Archived Fishing Reports [2008] Jan - March - April - May [2007] Jan - March - May - July - October - Dec [2006] Jan - March -April - May - July - Nov - Dec [2005] Nov - Sept - July - June - May - April - March - Feb [2004] Holidays - Oct - Sept - May - May - April - Mar - Forcast [2003] Annual Report - Dec Tennessee Overhill Report May 2008 Our tailwaters have fished very well for spring. As May rolls around everything becomes more predictable. Here is a snapshot for the next 45 days. Hiwassee River - TVA will begin summer recreational flow schedules on the river beginning Saturday, May 24th. This means that we will begin drift fishing from the powerhouse to Reliance daily. This is our favorite section through the national forest and the quality fishing zone. All three of the major reservoirs that feed our river system are in great shape and TVA has told us to expect plenty of cold water this season. We are anxiously awaiting the start of the sulphur hatch. Our crystal ball says that the next few months should be very good here. Memorial Day through early August sees some of the best dry fly action of the year on the Hiwassee. Cumberland River - USACOE is holding the reservoir at or near the constant level of 680 ft. They currently have the lake at the prescribed level and we are now seeing good, fishable flows. We have begun drift trips here. We should see a lot of good flows throughout the rest of the year. If heavy rain events pass through the watershed, the Corps will release in an effort to keep the lake level constant, then return to low flows. The Cumberland is a world class trout fishery within driving distance of Atlanta and surrounding cities. Most of the fish have not seen any flies in six months. The fish are aggressive on large nymphs fished under an indicator, and streamers. The grannom caddis are in full swing and we are seeing some sulphurs and Blue wing Olives. We are set up with two boats to fish the river, permitted by Kentucky Fish and Wildlife, and licensed by the USCG. Holston River - The river is in great shape and is seeing good action from the Dam to Nances Ferry. Water flows have been cold and favorable for great daily float fishing. We're currently working all over the river as each section has it's own characteristics. We're seeing a good amount of bug activity ranging from midges in the morning to caddis, crane flies, and some mayflies in the evenings. Small flies work better in the morning, larger flies for the afternoons. Emerger patterns are best for rising fish. We fish them a few inches under the surface behind a visible dry fly. Clinch River - TVA is giving us some windows with good flows here. The sulphur hatch is in full swing. This is the best month to catch fish here on dry flies. Larger fish are being taken on streamers when we catch the one turbine flow rates. The newly enacted slot limit is helping to protect this springs growing fish and we're expecting some really good days on the Clinch this coming season. Dane Law, Southeastern Anglers 423-338-7368 or 770-655-9210. Tennessee Overhill Report and Forecast April 2008 We now have a solid month of fishing under our belts. I am very happy to see recent rains to the area. All of our reservoirs are at or above desired levels for this time of year. We are also fortunate to have been spared the flooding rains that are occurring to our west and north. March provided very good fishing and April looks to be even better. All of the comments made on the March report are holding true. It can be viewed on our website : www.southeasternanglers.com . Here is a short update on what we doing. Hiwassee River - So far spring 2008 is turning out to be a little wetter than the past few so it would be good to note here that the Hiwassee rarely suffers from clarity issues after a rain. It takes a multi - day gully washer to make the water murky. We had only three days of stained water in March. TVA is currently on a low water release schedule, and probably will be through May. We have three different drift fishing options below Reliance, depending on the daily flow rate. Fish are starting to eat on the surface, with the beginning of Mayflies and some caddis. This is a dependable trip. We have experienced several 30+ fish days. Toccoa River - Our trips here have been very strong. Catch rates are high, fish size is good and we have released several fish over twenty inches. Insects include black caddis, quills, and the Hendricksons are starting. TVA is currently on a low water release. The days that we get here in April and May will be great. We do have clarity issues on the Toccoa. The river muddies easily after a moderate rain. It usually takes two days to clear. Since it is less than an hour drive over to the Hiwassee, I recommend flexibility when targeting this river. We can easily switch to the Hiwassee on short notice. Holston River - Very good spring fishing here. Catch rates are good. Here is our best average fish size. This is a great river to work as a destination in the Knoxville area or as combo with the two rivers down south on a multi day trip. There are good motels and restaurants at Strawberry Plains near the river. Techniques are mixed between streamers, nymphs, midges, and caddis are begginning now. Cumberland River - Kentucky is getting some of the recent heavy rains. Flows are way too high to fish. Stream flows will diminish as the rains do. Just wait, that is what we are doing. Dane Law, Southeastern Anglers - > 423-338-7368.
Tennessee Overhill Report and Forecast March 2008 With
just a few days of March under our belts, we have opened the springtrout
fishing season in the southeast in grand style. The major tailwaters
that we drift are busting at the seams with willing takers. Both TVA
and USACE did a great job of budgeting coldwater releases last year
during the dry summer and fall. As a result, we have experienced an
exceptional winter holdover with our trout populations. 2008 is going
to provide some of the best drift boat fly fishing we have seen in several
years in our area. Recent rains have put most of our reservoirs at or
above the blue line on the operating guide. Our water levels in east
Tennessee and central Kentucky are in good shape as we speak. Here is
a glimpse at how each river is doing.
Tennessee Overhill Report and Forecast January 2008 The cold tailwaters of east Tennessee and surrounding area are in great shape as we enter a new year. Despite record low rainfall in the region during 2007, TVA and USACE have done a good job of budgeting flows and keeping the rivers at sustainable levels for our trout. The cold , late spring of 2007 coupled with a moderate flow regime during summer and fall , ensured adequate coldwater through the later parts of 2007. Of the big rivers we fish, our trout populations are currently as high as we have seen them. We anticipate 2008 being a very good year for trout fishing in our area on the tailwaters. Hiwassee River - TVA is currently operating a minimum flow pattern here on most days. Holdover from last year was good, especially in the lower river section. We will be drift fishing below Reliance soon, and currently wading from the powerhouse to Reliance until flows increase. Present insect activity includes midges and small blue wings, with the occasional winter stonefly starting to hatch. Insect activity here as well as the other rivers will increase from this point on, especially on warmer days. Early season is going to better than the last couple of years. Toccoa River - TVA is currently operating a minimum flow pattern here on most days. Recent rainfall has started putting some water into the tributaries. Soon the flows will be perfect for drift fishing the stretch that we like best. This tailrace received unusually large stockings by Georgia DNR late in 2007. This should help to make the early season fishing even better than normal. Typically we do our best here early. February through May has produced some large trout for us. Streamers, nymphs, and dries. Holston River- TVA is currently operating a minimum flow pattern here on most days. Conditions are optimum for winter fishing. We expect these conditions to last throughout winter into spring. The insect activity is primarily midges. We are seeing some small blue wings and a few caddis on warmer days. Fishing has been solid using a variety of techniques. The bulk of the action is on small nymphs and midges. Clear days hold several hours of good dry fly fishing, dry/dropper rigs are working well. Streamer fishing has also been productive. We've boated good numbers of fish and more holdovers than last year. The river should be exceptional this spring as the trout find blizzard hatches of caddis to gorge on. This is the best pick for Knoxville area, early season. Clinch River- TVA is currently running more low water days than normal here. Currently, low water is noticeably lower than in years past so be ready to fish shallow. The brown trout spawn is wrapping up but we have caught some nice post spawn browns. The bulk of the action is still 8" - 12" rainbows and browns. Small midge patterns are still the staple along with fine tippets. Midge pupas are most productive in combinations with 6x or lighter tippets. Look for fish in the shallow water, then scope the faster currents. We are very excited about the possibilities of new regulations here. Cumberland River - USACE is currently releasing water based on inflow. They are keeping the lake at a constant level of 680'. This strategy could change as progress is made on dam repairs. We have just completed over 90 days of incredible fishing here. Fishing will remain excellent. Big fish populations are excellent. Targeting the correct flow rates will be the challenge in the near term as rains move through the region. There will be great fishing windows following the releases of rainfall. A combination of nymph and streamer fishing has been most productive. Spring promises some technical dry fly fishing. We are starting to see winter stoneflies and caddis. Southeastern Anglers 423-338-7368.
Tennessee Overhill Fishing Report - December 07 We've been very busy this fall and we'd like to apologize for thelack of fresh fishing reports. Unfortunately, the fishing reports have been on the back burner while we've been on the water. The goodnews is that the fishing has been nothing short of spectacular. We'vehad many anglers join our 20" Club this fall with Jenise Gordon toppingthe bill with an incredible 28 1/4" brown trout. We'd like to take this oppurtunity to congratulate Jenise and the rest of our new club members on their great accomplishments. Below is a brief fishing report andforcast for the holiday season. Hiwassee
River. The upper river, including the quality zone are fishing
well. We are on a low water flow schedule so access requires wading.
We are starting to see more action downstream of Reliance where we can
run the drift boats. This is typical for late fall and winter as the
downstream water temps and levels become more ideal for trout. The middle
and lower sections of the river often sees great winter hatches of stoneflies
and little baetis. These insects last right into the spring caddis hatch.
