October 11, 2016

We are experiencing fall weather for sure with lows in the upper 30's and highs making it to the upper 70's and lower 80's depending on location.  Higher elevations are not warming up as much during the day.  These cooler nighttime temps are bring the water temps down and that is good for the fishing.  Many anglers are coming into the shop talking about some pretty impressive outings with many giving some astronomical numbers of fish caught and released.  Remember fishermen never lie!

If you are fishing on the Tuckasegee River in Jackson County expect to see many anglers and the occasional boat on the water.  The river is producing some great catches and it is really a wonderful place for everyone regardless of skill sets to drift a fly.  Depending on who you talk to you will hear a variety of recommendations on what to use.  The most common item is the Woolly Bugger and Squirmy Wormie.  Other items such as Hares Ears and Pheasant Tails will also catch fish but if you are not getting any takes don't be afraid of changing things up. 

The leaves are coming down in higher elevations which is making drifting a dry fly a bit more challenging compounding the already low water levels and gin-clear water conditions.  At times you feel like the trout are sticking out their tongue and laughing at you during these tough conditions.  I told someone the other day that the trout have to win or we would not have any or any challenge. 

I still like throwing dry flies right now especially with the October Caddis hatch that we are seeing in some places.  I like using an October Caddis Pattern and an Orange Parachute Pattern.

Feel free to contact me here at the shop or even better stop in and chat for awhile.

Tight Lines!