newbie needs news

Hey folks,
Just got back from Alaska where I got my first taste of river fishing. Wanna keep the good times coming here in the south but not sure what the best way to go about doing it. So I'm looking for tips on where to get started...decent spots, what to look for when trying to find a trout hole, what not to do, conditions, type of rod and flys, etc...
I know all this info has probably filled volumes of books, some good some bad. Anyone have a favorite book that they would recommend.
I'm heading on a backpacking trip this weekend with some friends. Looks like we will be going to either the Cohutta Wilderness (Jacks River) or the Bartram/Chattooga River trails. Hows the fishing around these parts.

thanks in advance for the info,
Brad