Welcome to the Fishing Report from Townsend, Tennessee in the Great Smoky Mountains. At 4:48 am, the temperature in Townsend is 28 degrees.

Today will be partly sunny with a high temperature in the middle 50’s, dropping to the low to middle 30’s tonight. Rain will move in tonight and possibly change to a wintery mix by morning.

There is a slight chance for snow showers tomorrow morning with a high in the low to middle 40’s and a low in the upper 20’s.

Little River is flowing at 577 cubic feet per second (cfs) or 2.78 feet on the gauge. Median flow for this date is 299 cfs. The water temperature is 42.1 degrees this morning.

Streams in the Smokies continue to recede but they are flowing higher than normal. The streams are swift and wading is limited in the larger rivers. Water temperatures are below the trout’s preferred range.

If you decide to go fishing in the mountains today, stand in safe water casting nymphs or streamers. Fish in the low elevations where the water is warmer.

Fishing for stocked trout is probably fair to possibly good in the low elevation rivers. Most of the rivers are flowing higher than normal. Weighted nymphs, nymph rigs or streamers will likely work best for you. The water is very clear. Small nymphs tied to fine tippet may be the ticket.

There are a few interesting generation schedules that tailwater anglers can work with today. Check out the schedules at Norris and Dale Hollow dams. There are also some other possibilities. Visit the TVA website before you go and plan accordingly.

We have some great free fly tying demonstrations planned for this coming weekend.

Bryan Begbie will be tying on Saturday February 3rd between 10:00 am and 2:00 pm. Brian runs the fly fishing program at Blackberry Farm and Blackberry Mountain resorts. He is an incredible fly tyer and a professional guide. He is an avid Smokies angler, tailwater fisherman and musky fly fishing enthusiast. Brian will be tying flies that he uses when guiding his clients for trout.

David Knapp will be tying Sunday February 4th between 1:00 pm and 3:00 pm. David is an exceptional fly fishing guide, who specializes in trout angling in the mountains and on the tailwaters. He is also known for his blog, “The Trout Zone”.  He also enjoys fly fishing for smallmouth bass in small rivers. David will be demonstrating tying his favorite trout patterns.  

You do not need a reservation to attend these free demonstrations. Just show up at the shop.

If we need to cancel a demonstration due to bad weather, you can find out on this report.

Have a great day and thank you for being here with us.

Byron Begley
January 30, 2024

We are hold two all-day Beginner Fly Tying Classes on Saturday February 17th. Taking this class will give you a huge jump start into the wonderful hobby of fly tying. The class costs $100, which includes all the materials you will need for the day and the use of our vises and tools. We will also provide lunch for you. Space is limited so call the shop at 865-448-9459 soon to book your spot.

Join us on the weekends during the Winter for our Free Fly Tying Demonstrations.   You don’t need a reservation. Just show up. You can view our schedule by CLICKING HERE.

WALTER BABB BAMBOO RODS FOR SALE - Buy directly from Walter. CLICK HERE for more information.

Respond to: byron@littleriveroutfitters.com