Rainbow Trout: There are many sub-species of Rainbow trout, with some of the most prolific being the Kamloops, Nelson trout, red-band, Eagle Lake, Kern River, Shasta, San Gorgonio, and Royal Silver. To my knowledge, not all of these strains have been domesticated. I have extensively researched the best strains for the north Georgia climate and particularly our specific water quality, and have been fortunate to find the strains I want to provide our clients with the best fly fishing experience possible: the Kamloops, a native of Kamloops, British Columbia, and the Shastas, a native of the Sierra Nev fly fishing experience. The Shastas, in my opinion, is the most colorful strain. I have recognized that they are a very aggressive feeder, which does not hurt their popularity with the anglers. A Rainbow trout’s lifespan is from 7 to 11 years, which is most relevant to their immediate environment. To date, I haven't yet had any live past 9 years. They are typically between 16 and 18 pounds, and 30 plus inches long at 9 years of age.
Brown Trout: Our Brown trout are exceptionally beautiful. They seem to have capitalized on our abundance of aquatic insects and fingerling trout. I have seen some 10 plus pounds—they are not hooked very often. I had one fisherman hook 3 Browns in one day, after making less than 20 casts that day. He positioned himself and watched for an hour in some cases before he would cast. Brown trout generally mature in 7 to 12 years. The oldest Brown on record is 18 years of age.
Brook Trout: The Brook trout is Georgia’s only native trout. There is, however, a distinct difference in hatchery Brooks and native “specs.” I have yet to see a native spec in our waters, but have seen some in smaller tributaries—they are generally less than 6 inches long. Our Brook trout are locally hatched and reared, and we stock them annually. They grow rapidly and are strong fighters. If you hook a Brook, it should be considered a genuine treat. Brook spawning's have not been observed as yet in our waters. We continue to habitat our small tributaries to entice some natural spawning.
UPDATE: As of spring 2013 we have natural spawning and fingerling survival from our Brook trout in the river. Very excited to see them ! The photo of the young lady from California holding a huge brook was her first fish ever while fly fishing.
Our fish have been carefully managed to produce an impressive cross-section of color, quality, and size that we know will be the best fly fishing experience we can offer you. We look forward to your visit so book as soon as you can.