2023 HIGHLANDS NC EXPERIENCE GUIDE
“WE WANT TO MAKE SURE PEOPLE WHO HAVE A THIRST FOR THE SPORT HAVE A GOOD TIME, WITH CURRENT INFORMATION & EQUIPMENT TO EXPERIENCE THE LATEST IN THE INDUSTRY.”
particularly fond of mid-sized rivers such as the Chattooga, North and East Fork of the French Broad, the Upper Nantahala and the Oconaluftee. PROTECTION IS PARAMOUNT That his livelihood depends upon healthy and plentiful natural spaces is only one reason Canter is a conservationist. When he’s not working or with his family, Canter can be found along the rivers and trails, often enjoying his latest hobby – mountain biking. He envisions Brookings embracing even more of a conservation mission in the future, partnering with Trout Unlimited, American Rivers, and the Nantahala National Forest to push for more protection. “The conservation topic is something I could discuss for days,” he says. “It’s my livelihood, and the great outdoors and public lands are my playground and passion in life.” He does not want history to repeat itself. In the early 1900s, the logging industry severely disrupted the canopies essential for brook trout to survive. As a result, the counts dipped. Trees help filter pollutants, prevent bank erosion, normalize temperatures and provide food to the aquatic bugs, including the flies that nourish the brook trout. These days, logging practices are drastically different, Canter says, and are, in fact, helpful to produce younger, denser forests that offer biodiversity to wildlife. Today, a different threat is on the horizon. Warming climates and increased development, combined with a trout population that cannot tolerate warm water or silted streams, mean good stewardship of our backyards is critical, Canter says.
“Leaving your stream banks shaded, putting cold-water releases on ponds and impoundments, and installing proper silt fences any time you disturb the ground on your property are all vital measures to take in ensuring the longevity of healthy, wild trout popu- lations here on the plateau,” he says. “Water runs downhill, and it begins on top of the mountain.” FLY-FISHING AND THE FUTURE Brookings has partners all over the world ready to serve those who desire destinations other than the Appalachian Mountain rivers. During 2023, guides and guests will travel to the Bahamas, Montana, British Columbia, Argentina and Brazil. In 2024, Brookings will occupy a brand- new facility built by Canter’s business partner, Stephen Zoukis, on the banks of Cashiers Lake, about 20 minutes from Highlands. “The whole idea is to offer beer and wine and create a hangout spot,” he explains. Live music and fishing demonstrations are on the table. Within five years, he hopes to expand the Highlands location. Whether at a shop or on the water, the goal is to create connections and lasting relationships. “A lot of what we share is to set you up on your two feet. We want to make sure people who have a thirst for the sport have a good time, with current information and equipment to experience the latest in the industry.” On the other hand, Canter adds, Brookings can provide a turnkey, easy experience. “They can show up with a pair of sunglasses, and we’ll take care of the rest.”
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