Current streamflow- 70cfs, .72ft
Water temps- mid 50s
Hatches:
Blue winged olives
Tan and black midges
October caddis
Tan caddis
Flies:
Walt's worms- 16-12
Rainbow warriors- 20-16
Perdigons- 20-16
Frenchies- 18-12
Egg pattern- 18-12
Mini leeches and buggers- 10-6
Griffith's gnat- 18-16
Klinkhammer- 18-12
Crisp fall air, changing leaves, crystal clear water, and brown trout. These are sure signs that it's fall in Tellico. While the Tellico River has been stocked, numbers are light. Most anglers are finding a mix of wild rainbows and browns, occasional stocked, and holdover bows. However, there are some big browns to be found, like this big fella from earlier this week that we sight-fished to, so keep your eyes peeled. We should see better numbers of fish in the next week or two.
The Tellico River is running at 70cfs currently, which is slightly above the median for this time of year. Early fall generally brings low, clear streamflows, so focus on smaller flies, lighter tippet and a stealthy presentation. With water temps in the mId 50s, there are still a lot of fish in faster runs and pockets. Overnight temps are now hitting upper 30s and low 40s, so fish these areas mid-morning to mid-afternoon when sun exposure is at its greatest, warming water temps and putting fish on the feed.
Weather for this week looks dry and cool, with lows dipping into the 30s and highs in the 60s and 70s. So bring your waders and a layer for those cool mornings.