Current streamflow- 77cfs
Water temps- low to mid 60s at Green Cove
Hatches:
White mayflies
Tan caddis
Yellow Sallies
Golden Stones
Salmonflies
Hot flies:
Cdc caddis-16-12
Parachute mayflies- asstd colors 16-12
Chubby Chernobyl- 14-10
Yellow stimulator- 16-12
Asstd perdigons- 18-14
Walt's worms olive/natural- 18-12
We've had quite the heat wave in East Tennessee this past week. With water levels already below normal and air temps in Tellico Plains hitting mid-90s, the heat puts trout at a higher risk of mortality in lower elevation sections of the Tellico, specifically from Bald River Falls downstream. This is a normal seasonal occurrence, as much of the lower river does not naturally hold cool enough water to sustain trout year-round and relies solely on stocking to support a temporary trout fishery. As a rule of thumb, the Tellico River from North River confluence upstream to the state line will have cool enough temps to support trout through the summer. However, the lowest portion of this section, from North River confluence upstream to Green Cove can experience water temp spikes up to 68° on hot days, putting trout at risk if you plan to catch and release, if not handled properly.
Best practice guidelines put 68°F as the maximum temp where trout can safely be caught and returned without increasing the chance of mortality. When temps hit this upper limit, fight fish quickly, leave them in the water as much as possible, and handle them as little as possible. Better yet, keep moving upstream until you find colder water temps. 65° and cooler is preferable. A thermometer comes in handy.
Now is a great time to go to the highest elevation streams where temps remain cold all year. These would include upper North River, upper Bald River and Sycamore creek. Now is also one of the best times to fish low elevation streams and lakes in the mornings and evenings to catch that bass popper bite. There's nothing better than wading a river and watching bass blow up on poppers to beat the summer heat.
We've got a chance of rain over the next few days and slight drops in temps that will hopefully bring some relief.