We're looking forward to working the lower river as the holidays wrap
up and we begin a new year on the Hiwassee River. Southeastern Anglers 423-338-7368 or 866-558-7688.
Tennessee Overhill Fishing Report - October 07 We have completed an exceptional summer season the streams and rivers that we fish. Due to dry conditions, the tailwaters proved to be the best thing going. September and early October are traditionally our transition months. Fall fishing usually kicks in mid to late October and runs right on into winter. The last few years, November and December have been great. I feel like the winter fishing will be better than normal this year due to lake levels. We may see an abundance of shad put into the tailwaters this winter. Within the next few weeks, all of our streams and rivers will have something to offer the fly fisherman. Deciding on where to fish will require a little flexibility as conditions will be constantly changing. Generation flows below the dams will vary as does the need for power and water. The natural streams will probably remain low and clear for a while, but with cooler temperatures, the trout will be feeding much more eagerly. Stealth will be the key. We have been fly fishing for warm water species on the lower stretches of the Hiwassee, Holston and Ocoee rivers and this has been very good lately. It should remain good for the month of October and definitely worth considering if in the area. Hiwassee River - early morning wade fishing on the upper river for trout. Some afternoon floats available on the upper river. Lower river float trips for spots, smallmouth, sunfish, and possible stripers. Conditions changing, call for current conditions. Toccoa River - Float trips available most days on the tailwater. Due to proximity, this a good flex option for the Hiwassee for one or two boats. Upper river delayed harvest section provides good wading opportunity and will improve as weather cools and fish adjust. Tellico River - The basin is fishing well with delayed harvest and wild streams producing fish. This will improve as weather cools and fish adjust. Clinch River - Very good situation here, desirable flow schedules most days. Eager fish. Good choice for a float trip for trout. Holston River - Warm/cool water with good flows. Lower sections producing smallmouth and some trout. Cumberland River - The water has cooled and flows remain low, constant, and stable. Kentucky Fish and Wildlife has reinstated the trophy regulation for the entire length of river down to the state line. Trout fishing is currently very good. Fishing for browns should continue to be very good, and even get better. This is the first fall in several years we have had favorable flows to fish here. We had a gentlemen join our 20" Inch Club with a fat 22" rainbow he caught on the Cumby in early October. Congratulations John. Click here to see John's catch.
Tennessee Overhill Fishing Report
Tennessee Overhill Fishing Report - July 31, 2007 Hiwassee
River - TVA is currently running two turbines from 11:00 a.m.
until 7:00 p.m. daily. The schedule will remain in effect until Labor
Day. The water temp of 56 degrees is unusually cool for this time of
year. As a The dry fly fishing is the best of the season so far. Matching the hatch, and big attractor dries. Boogers are also working. August may very well be our best month of fishing on the river this year. The Quality zone continues to fish well with larger fish rising at the stair steps in the evenings. This has got to be some of the best dry fly fishing in the southeast right now. Cumberland River - USACE is currently sluicing 800 cfs daily. Water temps near the dam are 54 degrees. The water is cold and the river is in great shape to Crocus Creek. This currently gives us about 20 miles of prime water. The river level is low. It is shallow in some places which makes it perfect for drift boat fishing. Since the water levels are almost constant, we are beginning trips early. The fishing is excellent. Starting with large attractor nymphs, then going to small midge patterns under yarn. Each afternoon sees a strong blue wing olive hatch, with fish actively feeding on them. This is technical dry fly fishing with better fish keyed on rising nymphs and emergers. Patterns and presentation are important. The Cumberland holds the best population of large trout in the Southeast. We currently
have a few limited dates available for August on the Cumberland, with
good availability in September. We are very excited about the possibility
of October on the river. The brown trout run happens in October and
has not been fishable the last few years due to high water. Everything is pointing towards a good, constant, low flow for the fall. Give us a shout for what we think will be some great fall fishing in October on the Cumberland. Hiwassee River - TVA is currently filling the reservoir to summer pool. Lake levels are rising. We have an average daily flow rate in the river of 400 cfs, which is much better than the 200 cfs of the last two years. The river is full of fish from the powerhouse to 20 miles downstream and in great shape. Water temps are very good throughout the tailrace. Fishing is good all day with streamers and nymphs early, followed by a variety of hatching insects as the day progresses. Several species of caddis, Hendricksons, cahills, and blue wings are coming off depending on location and time. We are receiving a considerable amount of one turbine flow during the week. When this happens, we drift from Reliance to hwy 411 for a great trip. I expect more one turbine flow for May, and then our regular two turbine releases to float through the gorge section beginning on Memorial Day. Toccoa River - This river is fishing well from top to bottom. Flows have been favorable for the most part, with late week and weekend flows being a little more predictable. Our larger fish have come on streamers and nymphs. Streamer fishing is best on cloudy days. The water has been low and clear lately. Non beaded flies very deep are producing the best fish. We do have some caddis, Hendricksons, and blue wings hatching, but mostly the smaller fish rising so far. Due to its close proximity to the Hiwassee, the Toccoa works great for two day trips to the area or as an alternate river. It is a small river in comparison to the Hiwassee and I like to limit the number of boats there. Tellico Basin - This is our pick for small stream wade fishing for wild trout. The streams here are running medium low, clear and cold. The streams are currently in excellent shape, but will need moisture by summer. The Tellico is holding some nice fish with deep nymphing being the best way to reach them. By afternoon, the wild streams are alive with a smorgasbord of bugs hatching. Attractor dries bring a lot of rainbows, browns, and brookies to the top. Holston River - Flows here are perfect as TVA fills Cherokee lake to summer pool. The fishing is getting better and better as the weather and water warm some. We are working two separate float sections here with good caddis beginning on the lower section. A typical day currently starts with small streamers or pupas under yarn indicators, followed by dries and dry - dropper rigs. We will be into full blown caddis here just any day. Dry fly and attractor fishing will be the ticket soon. Caddis popped this past weekend. Clinch River - TVA is giving some of the best flow schedules here that we have seen in some time. Drifting is possible from Millers Island and down from Peach Orchard. Fishing is currently good with small streamers, light nymphs and when conditions are favorable the sulfurs are hatching from the shoals on the lower river. Plump yellow mayflies in size 14 and 16. The fish are taking emergers better than the duns. Real good float option in that area. Cumberland River - Due to the USACE decision to hold the lake at a constant low level, the releases on the river are becoming very predictable. Immediately after a substantial rain event in the area, the river will be high and unfishable. Once the lake level returns to 680 ft, the river flow will be low and fishable until the next substantial rainfall in the watershed. USACE gives us a five day flow prediction, so we have an idea of what to expect. The fish are in great shape and eager to eat. Hatches include march browns, giant stoneflies, and caddis. Blue wings should be coming soon and then the sulfurs. Our March excursion to Burkesville yielded several fish over 20" and a 28" brown. The big browns come on streamers, sink tip lines, and plenty of patience. As the hatches increase, the large fish will also rise to well presented flies. The Cumberland is our pick as the place for experienced anglers to seek trophy trout in the southeast. We have a series of dates picked for May and June to fish the Cumberland. We will open July and August dates in May. Dane Law - Southeastern Anglers 866-558-7688 or 423-338-7368. Tennessee Overhill Fishing Report
I consider the spring trout fishing season to begin in the Southeast around late February or early March with the first warm days and the first caddis of the year. It ends around Memorial day with the onset of predictable weather, consistent flows, Isonychias and summertime. The spring season of 2007 is here now. There is something special about spring season. I guess it has to do with the fact that most of us haven't been out much for a few months and are itching to cast an angle. As a guide, it means that better meals and new tires are just around the corner. Spring certainly has its challenges. Due mainly to uncertainties. Uncertain temperatures, wind, rain, generation schedules. Murky water, low water, high water. With all the uncertainties that spring has, it does hold two truths that I know to be certain. All of our monster trout are caught in the spring, and there is a hot smoked chicken just around the next bend. Hiwassee River - TVA is currently filling the reservoir. Water temps are mid 40's to 50 degrees. The flows are low. We are currently wading from the powerhouse to Reliance and drifting one of the sections from Spring creek to Patty bridge. Fishing is fair to good and improving daily. We are seeing the last of the winter stoneflies and anxiously awaiting caddis. We have consistent BWO's from Conasauga creek to Patty bridge. We are catching quality fish while wading. The fish are in deeper water. The bite is a mix between streamers, nymphs, and mostly dries in the afternoon. Toccoa River - TVA is currently filling the reservoir. We have seen 125 cfs for ten straight days. This is the flow we like for our favorite stretch here. Water temps are low 40's to 47 degrees. The fish are not in the shoals yet. The difference in the bite between 9 a.m. and 1 p.m. is undeniable. The few degrees of warmth makes a huge difference. Both tan and black caddis are starting, and the black stoneflies are winding down. Dry fly action seems to start early in the day. Once we drift into the zone, I tend to favor dark streamers for better fish. The next 90 days will be the best time to fish here. Holston River - We are seeing many good low water days as TVA fills Cherokee lake. Water temps are cold here also. The river is holding a lot of fish and they are well spread out. Catch rates are good with a dry/dropper rigged with a black stonefly adult and a small midge pupa. Small nymphs under yarn indicators are working well also. Caddis will start very soon. As water temps warm, the streamer bite will improve. This is a great spring time river and