Float Trips vs Wade Trips: What’s the Best Way to Fly Fish the Toccoa River?
If you're planning a trout fishing trip on the Toccoa River in North Georgia, you’ve probably wondered: Should I book a float trip or a wade trip?
Both offer incredible fly fishing experiences, but depending on the season, water levels, and your personal goals, one option might be better for you.
In this guide, we’ll break down the differences between float trips and wade trips on the Toccoa River, so you can choose the best experience for your next North Georgia fly fishing adventure.
Why the Toccoa River is a Fly Fishing Gem
The Toccoa River flows through the heart of Blue Ridge, GA, offering some of the best trout fishing in North Georgia. Known for its healthy populations of rainbow and brown trout, this river attracts anglers from Atlanta, Chattanooga, and beyond.
The river is split into two main sections:
Upper Toccoa River: Scenic with good wading access around Sandy Bottoms. Float trips are the best option at higher water levels.
Lower Toccoa River: Tailwater fishery below Blue Ridge Dam, ideal for float trips.
What is a Float Trip on the Toccoa River?
A float trip involves drifting down the river in a drift boat or raft, casting to trout as you go. These trips typically cover several miles of water and allow anglers to access stretches that are otherwise unreachable on foot.
Benefits of a Float Trip:
✅ Access to more remote sections of the river
✅ Cover more water for better chances at big trout
✅ Comfortable fishing platform
✅ Great for beginners & experienced anglers
✅ Scenic float through the North Georgia mountains
When to Choose a Float Trip:
When the water flows are higher
When you want a full-day adventure
When you prefer to have a more scenic experience
Float Trip on the Upper Toccoa River.
What is a Wade Trip on the Toccoa River?
A wade trip is a more hands-on approach where you walk and wade into the river to fish specific spots. It’s perfect for anglers who enjoy a slower pace and want to really work a particular stretch of water. Wade trips can be limited to public access points both on the Upper and Lower Toccoa.
Benefits of a Wade Trip:
✅ More intimate fishing experience
✅ Perfect for honing casting & presentation skills
✅ Pick apart small pools, riffles, and pocket water
✅ Great for beginners learning fly fishing techniques
When to Choose a Wade Trip:
When water levels are lower and safe for wading
When you prefer a slower, more methodical approach
Ideal for half-day and instructional trips
Float Trip vs Wade Trip: Which is Best for You?
| Factor | Float Trip | Wade Trip |
|---|---|---|
| Best for Beginners | ✅ | ✅ |
| Covers More Water | ✅ | ❌ |
| Access Remote Areas | ✅ | ❌ |
| Close-up Casting Practice | ✅ | ✅ |
| All-Day Adventure | ✅ | ❌ |
| Budget-Friendly Option | ✅ | ✅ |
Lower Toccoa River in Blue Ridge, Georgia.
Pro Tip: Book with a Local Toccoa River Fly Fishing Guide
Whether you choose a float trip or a wade trip, going with an experienced fly fishing guide is key. At Float North Georgia, we offer both guided float and wade trips tailored to your experience level and the river’s current conditions.
✅ Local knowledge of river flows & hatches
✅ All gear provided (rods, reels, flies, waders)
✅ Personalized instruction & tips
✅ Safe, fun, and educational experiences
👉 Book Your Toccoa River Fly Fishing Trip Today
Final Thoughts
Both float trips and wade trips on the Toccoa River offer unique and rewarding fly fishing experiences. If you want to cover more water and chase bigger trout, go with a float trip. If you prefer a slower, and more instructional trip a wade trip may work for you.
No matter what you choose, you’ll be surrounded by the beauty of North Georgia's trout waters.