Current streamflow- 70cfs
Water temps- mid to upper 60s, low 70s in lower elevations
Hatches:
Yellow sally stoneflies
Golden stones
Tan caddis
Midges
Water conditions remain low and clear on East Tennessee streams with water temps pushing into the low 70s in in streams in lower elevations. This is a reminder to measure water temps and look for temperatures that are 68°F or lower. Fish early or late and avoid the heat of the day. Even at 68°, trout can become stressed while fighting them, increasing their risk of mortality. If you choose to fish in warmer temps and plan to catch and release, play trout as quickly as possible and avoid air exposure as much as possible. A quick pic is fine, but minimize time out of the water to a few seconds. Keeping the fish in the water is even better.
If you fish the Tellico or Citico Creek this weekend, we recommend fishing from Green Cove and upstream on the Tellico (roughly 2000' elev.) and from Doublecamp upstream on Citico, where elevation is higher and water temps are cooler. Stick to the upper elevations of tributary streams as well. Smaller tributaries at higher elevations will generally run cooler than larger streams.
Dry/dropper rigs with smaller flies and lighter tippet will produce the most fish in low water conditions. Use stealth when approaching water that you'd like to fish and wear neutral colors to blend into your surroundings and avoid spooking fish in low water.
With a little forward planning, proper handling of trout and an eye on stream temps, you can still have a great day on mountain streams in the heat of summer, just remember to keep the health of our trout populations in mind.