Best 20 Fishing Lakes in Georgia | Maps & Expert Tips | 2025

Georgia's incredible 500,000+ acres of reservoirs and 12,000 miles of streams make it a bass fishing paradise that rivals any state in the nation. Whether you're searching for trophy largemouth bass in south Georgia or exploring crystal-clear mountain reservoirs in north Georgia, the Peach State delivers year-round fishing opportunities that keep anglers coming back.

From the sprawling 71,000-acre Clarks Hill Lake to intimate 22-acre mountain gems, this comprehensive guide covers the best 20 fishing lakes across Georgia. You'll discover GPS coordinates for prime fishing spots, interactive Georgia fishing lakes map resources, and insider tips that local guides usually keep secret.

Top 20 Fishing Lakes at Georgia's

Before diving into detailed lake profiles, here's your at-a-glance reference for planning the perfect Georgia fishing adventure:

Lake Name	Acres	Best Fish Species	Region	Special Features
Lake Lanier	38,000	Spotted Bass, Stripers	North	Most visited lake
Clarks Hill	71,100	Striped Bass (20-40 lbs)	East	Georgia's largest
Lake Seminole	37,500	Largemouth Bass	South	Grass fishing heaven
Lake Hartwell	56,000	Largemouth, Spotted	North	Tournament trail
Lake Allatoona	12,000	Spotted Bass	North	Near Atlanta
Lake Blue Ridge	3,300	Smallmouth Bass	North	Mountain beauty
Lake Oconee	19,050	All bass species	Central	Luxury fishing
West Point Lake	25,900	Largemouth Bass	West	GA-AL border
Lake Burton	2,775	Record Spotted Bass	North	Celebrity homes
Lake Sinclair	15,330	Year-round Bass	Central	Power plant advantage

Download our complete PDF guide with all 20 lakes and GPS coordinates at the end of this article.

Best Fishing Lakes in North Georgia (Lakes 1-10)

1. Lake Lanier - The Spotted Bass Capital

Lake Lanier reigns as Georgia's most popular fishing destination, attracting over 11 million visitors annually. This massive 38,000-acre reservoir stretches across five counties with 692 miles of shoreline, offering endless fishing opportunities just 45 minutes from Atlanta.

The lake's deep, clear waters and abundant spotted bass population make it a must-visit destination. Trophy spotted bass weighing 5-8 pounds are common, especially around the countless points, humps, and submerged timber throughout the lake.

Prime Fishing Locations:

• Browns Bridge area (GPS: 34.1845° N, 84.0196° W)
• Six Mile Creek channel
• Flowery Branch Bay
• Van Pugh North boat ramp access

Spring patterns begin in March when water temperatures reach 55°F, triggering pre-spawn movement toward shallow coves. Summer fishing excels early morning and late evening, while fall brings schooling activity that creates explosive topwater action.

2. Lake Blue Ridge - Rare Smallmouth Paradise

Tucked away in the North Georgia mountains, Lake Blue Ridge spans 3,300 acres with 60 miles of pristine shoreline. This deep, clear reservoir represents one of Georgia's last strongholds for smallmouth bass, a species rarely found elsewhere in the state.

The lake's cold, oxygen-rich water creates ideal smallmouth habitat. These bronze-backed fighters average 2-4 pounds, with occasional 5-pounders rewarding patient anglers.

Best Fishing Techniques:

• Drop shot rigs along steep rock walls
• Small crankbaits over main lake points
• Ned rigs in 15-25 feet of water
• Live minnows under slip floats

The Toccoa River arm stays cooler in summer, concentrating both smallmouth and spotted bass. Launch from the public fishing pier at Blue Ridge Marina (GPS: 34.8637° N, 84.2749° W) for easy access.

3. Lake Burton - State Record Holder

Lake Burton's 2,775 acres might seem modest, but this mountain jewel holds Georgia's state record spotted bass at 8 pounds, 2 ounces. Surrounded by multi-million dollar homes including properties owned by celebrities, the lake still offers excellent public access.

The lake's 62 miles of shoreline feature countless docks that hold bass year-round. Clear water demands finesse presentations, with natural-colored lures producing best results.

Burton's unique thermocline creates a narrow band of ideal water temperature during summer. Find this zone between 18-25 feet deep, and you'll locate concentrated schools of spotted and largemouth bass.

4. Lake Chatuge - The Border Beauty

Straddling the Georgia-North Carolina line, Lake Chatuge encompasses 7,500 acres with 132 miles of scenic shoreline. This Tennessee Valley Authority reservoir offers diverse fishing opportunities, from shallow grass beds to deep river channels.

