A part of the Warrior River system, the Sipsey River is the home water of the Sipsey Tailrace Chapter. Originally a warm water environment, with the beginning of operations of the Lewis Smith Dam in September of 1961, the water below the dam was transformed into a tailwater capable of supporting a trout population. Thus was born Alabama's only year round trout fishery.

With water being released deep below the surface of the 300 foot high dam, the outflow runs cold year round. Water temperatures below the dam range from the low 40s in winter to mid 50s in summer, so bring your waders if you plan to wade fish. While there are ample locations to fish from shore with spinning rods, your backcast with a fly rod will be limited unless you wade. Although generation schedules are published they are subject to change and the water level should be monitored while fishing. An alarm does sound in the event of a release of water, but you may not hear it if you are very far downstream. Water can quickly rise 12 to 15 feet during periods of generation and depending on the number of generators running and the duration, it can take six to ten hours for the water to recede to wadable levels. It is recommended to check the generation schedule by calling 1-800-LAKES-11 option 3-1-2 before planning your outing.

Trout are stocked in the Sipsey on a monthly basis. The majority of the fish are in the 8 to 10 inch range, with some larger fish stocked on occasion. While the Sipsey is officially known as a put and take fishery by the Department of Conservation and Natural Resurces, quite a number of anglers practice catch and release. Many fish do survive year to year and though not the norm, 18 inch fish are taken annually. The Sipsey does support a wide variety of entomological specimens that serve as food for the trout. There are numerous species of caddis flies, small stone flies, scuds, Baetis, and the occasional Isonychia. By far the most abundant trout food are the midges which are found hatching year round on a daily basis. In addition, schools of shad frequent these waters providing a meal for the larger trout as well as the Striped Bass that co-habitate this river.

To reach the Sipsey, take Exit 299 off Interstate-65. Turn West toward the town of Jasper and follow highway 69 for approximately 16 miles. Turn North at the bridge in front of Riverside Fly Shop. Travel another 2 miles to a parking area in front of the Birmingham Water Works Pumping facility. While trout are found from below the dam for about 12 miles downstream to the confluence of the Mulberry Fork, most fishing is done between the pump house and the dam. This stretch of water is most accessible and easily waded. Below the bridge there is very little access to the water due to private property owners along the river. It is possible to float the river in a canoe or other small craft, but it is an all day float to the next take out if you plan to fish along the way.