Updated Every Friday:

05/03/13

Release Schedule:

Nolichucky

French Broad River (near Asheville)

Pigeon River (TN side)

News on French Broad River Sewage Spill:

Officials say about 7 million of gallons of raw sewage spilled  into the French Broad River near Asheville after a pump failed at the MSD treatment plant.  A connecting piece failed on a pump that was being replaced around 8 a.m., causing the spill that pumped about one million gallons of raw sewage an hour into the river. Workers pumped out about 30 feet of water to get to the problem.  Bacteria tests done by state officials have not come back yet, although health department directors in Buncombe and Madison counties are saying the water should be safe now because the high water levels Tuesday and Wednesday helped to flush and dilute all the sewage downriver faster.  Raw sewage can affect oxygen levels and in turn affect all wildlife downstream of the spill area.   Click here for video and to read more from Asheville Citizen-Times… 

Fly Suggestions:

Black, White and Chartreuse Streamers.  Crayfish.

General Information:

Water levels are at their springtime normal across WNC.  Water clarity varies, ranging between 2′-6′ depending on the river.  Fishing should be excellent this week as we are approaching a new moon (on 5/10), as well as storm systems moving in and out.  The Smallmouth typically feed more actively when a storm system is moving in.  For instance, the day before a rain is usually better fishing than the day after a rain.  If there are several days of scattered showers, like the upcoming week, look for the barometric pressure to drop.  When it is below 30 and starts to rise, grab your stuff and head for the water.

The Smallmouth have not been exploding on flies yet.  The bite has been slow and soft, so make sure you manage the slack in your line so you can feel the slightest take or use a strike indicator to help see the strike.  The slow take may also force you to delay your hook set.   The bigger fish have been known to pick up a fly and just hold it for a moment before committing.  Since the bigger fish have exceptionally hard lips, it can be tricky to get a good hook set if the fish doesn’t commit.

To get in on the fun… Let the professional fly fishing guides from Curtis Wright Outfitters show you why fly fishing for Smallmouth Bass has been the talk of the town over the last couple of years.

Be sure to check back in on our weekly stream report for updates on fishing conditions, fly selection, and more. And be sure to stop by the shop Mon- Sat for stream specific flies, techniques, and other information from our great fly fishing guide staff.

We offer guided trips 7 days a week. Any one of our great guides would be happy to help you dial in your favorite water, and perfect your fly fishing skills.

Gear recommendations:

Rod: Fast Action comparable to Scott “S” Series rods 9’ 6-8wt.

Leader: 9-12’ 3x-5x Florocarbon.

Leader options: Straight mono (5′ butt section 20lb. test,  5′ tip section 14lb. test).

Vest:  A vest with a work station and plenty of room for big flies.  Fishpond Waterdance or comparable.

Boots: New Chota STL wading boot.  This is a great boot for the money that will last through years of abuse.

Net:  EGO S2 Slider Landing Net

Hot Fly:

Black Articulated Streamer