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brown trout fishing cullasajaFly fishing is one of the most simultaneously peaceful and exciting pastimes. It is peaceful in the sense that you are typically in one of the most picturesque locations, enjoying the sights, sounds, and smells of nature. Yet, it’s exciting to try to stage some of the most elusive fish in the cold, rushing waters of north Georgia. 

Some of the largest and most beautiful brown trout can be found in the rivers and creeks near Clayton, GA. If you are planning a brown trout fly fishing excursion, Turning Stone’s Fly Fishing can help you have a great experience!

Fly Fishing for Brown Trout Near Clayton, GA

Clayton, GA, is one of the most picturesque towns in all of Georgia. Surrounded by peaks that rise as high as 3,500 feet, the creeks and rivers around town are cold and fast-flowing - exactly what brown trout love. 

What Are Brown Trout?

Golden to olive brown with yellowish edges, brown trout have flat bodies. Black specks with a pale yellow or white border can be found on the sides and rear of the animal. Some brown trout also have orange or red spots on their sides.

Brown trout, which are indigenous to Europe and western Asia, were brought to North America in the late 1800s. Brown trout, which are typically solitary fish, gather around submerged features like fallen trees and undercut banks.

Larger individuals are typically seen in low light conditions and following rainstorms that produce murky water. Compared to other trout species, they can tolerate somewhat higher water temperatures. Most spawning takes place in the autumn. The slightly warmer water temperatures found in north Georgia (as compared to farther north in the Carolinas and Virginia) are perfect for this species of trout. 

Where to Find Brown Trout Near Clayton, GA

Some of the rivers and waterways in which we fish near Clayton include:

  • The Little Tennessee River: The Little Tennessee River's watershed is located close to Clayton in Rabun County, in the North Georgia Mountains. After passing through the North Carolina community of Franklin, it eventually empties into Fontana Lake.
  • The Chattooga River: The Chattooga River, which is halfway between Highlands, North Carolina, and Clayton, Georgia, is a fantastic place for capturing big brown trout. Only experienced fishermen should fish this stream and those who do so profit from knowledgeable guides.
  • The Cullasaja River: The Cullasaja River is, without a doubt, one of the most picturesque rivers anywhere in western North Carolina. It’s quite technical, and we recommend only fishing it with the help of experienced guides. 
  • The Soque River: The Soque River is situated in the neighboring county of Habersham. There is no finer river in the southern United States to fish if you want a shot at a real trophy brown trout. The fish are typically three to eight pounds, but greater catches are sometimes made, making for an exciting experience for the fisherman.

The Soque River is the perfect place to fish for brown trout, whether you’re an experienced angler or just getting started. Its waters can be fished throughout the winter months into late spring, so you can avoid the crowds and really get out in nature. 

Whether it’s the Soque or one of the other waterways near Clayton, hiring seasoned guides is the best practice to make sure you’re following all the rules and regulations while also maximizing your opportunity to find fish. Turning Stone’s Fly Fishing leads guided fly-fishing tours throughout north Georgia and in the communities of Clayton, Batesville, Clarksville, Habersham County, and beyond. 

Contact Turning Stone’s for more information about fly fishing near Clayton, GA