The calendar still says February, but we’re right on the brink of March when fly fishing in the Smoky Mountains gets good. Right now we’re still in that weird space when the warmer weather feels even warmer than it really is because it was so cold for the last two months. In reality, we’re a little bit ahead of nature. The bugs haven’t started moving yet, and neither have the trout. But get ready because it’s coming….
It has been great to get out and feel the sun on our faces lately even if the fishing hasn’t exactly been on fire.
So far we have seen a few caddis, midges, blue wing olives, and winter stoneflies moving around. Nothing in numbers and you have to really be paying attention to notice them. The current weather pattern has been pretty warm so stream temperatures are moving in the right direction. Just keep your expectations in check.
As warm as the afternoons have been, most of the nights have still been pretty cold. In fact today is the first day we haven’t had frost, but we’re due to see more in the coming days. Remember the nights are still longer than the days. The water is warming up, but only so much and so fast. Be patient, we’re getting there….
Anglers in the know are really waiting for the Quill Gordons to appear. It could happen any time now, but typically happens after stream temperatures remain at or above 50 degrees for about three days or so. As an avid observer I’ve seen this be right on target and wildly inaccurate too! I suspect there’s an element of warmth required, but the length of the days is probably another critical ingredient. That’s why they always tend to show up sometime between the first and middle of March.
Focus on fishing the deeper slots with nymphs, but keep your eyes open for bugs in the afternoon.
Nymphs will continue to be the best method to hook trout, but there’s nothing wrong with being curious. Go ahead and tie on that bushy #12 dry fly if you want. Just be sure it’s during the warmest part of the day in a sunny spot and don’t get your feelings hurt if trout don’t acknowledge your fly. Expect the first hatches to happen around 2:00 or later and last 30 – 60 minutes. After several days or a week the bugs will show up earlier and stick around longer.
In summary, don’t freak out because you’ve missed some nice days on the water, but don’t put your plans off for too long. Our calendar is filling, so don’t wait much longer if you want to get with us this spring. Just be patient because the good stuff is on the way!
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