Chattahoochee Brown Trout

[Uncle Jesse]

During a study of the fish in the Hooch around metro Atlanta the DNR uncovered this fellow. Measured 29", approximately 10 lbs. There was a larger fish caught this year in the same fishery, I believe there is just over 40 miles of water that hold trout in the metro Atlanta area, which now has over 5 million residents. I didn't think this was too shabby for a southern city fish. A member of the North Georgia Trout Online bulletin board posted the photo.

Hooch Brown 2.jpgHooch Brown.jpg

[WarrenP]

Now that is one beautiful Brown Trout! Hopefully, there will be many more if "catch & release" is practiced by more.
Thanks for sharing.....

[spinner1]

sweet male brown.
love the coloring.

[Uncle Jesse]

From the information I have seen the great majority of flyfishers release what they catch. But with a population of 5 million plus surrounding the river there are numerous bait fishers who keep everything they catch. I don't know anyone who begrudges a fisherman a limit of fish to eat. However, I have heard allegations that there are fishermen who fish the Hooch above Morgan Falls (a lesser known power generating dam on the river in the metro area) to use as bait for stripers below the dam. This is strictly illegal. Rainbow trout are one of the most popular striper baits but there is a requirement to have a receipt showing they were legally purchased.

One factor that would probably leads to a good number of larger fish in the area is the fact they primarily feed at night. Night fishing on the Hooch is not permitted.

[deathb4disco]

During a study of the fish in the Hooch around metro Atlanta the DNR uncovered this fellow. Measured 29", approximately 10 lbs. There was a larger fish caught this year in the same fishery, I believe there is just over 40 miles of water that hold trout in the metro Atlanta area, which now has over 5 million residents. I didn't think this was too shabby for a southern city fish.

A friend of mine guides on the Hooch. He has been out with the DNR when they were electro-fishing to check the trout populations. My buddy said it is a humbling experience to see all the big trout they shock up.

[appalachian angler]

Awesome bull Brownie! that dude's been eatin' rainbows too I suspect

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