Fish In North Georgia
This time we’ll be talking about the different species of fish that you can catch in the Helen, Georgia area. Many places require that you have a fishing permit to use their properties.
Some of the Species You’ll Catch
Brown Trout
Brown trout are among the most common fish that naturally inhabit North Georgia tailwaters. Even though their populations are restocked often, Brown trout frequently grow larger than 10 pounds!
Brook Trout
The Brook trout is one of North Georgia’s indigenous fish species. Unfortunately, higher Brown and Rainbow trout populations overtake this fish’s natural habitat, so finding these “blue lines” can be difficult. Seasoned North Georgia anglers don’t often disclose their favorite wild trout fishing spots, but there’s a chance you’ll discover one on your own. Spend some time exploring remote streams in the Chattahoochee National Forest and you may just find one!
Largemouth Bass
The Largemouth bass population in North Georgia is higher than it’s been in nearly a decade, so the odds are in your favor for catching at least one. People most often catch Largemouth bass that are less than a foot long and under one pound, but there’s always a chance you’ll reel in a big one!
Spotted Bass
Spotted bass are also common catches in North Georgia. Most of the Spotted bass here weigh between one and two pounds. The best way to capture one of these fish is to venture over to Lake Rabun, which is located under 30 minutes away from Glen-Ella Springs Inn.
Bream
Lake Rabun is also a fantastic spot to score some bream, which can weigh up to a half-pound! This North Georgia lake is home to Shellcracker, Redbreast, and Bluegill bream varieties.
Walleye
Walleye are some of the hardest fish to catch in North Georgia, but their numbers are higher than in years past. If you are lucky enough to catch one, you can expect it to be between two and four pounds.
Where to Go Fly Fishing in North Georgia
The Soque River
The Soque River in Habersham County, Georgia, is a breathtaking and unique body of water. It flows approximately 30 miles through private land before emptying into the Chattahoochee River. Soque River fly fishing was once a hidden secret, but has since become a beloved hobby for area fishermen. The river consists of several sub-basins including the Headwaters, Raper Creek, Shoal Creek, Deep Creek, Hazel Creek, Beaverdam Creek, and Yellow Bank Creek. Many sections of the Soque River are wadable and all are absolutely full of fish.
Water temperatures on the upper Soque River are ideal for supporting large numbers of trout. Landowners and local fisheries ensure that the fish are well fed to maintain their trophy size. Whether you’re an avid angler or beginner seeking a guided trip, Soque River fly fishing is an exciting and fun way to spend an afternoon in the North Georgia Mountains!
Lake Rabun
Lake Rabun, Georgia is an 834-acre body of water located in the town of Lakemont. It’s first and foremost a paradise for fishermen of all skill levels, offering plenty of big catches to reel in. Many other visitors love exploring via a Lake Rabun boat rental or kayaking the shining waters while viewing beautiful waterfront real estate. Most strive to do all three on their visit to North Georgia!
The Chattahoochee River
The Chattahoochee River is home to some of the most treasured fly fishing spots. Many of the trailheads that follow this river’s route lead to remote, high-elevation havens for woodland trout fishing. This river is the nation’s southernmost tailwater trout fishing location and maintains the largest population of wild brown trout in the Southeast. Within The Chattahoochee, you’ll discover breathtaking chutes, waterfalls, glides, riffles, and plunges. Your fly fishing trip to The Chattahoochee will double as a refreshing retreat into the Blue Ridge backcountry! We think this river and the surrounding National Forest is especially gorgeous in the fall.