Overmountain Chapter Trout Unlimited
2025 Projects and Activities
Here is a list of some of the current projects that we are working on as a chapter this year.
Remote Water Level Sensor (2025)
We’re working to install cellular water level and temperature monitors on Beaverdam Creek, Doe Creek, and Laurel Fork. These devices will provide important data about water flow and temperature in some of the more remote parts of our area.
Each monitor will send hourly updates directly to our website, so we’ll have real-time info on stream conditions. We’re aiming to have them up and running by early summer.
Hampton Creek Barrier Repair (2025)
We are excited to share that we have been awarded a $25,000 grant to repair the Brook Trout barrier on the Left Prong of Hampton Creek. Our gratitude goes to the FishAmerica Foundation and The Brunswick Foundation for funding this important project. We also extend our thanks to the Tennessee Department of Environment & Conservation (TDEC) and the Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency (TWRA) for their assistance in securing the grant. Construction is scheduled to begin in May or June 2025.
Stony Creek Trash Trout (2025)
A Trash Trout was installed on Stony Creek in Carter County, thanks to a team effort between Overmountain Trout Unlimited (OMTU), Asheville Greenworks, and some generous donors. This floating trap is designed to catch plastic and trash before it can float downstream into the Watauga River, helping keep the water clean and healthy for fish and people.
OMTU will check and empty the trap about once a month. The project was made possible with support from Tennessee Tri-Fly and the Tennessee Valley Authority (TVA), who helped cover the costs. It’s a great step toward protecting our local streams and keeping them clean for everyone to enjoy.
Brook Trout Habitat Improvement (2021-25)
The "Habitat improvement for native and wild trout in northeast Tennessee" seeks to improve trout habitat through the addition of woody material in areas where that habitat component is lacking. Traditionally, trout streams in this region would have contained large tree trunks and limbs in them, creating deep pools and pockets where trout could escape. The woody material also controlled the sediment flow and helped ensure gravel spawning habitat occurred throughout the stream. Historic logging practices have significantly reduced the amount of wood found in high-elevation streams.
Todd Burleson Memorial Cleanup
Every year, OMTU joins forces with the Burleson Family and the Roan Mountain community for a Doe River cleanup—and it's always a highlight! We focus on removing trash from the river and its tributaries to help keep these beautiful streams clean and healthy.
It’s more than just a cleanup, though—it’s a community event. The Burleson Family goes above and beyond by providing breakfast and lunch for all the volunteers. It’s a great way to make a real impact, share a good meal, and connect with others who care about our rivers.
Women's Fly Fishing Clinic
Each year we hold our annual Women's Fly Fishing Clinic. Ten women from around the area attend the one day clinic. In the classroom the women learn about knot tying, casting, entomology, and how to land fish. They then get out on the Watauga River to test their newly learned skills. The women are then paired up with a mentor so that they have a fishing partner over the next year
Watauga Bluffs Trail Maintenance
Several times a year, our chapter gathers at the Watauga Bluffs to take care of the trail and surrounding area. We mow the grass around the parking lot and along the trail, clear brush and remove any fallen trees, and pick up trash that’s been washed in by the river.
It’s a simple but important way we help keep this beautiful spot clean, safe, and enjoyable for everyone who visits.
Bill Beazell / Allen Robbins Memorial Tailwater Roundup
Each year we team up with the local guides and community members to take on our biggest cleanup of the year. Over 125 people come out to show their support for the South Holston and Watauga Rivers. The Appalachian Paddling Enthusiasts (APES) and local drift boat fishing guides play a huge role in this event. They float the majority of the rivers cleaning up trash along the way and collecting trash bags from the land crews in hard to access areas. Together we clean up about 6 tons of trash annually.
