🎣 Fishing North Georgia: Mountain Trout Streams to Lakes Chatuge & Nottley
- Bill Walsh
- Apr 11
- 4 min read
🎣 Fishing North Georgia: From Mountain Trout Streams to Lakes Chatuge & Nottley
Whether you're a seasoned angler or just looking to cast a line on your mountain getaway, North Georgia offers some of the finest freshwater fishing opportunities in the Southeast. From crystal-clear trout streams that wind through the Blue Ridge Mountains to the deep, serene waters of Lake Chatuge and Lake Nottley, there’s something for every type of fisherman.
Misty Mountain Inn & Cottages is ideally located in Blairsville, Georgia, making it the perfect basecamp for your next fishing adventure. Surrounded by streams, rivers, and two of the region’s most beautiful lakes, our guests are never more than a few minutes from the next great catch.
🐟 Mountain Trout Streams Near Blairsville
Trout fishing in North Georgia is a major draw for anglers all year round. The region is home to miles of cold-water streams that are stocked regularly and naturally support rainbow, brown, and brook trout.
Top Trout Streams Near Misty Mountain:
Helton Creek – 15 minutes away, a small, shady stream with easy access and stocked trout.
Nottely River – Just 10 minutes away, this wide, gentle river is stocked and suitable for wading.
Cooper Creek – A fly-fisher’s dream. Located 30 minutes south, it's one of the most scenic trout waters in the Chattahoochee National Forest.
Toccoa River (Upper & Lower) – One of the best tailwater fisheries in the Southeast, about 45 minutes away. Great for float fishing.
Best Times to Catch Trout:
Spring (March–May): Peak season! Cold water, insect hatches, and active fish.
Fall (September–November): Less pressure, great for wild trout and fall stocking.
Winter (December–February): Less active, but deep holes produce with patience.
Summer: Fish early in the morning or at higher elevations where water stays cool.
Recommended Bait:
Live bait: red wigglers, mealworms, and waxworms
Artificial lures: Panther Martin, Rooster Tails, small spinners
Fly fishing: use nymphs and dry flies such as Blue Wing Olives, Elk Hair Caddis, and Pheasant Tail Nymphs
Tip: Always check for seasonal regulations and daily creel limits via Georgia DNR's Trout Fishing Guide.
🎣 Fishing Lake Chatuge
Located about 25 minutes from Misty Mountain Inn & Cottages, Lake Chatuge spans the Georgia-North Carolina border and is a haven for multi-species fishing.
What You Can Catch:
Smallmouth & Largemouth Bass – Best in spring and early summer.
Spotted Bass – Active year-round, especially during cooler months.
Walleye – Rare in Georgia, but Chatuge is one of the few places you can catch them. Best in late winter and early spring.
Bluegill & Crappie – Great for families; fish near docks and submerged trees.
Hybrid Striped Bass – Found schooling during the summer months.
Best Times:
Bass: Spring and fall
Crappie: Late winter to early spring
Walleye: February–March during spawning runs
Hybrids: Summer schooling season (look for birds diving!)
Best Bait:
Live shiners or minnows for bass and crappie
Jigs, crankbaits, and spoons for hybrids and walleye
Nightcrawlers and worms for panfish
Launch your boat at the Lake Chatuge Recreation Area or fish from the banks near Hiawassee.
🎣 Fishing Lake Nottley
Just 20 minutes from Misty Mountain, Lake Nottley offers a more tranquil fishing experience with fewer crowds.
Fish You’ll Find:
Striped Bass – One of the top striped bass fisheries in Georgia. Fish up to 30+ lbs!
Largemouth Bass – Active in spring and early fall.
Catfish – Channel and flathead varieties, best in summer nights.
Crappie & Bluegill – Hang near brush piles and shallow coves.
Best Times:
Stripers: Spring and fall runs, and night fishing in summer
Catfish: Hot summer nights with cut bait or stink bait
Crappie: Early spring near submerged structures
Best Bait:
Live blueback herring or gizzard shad for stripers
Cut bait, chicken liver, and nightcrawlers for catfish
Jigs or minnows for crappie
Boat launches are available at Deavers Boat Ramp and Poteete Creek Park.
🏕️ Stay at Misty Mountain Inn & Cottages – Your Fishing Basecamp
Nestled between Lake Nottley, Lake Chatuge, and miles of pristine trout streams, Misty Mountain Inn & Cottages is centrally located in the heart of the North Georgia Mountains.
We offer:
Rustic cottages with kitchens (perfect for frying up the day’s catch)
Spacious Bed & Breakfast suites
Pet-friendly accommodations
On-site nature trails and picnic areas
Just minutes from local outfitters and tackle shops
🗺️ Located near Trackrock Gap, Vogel State Park, and Mountain Crossings at Neel Gap, our property puts you within reach of the region’s best outdoor activities, not just fishing.
🎒 Gear Up & Get Going
Need a license or gear? Here’s where to start:
Georgia Trout Map & Stream Designations
USDA National Forest Fishing Info
Local Outfitters:
🧭 Final Cast
Whether you’re casting dry flies in a remote mountain stream or trolling for stripers on a glassy lake, North Georgia’s fishing scene is as diverse as it is rewarding. Book your stay at Misty Mountain Inn & Cottages and enjoy the ultimate North Georgia fishing trip—peaceful mornings, big fish, and unforgettable mountain memories.
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