September has arrived. The bug diversity is rising once again as small hatches have begun to increase. 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. We have even seen a handful of the October caddis that can quickly get the trout looking to the surface. The trout have been going back and forth from incredibly active to temperamental at times but can be caught on just about any nymph or junk pattern in the box if it's presented correctly. We have seen most of these swings occur around rain. 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.
The Chattahoochee River tailwater has begun seeing the effluent from the Lake Lanier turnover. This means the water will be dirty and off colored through the end of December. Wading becomes less than ideal and even dangerous for those unfamiliar with the bottom contour. Further downstream may have more access until the rains of late fall open up better opportunities further north.
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 and still low, even with the recent rains. The higher elevation streams are surprisingly cool considering the low water. 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 rains.
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 stay slow until 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. The Stocked creeks around Dahlonega should be slow in September which will spread out the fishing pressure which causes the smaller trout streams to be less productive. Wild trout should begin congregating 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 trout stocking in Helen will alleviate some of the pressure on the upper Chattahoochee River where anglers should be able to find a few holdover stockers if they work hard enough. Skittish wild fish will begin to feed up with as rains raise the low water levels.
Be on the lookout for more North Georgia trout fishing tips this month as well as our presentation for the Gold Rush TU chapter in Dahlonega on 9/10 and podcasts with the Fly Fishing Insider and Fish Untamed on the Trout Species of the World. The fall transition is a great time to be on the water. The transition is one of the best times of year to run across a trophy fish, or best trout of the year. Our upcoming articles will detail where and when you need to be on the water to capitalize on these opportunities, so keep your eyes on the Georgia Wild Trout site and Facebook page.
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