Smallmouth Bass Stream Report

UPDATED EVERY FRIDAY:  July 13, 2012

WATER CONDITIONS:  

Water conditions are going to be less than ideal for fishing this week.     Water is currently 2-4 ft. above normal and muddy.  Visibility is little to none.  Water temperature varying in the  70′s.

Looking at the French Broad this fine Friday morning was like looking into a tall glass of chocolate milk.

Water watch:

• Nolichucky
• French Broad River
• Pigeon River

FLY SUGGESTIONS:  

Its a great week to tie some flies while the water clears up.  If you are looking for pointers, check out our classes for fly tying here.

GENERAL INFORMATION:  

An interesting point I just learned…  Smallmouth Bass actually excrete a chemical through their skin, which mimics the smell of a crayfish.  This smell will make crayfish come out of their hiding spots to protect their territory thinking it’s another crayfish and the bass just waits there for the ambush.

One thing to keep in mind when heading out for a day of fishing is that fish can smell, so any chemicals you may have on your hands will transfer to whatever lure or fly you are using.  If you have touched a gas tank, gas line or get gasoline on your hands, wash your hands with sugar.  After you have put bug spray on, wash your hands with salt.  Do this before you touch your lures to minimize transfer of undesirable scents.  This will maximize fish strikes.

Planning a fly fishing trip for trout or Smallmouth bass?  Let the professional fly fishing guides from Curtis Wright Outfitters take you there!

PROJECTED CONDITIONS:  

The French Broad and Nolichucky rivers will take about a week to clear up after the rain stops.  The Pigeon river should clear up a little faster.  Temperatures are expected to be in the mid 80′s with scattered thunderstorms, lows in the mid 60’s.

Click here for current weather.

GEAR SUGGESTIONS:

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

Leader: 9-12’ 2x-4x Florocarbon.  Option: Blue Sky furled leader.

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

Planning a fly fishing trip for trout or Smallmouth bass?  Let the professional fly fishing guides from Curtis Wright Outfitters take you there!