Hey there, fellow anglers! If you’re looking for a slice of paradise where the rivers run clear,
the trout are biting, and the scenery is straight out of a postcard, then Ellijay, Blue Ridge,
and McCaysville in North Georgia should be at the top of your list. Nestled in the
Appalachian Mountains, these charming towns offer world-class fishing opportunities
year-round. From wild trout streams to serene lakes stocked with bass and walleye, there’s
something for every skill level. In this blog post, we’ll dive into the best local fishing spots,
exciting activities, and tips to make your trip unforgettable. Whether you’re a fly fishing
enthusiast or just casting for fun, let’s reel in the details!
Ellijay is a hotspot for trout fishing, thanks to its pristine rivers and creeks fed by mountain springs. Many consider the area one of the best in North Georgia for trout, with bothstocked and wild populations.
Cartecay River: Known for its scenic beauty and solid trout populations, this river
also holds some bass. It’s perfect for fly fishing or light tackle. Public access is
available through spots like the Cartecay River Experience.
Ellijay River: Merging with the Cartecay to form the Coosawattee, this river offers
opportunities for trout, though it’s less stocked than others. It’s a great spot for a
peaceful day on the water.
Carter’s Lake: Just a short drive from Ellijay, this reservoir is famous for spotted
bass, striped bass, walleye, and crappie. It’s a year-round fishery with boat ramps
and plenty of shoreline access.
Tickanetley Creek: A smaller stream ideal for wild trout, offering a more intimate
fishing experience in a quiet setting.
Rich Mountain Wildlife Management Area: For a rugged adventure, this area has
streams with wild trout, perfect for anglers seeking solitude.
Blue Ridge boasts similar mountain charm with its own array of fishing havens, particularly renowned for fly fishing in cold-water streams.
Toccoa River: A standout for trout fishing, offering a mix of rainbow, brown, and
brook trout. Spots like Curtis Switch, Horseshoe Bend, and Tammen Park (right
below the Blue Ridge Dam) are favorites among locals for trout.
Lake Blue Ridge: This 3,300-acre lake is ideal for bass, perch, and catfish. Rent a
boat or fish from the shore—sunrise sessions often bring the best bites.
Noontootla Creek: Located in the Blue Ridge Wildlife Management Area, this creek
is a gem for smaller wild trout. It’s a great place to practice your skills in a beautiful,
less-crowded setting.
Fightingtown Creek: Another wild trout stream with public access, offering a mix of
rainbows and browns in a forested environment.
Just north of Blue Ridge, McCaysville sits on the Georgia-Tennessee state line, offering unique fishing opportunities along the Toccoa River (which becomes the Ocoee River in Tennessee).
Toccoa River (McCaysville Section): Known for its cold, clear waters, this section
is excellent for trout fishing, particularly rainbow and brown trout. Access points
near downtown McCaysville make it convenient for wading or short float trips.
Horseshoe Bend Park: A popular spot near McCaysville, this park provides easy
access to the Toccoa River for trout fishing, with scenic views and picnic areas for a
family-friendly outing.
Private Waters: Some outfitters in McCaysville offer access to private stretches of
the Toccoa, where stocked trout provide consistent action.
For public access tips, stopping by local shops like Cohutta Fishing Company in Blue Ridge
can provide up-to-date conditions and maps for the McCaysville area as well.
Fishing in Ellijay, Blue Ridge, and McCaysville isn’t just about casting a line—it’s an
adventure! Here are some top activities to enhance your experience:
Fly Fishing: The region’s rivers are tailor-made for fly anglers. Target trout with dry
flies in spring or nymphs year-round. Many spots support catch-and-release for
sustainable fishing.
Float Trips: Drift down the Toccoa River on a guided float, perfect for accessing
hard-to-reach holes. Half-day or full-day options are available, often combining
fishing with scenic views.
Lake Fishing: Head to Carter’s Lake or Lake Blue Ridge for boat-based pursuits.
Troll for striped bass or jig for walleye—night fishing can be especially productive.
Wade Fishing: Explore creeks like Noontootla or the Toccoa on foot. It’s intimate
and rewarding, especially for beginners honing their technique.
Family-Friendly Outings: Places like The Lilly Pad Village in Ellijay offer pond fishing
with gem mining and mini-golf nearby, while Horseshoe Bend Park in McCaysville is
great for a relaxed day with kids.
Don’t forget seasonal events—check the North Georgia trout stocking schedule for the
best times to visit.
If you’re new to the area or want expert advice, hiring a guide is a game-changer. Here are
some reputable options:
| Guide Service | Specialties | Location Base | Contact Info |
| Lake & Stream Guide Service | Lake fishing for bass, walleye;personalized trips on Carter’s Lake | Ellijay | ellijayfishing.com |
| Reel’em In Guide Service | Fly fishing on public/private waters; wade and drift boat trips | Blue Ridge/Ellijay | reeleminguideservice.com |
| Cohutta Fishing Co | Guided trips, classes, and gear shop | Blue Ridge | cohuttafishingco.com |
| Georgia Wild Trout | Fly fishing on streams around Ellijay; beginner-friendly | Ellijay | georgiawildtrout.com |
| Hulsey Fly Fishing | Classes and guided trips; Blue Ridge Trout Trek | Blue Ridge | hulseyflyfishing.com |
| On The Fly Excursions | Fly and rod/reel trips for all levels | Blue Ridge | ontheflyexc.com |
These guides often provide equipment, so you can travel light. Prices vary, but expect
$300+ for half-day trips. Some guides in Blue Ridge also cover McCaysville waters, so
inquire when booking.
Ellijay, Blue Ridge, and McCaysville are true angler’s havens, blending natural beauty with
bountiful waters. Whether you’re chasing trophy trout on the Toccoa in McCaysville,
battling bass on Carter’s Lake, or exploring the serene Cartecay, you’ll create memories
that last a lifetime. Grab your rod, hit the road, and let the fish stories begin! If you’ve fished
here before, drop your tips in the comments below. Tight lines!
