To all of our fishing friends we wish a happy new year with this update on current conditions of our local waters. In general, our tailwaters and natural streams are in very good condition with adequate moisture. This is the first time I have been able to say this in a while. Local TVA lakes are  5-10 feet above last year’s levels. The next 90 days will offer some excellent opportunities, and with our mostly mild winters, we probably should be drifting more this time of year.  I am expecting above average shad kills for all of our tailwaters this winter due to reports of healthy shad populations near the surface late winter on our major southeastern reservoirs.

Hiwassee River – flow schedule perfect for drifting on a daily basis. The fish love the consistent flows. We have some shad coming through the turbines. With intermittent cold snaps I expect more to come. We have recently released an 18” brown trout.

Toccoa River – Irregular flow schedules with weekly windows. Lots of fish throughout. The flows are suitable for some high water streamer fishing (which is becoming more popular) followed by low water angling with smaller nymphs and dries.

Clinch River – Irregular flow schedules with weekly windows. Lots of fish throughout. The brookies are getting bigger, and the new slot limit is definitely making an impact.

Holston River – Irregular flow schedules with weekly windows. Great light nymph fishing on the two upper float stretches. Good holdover populations this year with some large rainbows present.

Cumberland River – For the next few months everything will depend on local rainfall in the watershed. USACE continues to maintain the lake at a constant level. The river has been high for several weeks, but is dropping to fishable levels by week’s end. Those lucky enough to drift here at proper levels during or after a shad kill will witness a spectacle.