North Georgia Trout Fishing Report for September
Capt. Tad Murdock
August 31, 2022
Chattahoochee River - Freshwater Fishing Report
September has arrived. The bug diversity is rising as the hatches have begun to increase once again. Caddis and midges continue to be the most abundant in the streams I have visited over the past few weeks with the occasional mayfly here and there. The trout have been incredibly active and temperamental at times but can be caught on just about any nymph or junk pattern in the box if it's presented correctly. The trout activity has been tied closely to the the rains. If you manage to catch the timing right, the dry fly bite can be excellent. Larger dry fly patters (caddis, stimulators, and hoppers) have done well at these times when the fish are looking up for a meal. A dry dropper has become a go to when sight fishing trout in skinny water with a stealthier presentation. The lower water levels on days without rainfall can be difficult as the trout become skittish. If you can get into position without spooking the fish, chances are you can get a good shot at the trout.
Blue Ridge Trout Fishing in September
The lower elevation sections of the Upper Toccoa, Boardtown, Hemptown, and Fightingtown are still a touch on the warm side. The higher elevation streams are surprisingly cool considering the low water. Rock Creek, Toccoa River Tailwater, and Coopers Creek will continue being stocked and are fishing well throughout the month. The wild trout streams of the upper Toccoa have seen the best bite around Blue Ridge. Dry Flies will continue to be staples until the water levels begin to rise again. Look for the seasonal migrations to begin towards the end of the months. They will typically correspond with a heavier and cooler rain.
Ellijay Trout Fishing in September
Trout fishing around the Ellijay area continues to be slow, but should pick up with additional rains towards the end of the month. Trout stocking in Ellijay will also begin again at the end of the month as we enter Fall.
Dahlonega Trout Fishing in September
Fly fishing in Dahlonega has been fair the past several weeks but should improve in coming weeks. Stocked creeks around Dahlonega should be filled with more frequency in September which will help spread out the fishing pressure which has caused the usual trout streams to be less productive. Wild trout should begin congregation in their normal holes during this low water time of the year. Downsizing flies will yield more bites in the circumstances.
Helen Trout Fishing in September
Fly fishing in Helen will be similar to that of Dahlonega. The decrease in tubers on the Chattahoochee and increasing trout stocking in Helen will alleviate some of the pressure on the upper Chattahoochee River.
Target Species:
Rainbow, Brown, and Brook Trout
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