Question about Duke's Creek

[Scott S]

Just wondering...how stealthy do you need to be there. Do you need to be on your hands and knees commando style stealthy or just make sure that you wade very slow and quiet and don't bump rocks underwater and try to stay close to the bank to break up your outline. I was on the Davidson River this past week and there as long as you don't bump rocks and wade quietly you are okay standing up straight (seems like, worked for me). Maybe this seems like a stupid question, but I'm just curious. Thanks in advance for the help.

[Jimmy Harris]

You'll see some anglers on Dukes doing the commando style fishing but, generally, if you wear muted clothing, are careful about your approach to the stream, keep a reasonably low profile and make good presentations with your fly, you can catch fish. Patiently observe each fish holding area from a good vantage point that will up your odds of spotting the fish you are about to cast to before they spot you. You can be as stealthy as you want but if you spook a fish you didn't see at the back of a run while you're concentrating on getting into position to cast to the head of that run, you've already blown your opportunities on that spot.

[Scott S]

Thanks for the reply Jimmy.

[marktrout]

I was in that area and what are the requirements or restrictions to fish dukes creek other than trout stamp. I fished the hooch and caught my first freshwater trout two weeks ago.

[Jimmy Harris]

You must make a reservation to fish at Dukes Creek. Call 706-878-3087. Fishing is on Wednesday, Saturday and Sunday; morning and afternoon sessions this time of year. Artificials only, barbless hooks, catch and release. Every hook on your person must be barbless; not just the one you are currently fishing with. They take this very seriously and so should you. The stream is divided into 4 sections and you may fish any or all of them during your trip. Sections 1 & 4 have the most "mountain stream" feel to them but sections 2 & 3 offer some great fishing also. It's tough there right now due to summer water conditions. Be very stealthy and make good presentations.

[flyguy287]

What time does the afternoon bus leave tomorrow (Wednesday). Do you have to check in by a certain time.

[Jimmy Harris]

I can't recall the summer bus schedule but I think it's around 1:30 or 2:00. If you aren't going to be there at the beginning of the session, I suggest you call them to let them know when you'll be arriving. After about an hour of someone no-showing, they may give your spot away to walk-ins.

[hook]

Phone Number
706-878-3087

Summer Schedule
Sat Sun Wed 7:30 a.m. - 1:00 p.m.; 2:00 p.m. - 6:30 p.m.
Van Departs 8:00 a.m.; 12:30 p.m.; 2:00 p.m.; 6:30 p.m.

Winter Schedule
Sat Sun Wed 7:30 a.m. - 4:30 p.m.
Van Departs 8:00 am; 12:30 p.m.; 4:00 p.m.