Trout Fishing in Cherry Log, GA: North Georgia’s Hidden Trout Haven

Fishing in Cherry Log, GA, is more than just a hobby — it’s a mountain ritual. Tucked quietly between Blue Ridge and Ellijay, this North Georgia town sits amid rushing trout streams, cool forest air, and some of the most serene fishing waters in the entire Blue Ridge range. Whether you’re an experienced angler or someone trying fly-fishing for the first time, Cherry Log offers the perfect blend of adventure and peace.

(In plain English: it’s where you come to slow down, breathe, and maybe pull a rainbow trout straight from the creek for dinner.)

Why Anglers Love Cherry Log

Most fishermen chase the big-name spots — the Toccoa or the Chattahoochee — but locals know Cherry Log quietly delivers some of the best trout fishing in North Georgia.

Here’s why:

• Location: Cherry Log sits minutes from both the Ellijay and Fightingtown Creeks, with easy access to stocked waters and hidden wild trout streams.
• Variety: Within a 15-mile radius, you’ll find everything from shallow fly-fishing creeks to deep-water bass at Lake Blue Ridge.
• Tranquility: Compared to busier Blue Ridge fishing spots, Cherry Log gives anglers the solitude that makes fishing feel like therapy.
  
  

Trout Fishing in Cherry Log, GA: Species and Season

North Georgia is home to more than 4,000 miles of trout streams, and Cherry Log sits near some of the most productive waters.

You can commonly catch:

• Brook Trout – Georgia’s only native trout, often found at higher elevations.
• Rainbow Trout – Abundant in stocked areas like Rock Creek.
• Brown Trout – Known for their fight and presence in deeper, cooler runs.
  
  

When to Go:

Trout season in North Georgia typically runs from March through October 31, but catch-and-release waters remain open year-round. Early mornings in spring and cool fall afternoons are peak conditions for both fly and bait anglers.

The Best Fishing Spots Around Cherry Log

Fishing in Cherry Log, GA gives you access to an entire network of nearby rivers and creeks — many within a 20-minute drive or even walking distance from certain cabin rentals.

Here are a few local favorites:

Rock Creek

Found off Forest Service Road 69, Rock Creek is home to the Chattahoochee National Fish Hatchery, which keeps the water stocked with rainbow and brown trout. Easy wading access and shaded banks make it perfect for beginners.

Fightingtown Creek

This winding creek runs through private and public lands, offering secluded access points for serious anglers. It’s a great option for those looking for quiet fly-fishing experiences and native trout populations.

Ellijay River

Just east of Cherry Log, this river combines easy accessibility with strong seasonal stocking. Bring your trout worms or small spinners — the bites are frequent during early spring.

Lake Blue Ridge

A short drive from Cherry Log, Lake Blue Ridge offers a variety beyond trout: smallmouth bass, bream, and walleye thrive here, making it a great family-friendly option.

Coopers Creek

Nestled within the Cooper Creek Recreation Area in the Chattahoochee National Forest, this is one of North Georgia’s most beloved fishing spots. The creek is regularly stocked with rainbow trout and offers both easy roadside access and quiet backcountry wading. Picnic tables, campsites, and shaded banks make it a perfect family fishing destination.

Local Tip: Visit in late spring when water levels are steady, and the trout are most active near the confluence with Mulky Creek.

Local Bait & Gear Tips

If you’re new to fishing in Cherry Log, GA, don’t overthink it — the trout here aren’t picky, but they’re smart. Locals recommend:

• Trout worms
• Rebel Wee Craw
• Blue Fox Vibrax spinners
• Mister Twister micro crawfish
• Smithwick Rattlin’ Rogue
• Luhr-Jensen Hus

Insider Tip:

Stop by a local bait shop in Blue Ridge or Ellijay to grab your Georgia fishing license (required for ages 16+) and ask about recent stocking updates.

Responsible Fishing in North Georgia

Cherry Log’s waterways are part of a fragile mountain ecosystem. Help preserve them by following these simple guidelines:

• Practice catch and release where posted.
• Avoid trampling banks or nesting zones.
• Pack out all litter and fishing line.
• Respect private property boundaries along creeks.