Bass & River Species We Target in Georgia
At Peach State Fly Fishing, we focus on river-oriented game fish found in central and middle Georgia. Our guided float and wade trips put anglers on some of the most exciting freshwater species available in warm water rivers — especially Shoal Bass, our primary target.
Below you’ll find easy-to-understand info on each species you’re most likely to catch on our trips, along with why they’re fun to fish for on a fly rod.
Shoal Bass (Micropterus cataractae)
Shoal Bass are one of Georgia’s most unique river bass species, and they’re the species we chase most often because they combine strong fights, river-specific behavior, and great numbers. Shoal Bass are primarily found in shoal areas with current and structure, making them ideal targets for fly fishing on rivers like the Flint and Ocmulgee.
Habitat: Rivers with shoals, current breaks, and rocks where they ambush prey.
Behavior: Aggressive feeders on insects, crayfish, and small fish.
Why fish them: Hard fights and year-round availability make them a favorite among fly anglers.
Alabama Bass (Micropterus henshalli)
Alabama Bass are known for their distinct rows of dark spots along the side and strong, enthusiastic strikes.
They often share habitat with other black bass species and are excellent fun on a fly rod.
Habitat: Rivers, creeks, and slow runs with structure and moderate current.
Behavior: Energetic fighters with a tendency to stay near cover and current seams.
Why fish them: A great addition to multi-species trips and ideal for anglers learning river bass dynamics.
Largemouth Bass
(Micropterus salmoides)
Largemouth Bass are among the most popular freshwater species in the U.S., and while they’re often associated with lakes, they also inhabit river backwaters, eddies, and slower runs where they ambush prey. They’re known for their wide mouths, opportunistic feeding, and acrobatic fights.
Habitat: Backwater pockets, slow current zones near structure.
Behavior: Ambush predators with explosive surface strikes.
Why fish them: Fun targets on poppers and streamers in quieter water.
Gar — The River Monsters
Georgia rivers are also home to gar, prehistoric predators that can exceed 6 feet. These fish make for exciting visual fishing days, especially when they’re sighted cruising warm shoals.
Behavior: Aggressive, acrobatic jumps.
Why fish them: Serious rod bend and unforgettable fights.
Sunfish & Bycatch Species
When targeting bass, you may also catch sunfish (often called bream in the South) such as Redbreast and Shellcracker.
These fish are scrappy fighters and add fun variety to your day on the water.
Why they’re fun: Aggressive surface takes and visual action.
Why These Species Make Great Fly Fishing Targets
River-oriented species like Shoal Bass and Spotted Bass feed actively in current and ambush zones — where dynamic water makes presentation and accuracy matter. That’s why guided fly fishing in Georgia’s warm water rivers is rewarding: you’re matching fish behavior with tactical casting and reading water, not just casting blind.
These diverse species ensure every trip feels different and every cast teaches you something new.
Ready to experience these species on the water?
Book your guided river fishing trip today — deposits secure your date.
Our guided float and wading trips put you in the best water for Shoal Bass, Spotted Bass, Alabama Bass, Largemouth Bass, and more.