a consistent producer. Cumberland River - USACE has made the decision to hold the lake level at 680 ft for the entire 2007 season because the dam is considered a high risk. 680 ft is well below normal operating guide. The lake was at the desired level until this last weather system came through a few days ago and added several feet of water to the lake. The Corps is now generating 22000 cfs to get rid of the additional water. I think this will be the scenario all year. During periods of dry weather, we will see consistent low water flows, which will be good for fishing the tailrace. As the area receives additional rainfall, they will generate to reduce the pool to 680 ft. As our season moderates, this should be a fairly predictable situation with a lot of long fishable windows unless the area has above average rainfall for spring and summer. I remain very optimistic about this fishery for this season. We will be on the river for the first low water window in March. Dane Law, Southeastern Anglers , 866-55-TROUT Hiwassee River - TVA is currently running two turbines 24/7 and the water temperature is 50 degrees. These are perfect conditions for drift boat fly fishing. With timely rains, these conditions could continue into mid March. Fishing is very good. We have a mix of winter stoneflies, small BWO's and midges to provide us with several hours of dry fly fishing most days. We also have shad or Herring coming through the turbines on a sporadic basis. This is enough to keep the streamer bite very interesting. We are drifting from the powerhouse to Reliance and will continue to do so with this generation schedule. Catch rates are as high as they have been in quite a while, with some above average fish coming to hand. The weather continues to be fishable on most days. We start off with cool mornings and the high reaches into the 50's. Dress appropriately, and it is quite comfortable. This is a special situation with good fishing, cool mild weather, and very few others on the river. Toccoa River - TVA is currently generating too much during the day for us to fish the section that we like with regularity. We have been able to do a couple of short scouting trips there during some small windows of opportunity. I think it will be very impressive this spring. With normal precipitation, we should start seeing daily windows sometime in mid February. Based on history, weekend days will be fishable first. Fishing here can be dicey in the spring, but well worth the effort when we manage to hit it right. Flow schedule is not as predictable as the Hiwassee, and over an inch of rain can muddy the river for two days. With this river only a short drive from the Hiwassee river, it works well as a target, using the Hiwassee as a backup or vice versa. Holston River - Like the Toccoa, we have just begun to see fishable flows here. However, with normal precipitation in the Cherokee lake watershed, we should soon see a lot of fishable flows. The operating guide is well below target level. Fishing has been very good on the few days we have been there so far this year. Winter stoneflies and midges hatching for dry fly fishing, streamers and very good nymph fishing currently available. Depending on weather, late February could see the beginning of the caddis hatch here. The Holston fares very well in a dry summer, and because of that, there is a healthy population of above average fish here now. Fishing pressure is also low. Flow schedules are better on weekends now, weekday schedules should become available soon. Tellico River - Current stream levels are averaging 1.2 to 1.4 feet, with spikes following rain events. Water temperatures can vary greatly, but for the most part are below 45 degrees. The fishery in the basin is in good shape going into 2007. Fishing is mixed, depending on the weather and ambient temperature. warm weather and sunshine really help to improve. The best fishing is during a few days of warm, mild weather. Insect activity is low most days, with stoneflies on the sunny, warm ones. Delayed harvest regulations end on March 14th. Cumberland River - U.S. Army corps of engineers announced yesterday of their intention to draw down lake Cumberland to 680 feet immediately and keep it there for the remainder of 2007. This is 10 feet below winter pool level. This is big news and could have a dramatic affect upon the tailwater fishery in the very near future. The river will be running above 30,000 cfs for several days, possibly a couple of weeks, at which time, with normal or average precipitation, we could see extended periods of minimum flow. At the very least, this should decrease the number of days we will see generation schedules too heavy to fish. Studies on the Cumberland river have shown that trout grow at an exceptionally high rate on low water. Spring and summer fishing here could be the best ever. As soon as the river subsides, we will be there to fish it and report back. Dane Law, Southeastern Anglers - Reliance, Tennessee 866-55trout. --
Hiwassee River - TVA is currently running two turbines 24/7. The water temp. is 56 degrees. Our contacts at TVA tell us that we can expect this flow for the rest of the year, and probably through January. This is the perfect schedule for drift boat fly fishing. Fall fishing has turned out to be better than spring and summer this year. Currently the river is fishing the best it has for us in about 18 months. Catch rates are the highest we have seen in 2006, and the fish are fat and healthy. During the past two Decembers, TVA has spilled for most of the month, so we have not been able to fish the Hiwassee much during December and January for the past two years. This year is different. Water levels are at a good controllable level and they should be running in our favor. The streamer bite is very good. We have a consistent BWO hatch from noon until about 3:00 p.m. During which time, dries and soft hackles work well. Small nymphs work good both before and after the hatch. If your earlier trip on the Hiwassee this year was less than expected or you have just been waiting for someone to say "IT'S ON", then now is the time. Short term weather looks like frosty mornings with highs in the mid 50's during the day. A little polypro, fleece, and a light shell makes things very comfortable. How about a Holiday Fly Fishing trip?
Hiwassee River - TVA is currently generating approximately 2000cfs during the week and 1400 - 2000cfs on the weekends. If we see a low water day it is usually on Sunday as this is a low power demand day. This is the best release schedule we have had so far all year. Water temps are 60 degrees. Fall is shaping up to be the best fishing of 2006 and I think this will hold true right on into 2007. We are in a typical fall weather pattern with a cool snap followed by a warm up and then a short rainy period. The timely rains are good for the watershed, current fishing, and getting us in shape for next spring. The two or three cold snaps have released some shad from the reservoir. Almost every trip yields at least one fish with a beer belly. More cold weather should just increase this occurrence. Nice, calm afternoons are giving us very good hatches of small bwo's on some days. Several different sizes are coming off from #16 on down. I think they are both baetis and psuedocloeons. Current fishing techniques cover all the bases with streamers and nymphs early and the possibility of some dry fly fishing later in the day. Tellico River - Water levels are approaching the normal fall mark. Water temperatures are cool and fluctuating with the daily ambient temperature. The leaf fall is near complete. It is time to start back wearing waders here. The delayed harvest section is in full swing. The area with special regulations is from Turkey creek up to the mouth of the North River. The river is fishing well for both stocked rainbows and wild trout. The browns are more aggressive as they are feeling the spawning urge. Both the North and Bald rivers are in good shape and fishing well. Nice afternoons are allowing some dry fly fishing here also. Toccoa River - We are currently not fishing here. This is standard protocol. The stretch of river that we like is difficult to get our boats down during late summer and fall. We need the additional flow from the tributaries for a comfortable float. We usually begin to drift this section after the first of the year. As soon as we get some half way decent weather in February, the caddis will appear on the Toccoa . This is when we want to start being here. We will see caddis, Hendricksons, sulfurs and BWO's all within a 90 - 120 day period. Due to events from this summer and fall, I think early 2007 will be one of the Toccoa's best seasons yet. Our largest trout of 2006 came from this small river. Holston River - The Holston flows from Cherokee dam just north of Knoxville and west of Sevierville. It is a good float trip destination for those visiting the Smokey's or Gatlinburg area. TVA has not been giving us too many floatable days this fall due to high water levels, but when the flows are right, the fishing is great. Weekends, and especially Sundays seem to be the best bet for a good flow rate. The upper river is holding some very nice holdover rainbows. Average fish size is excellent. Caddis and midge are hatching in good numbers. We are doing some light nymphing, dry fly fishing, and streamers are also producing some fish. Cumberland River - Not too much to report from here right now. It was great. It will be great again. The generation schedule is currently too high to fish. When the Corps runs water here, they often will run great amounts 24/7. The good news is that when they drop the generation levels, they often do so for a few weeks which gives us a window of opportunity. I still expect a good window sometime in 2006. It also means the fish haven't seen a fly or lure for a while and are hungry and refreshed. The Cumberland is our newest offering and one that we are very excited about. It will be the most challenging river we fish, but it offers the greatest opportunity also. I am convinced that there are more trophy sized trout here than any other river within a half day drive of us. I think the Cumberland river is best for experienced anglers looking for opportunities for above average fish and not just numbers. If you are interested in fishing with us here, you may want to respond to this email and say: put me on the "Cumberland call List". I will put you on a separate distribution list and send a short, one line message saying the "water is right" when we get the favorable windows to fish here. Hiwassee River - TVA is currently starting generation with one turbine at 10:00 a.m. and then two turbines from 11:00 a.m. until 7:00 p.m. This is a typical schedule for summer during drier than normal conditions. The pulsing during the night conserves water, and the two turbine flow during the day allows us to drift the river. We will probably see more generation towards the end of the month as TVA begins to draw the lake level down somewhat.Water temperatures are 58 degrees during the generation period. The water is exceptionally cool for this time of year. We are often in the mid 60's by this time of year. The cool summer water is a function of TVA holding a lot of water back during early spring to fill the lake. This made spring fishing difficult, even into early June, but we can reap the benefits of it now and on into fall with cool water and adequate flows. We are currently fishing from the powerhouse