Free Resource · Updated 2026
The Elk River below Tims Ford Dam in southern Tennessee is a quality tailwater fishery that receives far less pressure than the more famous northeastern Tennessee tailwaters. Cold releases from Tims Ford Lake support year-round trout fishing in a scenic river corridor through Lincoln and Franklin Counties.
Elk River Hatch Calendar — Quick Reference
Tims Ford Dam releases cold water that keeps the Elk River suitable for trout for a considerable distance downstream. The productive trout section runs from the dam near Winchester through Estill Springs. Access is available at the dam tailrace and at several points along the river corridor.
The Elk River tailwater has a reputation for being underfished relative to its quality. Trout numbers are good and hatches are present. Midges and BWOs provide year-round action. The river sees spring and early summer sulphur hatches. This is a good option for anglers looking to avoid the crowded northeastern Tennessee tailwaters.
The river corridor through Lincoln and Franklin Counties is pleasant farmland and mixed hardwood forest. The Elk is wider than the Watauga and has good floating sections as well as excellent wade fishing. Local outfitters and the state TWRA provide more access information.
See the full Tennessee Fly Hatch Chart for hatch timing across all of Tennessee's top trout streams.
Check Conditions Near Elk RiverWhat to Fish
Chironomidae
Midges fish year-round on the Elk River tailwater with winter being the most consistent time. Low generation periods from Tims Ford Dam create the best wading conditions. Standard midge patterns in 20-24 are the staple.
Recommended: Zebra Midge #20-24
Baetis spp.
BWO hatches on the Elk River in April and October are reliable and bring fish to the surface. The river sees less pressure than northeastern tailwaters so fish are often less selective. Size 18-20 patterns cover most situations.
Recommended: BWO Parachute #18-20
Ephemerella dorothea
Evening sulphur hatches in spring bring trout up on the Elk River and provide good dry fly opportunities. The hatches are worth timing trips around in May and June. Evening fishing is most productive during the hatch period.
Recommended: Sulphur Parachute #16-18
Tricorythodes spp.
Summer trico spinner falls in the morning create selective feeding sessions on the Elk River. The fish see less pressure here than on the major tailwaters, making trico fishing slightly more approachable than on the South Holston or Clinch.
Recommended: Trico Spinner #20-22
Common Questions
The Elk River tailwater begins below Tims Ford Dam near Winchester in Franklin County, Tennessee. The productive trout section runs downstream through Estill Springs in Lincoln County. The area is in southern Middle Tennessee near the Alabama border.
The Elk River tailwater is less well-known than the South Holston, Clinch, and Hiwassee, which are in northeastern Tennessee near Knoxville and Bristol. The Elk is in southern Middle Tennessee and is farther from major population centers, keeping pressure lower.
Midge patterns in 20-24 year-round, BWO parachutes in 18-20 for spring and fall, sulphur patterns in 16-18 for May and June evenings, and trico spinners in 20-22 for summer mornings. The fly selection mirrors other Tennessee tailwaters.
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