11/19/2007
 

Jocassee Gorges angler access area to be improved over next few weeks

Dug Mountain Angler Access Area, a popular fishing spot within Jocassee Gorges in northern Pickens County, will be closed for a few weeks beginning Nov. 12.

Dug Mountain Angler Access Area is about 1 mile down Roy F. Jones Highway off SC Highway 11.
Duke Energy, Trout Unlimited and the S.C. Department of Natural Resources (DNR) are cooperating on a special project to upgrade the site to improve access and site conditions. A barrier-free fishing structure will be created over the edge of the river that will afford physically challenged anglers the opportunity to fish for trout below the landmark known as the "High Bridge," which spans the Eastatoee River.

Public parking as well as access for children will also be improved at the popular site, which is used heavily by Upstate trout anglers, according to Dan Rankin, DNR Upstate regional fisheries coordinator. Rainbow and brook trout are stocked at the site each year, and it is a favorite fishing destination for families in the Upstate.

Visitors will be directed away from the site while construction is underway. Fishing in the river will still be permitted for those who wish to park a safe distance from the construction site. Anglers may park at a wide turnout along the Roy F. Jones Highway at the Peach Orchard Angler Access Area to hike in and fish the river. Precautions will be used to avoid environmental impacts to the river while construction is underway.

Questions about the site may be directed to Mark Hall at DNR’s Jocassee Gorges field office near Rocky Bottom at (864) 878-9071 or to Dan Rankin at the Clemson DNR office at (864) 654-6738, extension 12.

DNR protects and manages South Carolina’s natural resources by making wise and balanced decisions for the benefit of the state’s natural resources and its people.