to Reliance, through the quality section in the gorge. Fishing is best to the stairsteps and sometimes slightly beyond. Dry fly action is very good on most afternoons. Insect hatches are a little ahead of schedule and the Isonychias have begun. Terrestrials are beginning to become important. We hope to have some caddis by months end. It looks as though the summertime fishing will be very good for the next 90 days. Tellico watershed - Unlike the tailwaters, the natural streams depend on rainfall to keep the banks full. We have been dry around here and the streams are low and clear. Water temps are cool in the North and Bald rivers, as well as the upper Tellico. The lower Tellico has started to warm up some. Fishing is good on the small streams, with stealth being the most important factor. Fishing is best early and then again in the afternoon, with overcast days being very good. There is a variety of insects present. Stoneflies and caddis are important as well as small terrestrial patterns. Dry flies strategically placed will take a lot of fish in the low, clear water. The Tellico area is a good place to beat the summer heat and do a little wet wading in the cover of the forest canopy. Holston River - TVA flow schedules have remained good for float trips on the Holston. The water temperatures are still a little too cold for wet wading all the way to Nances Ferry, but we'll take it and the fish are loving it. There's still a lot of bugs coming off with midges being the most prominent, however a selection of sulphurs and cahills have been present and mayfly patterns have remained our most productive dries. Nymph and streamer fishing has been great in between hatches. The fish are generally pretty active all day long so the ability to move from style to style and presentation to presentation can be important. The heartiness and strength every fish in this river seems to posses always amazes me. It doesn't matter if it's 12" or 24", they all fight like tanks. Tennessee Overhill Fishing Report May 2006 Hiwassee River - Two turbine flows are due to begin in less than two weeks. By Memorial day we expect to be drifting the upper river through the gorge in the National Forest on a daily basis. Water temps are cool for this time of year and should get colder soon with the additional flow. I expect both the streamer and dry fly fishing to be very good soon after flows begin. We should have good Sulfurs and Blue wings for June. Toccoa River - This is one of our better options for float fishing through Memorial day. TVA is giving favorable flows on most days and water temps are in the mid to high 50's. We are in the middle of sulfur season here with hatches ranging from very light to very heavy depending on daily conditions. CDC sulfur dries in a size 16 or 14 work well when fish are rising. Nymphing is very productive in the absence of risers, and our larger fish have come on streamers and a little patience. We have released some nice fish here recently. Tellico Basin - Spring fishing in the mountains is on. Water levels and temps are excellent. It is best to give the streams a day to clear after a major rain event, or head up stream to find clear water if you are already in the area. Stealth is always important, but the fish are actively feeding due to the large amount and variety of insects now appearing. Nymphing and then dries a little later in the day is the way to go. We have some remaining quills, drakes, sulfurs and cahills as well as small stones all coming off. BWO's show themselves on the right kind of day. It is still a good time to catch a grand slam, brooks, browns, and rainbows. Clinch River - TVA has started the summer recreational flow schedules on the Clinch. This schedule calls for low water mornings followed by a one turbine run for four hours during midday. The low water windows have been fishing well with a combination of small nymphs and dries. Soft hackles are also working well. The sulfurs are starting to pop and should get heavier over the next few weeks. The streamer fishing during generation has been a little slow but should pick up once the fish are a little more adjusted to the higher water. We're starting our trips on the Clinch at daybreak and finishing up in the mid afternoon. This allows us to maximize our time on low water. Holston River - The Holston is fishing very well. Hatches of midge and caddis are still going strong and the yellow crane flies are becoming more important. The best fishing has been on nymphs fished deep and on the bottom. Risers are usually plentiful and can be taken with select dries and soft hackles, however the best fish are laying on the bottom waiting for meals that are easier to eat. Thus far the water temps are still looking great and with the low flow TVA has held to most of this spring, we should have a good cold water stock to carry us on into the fall. Tennessee Overhill Fishing Report April 2006 Hiwassee River - TVA is currently running a low water release schedule in order to fill the Reservoir to summer pool. There is no generation except for the one turbine pulse every fourth hour. Water temperatures are between 45 and 60 degrees depending on where and when readings are taken. Wade fishing is best from Reliance up stream to the powerhouse and float trips are best from Reliance to below highway 411. Although we are not drifting through the gorge and the quality zone, we do have several float options available. We have secured private access on the lower river which enables us to continue full day and half day float trips through April. The half day float section is especially appealing. Our larger fish are coming from wade trips in the quality section, although we continue to see big browns on the lower river. The wade trips in the quality section involve some walking in and out of the gorge, but are usually rewarded with some above average trout. Our Hendricksons have begun and caddis are starting to hatch. I predict we will be full blown caddis in a week to two, depending on weather. We are starting most days with nymphs or streamers and then going to dries as the hatch begins. We are switching to dries earlier every day. Our drift trips through the gorge will begin on Memorial day. Now is the best time to book those trips. Toccoa River - TVA is currently running a low water release schedule here. Water temps are good and the constant flow turbine is releasing 125 cfs. The tributaries are running well and the flow is perfect for our drift boat trips. Without unusually heavy rains, I think this pattern will hold fairly constant for at least a month. The Hendrickson hatch is what draws us to the river this month. The hatch is occurring. Heavier on some days, and at different times of day, but it is on. Our largest browns of the season have been taken here so far. We really have to watch the rainfall closely here. After a good rain event, it takes one to two days for the river to clear. We plan on drifting here for April and May to catch the Hendricksons and the sulfurs. Tellico Basin - The natural streams of our area are looking great right now. Weekly light rains have the streams running slightly high and clear. Water temps are great. A full slate of bugs are appearing. Caddis, stones and mayflies. Quills, drakes, Hendricksons, and more. The dry fly action is definitely better on warm sunny afternoons, but the window of opportunity is getting larger as the spring progresses. A grand slam is a definite possibility, and we have even released some very nice size fish by wild mountain trout standards. Holston River - TVA is currently running a low water release schedule here. Pulsing for a minimum flow of 300 cfs. Water temps are excellent. This is our newest tailwater offering. It is located just north of Knoxville, near the Sevierville exit, below Cherokee dam. The river is very different in character than the others we fish. Nice gravel shoals with slow water pools in between. The fish here are very fat and healthy from a diet of midge and immature caddis. Trout here probably have the highest growth rate of any of our tailwaters. We have been primarily nymph fishing with small patterns, but the caddis are about to explode for terrific dry fly and emerger action. Dane Law, Southeastern Anglers 866-55trout. Currently, all of the rivers and streams look very good. The winter weather has finally broke and we have been able to spend more time on the water. It is not spring yet, but the fishing can be very good. The lakes above the tailraces we watch are in proper balance. Most are on or slightly above flood guide, which seems perfect for now. "Average" or "normal" rainfall during the next period will mean really good fishing on the rivers. The natural streams will need to see some rainfall soon. They are clear and cold and starting to fish well also. The next sixty days or so will be the most unpredictable fishing on a daily basis, but a time period where some of our trophy fish are very likely to come from. Some days will be magic. Hiwassee River - Water temps are in the mid forties with generation and some warmer temps in the afternoons with no generation. We are seeing a mixed generation schedule, as TVA fills the lake and the need for power. Fishing is getting better each day. We are nymph and streamer fishing with dries in the afternoon if conditions permit. Some of the fish we have caught are full of nymphs. Fish are being caught from the powerhouse to our access point below Hwy 411. Toccoa River - Water temps are very similar to the other rivers, but cooler on low water. We have seen our first good hatches here. Black caddis and little stones have been coming off. I think the mayflies will start here before the Hiwassee. It is usually more difficult to catch good generation schedules here, but we have begun to see favorable flows towards the end of the week and weekends. Now is the time to schedule fishing on this river. It is good. Holston River - This tailrace lies below Cherokee dam, just north of Knoxville, off I - 40. We started fishing some here last year and really like it. Currently flows are very favorable most days. The water is cold and almost clear. The fishing is good and getting better daily. Nymph fishing is best with the dry fly action getting started with favorable conditions. Midge larvae and dries with black fly larvae, white fly larvae, and caddis pupa on the menu. Caddis will soon be the major fare. Clinch River - We have also seen some favorable flows here lately. The water is very cold. Larger nymphs than usual have been working here. With drier weather, the Clinch could come on strong this spring. Tellico River - The Tellico Region - The streams are cold, very clear, and at a perfect level. Nymphs and boogers early with dry fly fishing for wild trout in the afternoon. The wind is not as big a factor here in the mountains as on the tailwaters. A variety of insects are beginning to appear. Dane Law, Southeastern Anglers. 