Tellico Plains Access / Cherohala Skyway Intersectionon Tellico River
Conditions right now
No USGS gauge is linked to this water yet, so we can't chart flows.
Blue-Winged Olive (BWO) hatches are active
- 01Blue-Winged Olive (BWO) hatches are active, especially on overcast days.
- 02Stoneflies and Caddis are important fall staples, providing consistent action.
- 03Pale Morning Duns (PMDs) are actively emerging, offering dry fly opportunities.
- 04Midges remain a consistent year-round food source.
- 05Aggressive trout and smallmouth bass will respond well to streamer patterns.
What to tie on at Tellico Plains Access / Cherohala Skyway Intersection
Picked from recent reports for this stretch.
Tellico Nymph
A regional favorite and effective nymph for trout during the spring in the Tellico River, mimicking common subsurface insects.
Blue-Winged Olive Comparadun
Blue-Winged Olives are actively hatching in early spring, especially on overcast days, and this low-profile dry fly is excellent for selective trout feeding on emergers and adults.
Pheasant Tail Nymph
A universal mayfly nymph imitation, particularly effective during spring BWO periods when nymphs are active subsurface.
Buy at AmazonSoft Hackle Wet (Partridge & Orange)
Caddis hatches are expected in spring, and this classic wet fly effectively imitates pupa and emergers on the swing.
Buy at AmazonElk Hair Caddis
Caddis are active from spring through fall on the Tellico River, and this is a classic dry fly to imitate the adult.
Buy at AmazonWoolly Bugger (Olive)
A versatile streamer that imitates leeches and baitfish, effective year-round and particularly good for aggressive trout and smallmouth bass in spring flows.
San Juan Worm
An excellent attractor, particularly effective after spring rains or runoff when aquatic worms might be washed into the Tellico River's system.
Buy at AmazonMarch Brown Nymph
March Browns begin to move in early spring, and this nymph is a seasonal standard for mimicking active mayfly nymphs.
Elk Hair Caddis
Caddisflies are actively hatching from late spring through fall on the Tellico River. This dry fly is a reliable imitation for adult caddis, drawing aggressive strikes from trout and opportunistic smallmouth.
Buy at AmazonTennessee season by season
What changes on the water through the year, with the flies for each season.
Fly shops nearby
Local flies, current advice and guided trips.