I spent about 6 hours wading various parts of the Chattooga last Saturday. There were plenty of fish being caught by people using bait, but I struggled to get the fish to take a fly. Even so, I’m not sure that catching a bunch of fish would have exponentially improved the experience. I did catch two of the smallest Rainbows I’ve ever seen. It was incredibly beautiful though. Next trip to the Upstate I think I’m going to try and find some spots that are a little less fished.
Off topic, but with England making it’s usual exit from the World Cup I will be cheering on the US against Germany in 20 minutes.
You need to hike in upstream from Burrell’s Ford…
“The good fisherman is surprised when he doesn’t catch fish: I am just the other way around.”
Gene Hill, Passing a Good Time.
Hike up way past the 28 bridge
Thanks to you both. I will do so next trip.
I tell you. I have been out west a number of times and it spoiled me. The rivers and sfreams here are so barren of insects compared to western streams. I still fly fish up there from time to time, but when I go I mostly find myself spin fishing with small rapalas and such. I guess it just depends if you prefer to catch fish, or prefer to catch fish on flies.
Sssshhh… The Chauga is still underrated and mostly fished by locals. I fished that stream hard 20 yrs ago and caught many nice fish. They stock some 16/18" studs in there and some of them make it through the year and turn into nice azz fish.