The Articulate Fly delivers another essential East Tennessee Fishing Report with veteran guide Ellis Ward, covering the critical fall transition period when serious fly fishers need to adapt their approach.

Ward, who operates in the premier East Tennessee tailwater system, breaks down current conditions on the Watauga River (low flows no recreational releases) and South Holston River (reliable generation), while detailing the shift to smaller fall patterns with bugs in the 16-22 range.

This episode delivers actionable techniques for fishing floating lines at distance, including Ward's proven lift-and-drop method that positions anglers for downstream hook sets and eliminates problematic line slack. Ward explains why downstream positioning is crucial when everything becomes "muted by fly line stretch and rod tip," especially during the pickier fall conditions.

Whether you're planning fall trips to the Watauga and South Holston systems or looking to refine your distance nymphing and dry fly techniques, this report provides the local intelligence and technical insights that separate successful anglers from the crowd.

To learn more about Ellis, check out our interview!

Related Content

S6, Ep 139 - Exploring East Tennessee's Changing Waters with Ellis Ward

S6, Ep 37 - Streamer Secrets and Dry Fly Dreams with East Tennessee's Ellis Ward

S6, Ep 128 - Catch Big Fish: Ellis Ward's Insider Tips for East Tennessee Anglers

S7, Ep 14 - The Streamer Playbook: Tips and Tactics for Targeting Big Trout in East Tennessee with Ellis Ward

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