TWRA is now publishing fishing forecast for area lakes: The TWRA wants to build a comprehensive report each week of the state’s lakes. If you do not see a report for your favorite lake and you are someone who can provide a report please contact us at Ask.TWRA@tn.gov and provide us with your contact information
Hiwassee River TN Fishing Report: 19 Dec 2024
Report Contributor – Tic Smith/Southeastern Anglers Guide Service
Fishing Conditions – Fishing has been very good the last few days on the Hiwassee. Cloudy, warm and drizzly days have been good for the streamer and nymph fishing. Not so much for dry fly fishing. The baetis and midges seem to prefer the sunny days for hatching. Cold weather is expected in the days ahead, but the fish will still be biting.
Water clarity – clear
Water temps – 52 to 54 degrees
Flows – check the TVA website for the flow schedule. (Lake Level – Apalachia) TVA has been running 2 generators around the clock this week.
Hatches and flies to use – BWO’s are the main hatch now. Small and large nymphs are producing fairly well. From tiny zebra midges to large stonefly patterns are producing. Streamers such as wooly buggers are good especially on cloudy days. BWO parachutes from #18 to #20 work fairly well on the rising fish. Streamers and larger nymphs are producing some larger fish in the fast water.
11 Dec 2024
Report Contributor – Tic Smith/Southeastern Anglers Guide Service
Water Temperature – 52 to 55 degrees
Water Clarity – clear
Water Level – TVA has been generating more this week due to the recent rains.
Fishing conditions – Fishing continues to be very good. Water temps are in the preferred range for trout. Expect lots of rising fish in the early afternoons and then again late before sunset.
Hatches- There are midges and small baetis hatching in the mid-day hours. A few caddis are out in the late morning along the banks. Emergers and dry flies like parachutes in size 18 – 22 will get you some strikes from the rising fish.
Nymphs – standard pheasant tails with or without beads #16 to #18. Zebra midges are producing as well.
Small streamers effective early and late.
04 Dec 2024
Report Contributor – Tic Smith/Southeastern Anglers Guide Service
Water Temp – 55 to 58 degrees
Water Clarity – Clear
Flows – check the TVA Lake Levels Website (Appalachia)
Fishing Conditions – Not much of a change from last week. Fishing is very good during all flows. It will slow down for about an hour once the 2 generator flows come up to where you are fishing. During 0 generator usage small nymphs like zebra midges and pheasant tails are working well. The 1 generator flows provide the most versatile fishing. The same small nymphs will still work but you can upsize in the faster flows. 2 generators give you some better streamer fishing and there is not a particular pattern or size to worry about. Big streamers mean bigger fish to me, but a #8 wooly bugger will get you more strikes. The baetis and midge hatches have been very dependable during the afternoon hours. #16 to #20 parachutes like the Adams and BWO’s are producing. A real go to is using a parachute that you can see with a #18 or #20 unweighted pheasant tail dropped a foot or so below it. Emergers in the same sizes will work as well. A 6x tippet in fluorocarbon for the dropper is recommended. The fish are spread out well but generally the best fishing right now is from Big Bend up to the powerhouse.
27 Nov 2024
Report Contributor – Tic Smith/Southeastern Anglers Guide Service
Fishing Conditions – The fishing just keeps getting better here on the Hiwassee. Don’t let this cold weather coming in deter you. This is exactly what we need. Water temps will stabilize in the 50’s for a while and the fish will be active, particularly the big ones! We can also expect more dependable flows which is great for boaters. If wading, plan your trip around the schedule. This is not the time to take risks in the big water. We can expect very good fishing until the water temps drop below 50 degrees which should be weeks away.
Water clarity – clear
Water temps – 57 to 62 degrees
Flows – check the TVA website for the flow schedule. (Lake Level – Apalachia)
Hatches and flies to use – BWO’s are the main hatch now. Small and large nymphs are producing fairly well. From tiny zebra midges to large stonefly patterns are producing. Streamers such as wooly buggers are good especially on cloudy days. BWO parachutes from #18 to #20 work fairly well on the rising fish. Streamers and larger nymphs are producing some larger fish in the fast water.
20 Nov 2024
Report Contributor – Tic Smith/Southeastern Anglers Guide Service
Fishing Conditions – What a difference a week makes! The cooler temps finally arrived, and the water temps dropped to the levels that the trout are active in. The folks from the Tellico, Irwin and Dale Hollow Fish Hatcheries have been working hard to get the river in the delayed harvest section stocked well. Better flows this week have spread the fish out and fishing has really improved from the Big Bend Parking Area upriver to the powerhouse. Fishing will only get better in the next month!
