Hiwassee River

The Hiwassee is another productive tailrace located in Reliance, TN. The river begins it's journey in the Cherokee National Forest, and flows for approximately 20 miles or so. The Hiwassee was the first Tennessee river to be designated as a State Scenic River, and it's views are just absolutely incredible. There is nothing better than fishing here in the fall when the leaves are changing color. It is truly magical.

Above Reliance, there is a popular six-mile stretch of river, which contains a Trophy Trout Section. This upper portion contains riffles, runs, and pools, as well as pocket water characteristics, especially when water is being generated at the plant. Downstream of the dam in Reliance to the Highway 411 Bridge, the stream gradient becomes flatter and more wadeable, and a lot less crowded as well. The tailrace below the Apalachia Dam is stocked with an absurd number of rainbows and browns all year-round.

Hatches here include Blue Wing Olives, Light Cahills, Hendricksons, Sulfurs and Tricos to name a few. If you plan on fishing this river, stop in and see Nicole at Reliance Fly and Tackle. They will be able to give you all the latest water and hatch information available.