Understanding TVA Water Release Schedules
Introduction
The Toccoa River near Blue Ridge, GA is one of the south’s most popular tailwater fisheries. If you are unfamiliar, a tailwater is simply a river section below an impoundment, in this case, TVA’s Blue Ridge Dam. While Blue Ridge Dam provides the Toccoa with cool water and abundant aquatic life, scheduled water releases are something to consider when planning your drift boat rental (or fishing raft rental) on the Toccoa tailwater.
We’re here to guide you through the intricacies of the TVA Blue Ridge Dam's water generation schedules and what they mean for your aquatic adventure. Whether you're aiming for a serene float or a fruitful fishing day, understanding these schedules is key to a safe and successful trip.
The Role of the TVA Blue Ridge Dam
The Tennessee Valley Authority (TVA) controls the Blue Ridge Dam, providing hydroelectric power generation, flood control, and water quality improvement in Fannin County, Georgia. But for anglers and boating enthusiasts, the dam plays another vital role—it dictates the flow and level of the waters in the Toccoa River.
Deciphering the Water Generation Schedules
Water generation schedules are not as complex as they may seem. Simply put, they are the timetable the TVA follows to release water from the Blue Ridge Dam into the Toccoa River. These releases are made for several reasons, including electricity production and maintaining the river's ecosystem. Expect the river flow to increase tenfold during generation releases, changing the Toccoa from a rocky, low flowing river to a glassy, fast-moving river with few features.
The schedules are available on a daily basis and can be accessed through the TVA website or by calling (865)632-2101. TVA Blue Ridge is a smaller impoundment compared to some of the other TVA runs, which means that there are only two flows: no generators, or one generator.
High Water: Timing the Water Rise
When TVA is generating, it results in significantly higher water levels, which make the river unsafe for wade fishing. If you are planning a wade fishing trip on the Toccoa River, please check the water release schedule to confirm when water should start rising at your location.
Pro Tip: as a best practice, pay attention to a rock or other stationary feature that is out of the water while wading. If you see that feature suddenly disappaear or change its character in the river, this is a tell-tale sign that the water is rising. Leave the river immediately!
Timing Water Rise at Public Access Points:
TVA Dam Access - IMMEDIATE: Water will rise immediately at the dam (duh), so be ready to exit the river before generations start. TVA will warn anglers with sirens and flashing lights a few minutes before generation starts.
Tammen Park Access - 10-15 MIN: Situated just about a quarter to a half mile below the dam, you should be within earshot of the sirens. It won’t take long for the water to rise, 10-15 minutes (give or take)
Curtis Switch Access - 2 HRS, 15 MIN: Just over two hours after generations begin at Blue Ridge Dam, anglers should start to see waters rising around Curtis Switch Road.
Ron Henry Horseshoe Bend Park - 4 HRS, 25 MIN: Water will begin to rise four hours after scheduled generation releases at “Horseshoe Bend Park.” Note that you will likely see a lot of anglers and other folks in the water at this park, so be sure to warn others if you see waters starting to rise.
McCaysville City Park - 4 HRS, 45 MIN: Just 20 minutes or so after Horseshoe Bend Park sees higher water levels, water should start to rise at McCaysville City Park.
Floating During Water Releases
At Trout Town Outfitters, we offer not only the best-in-class drift boat rentals but also expert guidance on how to tackle the changing conditions of the Toccoa River. Our experienced staff will equip you with the latest information on water levels, safety gear, and fishing tactics to make the most of the TVA's generation schedule.
It’s likely that some trips will encounter high water during the full day of rentals, especially during increased hydropower demands or recreational releases. All boat rentals will be briefed on scheduled releases prior to setting off on the river to ensure a safe and enjoyable floating and fishing experience. While fishing is not the best during high water, there are still some opportunities to catch fish with some strategic drifts and deeper presentations.
Conclusion
Understanding the TVA Blue Ridge Dam water generation schedules is crucial for anyone planning to float and fish the Toccoa River. With the right preparation and knowledge, you can turn maximize your time with ideal fishing conditions. Remember, Trout Town Outfitters is here to help you every step of the way.
Ready to embark on your Toccoa River adventure with the best-equipped drift boat in town? Visit our website to learn more and book your trip today!
