Current Streamflow- 41.9 cfs
Water Temps- mid 50s
Hatches:
October Caddis
Bwo
Tan midges
Black midges
Hot Flies:
Chubby chernobyls
Stimulators
Foam ants & beetles
Griffiths gnats
Frenchies
Rainbow warriors
Walt's worms
Flashback pheasant tails
Zebra midges
Streamflows on the Tellico and tribs are at bare bones levels right now. The last time we saw streamflows this low was in October of 2019 when the river hit a miniscule 39cfs. Thankfully now, unlike then, air and water temps are phenomenal. Water temps are currently in the 50s and overnight lows are reaching down into the 40s and lower still in the higher elevations. This has spared us from potentially lethal water temps or at the least stressed out fish. The trout are spooky and pickier than they are at higher flows, but are more than willing to eat and give a good fight if you play your cards right.
Now more than ever, stealth and a no nonsense presentation is key. You may find pockets of fish that have seen less pressure than others and will happily eat an egg or squirmy or other junk fly, but many fish, especially in the more pressured sections of river have quickly learned to scrutinize every aspect of your fly and presentation and turn you down at the slightest discrepancy. For these fish, have a good selection of smaller dries and nymphs and light tippet. Keep a low profile and keep your false casts to minimum. Make every drift count.
The wild trout of the Tellico and tributaries are still taking dry flies with gusto. Fishing pocket water and fast runs with a small dry and dropper will produce plenty of fish.
There's a little rain forecasted for early next week. Hopefully there's more in the forecast soon to bring that water up and keep DH going strong. Until then, enjoy the cool temps and fall colors and hone your skinny water skills.