If you plan on visiting Georgia and have a passion for the outdoors, the state has some of the best lakes, rivers, and reservoirs. With over 4.8 million acres of wetlands and 425,000 public lakes and rivers, any fisherman will fall in love with the Georgia water reserves. If you’re looking to try something new, fly fishing in North Georgia is an excellent place to start.
What is Fly Fishing?
Fly fishing is a fishing technique where the lure looks like a fly that lands on the top of the water instead of the traditional bait of worms, meat, or tackle lures. The constant dropping and pulling away of the fly will attract the fish, getting you the bite you’ve been looking for. Some consider fly fishing an art. Before you decide to go on your next fly fishing adventure, make sure you have all the supplies you’ll need.
What You’ll Need to Go Fly Fishing
If you’ve decided to fly fish, you’re going to need special equipment before you go. Any of these items can be picked up at a local sporting goods store.
First, you’re going to need a fly rod and reel. These are different from the traditional rod and reel because the fly rod alone can measure up to nine feet in length. You’ll also want to pick up a special fly fishing line. This line comes pre-weighted to make casting further out easier.
You’ll want to pick up one of the most important supplies for fishing: bait. For fly fishing, you use a small fly-like lure. It is made to imitate the look of a fly, so when it lands on the water, fish will think it is a fly or a bug. Different kinds of fish prefer different flies, and it is best to take various flies with you. This helps increase your chances of a successful trip.
Best Places to Go Fly Fishing
North Georgia is home to some of the best spots to fly fish. Read on for a list of some of the best fly fishing locations in northern Georgia:
Toccoa River
Located in southwestern Union County in the Chattahoochee National Forest, this broad high mountain river is popular for canoeing and fishing. This 15-mile stream does cut through private land, but there are public access points in Blue Ridge Damn, Curtis Switch, and McCaysville. The Toccoa River offers some of the best fishing in Georgia. Book your trip to the Toccoa River for the fall during the optimal fishing season.
Lake Seed
Located in Georgia’s northeast corner, this small lake comes with 13 miles of shoreline in Rabun County. The lake is most popular for its many recreational activities like sailing, swimming, boating, and fly fishing.
This human-made lake presents wonderful opportunities for anglers, supplied with some of the largest trophy-sized fish. Anglers can expect to catch walleye, yellow perch, bass, crappie, and bream. Depending on what you plan on catching, it is best to go fishing in early spring in Lake Seed.
Rock Creek Hatchery
This creek is also located in the Chattahoochee National Forest and is considered a national fish hatchery. Annually, 324,000 rainbow trout are released into the stream along with 460,000 other fish. Rock Creek is known for its trophy trout and is a favorite amongst anglers. There are some fishing regulations that Georgia enforces, making the fishing season for trout limited. The creek is stocked from March through September each year and is best to fish around these times. Make sure that you have your license and special permits before fishing in Rock Creek Hatchery.
Lake Rabun
Tucked away in the North Georgia Mountains, Lake Rabun is a highly-developed area perfect for all your favorite outdoor activities like hiking, camping, boating, and swimming. It’s also home to some of the best fly fishing in North Georgia. Lay out in the sun and enjoy the fresh Georgia air and beautiful lake scenery at Lake Rabun.
When it comes to fishing, this lake is an ideal location. Filled with largemouth bass, spotted bass, bream, and walleye, people rave about how these fish have been the biggest in years. Enjoy the year-round fishing season for all fish in this lake. You’ll find yourself having hours of fun fly fishing in Georgia!
Vacation in Style!
Besides having some of the best fly fishing in North Georgia, the area is populated with beautiful, nature-inspired places to stay, like Lake Rabun Hotel. You’ll get to experience all of the sites, sounds, and tastes of North Georgia, all from this rustic mountain resort. Check in and enjoy your personal retreat away from the world with an opportunity for the entire family to enjoy. Book your next trip to the Blue Ridge Mountains and stay with us here at the Lake Rabun Hotel!