866-55trout Tennessee Overhill Fishing Report January 2006 Hiwassee River - We begin the new year in great shape here. After a late summer/early fall dry spell, things have rebounded nicely. Hiwassee lake has plenty of water in it for this time of year and the big river is flowing at two turbines 24/7 right now. Drift boat fly fishing is the way to go. The fish and insects are in a typical winter pattern. Our main hatch is the small baetis that comes off in the slicker water from near noon until mid afternoon. On some days the hatch is heavier than others. We do see an occasional caddis during the day but it can't be of much importance. Just a reminder of things to come. We have not seen any winter stoneflies yet, but should soon. The river is probably fishing a little better now than this time last year. This time of year, the weather is a big factor. We are concentrating our efforts on the upper section of river. On most days we start out stripping some wooly buggers and streamers, and then go to small dries near lunch time. We are catching primarily smaller fish, but have hooked up a few much larger fish on streamers. Tellico Basin - The streams here are fishing very well. The Delayed Harvest section of the Tellico is the highlight of the area. Insect activity seems to be mostly small stoneflies. The water is generally cold here and we have not seen any caddis or mayflies lately. The nymph fishing is very good right now with above average size fish coming to net. The fishing on the lower section of the river has returned. The tributaries are also fishing good. Mainly in the lower reaches and on warmer days. We have actually had a few days where we could go up high and catch some brook trout on dry flies, but that is not the norm. Clinch River - Rocky, our Clinch river expert, says that it is fishing very well currently. TVA has been giving good flow schedules for us (which means low water here) almost daily. Of course this can and will change , but Norris lake is somewhat on the low side now. The fish do not seem to be quite as picky as earlier in the year and are taking a variety of small nymph patterns fished under an indicator as well as some soft hackles and an occasional dry pattern. If the Clinch is on your list of southeastern tailwaters to fish, now may be a good time. Thanks, Dane Law, Southeastern Anglers 866-558-7688. Tennessee Overhill Fishing Report November 2005 Hiwassee River - Our fall season has finally begun. Due to the extended hot and dry spell, late September and October were tough. We had a few good trips on cloudy or rainy days, but on most days the fish just were not active. Our water temperatures have now cooled to the low 60's and the bite is much better. We have a nice mix of fall insects on most days including October caddis, green bodied caddis, a few tricos early and the small baetis are returning. We have some blue back herring coming through the turbines. We are catching some fat fish, and have had several spit up the baitfish as they are netted and released. We have released a few rainbows and browns in the 16 - 18 inch class lately. The best action is from the Powerhouse to Big Bend. Float trips have the option of a double float from the powerhouse to Towee or fishing to Big Bend with the float out of the gorge. Flow schedules are a little tricky right now, we have no abundance of water in the reservoirs and generation schedules follow the demand for power. Currently we have good flows for early weekday floats with flows diminishing as the week progresses. With the continued mild weather, good fishing could go well into December this year. Tellico Basin - The Tellico and its tributaries are low and clear now. The Tellico is fishing very well. The tributaries from the north are more productive than those flowing in from the south. We have a very similar mix of bugs as we do on the Hiwassee right now. Water temperatures are good and fluctuate from morning to evening. Small nymphs and our favorite dry patterns seem to be working best. Picking the right stretch of stream and being stealthy are the key factors. Clinch River - This river works best for us on lower flows, and that is what we are seeing right now. Flow schedules are always unpredictable, but we are seeing favorable flows more days of the week now than we have in the past year or so. Water temps are very favorable and the fish are actively feeding. Most fish seem to be taking midge larva and pupa and we have seen more black caddis than in the past. Particular patterns are a challenge. The fish will take one thing one day and another on the next. The fishing is technical with no generation but the fish are active. When we get a flow from one turbine, they are a little easier to fool and the streamer fishing can be exciting. Hiwassee River - TVA is currently running two turbines 24/7 during the week and pulsing from midnight until 10:00 a.m. this weekend. The current reservoir operating plan mandates these weekend release schedules from Tellico Basin - The Tellico river and its tributaries are really holding their own. Water temps on the Tellico are currently above 65 degrees. The cooler ambient temps should drop these temps in short order. The fishing is not that bad on the Tellico with some fish rising and nymphs working also in the higher reaches. This is the time of year that I like to leave the river alone and let the fish rest. September is a good month to sit back and anticipate the upcoming delayed harvest season. It should be better than ever this year as it has been moved to Turkey creek up to the mouth of North River. This is a longer and much more wader friendly section, it will also give hold over rainbows access to better sections of the river for the rest of the year. We will start fishing it in October. Insects are still very prolific, with Isonychias, Pseudocloeons, and caddis still coming off. The tributaries are fishing better than the big river with cooler water temps. This is where we are concentrating our efforts for now. Some larger browns are being released in the tribs. The water levels are low and very clear. Proper approach and presentation are critical. We know how to do it. Clinch River - TVA is giving us several days a week with favorable flows here. The river is currently fishing the best it has all year for us. We have two float options depending on generation schedule. Both floats from Toccoa River - Due to above average rainfall in the watershed and the consequential erratic and high generation schedule from Blue Ridge dam, we have not fished the tailrace much since early spring. We seem to be in a drier weather pattern now and the fall fishing could be very good as we see more low water days. We will keep our eyes on it. New Waters - Our team is pushing north and exploring new and exciting tailwaters in East Tennessee. Some of these show great promise and we expect to be offering trips in these areas as soon as some logical issues are solved. These fisheries include trout floats, small stream offerings as well as some smallmouth opportunities. Tennessee Overhill Fishing Report 7/31/05 The Hiwassee River - TVA is currently running two turbines 24 hours during the week. Water release on Saturday and Sunday runs from 10:00 a.m. until midnight each day. This is very near a perfect release schedule for this time of year. Water temps with generation are 62 degrees, which is slightly under temps this time last year. The fishing is currently very good, and should continue to fish well for August. The Isonychia are in full swing right now. We are seeing both males and females daily, and a fairly heavy hatch every three days or so. We have a few caddis hatching and some small baetis late in the afternoons, especially after a shower. This is the time of year on the Hiwassee that an angler can productively fish a variety of methods. On many trips, we are dry fly fishing from boat ramp to boat ramp. Our favorite Isonychia patterns, caddis, Attractors, Grasshoppers and beetles are beginning to bring some action. Dry - dropper rigs are working as well as indicator - nymph rigs in certain locations. Swinging soft hackles downstream is productive. The fish are very active right now. Properly presented streamers may be the best bet for larger fish, especially during cloudy days. Other area waters - We have been so busy on the Hiwassee river with it fishing so well, that we have not spent considerable time on other streams. The Clinch is giving favorable flows and we are hearing that it is fishing better than earlier in the year. We will do some scouting there soon. The Tellico basin is in the usual holding pattern for this time of year. The natural streams there have begun to get a little warm and low. The best fishing is early in the morning and then again late in the evening. With the low, clear water an angler must be stealthy with a good delicate presentation. The Tellico area will come back around in September with some cooler nights and cool rainfall. Tennessee Overhill Fishing Report - 6/17/05 Hiwassee River - This is definitely our choice of summer drift boat trips. The Big River is rolling. Water temperature is 58 degrees. TVA is currently running two turbines 24/7 during the week, and from 10:00 a.m. until midnight on the weekends. Lake levels above the tailrace are in excellent condition. The fish are fat and healthy. Even the small fish are fat. Mayfly hatches are good. We are finishing up our sulfur hatch and have begun to see the signature summer mayflies, the Isonychia Bicolor. As with all the mayfly hatches this spring, the Isonychias seem to be larger than last year and the hatch is a little heavier. We also have another round of caddis coming off, and terrestrials are becoming more important. Some days have seen blue wings in the mornings and evenings. It is currently possible to fish dry flies all day long. We are using a large variety of patterns, and our favorite Isonychias. Dropper rigs are working well. The streamer fishing is also good, especially on cloudy days. We are floating from the powerhouse to Reliance, through the gorge and the trophy section. The way things look right now, we expect to be on this stretch of river through September. Clinch River - Rocky has been on the Clinch every week lately. TVA is giving us some floatable days on both weekdays and weekends. The water temps are still under 55 degrees here. We are beginning the trips around 8:00 a.m. or as generation indicates, and finishing up in the afternoon. It is mostly light nymph fishing with indicators, and streamer fishing in the afternoon as the one turbine catches up with the float. We are catching fish on different patterns than previously. Somewhat larger nymphs and scuds are catching fish. The river actually seems to be fishing better now than earlier in the spring. Go figure. Tellico River basin - This area is fishing very well right now. The water levels are holding up, and the cool spring has helped keep water temperatures low. The water is starting to warm on the lower Tellico. Fishing on the Tellico is best above Turkey creek. The major tributaries are cool and a little low, but fishing well. We have had several grand slams recently with catches of wild rainbows, browns, and brookies. A client recently released a wild eight + inch brook trout. With patience, stealth, and a good approach, larger browns are a possibility on the small streams . Hatches are good, with a variety of bugs to choose from. We have the patterns. Tennessee Overhill Fishing Report – May 4, 2005 Hiwassee River - This river is fishing very well for us right now. Water temperatures throughout the valley are about 58 degrees, which is still nice and cool for this time of year. TVA is currently running a pulsing schedule to finish up lake fill to summer pool. Hiwassee lake should reach summer pool by May 20th at which time I expect a one turbine release for a while and then a morning pulse schedule followed by two turbine releases at 11:00 a.m. We are drift fishing from the Reliance picnic area to hwy 411 or a private access point below there. This