Free Resource · Updated 2026
The Hiwassee River in Polk County is one of Tennessee's most scenic tailwater fisheries. Cold water released from Apalachia Dam supports brown and rainbow trout in a river that flows through Cherokee National Forest. The Hiwassee offers a mix of wade fishing and float fishing through beautiful mountain scenery.
Hiwassee River Hatch Calendar — Quick Reference
The most productive trout water on the Hiwassee runs from the base of Apalachia Dam downstream through Reliance and beyond. The river flows through Cherokee National Forest and offers outstanding public access. The Hiwassee State Scenic River designation protects its natural character.
The Hiwassee is wider and more floatable than most Tennessee tailwaters. Drift boat and raft fishing are popular and open up miles of productive water. Wade fishing is excellent in the tailout areas and shallower sections near Reliance. The river sees good but not overwhelming pressure.
Hatches on the Hiwassee are typical for southeastern tailwaters. Midges and BWOs provide year-round action. Sulphurs and caddis are important spring and summer hatches. The river also responds well to nymph fishing with standard tailwater patterns throughout the year.
See the full Tennessee Fly Hatch Chart for hatch timing across all of Tennessee's top trout streams.
Check Conditions Near Hiwassee RiverWhat to Fish
Ephemerella dorothea
Evening sulphur hatches in May and June are the signature dry fly event on the Hiwassee. Fish rise consistently during heavy hatches and the wide river allows anglers to cover multiple rising fish without crowding.
Recommended: Sulphur Parachute #16-18
Trichoptera
Caddis hatches on the Hiwassee are reliable through summer and provide some of the most accessible dry fly fishing on the river. Evening hatches in June through July are the best. Standard elk hair patterns work well.
Recommended: Elk Hair Caddis #14-16
Isoperla spp.
Yellow Sally stonefly hatches are a highlight of early summer on the Hiwassee. These small yellow stoneflies hatch in the afternoons and evenings in June and July and create good rise activity on the riffles near Reliance.
Recommended: Yellow Sally #14
Baetis spp.
BWO hatches provide reliable surface fishing in the shoulder seasons on the Hiwassee. Fall hatches in October can be particularly good. The wide, clear river makes spotting rising fish to BWOs straightforward.
Recommended: BWO Parachute #18-20
Common Questions
The Hiwassee River flows through Polk County in southeastern Tennessee. The best trout water is below Apalachia Dam, flowing through Cherokee National Forest near the towns of Reliance and Benton. US 411 and County Road 30 provide access.
Yes. The Hiwassee is one of the most floatable tailwaters in Tennessee. Drift boats, rafts, and canoes all work well on the river. Several outfitters in the Reliance area offer guided float trips. Floating opens up miles of productive water not reachable by wading.
Spring sulphur hatches in May and June are the peak dry fly season. Fall BWO fishing in October can be excellent. Winter midge fishing during low generation periods produces well for anglers willing to fish tiny flies with patience.
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