Current streamflow- 188cfs
Water temps- mid 60s to 70s depending on location.
The summer heat has finally caught up with us this week. Better than average streamflows for late July have thankfully kept things cooler than normal for mid-summer. You will be able to find temps at or below 65° from Green Cove upstream to the NC state line and on any tributary over 2,000' in elevation. You may be able to find good water temps below Green Cove but I would encourage anyone practicing catch and release to take a thermometer and measure water temps before fishing that low. If water temps read 68° or higher, move to higher elevations until you find temps below 68° to ensure that any trout released are not stressed to the point of morbidity.
Dry flies and small nymphs are the best choice to fish both upper Tellico and the tributaries. Select dries and nymphs in the 12-16 range. Slender bodied nymphs such as perdigons, rainbow warriors and frenchies have been top producers.
The heat of summer is also an excellent time to chase large and smallmouth bass in lower elevation streams and lakes, both of which tolerate being caught and released in the heat much better than trout. Mornings and evenings are prime feeding times for bass in both lakes and streams. A variety of streamers, crayfish patterns and poppers will produce fish. Give smallies on the fly a try. If you haven't caught one on a fly rod yet your missing out on an amazing fight.