is a beautiful stretch of river with huge rock bluffs, whitewater rapids, and plenty of solitude from other fishermen. The wade fishing in the quality zone of the upper river is very good right now. We have finished up the Hendrickson hatch and are waiting on the sulfurs to appear. They should start showing up around mid month. Blue wings are coming out on cool, cloudy days. We currently have several species of caddis and some stoneflies hatching. Dry flies and soft hackles or emergers are working well. The nymph fishing is probably most productive until late in the day when dries work well. As always, streamers and wooly buggers are probably producing the largest fish. Tellico Basin - The river and streams here are fishing very well also. Water levels are excellent and temperatures are cool. We have a large variety of insects hatching. Caddis, stoneflies and several mayfly species are all possible in a day here. We have been concentrating our efforts on the small streams as well as the Tellico itself. The brown trout population on the Tellico seems to be very good right now. Stonefly nymphs on the bottom will find them. The brook trout fishing in the headwaters is good in the afternoons. We are starting the day with some nymph fishing and turning to dry flies as the day warms. The water temperature is cool with gin clear water on most days. The stream levels are somewhat low and require a stealthy approach. This area is probably fishing at or near peak right now. Clinch River - TVA has given us some good low water schedules to fish here during the past month, but due to recent heavy rains in the northern part of the state, Norris dam is once again releasing too much water to make drift trips feasible on a regular basis. The trips we were able to do in April were somewhat disappointing as a whole. We had a couple of floats that were productive, but for the most part it did not fish as we expected. The Clinch is a great stream with large fish potential. We will continue to monitor it. It will turn on for us one day. Our sister tailwater at Copperhill - TVA began giving much better flow schedules here towards the end of April. We are currently getting several days of good flows each week. However it changes every day and we do not know the schedule until the afternoon before. The river also has some clarity issues due to muddy water coming in from Hemptown and Hothouse creek. It takes one day after a heavy rain for the water to clear and become fishable again. Having said all that, it is fishing very well when flows and clarity are correct. Hatches include Hendricksons, blue wings, sulfurs and caddis. We have released several rainbows and browns between sixteen and twenty inches in the lower stretches. The larger fish are coming on streamers and wooly buggers fished correctly. Tennessee Overhill Fishing Report – April 4, 2005 Hiwassee River - This river has really started fishing well for us the last few weeks. TVA is maintaining a constant flow from one turbine at 1500 cfs. Water temperature is cool at 48 degrees. We have been fortunate to receive plenty of rainfall in the watershed. The reservoirs above this tailwater are in fantastic shape. We should have an excellent spring and summer season due to the rain and cool temps. We have had good flows since Memorial Day last year, and you can really see the increase in aquatic insects as a result. We currently have Hendricksons and Blue wing olives as well as small caddis of several species. Our larger caddis are getting ready to start coming off. The black and early brown stoneflies are starting to fade away now. We are using a variety of techniques to catch fish. Early in the day, nymphs, especially pheasant tails seem to producing the most fish. As the day warms and the mayflies begin to hatch, we are fishing dry flies to rising fish. We currently have the best early season mayfly hatches that we have seen here in several years. Probably the biggest news is the health of our brown trout population. We have started catching browns on a daily basis. Several browns from 16 - 23 inches have been released during the last two weeks. The larger browns are coming on streamer patterns properly presented. The brown trout fishing may even improve as the water warms and the larger caddis begin to hatch. We are currently floating from the powerhouse to Reliance through the gorge, and will continue to do so as the flow allows. Tellico Basin - The river and streams here are fishing very well also. Water levels are excellent and temperatures are cool. We have a large variety of insects hatching . . . Hendricksons, Red Quills, caddis, stoneflies, and some green drakes. We have been concentrating our efforts on the small streams. We have taken several browns over 16 inches and seen several more. The brook trout fishing in the headwaters is good in the afternoons. We are starting the day with some nymph fishing and turning to dry flies as the day warms. The next two months here should be peak season. Clinch River - We like to fish here on low water, and TVA has given us some good schedules to fish during the past month. Fishing started a little slow, but really picked up on our last trip there. We have boated a few rainbows over 16 inches on the Clinch and hooked up with a couple of really big fish. The techniques are light nymphing with an indicator and small midge pupas, pheasant tails, and scuds. We are starting to see some sulfurs begin to hatch. As of today, TVA is once again releasing too much water to fish, but should reduce the flow to a favorable level next week. Our sister tailwater at Copperhill - We only had a few days to float this river early in March. The fishing was good on nymphs and streamers. TVA has been releasing too much water lately for us to drift the section that we like. It may be a few more weeks before we get the right flows here, but it should be outstanding once the levels recede to a lower flow. Tennessee Overhill Fishing Report – March 1, 2005 Hiwassee River - TVA is currently replacing the older of the two generators at Apalachia powerhouse. We have a constant one turbine flow plus some spilling from the dam. The water is clear and ideal for drift boat fly fishing. Water temps are approaching 50 degrees. Temps could go back down some as spilling is decreased. It is a little too high for wade fishing, but should return to approximately 1400 cfs soon which is wadeable. Current hatches include little black stoneflies, baetis, pseudocloeons, and midges. We will see caddis below Reliance soon. For some reason, anytime TVA spills water, it brings on hatches of insects outside of their normal hatch time frame. We are seeing some rogue bugs. I think a lot of our larger mayfly nymphs are starting to get more active. We are catching fish on small dark boogers and a variety of nymphs. In the afternoon, dry fly action is good. We are currently drifting the upper river and have the option of double floating from the powerhouse to Towee creek on full days or going down to Reliance through the gorge section. On fair afternoons, we have seen rising fish in several locations below the steps. As the water levels drop some in the coming weeks, we will also be floating from Reliance to Hwy 411, which has looked very good the few times we have been on it this year.. March looks like an exciting time on the Hiwassee. Our sister tailwater at Copperhill - TVA has begun giving us some favorable flows here. We like to drift this river with only the bypass gate going. Weekends have been dependable as well as many weekdays. The flows should only get more favorable as TVA fills the lakes for spring. Water temps are in the low to mid 40's, these fish like cold water. We have caddis and baetis hatches occurring on fair days. The nymph and streamer fishing is good also. Average fish size is very good. Like the big river, I expect great things from here in the coming days. Clinch River - We have finally started getting some fishable days here. TVA has given us some windows every week for several weeks now. We like to fish here with most of our day being at 0 generation. Weekends tend to be a little more predictable right now. Anytime we see an average daily flow at or below 3800 cfs, we should have a window to fish. This flow schedule will become more common soon, as TVA fills Norris for summer pool. The water is cold as it always is. The fish we have caught are fat and healthy from having so much water on them for an extended length of time. They have not seen a fly or lure for quite sometime either. Fishing here is a contrast to the rivers mentioned above. We like long leaders, small flies, light weight, and a good down stream dead drift. We fish small flies to large fish in slick water here. Size 18 - 22 zebra midge pupas and #16 gray sowbugs have been producing well. If we start or finish the day here on a one turbine flow, the streamer fishing gets pretty exciting also. I predict our largest fish of the year to come from the Clinch if the flows continue to give us enough days on the water here. Tellico River Basin - No TVA here. These are all natural trout streams. Flows are variable, depending on Mother Nature. They have been very healthy here lately. The Tellico itself takes a day or two to clear after a good rain. The upper tributaries can clear several hours after the rain stops. The water temps vary greatly depending on where you are, and the time of day. The water is still cold here, in the low 40's in most places. The fishing has been starting a little slow with good activity during mid-day. Hatches include small stoneflies, some caddis, and the beginning of Hendricksons and Drakes. We have taken some really nice browns both in the Tellico and on the tributaries. The big browns have come on nymphs. I am partial to rubber legs. I know he will be mad, but I have to mention that Mark took a wild 18" brown in a 10ft wide stream on a nymph today. He landed it on a 2wt rod. The fish may have never been caught before, and sure hasn't ever seen fish food before. Conclusion - I am extremely optimistic about our opportunities for the next 60 days. Due to adequate winter rainfall, every stream that we operate on is in great shape. Considering TVA's new operating guidelines, we have multiple streams with very fishable conditions during the next few months. We have also begun drifting a nearby small river that promises to be a great wild trout fishery. We do not currently have dawn to dusk dry fly action as can be seen in June, but I predict the largest fish of the season to come to the boats in the next 60 days. Hiwassee River Fishing Report February 2005 TVA is currently running two turbines 24/7 until February 7th at which time they will take the older unit off line for replacement. With near normal rainfall for the next few months, we should see a constant flow from one turbine until May 20th at which time the new turbine will go on line. With abnormal rainfall TVA may have to pulse some or spill with high rainfall events. Lake levels are good and we appear to be getting adequate rainfall now, so we expect the one turbine flow for most of the period until May 20th at which time I expect a two turbine flow. This is as close to an ideal flow as one could ask for on the st1:place w:st="on">Hiwassee river. One turbine flows for any length of time are a real treat. The upper river is floatable in the drift boats with only two short portages required, and many shoal areas are wadeable. The stretch of river from Reliance to Hwy 411 is