Water clarity – clear
Water temps – 57 to 62 degrees
Flows – check the TVA website for the flow schedule. (Lake Level – Apalachia)
Hatches and flies to use – BWO’s are the main hatch now. Small and large nymphs are producing fairly well. From tiny zebra midges to large stonefly patterns are producing. Streamers such as wooly buggers are good especially on cloudy days. BWO parachutes from #18 to #20 work fairly well on the rising fish. Streamers and larger nymphs are producing some larger fish in the fast water.
14 Nov 2024
Report Contributor – Tic Smith/Southeastern Anglers Guide Service
Water temps – 60 to 62 degrees
Water Clarity – clear
Flow rates – variable – check the TVA website under lake levels and Appalachia to see predicted flows.
Fishing has been poor here the last week or so. Very few fish of any quality have been caught and the catch rate overall is down. The water schedule is constantly changing, and water temps are just now getting down to the preferred range for trout. The delayed harvest season for this Fall has been very disappointing. If you plan on fishing the Hiwassee this weekend, use small blue wing olive and midge patterns. The trout are holding in the deeper runs and pools because of the low water flows. If planning a trip to this region for some delayed harvest fishing, I recommend looking at other options than the Hiwassee at this time. Please note that delayed harvest means that you cannot use live bait or harvest the trout. Unfortunately, we have witnessed this on some of our trips.
30 Oct 2024
Forecast Contributor- Tic Smith/Southeastern Anglers Guide Service
River Conditions
Variable Flows- this week TVA has started releasing 1 to 2 generators starting midday. Lower flows have been in the mornings. Check the TVA website (lake levels, Apalachia) for the predicted releases.
Water clarity- the water is clear but tannic due to all the leaves fall8ng into the system.
Water temps range from 62 to 68 degrees.
Fishing– delayed harvest has begun and the trout are active. The best fishing is in the morning on the low flows. Once the releases begin, it slows down for about an hour until the trout make their adjustments.
Hatches- in the mornings, brown caddis #16-18 are hatching. Later in the morning and throughout the afternoon, midges and baetis are becoming active. Fishing these to rising fish is productive.
Typical attractor nymphs and small streamers are productive in between the hatches.
The fishing is best from Towee Creek up to the powerhouse.
27 June 2024
Forecast Contributor- Tic Smith/Southeastern Anglers Guide Service
NOTE- Mr. Smith will be guiding in KY until October and will not be able to provide Hiwassee reports until then.
River Conditions
Water temp- 60 to 72 degrees
Water clarity – clear
Water level – flows vary from 0 to 2 generators (Go to TVA.com to check flow schedules) This tailwater schedule is posted after 6pm the previous day. Click on Lake Levels then Apalachia to view info.
River Conditions- The water temps are rising to lethal levels during periods of 0 generation. The heat wave and lack of rain have combined to make the fishing very difficult. When the water is running, it is cold enough for the trout but when the generators are at 0, the temps are shutting the trout down. Fishing is not good now.
Hatches – a few Sulphurs and Isonychias
Terrestrials, such as hoppers and ants are good flies to throw. Wooly buggers in sizes 6 to 10 are always productive. Olive on sunny days and black on cloudy ones are a good rule to go by. Larger streamers are productive when 2 generators are running.
10 June 2024
Forecast Contributor- Tic Smith/Southeastern Anglers Guide Service
River Conditions –Water clarity – clear. A mix of 0 to 2 generators.
Water temps – 57-62 degrees
Fishing this week has been really tough for the majority of the day. Bluebird skies and varying generation schedules have the trout just not feeding during the midday hours. Fishing picks up in the late afternoon with sulphur hatches.
The stripers have made it to Reliance so trout fishing from Big Bend downstream will be marginal at best for the rest of the summer.
03 June 2024
Forecast Contributor- Tic Smith/Southeastern Anglers Guide Service
River Conditions –Water clarity – clear. 24 hour 2 generation during weekdays
Water temps – 57-62 degrees
Fishing is excellent! Blue wings and sulphurs are hatching in the afternoons. Nymphs, streamers and large attractor dries are producing before the hatches.
30 May 2024
Forecast Contributor- Tic Smith/Southeastern Anglers Guide Service
River Conditions –Water clarity – clear. 24 HOUR GENERATORS
Water temps – 62 degrees
Fishing improved after the big rain event Once the water began to clear. SULPHURS ARE HATCHING. #14-#16
The fish are very aggressive and a large streamer can produce a trophy fish.
15 May 2024
Forecast Contributor- Tic Smith/Southeastern Anglers Guide Service
River Conditions –Water clarity – clear to stained depending on generation
Water temps – 62 degrees
Fishing improved after the big rain event 9nce the water began to clear
The best flies to use are standard #14 – #18 bead head nymphs like pheasant tails and prince nymphs. Sulphurs and Pale evening duns along with light cahills are beginning to hatch. Parachutes and emergers from size #14 to #18 will produce during these hatches. Yellow Sallies will be emerging very soon. We are seeing caddis intermittently but the huge “Mothers Day Caddis hatch hasn’t occurred yet. During hours of generation, larger streamers are worth trying. The fish are very aggressive and a large streamer can produce a trophy fish.
