Where would be the first place you would go to catch a trophy-size trout in Georgia? Most would answer with one of the scenic mountain rivers like the Chattoga or the Chattahoochee, or even one of the managed trout streams in the state, such as Waters Creek or Dukes creek. However, the Georgia Department of Natural Resources, Wildlife Resources Division (WRD) encourages anglers to try trout fishing on Lake Burton.
"Over the past four years, about 15,000 brown and rainbow trout annually were stocked in Lake Burton and are thriving thanks to the cool, well-oxygenated water and the abundant food base of blueback herring," says WRD Fisheries Biologist Anthony Rabern. "Brown trout up to 10 pounds and the occasional rainbow trout up to six pounds already have been caught this year."
Two of the best months for trout fishing on Lake Burton are August and September. As the summer progresses, the trout migrate toward the dam and as the latter part of summer approaches, the trout remain at depths of about 25-45 feet.
Lake Burton trout anglers will want to make sure their bait is anything that mimics a six-inch long blueback herring - a trout's favorite prey. Bluebacks have a thin, narrow body with silver sides so any artificial lure with this shape and color pattern should draw the attention of a hungry trout. There are a number of deep-diving crank baits and trolling spoons available in sporting goods stores that should fit this description. Artificial baits are easy to use - but live baits work best. Blueback herring may be available at a local bait and tackle shop, or they can be caught using a cast net on Lake Burton. If this proves difficult, jumbo shiners are nearly as effective and are more widely available. Be sure to get the bait or the lure to the target depth of 25-45 feet by attaching a 3-4 ounce weight on a three-way swivel. Anglers also will need to cover a lot of water - WRD recommends slowly trolling the area from Billy Goat Island to the Dam. Maps of Lake Burton can be found by calling 1-888-472-5253 or at www.southerncompany.com/gapower/lakes.
This knowledge should make your trout trip to Lake Burton a success - now it is up to you to make the time! When you finally get the opportunity, don't forget to take a kid and a camera with you to capture memories for years to come. For more trout fishing information, visit the WRD website at www.gofishgeorgia.com or call (706) 947-3112.