best fished on a one turbine flow and we are excited about the prospects of fishing that section as well as the quality section through the gorge. The flows should be great for the insects also. It is rare that we get to fish the Hendricksons and Sulphurs below the stairsteps during March and April. The current water temperature is in the low to mid forties. The river is currently fishing best on fair days with sunshine and little wind. The bite is definitely best in the afternoon as the water has warmed slightly. We are currently starting our days with nymph and streamer fishing, and going to dry flies on pretty afternoons. We have seen some shad coming through the generators for two months now. We do not have shad everyday, but I think the larger fish are staying close to the bottom and waiting on a large meal. The larger fish are fat and silvery. It is easy to tell they have eating baitfish for some time now. I do not know if the one turbine will draw enough to continue to pull the baitfish through or not. If it does, February fishing could be very exciting. On warmer afternoons we have hatches of small black stoneflies, baetis and psuedocloeons to give us some winter dry fly action. Wind and sunshine seem to be the determining factor for this. The other streams and rivers of the Tennessee Overhill region should start fishing soon, and we will include reports on them at the end of the month. TVA is giving us some good flow schedules for the Clinch River on the weekends starting soon. We should also have desirable flows for our sister river at Copperhill soon. Tennessee Overhill Fishing Report Holiday Report, 2004 Hiwassee River – Current water temps are about 57 degrees F throughout the upper river drainage area. These are very nice temps for this time of year, keeping the fish active. TVA has informed us that we can expect a two-turbine flow for the remainder of the year, in preparation for the generator replacement project scheduled for January. In January we can expect a one-turbine flow until the new unit is installed. We have actually had flows of more than 2800 cfs on several occasions since Thanksgiving due to heavy rains in the watershed. If the rain keeps up, we can also expect spillage after the New Year. The streambed above the powerhouse is clean and we may be able to fish it on minimum spillage. I think clarity may be good if flows remain below 4000 cfs. TVA plans on having the new unit installed much quicker than last years project, so with any luck we could be back to normal by early spring. Having said all that, the river is fishing great when we find a day with good weather and near normal flows. Insect activity is centered around the little baetis and false baetis mayflies coming off around midday. As of Saturday, Dec. 4th, we still had a few caddis fluttering about. Toward the end of January we will begin to see the small winter stoneflies. For those with good vision, we do have a few hours of dry fly action on most days in the early afternoon. It is technical dry fly fishing, but a lot of fun. We are currently fishing a mixed bag. I like the streamer and nymph fishing for most of the day with the added challenge of the small dries for a little while. We are taking some above average rainbows on every trip. They are coming primarily on the streamers, sometimes nymphs. We have seen a few shad in the river now for several weeks. We know that more must be there as evidenced by some of the football bellied fish we are catching. Some of the rainbows are extremely fat on minnows and are somewhat keyed on white patterns. A very slow swing with little or no retrieve on sinking and floating lines works well. Another technique is to dead drift a white streamer- nymph combination below a strike indicator. It can be deadly. Lately a day’s fishing has been averaging around fifteen fish released per angler. Some days are better than this. Fishing is definitely best during mid afternoon when the water has warmed ever slightly. The better fishing seems to be as close to the powerhouse as we can get, which is normal for this time of year. Our current approach is to fish slowly from the powerhouse down to Towee creek. From now until the end of February we are offering a winter special due to shorter day length. We are beginning our trips around 10:30 a.m. EST and going until 4:30 or so. We are also serving nice sandwiches in the boats in lieu of a shore lunch in an effort to spend as much time fishing as possible. Our current winter rates are $250.00 per boat for one or two anglers. We are also maintaining maximum flexibility due to chance of bad weather. On good days fish numbers can rival those of June. This may be the best shot at large fish on the Hiwassee, fishing streamers slow. Tennessee Overhill Fishing Report October 25th, 2004 Hiwassee River – TVA is currently running two generators, 24-7. The water is beautifully clear and cooling. The temperature is 65 degrees. I feel like Hiwassee lake had a short and sweet turnover about two weeks ago, shortly after Ivan. TVA spilled water for two weeks after the Hurricane passed. Once the spill stopped we had several days of murky water coming from the powerhouse, with the flow from above being clear. TVA says that Hiwassee lake is now fully mixed with a surface temperature of around 65 degrees. This tells us that lake turnover is finished. We can expect full generation until late January when the turbine replacement project begins. Fishing is currently very good, and could even get better as fall progresses. After the September lull we are seeing more abundant insects on the river. The caddis hatches are perfect. Not too many, but enough to get the fish looking for them. We have a light hatch of orange bodied October caddis, with the fish really keyed on them, especially in the afternoon. We also have cinnamon caddis, black caddis on some days and a dark speckled sedge coming off. Evenings with no wind are producing many baetis and false baetis hatches. Late in the day, fish are also eating midges in the slower water for some technical fishing to try your luck on. On cloudy days, especially early, the streamer fishing can be excellent. We are boating good numbers of fish, with more browns and big fish coming to the boat. As an added bonus the weather and the leaves are just great. Tellico River – Delayed harvest is currently under way on the lower river and should get better in the coming months. We have landed several large fish there already. The water is cold and running average height to slightly low, which is perfect for wade fishing. The tributaries are currently on fire in the afternoons. The browns are starting to pair in Holly Flats, and the brook trout fishing is excellent. This is spooky water and stealth is absolutely necessary, but by being slow and patient you can do very well. Clinch River - The winter draw down continues on Norris Lake. However, there are some things going on right now that could mean good float fishing in the near future. Apparently, TVA only has one turbine available. I'm not sure if they're replacing the other turbine or fixing something, but they've been running the one turbine almost 24 hours a day to maintain the draw down schedule. They are also sluicing water on Saturdays to maintain the two-turbine flow guaranteed in the recreational flow schedule. The new winter pool level on Norris is around 1000 feet. This means we're less than 10 feet away from winter pool levels. We could have low water for float fishing soon, especially if the fall turns dry. The river is still running incredibly cold and it's been fairly clear every time we have fished it. The Clinch has been running high lately which is great for the health of the fishery. Fishable water has been very limited, but when you can find low water...you can find the fish. The hottest flies right now for low water, have been black and silver midges, white midge larvae, and gray scuds. Fishing during generation has been mixed. Using a drift boat can get you to the fish...and big streamers with a slow twitching retrieve can entice some bites . But you may have to mix up your retrieval rate until you start getting hook ups. One thing is for sure, as soon as we can get some low water for a predictable amount of time, we will be on the fish. Tennessee Overhill Fishing Reporto: September 1, 2004 Hiwassee River – The tailrace below Apalachia powerhouse has been and continues to be the best place we know of for late summer trout fishing in our area. If we were restricted to describing the river with only one word it would be DEPENDABLE. TVA has done an excellent job of managing flows on the river this season. We currently have adequate flows to drift from the powerhouse to Reliance for a days fishing. On most weekend mornings we have low water until 10:00 a.m. for outstanding wade fishing opportunities. They are running water all day on most weekdays, and only pulsing after midnight until morning. This is great for habitat and fish health. We are not fish counters, but if you are interested, we are releasing between 20 and 40 fish on a full day trip, depending on conditions. We continue to catch an above average fish or two on nearly every trip. We have hooked up with a few real pigs lately, but have been unsuccessful at getting them to the boats. The new brown trout program implemented by TWRA continues to improve their position in the river. We have been releasing browns on every trip recently. Hatches are scarce, as you would expect for this time of year. We still have a few late day Isonychias, and I believe caddis are becoming more prevalent. The abnormally cool mornings of earl August brought out some tricos. Even without many bugs flying, the trout will rise to dry flies most of the day. Nymphs and streamers are producing also. Water temps are still under 67 degrees all the way down to Reliance when the generators are running. I see no reason why the Hiwassee won’t fish well right on through September. I predict a short lake turn over sometime in early October, and then a fantastic fall season. Just to put a bug in your ear, local talk is that Hiwassee Lake is full of blue back herring right now. Following lake turnover we may have a good shad kill this fall and winter. Shad and herring populations and their fall die off happen in cycles. Last year we had very few come through the turbines and they were too big. This year should be right on the money in both size and quantity. Stay tuned. We will keep you posted. Tennessee Overhill Fishing Report May 29, 2004 Hiwassee River - TVA begins two turbine releases on Saturday May 29th. We will begin our float trips there on Sunday. We will be floating the upper section from the powerhouse down to Reliance through the gorge and the trophy section. If the last month of wade fishing is any indication of what we should expect, the fishing will be awesome. We have been releasing nice fish throughout this stretch of river lately. We currently have very good numbers of insects coming off the water. Hatches include: Caddis, Sulphurs, Cahills, Blue wings; terrestrials are becoming more abundant. We should have good flights of Cicadas over the water soon. The fish are really keying on the emergers over the dries most of the time. Big dries will become more important as the flows increase. We have an increase in the numbers of mid- sized brown trout in the river, and expect to be catching many more browns this season. June, July, and August should be great months on the Hiwassee. Our sister