Toccoa Tailwater: Cooling Temps and Prime Fall Fishing
Fall is in full swing, and water on the Toccoa is cooling off. Turnover is nearly complete, and as the weather continues to cool, so will the water temps. Water is still coming out of the dam in the mid to low 60s, but downstream, cooling creeks are helping to lower temps further. Last night’s rain should help once everything clears back up. Pat’s Rubber Legs and Worms should be great until the water clears. Midges, BWOs, and a variety of caddis are hatching, and late afternoon has brought an increase in bug activity—stay late to catch some rising fish. Size 16 soft hackles have been great for matching these hatches. A favorite fall hatch, the October caddis, is on the way, and these bigger, orange-bodied caddis are perfect for this time of year. Stock up on Orange Elk Hair Caddis, Goddard Caddis, and even small orange Chubbies for dry-dropper setups. An effective rig has been an orange Elk Hair (size 12) with a Swing Caddis or Holy Grail dropped about a foot below for shallow water. In deeper pools, try a smaller orange Chubby paired with any jigged Hare’s Ear variation and a trailing Swing Caddis. Don’t forget to fish the swing, as many fish have been taking the dry or Swing Caddis on the swing. As temps cool further, expect midday fishing to keep improving.
Upper Toccoa: What to Know About the Delayed Harvest Season
Delayed Harvest season has begun on the Upper Toccoa, running from November 1 to May 14. During this period, the area is catch-and-release only, with artificial lures and single hooks required. This is a great time to stock up on junk flies—Eggs, Worms, Pat’s, or anything flashy should perform well. Currently, the flow on the Upper Toccoa is low at 210cfs after last night’s rain. Flows have been staying around 175cfs, making for ideal wade fishing conditions. Enjoy the opportunity to wade while you can, as late-year rains can make flows too high for safe wading.
Small Streams: Low Water and Caddis Hatches
After the recent rains from Hurricane Helene, water levels in the creeks are already extremely low again. Expect spooky fish and approach carefully—stealth is essential. A well-presented Elk Hair Caddis with a caddis emerger below should do the trick with these picky trout. Stay quiet and keep your distance; crouching down or wading slowly can increase your chances. At higher elevations, spawning is expected soon, so don’t overlook an egg pattern for more action.
Warm Water: Late-Season Bass Fishing in Cooling Water
Bass season isn’t over yet! With water temps dropping, bass are on the lookout for big meals to pack on weight before winter. Swim flies like Sluggos and Swinging D’s have been productive, especially when fished with a few erratic strips and a long pause—most bass strikes happen during the pause. This time of year offers a great opportunity to hook into some of the bigger bass in our rivers.
Gear Up for Fall at Cohutta Fishing Company
For all your fall fishing needs, from flies and gear to expert tips on tackling local waters, stop by Cohutta Fishing Company. Our team is here to help you make the most of the season’s changing conditions.
