1) Highs were in the 40s across some parts of WNC earlier this week. In fact, snow was falling atop Beech Mountain and Mount Mitchell believe it or not. Elevations above about 5,500 ft were, for the most part, cold enough to see some frozen precipitation falling from the sky. While not a common occurrence this time of the year, it's not unheard of. Mount Mitchell has observed snow during every month of the year. The snow didn't last very long and was in, out, and gone quickly. No accumulations during that small window of wintry fun, but it goes to show the weather around here can change in a blink of an eye. Sunny skies, warm temperatures, and overall pleasant conditions in the morning are prone to rapidly change. Especially when cold fronts move in. With that being said, if you enjoy continuous hot, humid, downright muggy conditions, next week is your kind of week. The 7 day is a horror story to cold lovers and music to Al Gore's ears. Low 90s in most Piedmont spots and temps approaching the 90 degree mark in areas such as Asheville, Brevard, and Franklin. Not as bad as you'd think though. Slip your feet into your wet wading shoes and let the cool water of a trout stream wash the heat away.

2) Delayed Harvest waters will be winding down in about 2 weeks. Shortly after DH ends, most streams will be cleaned out. If you're a big DH fan, enjoy the remainder of the 2010-2011 season! Right now, wild waters are on fire. The fish are active and are readily caught on dries (nymphs too, especially in the morning). Try a Pheasant Tail Nymph, Green Weenie, Zug Bug, Lightning Bug, or Prince Nymph. In the afternoon/evening, switch to dries. A#14 Yellow Stimulator, Inchworm, Beetle, Ant, or a Parachute Adams (yellow Para Adams have been working exceptionally well). You're not limited to just those though. Most fish around here, particularly fish that are not pressured as much as others, are opportunistic feeders. This essentially means what it sounds—they will eat anything that looks remotely like food. The higher elevation wild streams typically have a medium to high gradient, so swift water is plentiful. Quick decisions must be made by the trout, or he'll lose his potential meal. Stay low, wear drab, earthtone colors, and avoid splashing. Crawl if you must. If you don't see any fish and don't catch anything, stealth was likely the main culprit. Most fish will flee before you even know they're there, making it seem as if the stream is devoid of trout. Approach your quarry like a heron, cast to them delicately (i.e. picking the fly line off of the water delicately, not slapping it down on the water, etc), and present a decent presentation, and your catch rate should increase tremendously.

3) Enjoy the week! If you head out, we would love to hear about your trip!