What a beautiful way to enjoy the Smokies, cool clear water
running over your feet and eager fish smacking dry flies as they float down to
stream. The beautiful rainbow, brown, and
brook trout of the Smoky Mountains National Park have been willing participants
in our sport lately and that has put many smiles on the faces of our
guests. These quick little wild fish can
be a little finicky at times but lately they have been willing to take dry
flies off the surface, or nymphs drifted through the current. Our wild fish here in Southern Appalachia
aren’t known for their size; however they truly are a blast to chase around
from rock to rock and stream to stream. We have had a good bit of rain lately,
but between showers, from beginner to experienced fly anglers, we have seen
some great fly fishing over the last few weeks.
Yellow dry flies have been the ticket. Smaller yellow mayfly, caddis, and stone fly patterns
have tempted many fish to the surface with strikes ranging from subtle sips to
full blown back flips. A range of nymphs
have been working as well, but the old standbys such as the Pheasant Tail and
Tellico nymph have made a strong showing, especially early in the day. Fish can be caught throughout the day, but by
far the most enjoyment from now through the summer will come in the latter
parts of the day. As the light begins to
fade, many of the insects return to the water for their egg laying flights. As these bugs dance and fall to the water’s
surface, the fish begin to look up. Dry
fly fishing is an exciting way to enjoy the Smokies as these quick little fish
smack, slap, and flip at the bugs as they float by. I really don’t think it is possible to not
smile as it happens over and over!
Join us on the water and let us share the beauty of our back
yard from our Smoky Mountain base camp.
Alex Quick
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