Not much has changed this week compared to last week so if we sound like a broken record there’s a reason. Not much will change until we get a break in the warm weather but fall is just around the corner!
The Etowah River is fishing well – the bass bite is still strong right now but fishing is better early in the morning and later in the evening. With the warming water temps, topwater flies such as Boogle Bugs and the Umpqua Swim Frog have been some of our go to Bass Flies. Fish these flies slow, less is more when it comes to topwater fishing the Etowah. Striper fishing is tough right now, warm water has fish holding in deep water and near springs trying to conserve energy and make it through the hottest part of the day. There are still fish in the river but with water temps creeping up into the low and mid 80s anglers should use extreme caution fighting and handling fish. If you catch a striper this time of year keep it in the water for any photos to avoid mortality.
The Toccoa Tailwater has been fishing well when generation and water clarity allows. This week the tailwater is looking good with little rain in the forecast. There has been a substantial stocking of small fish from the Hatchery and as a result these tiny trout are making up a majority of what anglers have been catching at public access points. These small fish are eating just about any dry you want to throw at them, but based on the time of year we are mainly throwing terrestrial patterns like ants and beetles. For nymphing keep your selection basic- Pat’s Rubberlegs, Hare’s Ears, Soft Hackle Pheasant tails will do the trick most days.
The Upper Toccoa is still too warm for trout. Try the Tailwater or Small Streams.
Small Streams are fishing great. Now is the time of year to go higher elevation! Small streams are low clear, so don’t forget your 5X and bring a box full of Parachute Adams, Yellow Stimulators, and Soft Hackles. If the water is still high, I’ll bring along a second rod rigged with nymphs – stoneflies, Duracell Jigs, Holy Grails, Etc. Find streams that are higher in elevation and shaded – these streams will have water temperatures that are conducive for trout!
Check the generation schedule before you plan your trip! We do not recommend that you float the Etowah if Allatoona dam is releasing water. We do not recommend wading the Toccoa if the TVA is releasing water. Check the release schedules and be safe!
Toccoa River Delayed Harvest flows
Allatoona Dam Release Schedule- (706) 334-7213
