Appalachian Rivers Aquarium is a small, native species aquarium on the banks of the Tuckaseegee River in downtown Bryson City. Though the outside may look unassuming, within its small frame there are over 4000 gallons of water, housing over 15 different species of freshwater fish and well over 30 individuals. Above and beyond our fish tanks, we have 5 tanks or terrariums that house a mix of crustaceans, amphibians, and reptiles- including the state-endangered Eastern Hellbender Salamander.
At any given time our facility has a mix of popular game fish such as species of bass or trout, as well as a unique sampling of some of the lesser common game fish and even non-game fish. To name a few, we currently have Large- and Smallmouth Bass, Brown Trout, Tiger Trout, Yellow Perch, catfish, and River Chubs (also known around here as “Knottyhead”).