09 May 2024
Forecast Contributor- Tic Smith/Southeastern Anglers Guide Service
River Conditions –Water clarity – Heavily stained
Water temps – 65 degrees
Fishing has been excellent leading up to this big rain event. TVA has been releasing more water during the mid-day hours which is holding the water temps down. Fishing will be tough until the water clears which should be by the weekend.
The best flies to use are standard #14 – #18 beadhead nymphs like pheasant tails and prince nymphs. Sulphurs and Pale evening duns along with light Cahills are beginning to hatch. Parachutes and emergers from size #14 to #18 will produce during these hatches. Yellow Sallies will be emerging very soon. We are seeing caddis intermittently but the huge “Mother’s Day
Caddis hatch hasn’t occurred yet. During hours of generation, larger streamers are worth trying. The fish are very aggressive, and a large streamer can produce a trophy fish.
25 April 2024
Forecast Contributor- Tic Smith/Southeastern Anglers Guide Service
Water Temperature – 60-65 Water Clarity – clear Water Level – TVA is filling the reservoirs upstream so there is very little generation during the day. These are the best conditions for wade fishing.
Hatches– There are several different hatches occurring daily. Blue Wing lives, Hendricksons and caddis are the predominant ones. These can be imitated with parachutes, emerger patterns sand a standard elk hair caddis.
Nymphs – pheasant tails with or without beads #16 to #18. Hares Ear and prince nymphs in sizes 12 to14 are good choices. Small streamers produce in the faster water. It’s hard to beat wooly buggers #6 to #10 Fishing is very good right now and will continue to be in the coming weeks.
17 April 2024
Forecast Contributor- Tic Smith/Southeastern Anglers Guide Service
Water Temperature – 60 Degrees
Water Clarity – clear
Water Level – TVA is filling the reservoirs upstream so there is very little generation during the day. These are the best conditions for wade fishing.
Hatches- There are several different hatches occurring daily. Blue Wing Olives, Light Cahills and caddis are the predominant ones. These can be imitated with parachutes, emerger patterns sand a standard elk hair caddis.
Nymphs – pheasant tails with or without beads #16 to #18. Hares Ear and prince nymphs in sizes 12 to14 are good choices.
Small streamers produce in the faster water. It’s hard to beat wooly buggers #6 to #10
Fishing is very good right now and will continue to be in the coming weeks.
10 April 2024
Forecast Contributor- Tic Smith/Southeastern Anglers Guide Service
River Conditions –Water clarity – clear / 0 to 1 generator intermittent during the day Water temps – 50 to 58 degrees
Fishing – Warmer water temps are making the trout and the bugs that they eat much more active. The nymph bite has definitely improved. Common bead head nymphs in sizes 12 to 18 are producing. Hatches- olive bodied caddis size 14 to 16/ Blue Wing Olives 16 to 18/ Hendrickson’s size 12 to 14/ Golden Sone flies size 8 to 10 Fishing is exceptional right now and will continue. Nymphs in between the hatches as well as smaller streamers are producing. Expect rising fish during the hatches mentioned above. Fishing is great from the powerhouse to the Hwy 411 bridge.
27 March 2024
Forecast Contributor- Tic Smith/Southeastern Anglers Guide Service
River Conditions –Water clarity – clear. Flows are varying from limited 2 and 1 generators to 0 generation. Check the TVA website for lake levels (Apalachia) to get the flow schedule for the next day. They post the schedule after 6pm Water temps – 47 to 57 degrees.
Fishing – Hatches of blue wing olives, Hendricksons and caddis have begun. Pheasant tail nymphs #14 – 16 are top producers. Soft hackles in dark colors are working as well. Look for rising fish beginning around 4pm especially during 0 generation. #14 Hendrickson patterns and #16 bwo parachutes are going to work well on the rising fish. It’s a great time to fish an Adams Parachute! #14 to #18. The caddis are just getting going. They are small so far (#18). Wooly buggers and heavier nymphs are getting lots of fish during the 1 and 2 generator flows.
20 March 2024
Forecast Contributor- Tic Smith/Southeastern Anglers Guide Service
River Conditions –Water clarity – clear
Water temps – 47 to 54 degrees
Fishing –The big news is that TVA is cut back on its generation schedule for this week. This means that that wade fishermen can access much more of the river. Be sure to check the schedule on the TVA website before heading out. Check your lake/Apalachia. Cooler windy weather over the weekend and early week has put a damper on the hatches so nymphs like pheasant tails, Hendrickson and stoneflies are your best bets. With warmer temps later in the week and low flows, there could easily be hatches of blue wings, winter stones, small caddis and maybe the Hendricksons. Small streamers in the faster runs will produce as well.
