Hey there, fellow anglers! Ready for a top-notch fly fishing experience just a stone's throw from downtown Chattanooga? Our Backcountry Trout trip is calling your name. This isn't your average day on the water – we're talking about a hike-in wade trip that'll get your heart pumping and your line singing. Whether you're a seasoned pro or you've never held a fly rod, we've got you covered with all the gear and know-how you need. Let's dive into what makes this trip a must-do for any fishing enthusiast visiting the Scenic City.
Picture this: you're just 20 minutes from the hustle and bustle of Chattanooga, but you might as well be in another world. Our backcountry trip takes you deep into some of the most gorgeous river systems you've ever laid eyes on. We're talking crystal-clear waters, lush forests, and the kind of scenery that'll make you forget to check your phone (not that you'll have service anyway). This trip is perfect for those who love a bit of adventure with their fishing. You'll be hiking in to reach the sweet spots, so come prepared for some moderate physical activity. But trust me, the payoff is worth every step. Once we're in position, you'll be casting for rainbow trout and smallmouth bass in waters that'll make your Instagram followers green with envy.
Alright, let's talk shop. This isn't your grandpa's bait-and-bobber fishing – we're going full fly here. Don't worry if you're new to it; I'll show you the ropes. We'll be using lightweight rods and reels, paired with flies that mimic the local insects our finned friends love to munch on. Expect to do a lot of wading, so good boots are a must. We'll cover different casting techniques, how to read the water, and the art of presenting your fly just right. For you seasoned anglers, we can get into some more advanced methods like nymphing or dry-fly fishing, depending on the conditions. The best part? It's just you and me out there, so we can tailor the day to your skill level and what you want to learn.
"We had a great time trout fishing with Brian! Really excellent guide and teacher. Highly recommend." - Laura "Brian was an excellent guide! We would 100% book with him again. He put us on fish all day long." - Amelia "I had an amazing time with Chattanooga Fly Fish! We went trout fishing and got to try it for the first time—it was such a fun and memorable experience. I'd definitely love to do it again sometime!" - Sean
Let's talk about the stars of our show: rainbow trout and smallmouth bass. First up, the rainbows. These beauties are the bread and butter of our backcountry trips. They're known for their acrobatic fights and stunning colors – trust me, there's nothing quite like seeing that flash of pink and silver as a rainbow leaps out of the water. They tend to hang out in the cooler, faster-moving sections of the river. Spring and fall are prime time for these guys, but we can target them year-round. They're picky eaters, which makes fooling them with the right fly all the more satisfying.
Now, onto the smallmouth bass. Don't let the name fool you – these fish are all fight. Pound for pound, they're some of the hardest-fighting fish you'll find in freshwater. We typically find them in the slower, deeper pools and around structure like fallen trees or big rocks. Summer is when they really turn on, and if you're lucky, you might hook into a real bruiser. They're not as selective as trout, which means more aggressive strikes and heart-pounding action. When a big smallie hits your fly, hold on tight – you're in for a wild ride!
Look, I've guided all over, and there's something special about these Chattanooga waters. It's not just the fishing – though that's world-class. It's the whole package. The solitude of being out in nature, the challenge of outsmarting a wily trout, the rush of a hard-fighting smallmouth... it all adds up to an experience you can't get anywhere else. And let's not forget the convenience. Where else can you be in a major city one minute and in pristine backcountry the next? It's the perfect way to escape the grind without having to plan a whole vacation around it. Plus, with just you and me on the trip, we can really dig into improving your skills. By the end of the day, you'll be casting like a pro and reading the water like you've been doing it for years.
Alright, folks, if you're not itching to get out on the water by now, check your pulse! Our Backcountry Trout trip is more than just fishing – it's an adventure, a learning experience, and a chance to connect with nature, all rolled into one unforgettable day. Whether you're looking to land your first trout on a fly or you're aiming to perfect your technique, this trip has something for everyone. And remember, we provide all the gear, so all you need to bring is your sense of adventure (and maybe a snack or two). Spots fill up fast, especially during peak seasons, so don't wait to book. Give us a call or hit that 'Book Now' button – your next great fishing story is waiting to be written in the beautiful backcountry of Chattanooga. See you on the water!
April 10, 2025
Brian was an excellent guide! We would 100% book with him again. He put us on fish all day long.
December 28, 2024
I had an amazing time with Chattanooga Fly Fish! We went trout fishing and got to try it for the first time—it was such a fun and memorable experience. I’d definitely love to do it again sometime!
April 20, 2025
Smallmouth bass are a blast to target in our local waters. These scrappy fighters usually run 12 to 20 inches long and put up a heck of a fight for their size. You'll find them in rocky areas of rivers and lakes, often near drop-offs or submerged logs. Summer's the prime time for smallies, especially early mornings and evenings when they're most active. They love warm water and will chase down a well-presented lure with impressive speed. Anglers prize smallmouth for their aggressive strikes and aerial acrobatics once hooked. If you're looking for a fun, hard-fighting fish that'll test your skills, smallmouth are tough to beat. They're also great eating if you decide to keep a few for dinner. Here's a local trick: When the water's choppy, try working a topwater lure like a Zara Spook with a "walk-the-dog" retrieve. Smallies can't resist smashing it, and the surface strikes are a real thrill.
Rainbow trout are a real treat to catch in our local rivers. These beauties typically range from 8 to 20 inches long, with striking pink stripes along their sides. You'll find them hanging out in cool, clear waters, often near riffles or deep pools. Spring and fall are prime seasons, but we can hook 'em year-round if we know where to look. Rainbows are famous for their acrobatic fights - they'll leap clear out of the water and give your line a workout. Anglers love 'em for their sporty nature and tasty, pink flesh. Whether you're a fly fishing pro or just getting started, these trout offer an exciting challenge. Here's a local tip: When the water's low and clear, try drifting small nymphs or dry flies near undercut banks. Rainbows love to hide in those shady spots, waiting to ambush their next meal. Just remember to approach quietly and keep your shadow off the water for the best chance at a strike.
We had a great time trout fishing with Brian! Really excellent guide and teacher. Highly recommend.