Blue Stream Fly Fishing
Fly Fishing Report for:

Clinch River - above Tazewell - Tennessee

Hatch Chart - Best Access/Spots - Local Fish - About

Water Flow Chart

Using Water Flow Charts & Weather Reports: Begin with our water flow charts to grasp stream velocity and volume – look for stable or rising trends to pinpoint ideal fishing times. Learn to interpret sudden spikes or drops, which can indicate potential challenges. Next, consult our weather reports to understand ambient conditions. Pairing the two, you can anticipate fish behavior, choose the right gear, and select the best fishing spots. Use these tools together for a holistic approach to your next fishing adventure.

In-Depth Weather

Directions To Location

Hatch Chart

Month Hatch Time of Day Recommended Fly Sizes Popular Fly Patterns
January Midges and Scuds All day 18-20 Zebra Midge, Scud Patterns
February Midges, Scuds and Black Stoneflies All day 18-20, 12-14 Zebra Midge, Scud Patterns, Black Stonefly Nymph
March Midges, Scuds, Blue Wing Olives All day 18-20, 14-16 Zebra Midge, Scud Patterns, BWO Patterns
April Caddis Afternoon 14-16 CDC Caddis, Elk Hair Caddis
May Sulphurs Afternoon to Evening 16-18 Sulphur Dun, Sulphur Emerger
June Sulphurs, Terrestrials Afternoon to Evening 16-18, 12-14 Sulphur Dun, Ant Patterns
July Terrestrials All Day 12-14 Ant Patterns, Beetle Patterns
August Terrestrials All Day 12-14 Ant Patterns, Beetle Patterns
September Terrestrials, Midges All Day 12-14, 18-20 Ant Patterns, Beetle Patterns, Zebra Midge
October Blue Wing Olives, Midges All Day 18-20, 14-16 BWO Patterns, Zebra Midge
November Blue Wing Olives, Midges All Day 18-20, 14-16 BWO Patterns, Zebra Midge
December Midges, Scuds All Day 18-20 Zebra Midge, Scud Patterns

While we strive to ensure the precision of our hatch charts, some reflect broader river region insights. Through ongoing partnerships with local guides and fly shops, we’re committed to refining our data. Should you notice any inconsistencies or have feedback, we welcome you to reach out. 

Best Fishing Spots

The Clinch River above Tazewell, popular for its rich aquatic life, provides myriad options for fly fishing enthusiasts. Here, we explore some of the best spots:
  • Norris Dam: Located at the headwaters of the river, this place is teeming with trout, making it a popular spot for fly fishing.
  • Big Ridge State Park: Offering a peaceful and quiet environment, this park’s lake connects with the river and is an excellent spot to catch rainbow trout.
  • Kyles Ford: This segment of the river boasts of some of the best smallmouth bass fishing and an abundance of aquatic insects, attracting a variety of fish species.
  • Lower River: This is a fabulous section of slow-moving water rich in vegetation perfect for wading and fly fishing.
Remember to check for river conditions and fishing regulations before heading out.

Best Access Points

The Clinch River offers a plethora of access points for fly fishing, especially above Tazewell. Here are the best ones:

  • Mansion house: Ample parking space and easy river access make this a preferred spot for fishers.
  • Second Baptist church: Just north of Clinton, this spot is known for its abundant trout.
  • Munsey flats: Upstream from the church, this area is great for those seeking solitude while fishing.
  • Eagle Bend: A favorite among fly fishers, this place offers a fantastic environment for fishing along with adequate amenities.
  • Millers Island: A popular boat access area, it provides a great spot for both wading and drift fishing.
  • 61 Bridge: Not only is this an excellent wading location, it also has stunning views.

Remember, each spot has its unique traits, so be sure to pick the one that suits your needs!

Local Fish

  • Brown Trout: This species is commonly found in cold, clear waters, which makes the Clinch River an ideal place for them. They are known for their strength and beauty, which makes them a popular target for fly fishing.
  • Rainbow Trout: Native to the Pacific coast of North America, rainbow trout have been introduced far from their native habitat for recreational fly fishing due to their adaptability to pond life.
  • Brook Trout: These are the East Coast’s native trout, and they thrive in the Appalachian Mountain range. Known for their distinct coloration and spotted pattern, they’re a must-catch for any fly fisherman on the Clinch River.
  • Striped Bass: Although not a native species, they have become established inhabitants of the Clinch River. Striped bass offer an exciting challenge for anglers due to their size and strength.
  • Smallmouth Bass: They are sought after mainly for their strong resistance when hooked, which makes them thrilling for fly fishing.
  • Largemouth Bass: Known for their aggressive behavior, they are popular amongst anglers for their size and the fight they put up when hooked.
  • Walleye: They are a nocturnal fish species, making them one of the more challenging game fish to catch on the fly.
  • White Bass: Despite their small size, white bass are aggressive feeders and provide a lot of action for fly fishers. They’re also known for their excellent taste.

About The River

If you’re a fan of rivers, you may have heard of the Clinch River, which gracefully winds its way through the southwest parts of good old Virginia. The river’s headwaters are neatly tucked just above Tazewell, surrounded by the Appalachian Mountains.

The history of the Clinch River is something to cherish and explore. The river got its name from Colonel Abraham Wood’s Explorer, who discovered the river in the 18th century and named it in honor of his friend, Captain Clinch.

The Clinch River’s significance doesn’t end there. It’s known for its biodiversity, housing many of the nation’s rare fish and freshwater mussels populations. Another noteworthy highlight is its crucial role during the Civil War.

  • The Battle of Clinch River in 1861 was a strategic win for the Union Army.

Indeed, the Clinch River adds an amazing layer to the rich tapestry of American history!

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