As fall settles over the Southeast, the region’s rivers and streams are offering excellent fishing opportunities. Cooler temperatures, reduced pressure, and vibrant autumn scenery make this one of the best times of the year to fish. Whether you’re chasing trout in the Appalachian streams or bass in southern rivers, the fishing is heating up just as the weather cools down.
North Carolina – Davidson River
The Davidson River, a well-known trout fishery in western North Carolina, is fishing particularly well this fall. Water levels are ideal after recent rains, and cooler temperatures have trout feeding actively throughout the day. Nymphing with small, natural imitations like pheasant tails, hare’s ears, and midges has been productive, especially in the deeper runs and pools. For dry fly action, look for Blue Wing Olive (BWO) hatches on cloudy days. Streamers are also a great option for targeting larger browns that are gearing up for the spawn.
Best Flies: BWOs, pheasant tails, hare’s ears, zebra midges, small streamers
Water Temperature: 50°F-54°F
Flow: 160 cfs
Georgia – Toccoa River
The Toccoa River tailwater is an excellent spot for fall trout fishing, with both rainbows and browns actively feeding. Water releases from Blue Ridge Dam have been steady, providing good fishing conditions. Nymph rigs are the go-to method right now, with small mayfly nymphs and midges working well. Streamers are also effective for larger fish, especially in the deeper pools. For dry fly enthusiasts, there are sporadic hatches of caddis and BWOs in the afternoon.
Best Flies: Pheasant tails, zebra midges, caddis dries, small streamers
Water Temperature: 52°F
Flow: 480 cfs (tailwater)
Tennessee – South Holston River
The South Holston River in East Tennessee continues to shine as a premier tailwater fishery, especially during the fall. With consistent water temperatures and healthy flows, anglers are enjoying great dry fly action with BWOs and sulphurs. The wild brown trout population is particularly active this time of year, and you’ll find fish rising in the late mornings and afternoons on cloudy days. Nymphing with small midges and baetis patterns has also been productive, especially in the riffles and seams. Be ready for some larger fish as the browns move into pre-spawn mode.
Best Flies: BWOs, sulphur dries, midges, baetis nymphs
Water Temperature: 50°F
Flow: 240 cfs
Virginia – Shenandoah National Park Streams
The small, wild trout streams in Shenandoah National Park are a perfect fall destination for anglers looking to enjoy solitude and beautiful scenery. Brook trout are the main target in these high-elevation streams, and fall is a great time to catch them in their spawning colors. Dry flies like parachute Adams or elk hair caddis are working well, especially on warmer afternoons. Nymphing with small pheasant tails or hares ears in the deeper runs is also effective. These streams are flowing well after recent rains, but be prepared for some hikes to access the best water.
Best Flies: Parachute Adams, elk hair caddis, pheasant tail nymphs
Water Temperature: 48°F-52°F
Flow: Steady and clear
Alabama – Cahaba River
For those targeting warmwater species, the Cahaba River is offering excellent fall fishing for bass and panfish. Cooler water temperatures have the bass feeding more actively, and streamers like Clouser minnows or baitfish patterns are a great choice. Target the edges of the current and submerged structure, as bass are ambushing baitfish in these areas. Panfish are still hitting well on small poppers and nymphs, especially during the warmer parts of the day. With fall foliage adding to the beauty of the river, now is a great time to get out and enjoy the diverse fishing opportunities in Alabama.
Best Flies: Clouser minnows, woolly buggers, small poppers
Water Temperature: 60°F
Flow: Moderate and clear
South Carolina – Chattooga River
The Chattooga River, straddling the Georgia-South Carolina border, is a popular fall destination for fly anglers. The cool, clear waters of the Chattooga provide excellent fishing for both stocked and wild trout. This time of year, nymphing with stoneflies, caddis larvae, and small mayfly patterns is productive, especially in the riffles and pocket water. Streamer fishing can also yield some larger fish, particularly in the deeper runs and pools. With the changing leaves and fewer anglers on the water, fall is a great time to fish the Chattooga.
Best Flies: Stonefly nymphs, caddis larvae, woolly buggers
Water Temperature: 54°F
Flow: 320 cfs
Florida – St. Johns River
If you’re targeting largemouth bass, the St. Johns River in Florida is a great option this fall. The cooling water temperatures have bass feeding aggressively, especially in the mornings and late afternoons. Topwater flies like poppers are working well in the shallows near weed beds, while streamers and baitfish patterns are effective around structure like fallen trees and submerged vegetation. For those looking to mix things up, panfish are still readily available on smaller nymphs and poppers.
Best Flies: Poppers, baitfish patterns, woolly buggers
Water Temperature: 65°F
Flow: Steady
Overall Tips:
Streamers and Nymphs: Fall is an excellent time to fish streamers and nymphs, as fish are feeding aggressively to bulk up for winter. Don’t be afraid to fish bigger patterns to entice larger fish.
Dry Fly Action: On warmer days, expect dry fly activity in the afternoons, especially with Blue Wing Olives (BWOs) and caddis hatches. Be sure to have some smaller dries in your box.
Focus on Structure: Whether you’re targeting trout or bass, focusing on submerged structure like rocks, fallen trees, and undercut banks can lead to more hookups.
Time of Day: As temperatures drop, fish are often more active during the warmer parts of the day, so plan your fishing around mid-morning to late afternoon for the best action.
With beautiful fall colors, cooler temperatures, and aggressive fish, now is the perfect time to experience fly fishing across the Southeast. Whether you’re targeting trout in the
Appalachian streams or bass in the southern rivers, you’ll find great opportunities to enjoy the season on the water. Tight lines!
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