Small Streams in Blue Ridge Mountains | North Carolina Fly Fishing Reports & Conditions

The water is clear and cool. Longer leaders and smaller flies are recommended. Midges will become the most predominant food source now that the colder weather is here.

Fishing Report Last Updated:

2 / 4 / 2019

Choose A Different River Here

Clinch River
Great Smoky Mountains, High Elevation
Great Smoky Mountains, Low Elevation
Hiwassee River
Holston Proper
Little Pigeon River
Little River
South Holston River
Tellico River
Watauga River

Fishing Conditions

Fly Fishing Small Streams in Blue Ridge Mountains is currently Good

Orvis-Endorsed guides nearby:
Foscoe Fishing Company
Brown Hobson

Water flow:

Visibility: 40 inches

Water temperature at mid-day: 48 Degrees F

Water condition: Clear

Best time of day to fish: Mid Morning

Best stretch: Harper's Creek up from Mortimer

Best access point: Explore any of the areas right off the main road through the both the Blue Ridge Parkway and the Smoky as well as the side trails. The Wilson Creek area can get confusing so be sure to come by the shop and grab directions.

Fly fishing hatches in order of importance:

BWO Midges

Fish species: Trout

Fishing season: Winter

Nearest airport: Charlotte, NC , Johnson City, TN

Recommended fly fishing leader: 9 Foot Leader

Recommended fly fishing tippet: 6X Tippet

Best fly fishing rod: 8' 6" 4 Weight Fly Rod

Best floating fly line: WF Trout Fly Line

Fly Name:	Fly Color:	Fly Size(s):
Adams		14-18
Sulphur Parachute		14-16
Stimulator		12-16
Elk Wing Caddis		16-20
Bead Head American Pheasant Tail		18-20
Lightning Bug	Silver	16,18

Split Case BWO	Olive	18-20
Soft Hackle Hare's Ear	Brown	16-18
Caddis Emerger	Brown	14-18
Zebra Midge	Black	18-22

Techniques & Tips

Dry-dropper rigs with about 24 inches of tippet are a great tool to gently, efficiently present your flies. Fluorocarbon tippet will strictly catch more fish in clear water.

7-Day Forecast

As it gets cooler, the fish will start to be less active. Accurately placed flies with lighter tippet will be the name of the game. Record snowfall is anticipated for this Sunday, so plan accordingly. These rivers require some hiking to get to, so take precautions when making the trek.