Hootch Newby Questions

[Leadfeet]

I have gone over the Ga 06 regulations and can't seem to locate answers to some questions. My son and I have gotten the trout bug (much to my wife's dismay) and would really appreciate some experienced input with some questions.

1. Chest Waders: Looks like these are a must have regardless of using a fly rod or spinning reel. Bass Proshops have a cheap model, some kind of heavy rubber for $60.00 a pair. Realistically, if I keep spending $$ my wife is going to kill the trout bug. Are the waders or other cheap models worth the $60.00

2. Float Tube: Does a float tube count as a floatation device?

3. Catch & Release areas: We are fishing near Settles Bridge. Can we keep what we catch from the Hootch Buford Dam and south to Medlock Bridge?

I thank you in advance for your input and patience.

[Trout8myfly]

Leadfeet, some quick answers to your questions.

1. Waders - the Hootch is very cold 365 days a year and waders are highly recommended. Even more important are a good pair of wading boots with felt soles to help keep your stance on submerged slippery rocks and logs. As for quality, suggest that you search this message board for threads about waders, their pros and cons.

2. A float tube does not count as a personal floatation device. A PFD must be worn between Buford Dam and the Hwy 20 bridge. But if you are fishing Settles then it is not required (although not a bad idea).

3. I believe that fish may be harvested from Settles year round. Here's a link to the DNR's page about which streams are seasonal for harvesting trout. If memory serves the DH section of the Hootch starts at Sope Creek down to Hwy 41, so from the Dam to Medlock would be OK for harvesting up to your creel limits (but put back the brownies. Please?) :)

http://georgiawildlife.dnr.state.ga.us/content/displaycontent.asp?txtDocument=7&txtPage=12

Sorry to hear about your new addiction but it's a great way to spend time with your kids.

[Chuckwalla]

LF,
Welcome to the board!

1. I would think that waders are a must on the 'hooch, that water is cold.
The $60 waders are OK. As with any other thing, buy what you can afford.

2. A PFD is a must from the dam to Hyw 20. But, I think its a good idea to wear one anywhere on the 'hooch. A tube is not a PFD

3. C&R on the 'hooch is only Sope Creek to Hwy 41 from Nov 1. - May 14. Other wise keep your limit if you want.

Hope this helps.

[Windknot]

Leadfeet - Cabela's markets a cheap wader that I can't kill. Three Forks model @ $49.95. PVC-backed tough outer shell. I have the bootfoot style (normal shoe size=10, these in 10 allow a liner sock and heavy wool sock comfortably.) You must wear synthetic material under these!!!!! No cotton. I commandeered a pair of fleece pants my wife was throwing out, and they keep my skin dry under the non-breathable waders. Dry = warm.

Don

[WorthTheWade]

What kind/brand of PFD can you wear and fish in? I saw those SOS suspenders things but saw a coast guard recall on them. What do ya'll use on that section of the Hooch?

Thanks,
WorthTheWade

[The Ole Man]

Also.......since no one mentioned it, from Hwy 20 to the boat ramp at Medlock Bridge Park (which includes Settles Br and Abbotts Br) is artificial lures only ---and only artificial lures may be in possession (no bait).