The Etowah River is fishing well – the bass bite is fantastic right now. We like to throw Boogle Bugs on 5 and 6 weights this time of year, but will also break out the 7/8 weight rods to throw big topwater flies imitating anything from baitfish to frogs to mice (Umpqua’s Swim Frog and Baitfish, Mr. Hanky Mice, Wiggle Minnows, etc.). Streamers imitating shad in the 2 1/2 – 5 inch range are also a great bet. There is still time to get on striper, but the bite is waning as water temperatures warm. Use caution when handling these fish this time of year – release these fish as quickly as possible.
The Toccoa Tailwater has been fishing well when generation and water clarity allows. Rain earlier this week blew out many of the tributary creeks below Tammen Park. With no rain in the forecast till next Wednesday, the river should be fishable as a whole by the Friday/Saturday. If not, Tammen park is still fishable. The terrestrial bite is still good and Blue Winged Olives and Caddis have been coming off in pockets.
The Upper Toccoa is still too warm for trout. Try the Tailwater or Small Streams.
Small Streams are fishing great, despite the rain this week. They should be clear and falling out by now, 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 canopied – 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