tailwater - The stretch that we are currently fishing down to Copperhill continues to be a consistent producer. Due to somewhat dry conditions there, we may be able to continue to fish this river on into the summer. We are able to drift the boats there on low flows and like to have about 200cfs for the fishing. We have been doing well with nymphs in the fast water. Large stonefly patterns have been taking the best fish. The hatches have been slim and mixed, but fish will come up and eat on top at various times. If trout in our area are going to key on the cicadas, here is probably where it will happen first. There has been a tremendous cicada hatch here and I am beginning to see them over the water. The lack of aquatic hatches could make the cicadas attractive to fish here. The Tellico Basin –The main Tellico tributaries have been on fire for the last couple of weeks. Green drakes, yellow and brown stones, caddis, and other mayflies are hatching well in the afternoons. The fish are really looking up and good small stream dry fly fishing is at it’s finest. The southern Appalachian grand slam is very possible now with a day of wild rainbow’s, brown’s, and brookies not out of the question. The Clinch River – I feel like this is the real sleeper of the bunch. The Clinch has just come off of eighteen months of high flows and very limited access. This river grows big fish fast and now with lower flows we can find them much easier. The Clinch fishes much differently than our other rivers. The main food sources there are scuds, midges, and baitfish. Very light nymphing with scuds and midge pupas as well as streamer fishing with sink tips are the preferred methods here. We are excited to have added Michael “Rocky” Cox to our team of guides this year. Michael lives in Lenoir City, Tennessee and has grown up fishing the streams and rivers of the Overhill region. He is a true expert on the Clinch River. There are not too many around. We look forward to increasing our trip numbers and angling success on the Clinch due to Michael’s expertise. Southeastern Anglers – Our guide service has continued to grow over the last few months. In addition to Rocky, Tony Wilson is now guiding for us on the Hiwassee River. Tony rows a classic wooden drift boat and has been guiding on the river for many years. We have received additional permits from the U.S. Forest service for guiding in the Cherokee National Forest and continue to evaluate new local waters. We have added a new 2004 Clackacraft to our fleet of boats. Mark Scarborough will be at its helm. Our primary focus that I established as a one man operation will continue to be paramount. We only offer the highest quality fly fishing adventures in the Tennessee Overhill. Tennessee Overhill Fishing Report May 5, 2004 It looks as though the spring weather pattern is starting to stabilize somewhat in the Overhill region of sTennessee. We did have some early warm weather in April, but for the most part the temperatures have been cool. We have received several inches of much needed rain over the last few weeks, and the temperatures are scheduled for average to above average for this week. Early morning and evening wade fishing on the Hiwassee River from the powerhouse to Reliance is awesome. It really is some of the best I have ever seen. The wading is a little treacherous in places, but a slow approach usually gets you to the runs in good shape. TVA is giving a pulse of around 700cfs at 10:00 a.m., 2:00p.m., and 6:00p.m. It is important to know where you are in relation to rising water, or just get out and take a break when the pulse reaches the area you are fishing. Our guides are skilled at negotiating around the pulses when guiding wade trips on the river. Insects currently include sulphurs, light Cahills, baetis and blue wing olives as well as several caddis. Fish are also chasing streamers well. The brown trout program is showing real promise. We are catching more browns than ever before, and many are good solid fourteen inch fish and better. TVA will be finishing up the generator replacement next week and we can expect two turbine flow by Memorial Day. We will begin our float trips through the trophy section at that time. June and July should be some of the best float fishing of the season. We are currently offering float trips on the lower Toccoa River, just a short drive over in Copperhill. We can navigate the drift boats there on minimum flows. The fishing is very good there also. Insects include sulphurs and blue wings and a few caddis. We are catching the larger browns on streamers. The Tellico watershed has been very good in the evenings as the water temperatures warm. Hiwassee River Fishing Report April 14, 2004 Spring has been slow to come to the Tennessee Overhill, but looks as though it has finally arrived. The redbuds and shad bushes have shown their colors and the dogwoods are now in full bloom. We will soon have leaves on the trees. March rainfall was somewhat low and as a result the flows on the Hiwassee have been reduced. The mountain streams are running a little low and very clear. TVA has resumed a pulsing schedule on the Hiwassee. This means that they are running one generator for one hour, and none for three. They will maintain this schedule through May at which time we will have a flow of two generators. If the April rains pick up, they may return to one generator flow before that time. The river is perfect for wade fishing from the powerhouse to Hwy 411 bridge. We are operating the drift boats on the lower section from Hwy 411 to Patty Bridge. Fishing is very good right now. We are catching predominately smaller rainbows on the float trips, with some real nice browns being released up river especially in the trophy section. Hatches include blue wing olives, Hendricksons, and several caddis. Nymphs and emerger patterns are working well on the float trips with some fish on dries in the evenings. Dries, emergers, and nymphs are working well up river, with very good spinner falls in the evenings. We had hoped to be floating the trophy section now, but can’t due to the reduced flows. This could change in May with more rainfall. We have received our permit and are now fully licensed to run outfitted guide trips in the Tellico watershed. This includes the Tellico River, North River, and Bald River including their tributaries. These are perfect wade fishing streams. The aquatic ecology of these streams has vastly improved from previous years due to better forest practices and reduced streamside activity. The Green Drake hatch is currently in progress on the Tellico. We have released several very nice browns and bows there recently, with the average fish being very nice. If you have not thought about the Tellico lately, it might be time to revisit it. If you have never fished it, I strongly encourage a trip there. It is a high quality wade fishing experience. We are also offering drift boat trips on another nearby tailwater that is fishing very well. We are releasing several 14-18 inch fish on most trips there. The float there is very similar to the quality we have in the trophy section of the Hiwassee. Blue wings and Hendricksons are coming off during mid afternoon. Larger fish are being caught on wooly buggers, emergers, and dries. Please call or email for details on this float trip. Hiwassee River Fishing Report March 6, 2004 The jonquils are blooming and the redbuds are showing their color in Reliance now. Spring is just around the corner. It is time to kick off the spring fishing season on the Hiwassee River! Last week’s warm weather and the first warm rain of the year really got things going on the river. The water temperature rose from 43 degrees to almost fifty degrees. This really got a lot more bugs hatching. We are in the middle of one of the best stonefly hatches that we have seen in several years. This is a very good sign of things to come in the next few weeks. We should see March browns, Hendricksons, Blue wing olives and the return of caddis very soon. Some bug sampling we have done shows more aquatic insects on the stream bottom than we have seen in the past. We seem to be getting just enough rain to keep the lake levels full, but not enough to cause TVA to have to spill any water over the top of Apalachia dam. If the current weather pattern continues, we will have a constant flow of 1200cfs until late May at which time it will go to 2400cfs. This is absolutely perfect flow conditions for our river. We can float all sections in the drift boats, and many more places are accessible for wading. We expect to be floating the trophy section through the gorge this year in April. We have not been able to do that in several years. Early spring fishing there can be wonderful, and the azaleas and rhododendron are blooming there at that time. Several nice fish have been caught during the past few weeks, and the browns are beginning to get more active. A local fisherman caught a 26 inch brown last week on a beadhead nymph. Our new brown trout regulations went into effect last week. The new regulation protects our small browns until they reach fourteen inches. This will really help our fishery in just a year or so. Spring fishing on the Hiwassee looks great this year. Give us a call and let’s go! 2004 Hiwassee River Fishing Forecast January 5th, 2004 The same factors that made 2003 a year to remember on the “HI” in “RELI” are going to make 2004 very special also. We have got water! The forested watershed from which our river flows has recovered from a multi year drought. The headwaters, feeder streams, and reservoirs are all in great shape. We had abnormally heavy rains in 2003, which we are thankful for. We are currently getting adequate rains to supply the clean, cool water that we need. TVA biologists have told us that we now have an established population of Blueback Herring in the reservoirs above Apalachia powerhouse, and can expect a shad kill from them annually. When these small fish get caught close to the surface and the dams during periods of frigid weather they freeze and die. These dead, dying and crippled fish are washed from the lake above and provide a fantastic winter food source for the trout below. The trout gorge on the shad and become fat very quickly. They also become very catchable on a variety of streamers that imitate the baitfish. This is when we catch our really big fish on a fly rod. It is going to take a period of pipe busting weather to really get the shad going. I have seen just a few so far this year, but hold on, they are coming. Late January and February could be our big fish months this year. TVA is scheduled to go to a single generator flow during the middle of January. They are going to be replacing one of the generators at Apalachia powerhouse. The outage is scheduled to take until mid March to complete. The lake levels have been drawn down to winter pool, and Hiwassee Lake is right at 1,465 feet, which is the target winter level. With normal winter rainfall, the one operating generator should supply adequate out flows to hold the lake at this level until they start filling for summer pool. Above normal rainfall could require some spillage to relieve the lakes. But as we saw last year, it often clears quickly, and does not affect fishing but for a few days. The prospect of one turbine for three months opens up a lot of possibilities we have not seen in several years. The whole twenty mile stretch of trout sustaining river is floatable on one generator, and the fish will be a little |