The Toccoa Tailwater is spilling and generating around the clock today, and the predicted outflow for the next two days is about the same.I wouldn’t anticipate doing any fishing on the tailwater until the schedule shifts, but if it does change, the water is clear with exceptions of tributary streams flowing in. Black Caddis and Little Black Stoneflies should be on the menu!
The Upper Toccoa Delayed Harvest is at 1000 cFs and falling, so wading is out of the question. If we don’t get any more rain between now and Saturday, I would anticipate the DH being very good to float. Water on the delayed harvest is clear, and you may see some little black stoneflies, black caddis, or blue winged olives. Outside of hatches, I would focus on putting flies right in front of the fish – water temps have varied between 44-48 degrees, so fish might be less inclined to move very far for a fly, especially outside of the warmest part of the day. Dredge good looking water with split shot, stonefly patterns, and junk, and don’t be afraid to hit a run multiple times. I also like having some smaller patterns like Two Bit Hookers, Split Case BWO nymphs, and smaller caddis patterns like Thrift Shop Caddis in case I need to downsize. Don’t forget to fish the swing!
Small Streams have been clear but high for the past week. We’ve fished a few creeks lately that have been producing well, but tactics have been limited to high sticking heavy flies and splitshot through small pockets and eddies. These streams should be dropping out, so carry all the stuff you need to change tactics to dry-droppers and suspension rigs. The same flies that should work on the delayed harvest should work on these creeks, but don’t be afraid to downsize flies and tippet if needed. I like to use my standard 9 foot, 4 or 5 weight rod when the water is this high- if you’re going to catch a trophy fish relative to the size of the creek you’re fishing, this is when it’s going to happen, so bring a net!
Our last Cartersville screening of the Fly Fishing Film Tour will be taking place on March 5th. We’re going to have a pre-party at the shop, raffle tickets, cold beer, and a lot of fishy films, so get your ticket at either shop before they’re gone. Tickets are $15, $20 at the door if we have any left. You can call us at the shop and pay over the phone and we’ll hold the tickets for you if you can’t make it before the 5th. We’re also booking dates for Bass and Striper on the Etowah, so call us now if you want to try and earn your stripes this spring/summer.
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
Cartersville Shop: (770) 606-1100
Blue Ridge Shop: (706) 946-3044