13 March 2024
Forecast Contributor- Tic Smith/Southeastern Anglers Guide Service
River Conditions –Water clarity – clear / 24-hour 2 generator release 3100 cfs
Water temps – 47 to 54 degrees
Fishing – Warmer water temps are making the trout and the bugs that they eat much more active. The nymph bite has definitely improved. Common bead head nymphs in sizes 12 to 18 are producing. Some winter stones size 14 and 16 are out in the afternoons. Blue Winged Olives #18 are showing up regularly. Caddis and Hendricksons are due in the next couple of weeks. Wooly buggers are always a good choice if nothing is rising.
TVA is running 2 generators around the clock so fishing from a boat is the most effective strategy. Water levels will probably drop towards the end of the month giving the wade fisherman many more opportunities. This should coincide with the before mentioned hatches of Hendricksons and caddis. Some of the best flyfishing of the year is just a couple of weeks away as long as the weather holds.
21 Feb 2024
Forecast Contributor- Tic Smith/Southeastern Anglers Guide Service
Water Temperature – 44 to 49 degrees
Water Clarity – clear
Water Level – TVA has been running a 2 generator schedule this week. There was some 1 generator flow for a couple of hours but that is not predicted for the next few days.
Fishing conditions – Fishing was a bit of his and miss this past week. Colder temps at night lowered the water temps and the trout were hugging the bottom. We did not see a lot of shad coming through and the lack of bugs made for tougher fishing conditions. There were several big fish caught however but overall numbers have been down.
Hatches- Some little black stoneflies are out but so far; we have not experienced a large hatch. We do expect it once the water temps stay steady around 50 degrees. Midges are definitely abundant in the late afternoon, but surface activity has been sparse.
Nymphs – standard pheasant tails with or without beads #16 to #18. Zebra midges are producing as well.
White streamers size 6 to 8 are producing strikes as well as wooly buggers in the same size. Trout are still looking for the shad in the upper part of the river. Fish these streamers slow for the best results.
14 Feb 2024
Forecast Contributor- Tic Smith/Southeastern Anglers Guide Service
River Conditions
Water clarity- clear to a little cloudy – visibility is 3 to 5 ft.
Water temps are ranging from 44 to 49 degrees and warming.
Water flows- constant 2 generators 3100 cfs
Fishing has been very good the last week. The recent rains helped to warm the water a bit and did not muddy up the river. With the nights dipping into the low 30’s, the water temps in the lakes above are still dropping to below 45 degrees which is still killing off the blue-black herring. They are coming through the turbines. It is obvious that the trout are keying in on them. Even the smaller rainbows, browns and cutthroat have very “robust” stomachs. Some really large trout in the 20” class are being caught. This has been the best shad kill in recent memory and will really help the trout to grow in the next few months.
Obviously, small white streamers are the best flies to throw right now. Size 4 to 8 white zonkers are hard to beat. Hatches have been sparse this week, but we are waiting on the little black winter stones and brown stoneflies. These will start hatching when water temps stabilize for a few days around 50 degrees.
There are only a couple of weeks left of the delayed harvest season so now is a great time to hit the river.
31 Jan 2024
Forecast Contributor- Tic Smith/Southeastern Anglers Guide Service
River Conditions –Water clarity – cloudy but not muddy
Water temps – 46 to 49 degrees
Fishing – the “shad kill” has been going on for the last week. There are 2 to 4” blue back herring coming through the turbines. It is not constant but there are enough to get the attention of some really nice tout. Several browns in the 20” range have been caught in the last few days. The smaller fish will eat them too. It’s just a great time to be out there. There are many streamer patterns that are effective. #4 white zonkers and wooly buggers are a great start.
TVA is running 2 generators around the clock so fishing from a boat is the most affective strategy. The stretch from the powerhouse boat ramp to Towee Creek is the best stretch for the shad kill.
16 Jan 2024
Forecast Contributor- Tic Smith/Southeastern Anglers Guide Service
Water Temperature – 44 to 48 degrees
Water Clarity – stained.
Water Level – TVA has been running a constant 2 generator usage this week due to the heavy rains. Wade fishing is out for a while. The water will clear over the next few days if we don’t get a lot more rain.
