Trout are not the only fish in the sea (so to speak) but the 30-mile radius around Dahlonega offers a significant selection of premier mountain trout habitat and opportunities for fishing for additional species. There’s something special about trout fishing – you have to be extra stealthy to catch a trout, plus they’re just plain great eating, if you choose not to catch and release.
One of the best things about late season trout fishing in Georgia is that this season the season is all year long – the Georgia Department of Natural Resources eliminated a designated trout season, as of April 21, 2015, so all trout streams are open all year long. Certain “special regulations” still apply to particular stream covering such instances of “artificial lures only”, “delayed harvest”, “age restriction” (make sure they have their ID!) and “trophy trout” pertaining to size and weight.
Beyond trout, those who fish will find a wide array of other fishing options in the Dahlonega-Lumpkin region, from panfish (sunfish, crappie, bluegill) – also known generically as bream – and bass of various assortments, including landlocked and river striped bass of considerable size.
Mostly, all it takes is an interest, a rod & reel and some time. Oh, and a fishing license – you’ll still need an annual fishing license and a trout stamp, if you decide to head out after the wily trout.
A brilliant reference manual and guide to fishing in Dahlonega and Lumpkin County is available for free both in the Dahlonega-Lumpkin Visitors Center in downtown Dahlonega and online at www.Dahlonega.org.
