek is primarily along Kentucky Route 7, with convenient entry points near Wayland, about 3.5 miles north of Garrett and 9 miles south of Topmost. The creek’s clear waters and rocky pools make it a favorite local fishing spot, while Wilson Creek near Maytown offers additional fishing opportunities in the same scenic region.
Rules to Know: You’ll need a Kentucky fishing license—grab one online at fw.ky.gov or wherever you see their sign. Check size and creel limits for smallmouth and other fish. I always nudge folks toward catch-and-release, especially for bigger bass, to keep Right Fork thriving.
Stay Safe: Cell signal’s iffy out here, so let someone know where you’re headed. Mountain streams like this can rise fast after rain, so check the forecast. Ticks and the odd snake are around, so long pants and bug spray are smart.
Why the Right Fork of Beaver Creek Steals Our Hearts
Fishing Right Fork of Beaver Creek isn’t just about what’s on the end of your line—it’s about feeling Floyd County’s pulse. This is a place shaped by coal camps, bluegrass jams, and folks who know the land like family. Every cast here ties you to that story, whether you’re standing where miners once washed off the day’s dust or teaching your kid to bait a hook.
At OutdoorsAppalachia.com, we’re all about shining a light on spots like the Right Fork—places that don’t need flash to be unforgettable. So sling on your tackle box, drive out to Floyd County, and let this creek show you what Appalachian fishing’s all about.
Caught a beauty or got a local tip? Share it in the comments below—we’re all ears! For more Kentucky fishing goodness, swing by fw.ky.gov.
Happy fishing, y’all!