Fishing conditions – The water temps are getting down to the shad kill range in the lakes upstream. Water temps in the lower forties historically get this much anticipated event going. Blue back herring and threadfin shad succumb to the cold temps and get washed through the turbines at the powerhouse. Trout of all sizes take advantage of this, but the big fish are what we are after. White streamers in the 3-to-5-inch range are what we will be throwing. Dead drifting them in the current is usually the best technique but jigging and slow strips will work as well. It’s not the most comfortable weather to fish in but it sure can be rewarding. A 32” brown was caught 2 years ago during the shad kill season. If you see lots of crows and eagles along the bank you can bet the shad are coming through.
Hatches- There are midges and small baetis hatching in the mid-day hours. A
Nymphs – standard pheasant tails with or without beads #16 to #18. Zebra midges are producing as are some larger attractor patterns.
04 Jan 2024
Forecast Contributor- Tic Smith/Southeastern Anglers Guide Service
River Conditions
Water temp – 48 to 52
Water clarity – clear
Water level – flows vary from 0 to 2 generators (Go to TVA.com to check flow schedules) This tailwater schedule is posted after 6pm the previous day. Click on Lake Levels then Apalachia to view info.
River Conditions– The water temps are in the high 40’s in the mornings. As temps rise during the day, the fishing picks up. Baetis and midges hatch from around noon until 4pm. Fishing has remained good over last week. Fish will take attractor nymphs like Pat’s Rubber Legs and Prince nymphs when they are not rising.
Hatches – midges and baetis #18 to #22
Wooly buggers in sizes 6 to 10 are always productive. Olive on sunny days and black on cloudy ones are a good rule to go by. Larger streamers are productive when 2 generators are running.
Spin fishing is productive with 1/8 and 1/16th gold bladed spinners. Small Rapalas are productive during the higher flows.
Small streamers effective early and late.
20 Dec 2023
Forecast Contributor- Tic Smith/Southeastern Anglers Guide Service
Water Temperature – 49 to 55 degrees
Water Clarity – clear
Water Level – TVA has been running a varied schedule this week. For the most part, the water has been off in the afternoons. Be sure to check the TVA Apalachia water release schedule after 6pm for the generation schedule for the next day.
Fishing conditions – Fishing continues to be very good especially when the flows are lowered. Water temps are in the preferred range for trout. Expect lots of rising fish during the periods of low flows.
Hatches- There are midges and small baetis hatching in the mid-day hours. A few caddis are out in the late morning along the banks.
Nymphs – standard pheasant tails with or without beads #16 to #18. Zebra midges are producing as well.
Small streamers effective early and late.
07 Dec 2023
Forecast Contributor- Tic Smith/Southeastern Anglers Guide Service
Water Temperature – 52 to 55 degrees
Water Clarity – clear
Water Level – TVA has been running a varied schedule this week. For the most part, the water has been off in the afternoons. Be sure to check the TVA Apalachia water release schedule after 6pm for the generation schedule for the next day.
Fishing conditions – Fishing continues to be very good. Water temps are in the preferred range for trout. Expect lots of rising fish during the periods of low flows.
Hatches– There are midges and small baetis hatching in the mid-day hours. A few caddis are out in the late morning along the banks.
Nymphs – standard pheasant tails with or without beads #16 to #18. Zebra midges are producing as well.
Small streamers effective early and late.
21 Nov 2023
Forecast Contributor- Tic Smith/Southeastern Anglers Guide Service
River Conditions – Fishing has remained excellent going back to last week. The best fishing is from Big Bend parking lot upriver to the powerhouse. TVA is varying the water release schedule from 0 to 2 generators so be sure to check the water release schedule for Apalachia. There plenty of opportunities for wading anglers
Water clarity – clear
Water temps – 59 to 62 degrees
Hatches and flies to use – BWO’s are the main hatch now. Terrestrials and large nymphs are producing fairly well. Streamers such as wooly buggers are good especially on cloudy days. BWO parachutes from #18 to #20 work fairly well on the rising fish. Streamers and larger nymphs are producing some larger fish in the fast water.
16 Nov 2023
Forecast Contributor- Tic Smith/Southeastern Anglers Guide Service
River Conditions
Water temp – 58 to 64 degreed
Water clarity – clear
Water level – TVA has been running a varied schedule this week with mostly a pulsing schedule which is great for wade fishermen.
FISHING Conditions – fishing is fantastic right now. There are a lot of rising fish in the afternoons. #18 Blue Wing Olives and smaller are what they are eating. Pheasant tail nymphs both with beads and not are working beforehand. Streamers in the faster Water are producing some really nice fish. Trout in the 18-to-20-inch range have been caught this week. This is definitely a good time to be on the Hiwassee. The upper stretch from Big Bend parking lot to the powerhouse is the best stretch right now.
Spin fishing is productive with 1/8 and 1/16th gold bladed spinners. Small Rapalas are productive during the higher flows.
