Depending on the day we’re either referring to the current situation as “early spring” or “late winter” fishing, but we’re definitely seeing hatches and eager trout in the Smoky Mountains. After a relatively long period of wet and mild weather we’re back in the midst of cold conditions. A few lonely snowflakes occasionally drift past the window as I write this and I can just make out snow covered ridges in the thick mist over the mountains. This won’t last long though since the forecast is for warmer weather in three or four days.
It’s that time of year!
We’ve experienced quite the roller coaster of weather as well as water levels. Over the past two weeks we’ve seen more high water than good fishable conditions. Fortunately fishing has been nothing short of excellent when we’ve had good water. Last Saturday we were reunited on the water with the Judd – Smith family who we’ve gotten to know quite well over the years. It was a combined birthday celebration for one and also a sendoff for Hunter, a marine about to deploy overseas.
US Marine Hunter Judd caught several nice trout with the fly rod and Tenkara
Fishing has been relatively slow up until about lunch time right now. You can certainly catch fish earlier, but it will require some nymphs and probably a split shot as well. Action has been much better in the afternoon and we’ve even been sight fishing to steady risers.
Walker and a great brown he picked off from a pod of rising fish
Those of you who know us won’t be surprised to hear we’re fishing the hatch with #12 Haystacks and Quill Gordon Parachutes. There are also some smaller Blue Quills and Blue Wing Olives hatching but the fish have been more than agreeable on the bigger bugs so we haven’t seen a need so far to downsize.
Just your everyday, run of the mill, brilliantly colored Smoky Mountain rainbow trout
Seth and Sally did some fishing as well and we all switched up who was fishing with Charity and Ian throughout the afternoon, but Mom and Dad were basking the glory of watching their kids get on fish. At one point I thought Seth and Sally might just levitate away when Walker caught that nice brown trout. They were watching from a high bank and could the fish rise clearly.
A closer look at Walker’s brown trout
I eventually got Seth to spend a few minutes casting the rod himself. He’s an avid fly fisher but was truly content just taking in the sunshine and rising trout. Over the years I’ve been on the water with Seth and Sally all over the Smokies as well as rowed them down the Clinch and Holston Rivers. We’ve camped on Hazel Creek a few times and even enjoyed time on the Henry’s Fork together, so there was no pressure on a pretty day with rising trout.
Seth and Sally soaking up a great day in the Smoky Mountains
After some pressure (it really didn’t take much) Seth finally cast a fly in earnest. In less than five minutes a beautiful brown trout took his parachute. Just a great fish and a super memorable day!
Nice work, Seth!
We’ve had more than our share of great days on the water together, but this one will always be special for all of us. We’ve known Hunter since back in his high school days and we’ll be thinking of him and praying for him everyday until he’s home safe. Semper Fi, Hunter!
It was a great way for us to kick off our spring guide season!