Welcome to the Fishing Report from Townsend, Tennessee in the Great Smoky Mountains. We are half way through February.  I am not sure how that has happened.  That means Spring fishing is coming fast!

Water levels are still high but improving.  You may find some decent fishing on the smaller streams or the larger rivers if you are careful about choosing your spots.  The gauge on Little River is currently reading 2.87 feet or 639 c.f.s. The daily normal is 308 c.f.s.

Water temperature is 43.5F.  This is a steadying after the drop we saw the last couple of days.  The Smokies is forecast to have nice weather today so that should help the water to warm some.  Wait till the sun is up and the water has had a chance to warm before heading to the stream.

Nymphs are still going to be your best bet for catching trout.  Heavy flies sunk to the bottom are the way to go.  Tungsten bead flies are good if you don't want to mess with split shot.  Otherwise add weight.  We haven't heard any reports of mayflies beginning to hatch yet.  The water hasn't quite reached the temperatures to kickstart the bugs yet.  It won't be long.

Most of the tailwaters around the area are running 2 or more generators.  No fishing there.  Tellico River looks a little high but smaller streams in the Cherokee National Forest could be fishable.  There is still the issue of road construction going on down there though.

Spring is coming soon....we just need a little patience.  Spring is coming....and that mean new gear in the Shop!  We have new rods having received the brand new  Orvis Helios rods and also St. Croix fly rods.  We also received notification that Orvis's new Battenkill Reels are on their way.  These look great with classic styling but some new colors.  Good normal colors, not too flashy and blatant.

Our Beginner Fly Tying Class for this weekend is full so if you missed out on signing up for it you are in luck.  Dave just scheduled another in March.  It is set for Saturday March 23.  The cost is $100 per student.  Space is limited and only a few spots are available so don't procrastinate.

We've got some more great fly tyers for you this coming weekend.  On Saturday it will be Bill Boyd Jr and his grand daughter "Half Hitch".  on Sunday, Mike Wallace will be here.  Mike loves wet flies which are perfect patterns to be stocking up on for the early Spring hatches.

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

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

Daniel Drake
February 15, 2024

We are holding an all-day Beginner Fly Tying Class 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