01 Nov 2023
Forecast Contributor- Tic Smith/Southeastern Anglers Guide Service
Water Temperature – 58 to 64 degrees
Water Clarity – clear
Water Level – the flow schedule has been from zero to 1 generator to 2 generators each day. There has been quite a bit of zero generator use in the afternoons which is great for wade fishermen. Be sure to check the TVA lake levels for Apalachia after 6pm for the following day’s schedule.
Fishing conditions – Fishing has been exceptional this week, especially on the lower water schedules. Water temps have moved down to the preferred range for trout. If the water is low, you will have rising fish. It doesn’t matter what time of day it is.
Hatches– the main hatch is baetis. #18 to #20 bow parachutes and emerger patterns are taking rising fish. There are midges out in the late morning. Zebra midges in black fished a foot or so deep work during this time
Nymphs – standard pheasant tails with or without beads #14 to #18
Wooly buggers are working very well in various colors. Delayed Harvest is in full swing here and the fishing is only going to get better.
25 Oct 2023
Forecast Contributor- Tic Smith/Southeastern Anglers Guide Service
Water Temperature – 62 to 68 degrees
Water Clarity – clear
Water Level – TVA has been running one generator a lot this week. Be sure to check the TVA Apalachia water release schedule after 6pm for the generation schedule for the next day.
Fishing conditions – Fishing has been surprisingly slow this week. Despite exceptional flows, good water temps and nice weather, the fish are just not biting well. It is possible that we are experiencing some low dissolved oxygen levels due to the lake turnover. However, the river is not showing signs of a turnover. The water is clear and cold. Fishing will definitely improve soon.
Hatches
Terrestrials – beetles, hoppers and ants all day. There are midges and small baetis hatching in the late afternoon. A few caddis are out in the late morning along the banks.
Nymphs – standard pheasant tails with or without beads #12 to #18
Small streamers effective early and late.
Smallmouth bass fishing is fair early and late and on the shady banks.
18 Oct 2023
Forecast Contributor- Tic Smith/Southeastern Anglers Guide Service
Water temp – 64 to 68
Water clarity – clear
Water level – TVA has been running a varied schedule this week with a lot of 1 generator flow during the day. This is a great flow for boating and some limited wading. Check their Lake Level (Apalachia) on their website after 6pm for the next day’s flow schedule.
FISHING Conditions – fishing is steadily improving. TWRA is actively stocking the river now that water temps are getting right. There is limited dry fly action with a few Blue Wing Olives and caddis out. The best fishing is in the latter part of the afternoon with these hatches. Small streamers and nymphs are your best bet for all day action. There have been several 18” plus fish caught in the last week. The bite will steadily improve in the coming weeks
Wooly buggers in sizes 6 to 10 are always productive. Olive on sunny days and black on cloudy ones are a good rule to go by. Larger streamers are productive when 2 generators are running
Spin fishing is productive with 1/8 and 1/16th gold bladed spinners. Small Rapalas are productive during the higher flows.
05 Oct 2023
Forecast Contributor- Tic Smith/Southeastern Anglers Guide Service
Water temp – 68
Water clarity – clear
Water level – flows vary from 0 to 2 generators (Go to TVA.com to check flow schedules) This tailwater schedule is posted after 6 p.m. the previous day. Click on Lake Levels then Apalachia to view info.
River Conditions– delayed harvest season has begun! The cooler weather coming this weekend is really going to Kickstart the fishing for trout. Until we have a frost or two, terrestrials on the banks will be productive. Caddis and blue wing olives will be out during the day. October
Caddis larvae and soft hackles are going to be good flies to throw for the next few weeks. Lake turnover upstream will happen soon and that can slow the fishing for a few days but after that flushes out, we will have great fishing.
Wooly buggers in sizes 6 to 10 are always productive. Olive on sunny days and black on cloudy ones are a good rule to go by. Larger streamers are productive when 2 generators are running
Spin fishing is productive with 1/8 and 1/16th gold bladed spinners. Small Rapalas are productive during the higher flows.
28 Sept 2023
Forecast Contributor- Tic Smith/Southeastern Anglers Guide Service
Water temp – 68 to 70
Water clarity – clear
Water level – flows vary from 0 to 2 generators (Go to TVA.com to check flow schedules) This tailwater schedule is posted after 6pm the previous day. Click on Lake Levels then Apalachia to view info.
River Conditions- A warming trend over the last few days has kept the water temps in the upper 60’s to 7lp0 degrees. Hopefully, predicted cooler nights over the next week will lower the peak in temperatures. Until that happens, fishing will remain slow. We are nearing the beginning of the delayed harvest season, so we need these temps to go down a little bit and remain there. Fishing early in the morning is definitely the best time to go.
Hatches – Caddis in sizes 16 to 18 in olive and cinnamon / blue winged olives in sizes 18 to 20 / Isonychias #10 / hoppers, ants and beetles.
