Current streamflow 580cfs
Water temps- mid 60s in lower elevations, high 50s to low 60s in higher elevations
Current hatches:
Cahill mayflies
Yellow sallies
Golden stoneflies
Tan caddis
Sulphurs
Hot flies:
Parachute cahill 14-12
Parachute sulphur 16-14
Elk hair caddis 16-12
Hair-winged drake 14-12
Bwo & Hendrickson flymphs 16-14
Pat's rubber legs 12-10
Walt's worm, olive or natural 16-12
Jigged leeches, olive or black 12
This past week, we've been fishing our mountain trout streams from the headwaters to below Bald River Falls and making up for lost time now that River Road is finally reopened. We can honestly say that with the cooler spring and frequent rains that we've had so far this year we have not seen stream conditions this perfect going into June in the 6 years since we opened the shop. In years past, by mid-June, water temps have warmed to the point (68°+) that trout are beginning to stress in most of the Tellico below the Bald River confluence. This year, water temps are still solidly in the mid-60s all the way to town, meaning that the whole river is still in the prime temp range to support trout. With consistent rain, streamflows are also in a great place to keep water temps cool and consistent.
We expect these conditions to remain for the next week or two. We are now experiencing air temps in the low to mid 80s with 90s on the way, but as long as rains keep flows up, the temps will remain relatively cool. We'll continue to monitor water temps and keep folks updated once we start to see temps rise above 68° in the lower elevations.
With higher flows, heavy nymphs are the best bet for the Tellico River. For wild trout streams, your favorite dry fly of choice will do the trick. There's enough variety in hatches and terrestrial insects at the moment that trout will pounce on just about anything that's presented well.
Now is a fantastic time to get out and enjoy some incredible spring weather and great fishing, no matter what stream or species you choose to target.