Welcome to the Fishing Report from Townsend, Tennessee in the Great Smoky Mountains.  it is going to be another gorgeous spring day.  There is a chance for some rain but that is low.  

Water levels in the Smokies are still low.  This morning the gauge on Little River is reading 1.76 feet or 119 c.f.s.  The daily normal is 237 c.f.s.  The streams will be flowing clear.

Water temperatures are creeping upwards.  This morning the Little River gauge says about 62F.  Water temperatures like this make the trout and the bugs happy.

Rain is in the forecast for the next few days.  This is a welcome blessing as water levels across the mountains are quite a bit lower than they should be at this time of year.  Yes, it is making for some great wade fishing right now but heading into summer with low water isn't ideal.  The forecast is calling for rain most days but both the chance and the amount are fairly low so I wouldn't pre-cancel plans.  Just be aware you may need to bring a rain jacket along.

Light colored  dry fly patterns have been working best.  With the low water the trout are still preferring smaller sizes.  Yellow Sally hatches have begun.  Look for them late in the evenings in the lower to mid elevations.  Fishing a dry / dropper can be a great way to increase your chances.  A squirmy worm, pheasant tail or a green weenie can be excellent choices for your nymph.

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

Daniel Drake
May 11, 2023

IMPORTANT NOTICE: Parking Tags are now required to park your vehicle inside Great Smoky Mountains National Park for more than 15 minutes. Tags may be purchased at Visitors Centers, including the center in Townsend. Or, they may be purchased online. You can buy a daily, weekly or annual tag. CLICK HERE FOR MORE INFORMATION.

Respond to: byron@littleriveroutfitters.com