By Darren Hughes
I’m not sure if Lake Chatuge’s hard fighting hybrids even know that fall starts this month. These fish are still schooling and biting mid-summer. September is historically a great month for hybrid fishing on Lake Chatuge, and it’s looking like this year is going to be even better! Currently, Lake Chatuge is at full pool, water temps are in the low 80’s, and water clarity is clear throughout the lake. If you’re looking for an action-packed morning of fishing, give Big Ol’ Fish Guiding Service a call. We are Lake Chatuge’s #1 guide service for loads of trophy hybrids and spotted bass.
Hybrid fishing is wicked good! The fish are still schooling in large numbers, and we are catching some high quantities. On average, our trips consist of 30 to 50 fish in just a few hours, and most of our hybrids are averaging 5-10 pounds. These are some of Lake Chatuge’s hardest fighting fish, and we’re having a blast wearing them out. If you go out, the early morning and mid-afternoon bite has been prime. Fish will be slightly shallower in the early morning hours and will move to deeper water by mid-morning. Look for schools of fish along the main channel and off-points. Don’t forget to search out your areas and watch your electronics. Down-lining live blueback herring has been the best technique. When you mark fish, drop your lines. Top-water bite has slowed down considerably but you can still find a few busting. When these fish start busting on bait, it’s always a good idea to have a plug, spook, or red fin at the ready. Remember, live bait on this lake can be the difference between a successful day of fishing and a horrid one. For all of your bait and tackle needs, come visit us at Hughes General Store in Blairsville, GA–it’s the best place around for quality live blueback herring.
September fishing on Lake Chatuge is always exciting. For guided fishing trips on Lakes Chatuge, Hiwassee, or Nottely, or questions about the bait shop, call me, Big Ol’ Fish Guiding Service or Hughes General Store. And whether you’re a seasoned angler or just starting out, give the Chatuge a shot for some of the best spotted bass and hybrids in the area. Good luck, and get hooked!
Darren Hughes is the Owner of Hughes General Store & Bait Shop and a member of The Angler Magazine Fishing Team and Guide for Big Ol’ Fish Guiding Service. Look him up at www.bigolfish.com or give him a call, (706) 745-6569 or (828) 361-2021.