Georgia Trout Fishing - Smithgall Woods Trout Conservation Area

Trout Fishing In Georgia

Smithgall Woods Trout Conservation Area

One of the premier catch and release areas in the state of Georgia is the Smithgall Woods Trout Conservation area. The river is located in the North Georgia mountains, not far from the town of Helen, Georgia. The stream flows through the Smithgall Woods State Park and is absolutely full of small to medium sized rainbows.

There are literally miles and miles of river frontage available to area fisherman. The park is only open to fishing 3 days each week and you must call ahead and secure an appointment. If you go during the week, you will have miles of stream to yourself.

Smithgall Woods - Dukes Creek Trout Conservation Area

Dukes Creek and all tributary streams flowing within the Dukes Creek Conservation Area are open to fishing year round, but, don't forget, this is a by reservation only fishing area. You can make a reservation by contacting the State Park facility at Smithgall Woods by calling 706-878-3087. This area is artificial bait only! You may only use lures or flys with barbless hooks. Rangers patrol the facility so do yourself a favor and leave all other types of baits at home. You literally may not even have other types of bait in your possession while fishing at Smithgall Woods, Dukes Creek and/or it's tributaries.

Any trout you catch while fishing Dukes Creek and its tributaries must be immediately released where you catch them. No trout may be in your possession while fishing the stream in the Conservation Area. If you are looking to catch some larger fish, head down stream several miles. Go past the historical covered bridge (See Photo). Continue walking down the gravel forest service travel for another mile or so and you are going to find some really great trout water.

One thing you will learn quickly when fishing in Georgia. The trees and mountain brush grows right down to the edge of our streams. This can make for some very challenging casting. I strongly recommend that you learn the art of the roll cast. The roll cast is often the only way to work your fly into the
best areas.