Current streamflow- 54cfs
Water Temps- 57-62° depending on location and elevation.
The first signs of Fall colors are making their appearance. This goes for the foliage as well as our southern natives. We are still at least a couple weeks away from the first brook trout spawn so it's still a great time to hit some small streams and admire some colored up brookies. We'll keep you posted when spawn begins and it's time to give them some space.
In other news, we are just days away from the start of Delayed Harvest, the best time of year to try your hand at a trophy sized brown or rainbow trout. As a reminder to anyone who isn't already familiar with the regulations this time of year:
-Catch and release only from Oct 1st thru Feb 28th, from North River confluence upstream to the North Carolina state line.
-Artificial only in this section. Scented plastic baits are also prohibited.
-There are no single hook restrictions contrary to popular belief.
- The Tellico/Citico Daily Permit is not required during DH
Streamflows on the Tellico are still low and clear. With air temp lows in the 40s and highs in the 70s, water temps are great and won't be an issue going into DH season. A good amount of rain is in the forecast Fri-Sun so expect rising water levels as the weekend progresses. This will most likely help the fishing unless the stream blows out, which with the current forecast doesn't look like that will be the case.
Once that water comes up, fish the usual DH season favorites that we all know and love. Squirmies, eggs, mops and Pat's. Frenchies, Walt's worms, soft hackle hare's ears and perdigons are also great options for those of us who don't like riding dirty.
Give us a call, shoot us a message or stop by the shop for the latest conditons. Tight lines.