Ocmulgee River:
She’s big y’all! The Ocmulgee is well below flood stage, but still pretty high and brown, especially as you get closer to Macon. Experienced paddlers may want to make use of the faster flows and try some floats that they haven’t attempted in the past due to distance. Beginners will want to use caution and stick to more familiar paddles until the waters begin to come down a bit. That shouldn’t take too long, as the forecast is warm and dry for the next while! Make sure to ALWAYS check river conditions and to wear a PFD when paddling on the Ocmulgee.
With the high waters brings tough Fly Fishing, but that’s not to say that there aren’t fish to be caught! Warmer air and water temperatures are getting fish more active, and the Spring bite will soon be in full swing. Now is the time to make sure you’ve got everything you need before the season is at full throttle. If you want to get out for some early Shoalie Reconnaissance, fish low and slow with very light and very dark colors. Avoid naturals until the water begins to lose its turbidity.
Hot Flies:
Kreelex Minnow, Black/Purple #6
Circus Peanut, White #4
Butzin’s Changer, Fishscale White
Flint River:
The rain didn’t spare the Flint either, and levels are above average. For paddlers, this means easy passage through rocky shoals and the potential for a longer float. However, some ledges and shoots become more technical with higher levels, and paddlers need to be vigilant and choose good lines when navigating the shoals. Make sure to ALWAYS check river conditions and to wear a PFD when paddling on the Flint.
Fishing on the Flint is beginning to ramp up for the Spring but is not “on fire” yet. With high turbidity, size and color will be key factors in finding fish. Try larger flies and darker colors, and be aware that most takes will be very subtle until we warm up a bit more here in Central Ga.
Hot Flies:
Circus Peanut, Black/Blood #4
Butzin’s Changer, “The Yeller”
Hot Flash Minnow, Shiner #2
