Ocmulgee River:

Georgia Power has slowed down their generation for the Summer, and the river has been at a consistent low and clear level. However, occasional generation is still happening, which can create dangerous conditions with rapidly rising levels. Make sure to ALWAYS check gauges and to wear a PFD when paddling the Ocmulgee.

With the low levels, hot temperatures, and clear water, fish are getting a little picky. Slow down your retrieve and be patient and wary. Cooler temps in the mornings and evenings have made these times of day more productive. For a fun change of pace, consider sight casting for some Gar during the heat of midday. These large predators are exciting on a fly rod, and can easily be seen cruising the surface in deep areas of the river. The Redbreast are also active and a lot of them are on the bed, making them easy and aggressive targets.

Hot Flies:

Boogle Popper, Moss Green #4

Kreelex Minnow, White Pearl #2

Wooly Bugger, Black/Peacock #6

Flint River:

Levels are way down, making the shoals pretty boney and challenging for paddlers. Consider which stretch you are planning to paddle, and build in extra time for getting out and dragging your boat here and there. ALWAYS check gauges and wear a PFD when paddling the Flint.

Even with low levels, scattered thunderstorms have put a lot of sediment in the river and the clarity is far from typical for this time of year. This knife cuts both ways, as the turbidity allows you to get closer to fish but also makes it harder for them to see your fly. It’s still a good bet to try topwater, but low-and-slow approaches have also produced good numbers.

Hot Flies:

Crittermite, Black #4

Boogle Popper, Yella Fella #4

Home Invader, White #2