Wooly buggers in sizes 6 to 10 are always productive. Olive on sunny days and black on cloudy ones are a good rule to go by. Larger streamers are productive when 2 generators are running
Spin fishing is productive with 1/8 and 1/16th gold bladed spinners. Small Rapalas are productive during the higher flows.
21 Sept 2023
Forecast Contributor- Tic Smith/Southeastern Anglers Guide Service
Water temp – 68 to 72 (temps from 65 to 68 on upper river)
Water clarity – clear
Water level – flows vary from 0 to 2 generators (Go to TVA.com to check flow schedules) This tailwater schedule is posted after 6pm the previous day. Click on Lake Levels then Apalachia to view info.
River Conditions– The cooler weather is starting to help. Fishing is still slow, but it is improving. We are just a couple of weeks away from the delayed harvest season which begins October 1st. The cooler water temps will allow TWRA to restock the river which will dramatically improve the fishing. The water is the coolest from Big Bend Parking lot up to the Powerhouse. Water temps are steadily dropping in this section of the river.
Hatches – Caddis in sizes 16 to 18 in olive and cinnamon / blue winged olives in sizes 18 to 20 / Isonychias #10 / hoppers, ants and beetles.
Wooly buggers in sizes 6 to 10 are always productive. Olive on sunny days and black on cloudy ones are a good rule to go by. Larger streamers are productive when 2 generators are running
Spin fishing is productive with 1/8 and 1/16th gold bladed spinners. Small Rapalas are productive during the higher flows.
14 Sept 2023
Forecast Contributor- Tic Smith/Southeastern Anglers Guide Service
Water temp – 68 to 72 degrees
Water clarity – clear
Water level – flows vary from 0 to 2 generators (Go to TVA.com to check flow schedules) This tailwater schedule is posted after 6pm the previous day. Click on Lake Levels then Apalachia to view info.
River Conditions-cooler weather is predicted for the next week which should help bring down water temps. We are looking for consistent water temps in the mid-60’s. It may take a while, but this is encouraging. Until that happens, fishing will remain very slow.
Hatches – Sulphurs #18, #16 tan or olive caddis, Isonychia #12, terrestrials.
Wooly buggers in sizes 6 to 10 are always productive. Olive on sunny days and black on cloudy ones are a good rule to go by. Larger streamers are productive when 2 generators are running
Spin fishing is productive with 1/8 and 1/16th gold bladed spinners. Small Rapalas are productive during the higher flows.
30 Aug 2023
Forecast Contributor- Tic Smith/Southeastern Anglers Guide Service
Water Temperature – 65 to 72 degrees
Water Clarity – clear
Water Level – 2 generators are running around the clock to keep up with power demand
Fishing conditions – Water temps are reaching dangerous numbers in the afternoons for catch and release fishing for trout. The temps are ok in the morning. We are staying off the river at this time to give the fish a break.
Hatches
Terrestrials – beetles, hoppers and ants all day
Nymphs – standard pheasant tails with or without beads #12 to #18
Small streamers effective early and late.
There are limited hatches this time of the year. Look for Tricos early in the morning and #18 olive caddis in the evening. You may also see some Isonychias in the evening.
Smallmouth bass fishing is fair early and late and on the shady banks.
Stripers are in the river from the stair step rapids down river to Patty Bridge.
23 Aug 2023
Forecast Contributor- Tic Smith/Southeastern Anglers Guide Service
Water Temperature – 65 to 70 degrees during generation.
Water Clarity – clear
Water Level – 2 generators are running around the clock to keep up with power demand
Fishing conditions – the 2 generator releases are helping to keep the water temps safe for the he trout. It is difficult on the wade fishermen though. If fishing from a boat, the early morning hours are going to be when the water is at coolest. Overall, fishing is very slow this week
Hatches
Terrestrials – beetles, hoppers and ants all day
Nymphs – standard pheasant tails with or without beads #12 to #18
Small streamers effective early and late.
There are limited hatches this time of the year. Look for Tricos early in the morning and #18 olive caddis in the evening. You may also see some Isonychias in the evening.
Smallmouth bass fishing is fair early and late and on the shady banks.
Stripers are in the river from the stair step rapids down river to Patty Bridge.
16 Aug 2023
Forecast Contributor- Tic Smith/Southeastern Anglers Guide Service
Water temp – 64 to 70 degrees F depending on the flow schedule
Water clarity – stained
Water level – average cfs is 3150. (Go to TVA.com to check flow schedules) This tailwater schedule is posted after 6pm the previous day. Click on Apalachia to view info.
Flyfishing for trout is slow. During periods of no generation use a small dry dropper rig with #16 pheasant tails. Upsize during the 2 generator flows. Streamers are also a good choice during the higher flows
Hatches – Terrestrials such as hoppers and beetles are the best flies to throw for dry fly fishing. Some caddis #16 to #18 in a cinnamon color are out in the evening.
