Current Streamflow- 86cfs
Water temps- high 50s-low 60s
Hatches:
Midges 18-20
Tan caddis 16-14
Ants 16-14
Beetles 14-12
It has been cool and dry in the Tellico area this past week. River levels have dropped substantially and are currently at normal streamflow for this time of year. Being late summer/early fall, that means low and clear. It's a great time to fish a dry and dropper and target pocketwater. Tellico, Bald, North, and other tribs have all been fishing very well, but you'll need to use stealth to keep from spooking fish in low water. Move slowly, use available cover to your advantage to stay concealed, make as few false casts as possible, and make your first cast count.
Next week is the start of Delayed Harvest, in years past, during low streamflows, the hatchery has delayed stocking for a week or so or until conditions improve. Next week's forecast looks dry, so if streamflows continue to drop, they may delay or limit stocking until better conditions prevail. If this is the case, we'll do our best to update you as soon as we know.
Road Update: Cherohala Skyway is open for travel. However, the first approx. 8 miles of River Rd is still closed and will remain closed until the Bald River Bridge project is completed, which is scheduled for Fall of 2024. Upper River Rd from North River confluence upstream to the North Carolina line remains open and is accessible via North River Rd from the Skyway, or Wildcat Rd after you first turn on to River Rd. Either route will take about 1hr of travel time each way from town to the upper River, so plan for a little extra travel time.
Stocking will continue as normal through fall and winter, and this Delayed Harvest harvest is shaping up to be a great one for anyone willing to make the drive.