Toccoa River Fishing Report: October Guided Fly Fishing in North Georgia
If you’re planning a fly fishing trip to Blue Ridge, Georgia, here’s your October 2025 Toccoa River fishing report from Float North Georgia. We’ve been navigating warm water, low flows, and early fall conditions across North Georgia — and there’s still plenty of decent fishing to be had if you know where to look.
Toccoa Tailwater
The TVA is currently working on the dam at Lake Blue Ridge, and they’ve been sluicing 350 CFS. Water coming out of the dam has been in the low 70s, which is warmer than ideal for trout on the tailwater. Because of those conditions, we’ve been avoiding the tailwater to help reduce stress on the fish until the temperatures cool off and oxygen levels improve.
Warm water speeds up a trout’s metabolism, which can make them seem more active, but the oxygen content drops as water warms over time, making it harder for fish to recover. For now, giving the tailwater trout a break is the best way to keep the fishery healthy heading into winter.
Upper Toccoa River
We’ve been spending most of our time on the Upper Toccoa River, and it’s continued to fish ok even with the low water. The Georgia DNR will begin stocking the Upper Toccoa on November 1st, which always brings a fresh wave of fish and energy to the river.
In addition to trout, we’ve been catching a few smallmouth bass in the upper river lately — always a fun surprise on a fly rod this time of year.
The best flies this month have been:
Olive Rubber Legs
Rainbow Warriors
Egg Patterns
Small Hare’s Ear Nymphs
Pheasant Tails
Olive Holy Grails
A dry-dropper setup has been the most productive approach. Focus on shaded runs, deeper seams, and target fish earlier in the mornings and later in the evenings.
Water Levels & Weather
We could use some much-needed rain. Typically, North Georgia will see a few tropical systems or the remnants of hurricanes this time of year that help bring the rivers back to average levels. Unfortunately, this will be the third straight fall we’re going in below normal flow. A few good days of rain would make a big difference and help cool things down heading into November.
Nearby Option: The Tuckaseegee River
If you’re looking to mix things up, the Tuckaseegee River in North Carolina is a great option this time of year. Their Delayed Harvest section opened October 1st, offering miles of productive water loaded with stocked trout and cooler conditions. It’s an easy drive from Blue Ridge and a solid way to keep the rods bent while we wait for things to improve locally.
Looking Ahead
As we move into November, expect cooler temps, improved oxygen levels, and fresh stockings to bring both the upper river and the tailwater back to life. Fall is one of the best times to be in the mountains, and once conditions stabilize, the fishing should be excellent.
If you’re planning a guided fly fishing trip in Blue Ridge, Georgia, now’s a great time to book your fall or early winter float with Float North Georgia. We’ll help you find the best water and make the most of the season.