Spin fishing is productive with 1/8 and 1/16th gold bladed spinners. Small Rapalas are productive during the higher flows.
09 Aug 2023
Forecast Contributor- Tic Smith/Southeastern Anglers Guide Service
River Conditions – Recent rains and cooler water temperatures have improved trout fishing somewhat. Fishing is still best early in the morning and then again in the evening after 5pm. TVA has been running 2 generators around the clock this week, so water temps have stabilized in the low 60’s. Look for reduced flows on the weekend.
Water clarity – clear
Hatches and flies to use – Terrestrials are the best thing to throw now. There are a few olive or tan caddis out but the hatches are minimal. Streamers are a good alternative to fishing on top.
Smallmouth and spotted bass can be caught on larger streamers and crawfish patterns. Stripers are in the river from the stair step rapids down to HWY 411.
27 July 2023
Forecast Contributor- Tic Smith/Southeastern Anglers Guide Service
Water Temperature – 60 to 64 degrees during generation. Peaking at 73 degrees in Reliance during 0 generation usually around 3 pm
Water Clarity – clear
Water Level – mostly 2 generator releases during the week. 0 generators from 7am to 10am on Saturdays and Sundays. Be sure to check the TVA website for lake levels and release schedules.
Hatches
Blue Wing Olives in the afternoon (#18 and #20)
Caddis in the morning #14 to #18
Isonychia all day #10 to #12
Terrestrials – beetles, hoppers and ants all day
Nymphs – standard pheasant tails with or without beads #12 to #18
Small streamers effective all day.
Fishing is slow due to the big swings in water temps. Fish early or late for the best action.
Smallmouth and Spotted bass fishing is productive. Some stripers are being caught below Reliance.
19 July 2023
Forecast Contributor- Tic Smith/Southeastern Anglers Guide Service
River Conditions – Fishing has slowed in the last week. Water temps vary from 63 degrees during generation to 70 degrees when there is no generation.
Water clarity – clear
Hatches and flies to use – BWO’s and Isonychias. Terrestrials and large nymphs are producing fairly well. Streamers such as wooly buggers are good especially on cloudy days.
Smallmouth and spotted bass can be caught on larger streamers and crawfish patterns.
06 July 2023
Forecast Contributor- Tic Smith/Southeastern Anglers Guide Service
Water Temperature – 60 to 64 degrees during generation.
Water Clarity – clear
Water Level – mostly 2 generator releases during the week. 0 generators from 7am to 10am on Saturdays and Sundays. Be sure to check the TVA website for lake levels and release schedules.
Hatches
Blue Wing Olives in the afternoon (#18 and #20)
Caddis in the morning #14 to #18
Isonychia all day #10 to #12
Terrestrials – beetles, hoppers and ants all day
Nymphs – standard pheasant tails with or without beads #12 to #18
Small streamers effective all day.
28 June 2023
Forecast Contributor- Tic Smith/Southeastern Anglers Guide Service
Water temp – 58 to 68 degrees F depending on the flow schedule
Water clarity – clear
Water level – average cfs is 3150. (Go to TVA.com to check flow schedules) This tailwater schedule is posted after 6pm the previous day. Click on Appalachia to view info.
Flyfishing for trout is excellent. During periods of no generation use a small dry dropper rig with #16 pheasant tails. Upsize during the 2 generator flows. Streamers are also productive during the higher flows. Blue Wing Olives are hatching from 4:30 to 6:30 in the afternoon.
Hatches – Blue Wing Olives
Spin fishing is productive with 1/8 and 1/16th gold bladed spinners. Small Rapalas are productive during the higher flows.
21 June 2023
Forecast Contributor- Tic Smith/Southeastern Anglers Guide Service
Water temp – 58 to 62 degrees F depending on the flow schedule
Water clarity – clear
Water level – average cfs is 3150. (Go to TVA.com to check flow schedules) This tailwater schedule is posted after 6pm the previous day. Click on Apalachia to view info.
Flyfishing has been very good on the cloudy days. It was tough during the mid-day hours when we had the clear skies. Fishing early and late is still the best strategy.
Hatches – Blue Winged Olives started hatching late last week. They are small but prolific. #18 – #20 parachutes will produce. They begin hatching around 4pm. Sulphurs follow around 6pm. Pheasant tail nymphs size 12 to 18 are consistently producing during the day. Japanese beetles are out so those are good searching patterns close to the banks.
Streamer fishing is excellent on these cloudy, rainy days.
Spin fishing is productive with 1/8 and 1/16th gold bladed spinners. Small Rapalas are productive during the higher flows.
