April Report

As April temps continue to warm it enters the prime time for trout fishing on the Watauga River, with rising water temperatures (48–55°F) increasing trout activity and feeding. The South Holston River is fishing well this April, with brown trout actively feeding on Sulphur nymphs (size 14-16) and small black caddis (size 18-20). As temps increase, dry fly activity will come to life on the South Holston with Sulphers and small Black Caddis. However, nymphing remains the most consistent approach, while afternoon hatches can bring trout to the surface. Brown trout are starting to move up the rivers as temperatures increase in Boone Lake, seeking colder, oxygen-rich water and abundant food sources. This movement increases the number of larger fish in the lower rivers, targeting these fish is a very technical and high skill but a very big reward when you hook up. The smallmouth bass are in pre-spawn mode chasing bait fish schools, and just starting to dial in on the emerging crawfish. We have also caught some nice bass  on caddis dry flies.