Bob Jenkins, Buzz Buffington
and Charlie Saylor fooling around
before the class began
Inform and educate anglers and non-anglers about the aquatic invertebrates found in the Clinch tailwater and discuss their importance to trout; and what flies / bait / lures to use and how to fish them.
What and Why: The class included a general overview of invertebrate taxonomy and ecology focused on those invertebrates important in the diet of Clinch trout. John Thurman of the Clinch River Chapter and several of his professional aquatic ecology associates conducted the class. Chapter members who regularly fish the Clinch were available to show fly patterns that effectively imitate invertebrates important in the trout diet and demonstrate how to fish them; and how to effectively spin and bait fish for Clinch trout.
 | Introductory discussion of invertebrate classification (taxonomy) including handout (10 minutes). |
| Discussion of Clinch invertebrate populations - kinds, densities, diversity including handout (10 minutes). |
| Discussion of invertebrate sampling techniques (10 minutes). |
| Hands-on instream sampling (break up into groups; each group will include professional entomologist). Participants will sample different habitat types and collect individual organisms for identification and observation (1.5 hours). |
| Group observation and discussion of all taxa collected (30 minutes). |
| Discussion of how to fish for Clinch trout (45 minutes): |
| Spin Fishing (bait and lures): Bill Shipman (with input from others) |
| Flyfishing: Buzz Buffington (with input from others) |
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below to view
more photos!
COMMENTS RECEIVED ABOUT
THIS SPECIAL DAY:
From G. Verholek: "It was an educational, as well as entertaining, morning on the river. It is always rewarding to have the opportunity to learn more about your favorite subject, such as trout feeding habits and the availability of food in the Clinch.
You couldn’t have assembled a finer leadership team than John Thurman, Charlie Saylor and Phillip Hollingsworth. John is an extraordinary resource and a very fine fellow. Charlie contributed greatly with his expansive knowledge of the Clinch and other TVA watersheds. Phil was a delightful young man, very bright. He’s going to be an asset to any organization. "
B. Thacker: "I think this was one of the most informative meetings we have ever had."
Nap
time for one of
the kids. Bug hunting
is hard work!
