Norris Lake (Clinch River)
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This is a general guide to fishing the tail water section of the Clinch River below the Norris Lake Dam: Public Access: Canoe launch and pathway below the dam Weir Dam At low water, 0 generators running, the Miller Island to Peach Tree boat ramp is a good “one day” float in a drift boat or personal pontoon. (3 1/2 miles) With zero (0) generators running, 200 cfs, the river offers great wade fishing. It is also good canoeing, kayaking, drift boat, or personal pontoon fishing. With one (1) generator operating, 4600cfs, It is not safe to wade. Drift boats, canoes, or kayaks are fairly safe for the experienced. Motorized boats are not a good choice due to the many hidden obstacles in the water. With 2 (two) generators pumping 8000-9000 cfs, flat bottom motor boats and experienced drift boaters are the Only fishermen that should be on the water. #8 wt fly rods or spinning gear are the weapons of choice due to the force of the rapid water flow. Waders: This is cold water 42-60 degrees. Always dress for the cold water regardless of the air temp. Spiked wading boots are best, felt is very good. Food Source: Scuds, Sow Bugs, Midges, Caddis, Mayflies, and Baitfish. Scuds and Sow Bugs made of Swiss Straw over hair dubbing size 16 – 20 work best. Midges are good all year #18& 20 usually work well. Emergers and pupa cast downstream and allowed to drift over pools produce lots of takes. Caddis flies don’t play a large role in the river, but sometimes are very good. Size 18 and 20 are best. Mayflies are the best dry fly fishing on the Clinch. Size 14-18 from April to the end of June. Pale yellow to Orange Sulphurs are the popular choices. Bait fish (Sculpins) can reach 10” on the Clinch. Large streamers, muddlers, zonkers, and white Wooly Buggers are the favorite of the locals. Fish that are in the Clinch River. Brown Trout will average 8 – 14 inches, but don’t forget, the state record Brown was caught in the Clinch in 1988, it weighed in at a whopping 28 lbs 12 oz. The TRWA confirmed that they shocked up a Brownie that would break the world record topping their scales at over 42 pounds. It was safely released as is still swimming around as far as anyone knows. Rainbow average 14-20 inches and are plentiful. Cutbow Trout were inadvertently released in the Clinch. This is not a problem and they really like to jump. Carp and Walleye round out the typical fish you will encounter on a days fishing the Clinch River. The following chart can be used as a general guide to the water rise and fall at some landmarks after the warning has sounded. Remember, this is a general guide and nothing can replace safety and caution to insure an enjoyable outdoor experience. Rise Time (hours) 1 Turbine 2 Turbines
Miller Island 1.0 0.5 Drain down (hours) 1 Turbine 2 Turbines
Miller Island 1.5 2.0 The above times are estimations and prevailing conditions may cause them to vary. Again, as a reminder, this is a tail water and no generation times and rates are guaranteed. Please take necessary precautions and be alert for the unexpected at all times. For additional information and generation schedules check the reservoir information at www.tva.com. Also check the Clinch River Chapter of Trout Unlimited website at www.crctu.com.
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