Finally, the high flows are abating on my nearest tailwater. The fishing should be good now although with the low flows and nice weather expect to see a lot more people out on the water. Thankfully there are lots of options including smallmouth bass streams and the wild trout streams of the Great Smoky Mountains and the rest of east Tennessee.
On the tailwater scene, the usual flies are getting the job done. Midge fishing is coming on really strong and we will begin to see some dry fly opportunities as we head into summer. Sow bugs and other nymphs will pick up some fish in addition the the usual midge patterns. The lower Caney Fork is seeing a few bugs hatching including some Light Cahills and Sulfurs. These are generally only sporadic hatches but they can get the fish interested sometimes.
The other day I stopped by the Caney Fork on my way home from Nashville. The fishing was excellent during the 3 or so hours I fished. Fish were feeding on a variety of flies and were in great shape. There was a good range of sizes from about 8 inches up to 14 inches so we have a good mix of fish. The majority of the fish were rainbows but I did manage a few browns as well.
If you need any help or advice or would like to set up a guide trip, please feel free to contact me.
