Etowah River
Over 2 Miles of Exclusive private Access all on one of Georgia's best mountain Wineries. Trophy Rainbow and brown trout up to 28 inches. Wading in a private environment for Trophy Trout
The upper Etowah River outside of Dahlonega, Ga is often known for its Significance during the Georgia Gold Rush, but these days it's the Trout it holds that are the prize waiting.
With Bowman Fly Fishing you have access to over 2 miles of exclusive private water on Georgia's famous Etowah River flowing through one of North Georgia's best and most beautiful wineries. Deep pools and swift runs of cold mountain water provide excellent fishing during all but the hottest summer months.
Here anglers of all skill levels can chase quality Rainbow and Brown trout with the average size often being 17+ inches and fish two feet long or bigger often ending up in the net. There is no boat fishing on this section of the Etowah, Anglers instead wade the river or take a short walk along the trails by the river to each spot. No waders? No problem. We provide wading gear for all customers who need it, free of charge!
An unparalleled setting, and high numbers of trophy trout makes fishing on the Etowah River one of our favorite ways to spend a day on the water chasing trout in North Georgia!
Etowah River Trophy Trout
Exclusive private access and huge fish at One of North Georgia's Best Mountain Wineries. Limited Pressure, Incredible scenery, and Quality Trout. Perfect For All skill levels, Groups, and Entertaining guests - All Gear Provided View All Rates →
4 hours on the water
$400
Starting price
8 hours on the water
$550
Starting price
What Clients Say
“First time fly fishing and we landed nearly 50 fish. Daniel and the guides made it easy—we brought zero gear and they handled everything.”
“Daniel put me on a 20-inch and 22-inch brown today. Great guide—knowledgeable, patient, all-around nice guy.”
“I'd never fly fished before. Daniel was an outstanding guide and instructor. We caught several fish and loved every minute.”
Spring (March-May) and fall (October-November) are peak seasons with water levels and water temperature making the fish the most active, however winter months (Dec-Feb) can often bring some of the largest fish we see all year. We typically don't fish the Etowah River from June 15- September 20 due to warmer water temperatures.
Due to the structure of the State of Georgia's water access laws, landowners can own both banks and the entire riverbed on non-navigable streams. This means that the only legal access to a section of river if by obtaining the landowners permission. We lease miles of private river from certain land owners to allow our customers to fish sections of river others can't. We practice all catch and release on these sections of river and limit fishing pressure which allows the fish to grow much larger than you would typically find on public streams.
Rainbows average around 17-18 inches with some much larger. Browns are about the same with fish up to 27+ inches possible.
No. We guide complete beginners through experienced anglers. If you've never held a fly rod, we'll teach you. If you've been fishing for decades, we'll put you on water that challenges you.
Sunglasses (polarized), sunscreen, layers for weather. If you have your own rod and reel or waders we encourage you to bring them, however we provide all fishing gear, waders, boots, etc for those who need them. Your guide will provide all flies, leaders, and tippet. Georgia fishing license and trout stamp required—purchase online at gooutdoorsgeorgia.com before your trip.
We fish rain or shine—trout don't mind the weather. We'll cancel or reschedule only for dangerous conditions (lightning, flooding, extreme cold). Light rain often makes for better fishing.
On the Water
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→ Learn MoreReady to Fish the Etowah?
Beginner or expert—we'll put you on fish. All gear included. 90 minutes from Atlanta.
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