North Carolina's hybrid bass stocking program benefits Georgia anglers too. These aggressive fighters, locally called "wipers," provide explosive action when they surface-feed on shad schools.

Seasonal Hotspots:

• Spring: Shooting Creek and Gumlog Creek arms
• Summer: Main lake points and humps
• Fall: Hiwassee River channel edges
• Winter: Deep docks near Chatuge Dam

The best crappie lakes in Georgia discussions always include Chatuge, especially during spring when fish move shallow to spawn around boat docks and laydowns.

5. Lake Nottely - The Hidden Gem

Often overshadowed by neighboring lakes, Nottely's 4,180 acres provide excellent fishing with less pressure. This TVA reservoir features 106 miles of undeveloped shoreline, creating a wilderness fishing experience.

The lake's healthy largemouth bass population benefits from abundant cover and forage. Spring fishing excels in the Nottely River arm, where stained water warms faster than the main lake.

Nottely's deep, clear main lake suits spotted bass perfectly. Target bluff walls and channel swings with Carolina rigs or deep-diving crankbaits for quality fish.

6. Lake Allatoona - Atlanta's Backyard Trophy Water

Lake Allatoona's convenient location just northwest of Atlanta makes it perfect for quick fishing trips. This 12,000-acre Army Corps reservoir features rocky shorelines, red clay banks, and numerous creek arms.

The lake's spotted bass population rivals any in Georgia. These aggressive predators school heavily, creating fantastic topwater opportunities when they chase shad on the surface.

Top Producing Areas:

• Stamp Creek (excellent spring spawning area)
• Little River arm (deep water structure)
• Allatoona Creek (shallow cover and docks)
• Dam area (striped bass in summer)

Night fishing under dock lights produces impressive catches during summer months. The lake's proximity to Atlanta means heavier boat traffic on weekends, so plan accordingly.

7. Lake Hartwell - The Tournament Favorite

Lake Hartwell's 56,000 acres and 962 miles of shoreline create one of the Southeast's premier bass fisheries. This Corps of Engineers reservoir consistently hosts major tournaments, including Bassmaster Elite Series events.

The lake's diverse structure includes everything from shallow grass to 100-foot river channels. This variety supports healthy populations of largemouth, spotted, and hybrid bass.

Spring fishing peaks when water temperatures reach 58-65°F. Target secondary points leading into spawning coves with spinnerbaits or vibrating jigs for aggressive pre-spawn bass.

8. Richard B. Russell Lake - The State Park Advantage

Richard B. Russell State Park provides exceptional access to this 26,000-acre reservoir. Modern facilities include a marina, camping areas, and fish cleaning stations, making it ideal for family fishing trips.

The lake's steep rocky banks and clear water create perfect spotted bass habitat. These fish suspend along bluff walls, requiring vertical presentations like drop shots or jigging spoons.

Russell's crappie fishing ranks among Georgia's best, especially around the numerous bridges spanning creek arms. Use minnows or small jigs around bridge pilings for consistent action.

9. Chattahoochee River (Buford Dam) - Urban Trout Paradise

Below Buford Dam, the Chattahoochee River transforms into a world-class trout fishery within sight of Atlanta's skyline. Cold water releases from Lake Lanier's bottom create perfect trout habitat for 48 miles downstream.

The Georgia Department of Natural Resources stocks rainbow and brown trout regularly, with some browns exceeding 10 pounds. This unique urban fishery offers both wade and float fishing opportunities.

Access Points:

• Bowmans Island (wade fishing)
• McGinnis Ferry (boat launch)
• Abbotts Bridge (shore access)
• Jones Bridge Park (family-friendly)

Special regulations apply to this delayed harvest section, so check current rules before fishing. The cold water also attracts striped bass during summer months.

10. Lake Tralyta (Vogel State Park) - Family First Fishing

Vogel State Park's 22-acre Lake Tralyta provides the perfect introduction to Georgia mountain fishing. This small, scenic lake offers easy shore access, making it ideal for families with young children.

Regular trout stockings supplement the lake's bass and bream populations. The fishing pier accommodates wheelchairs, ensuring everyone can enjoy this mountain gem.

Surrounded by hiking trails and picnic areas, Tralyta combines fishing with other outdoor activities. No gas motors allowed maintains the peaceful atmosphere perfect for relaxation.

Best Fishing Lakes in South Georgia (Lakes 11-15)

11. Lake Seminole - The Grass Bass Factory

Lake Seminole's 37,500 acres sprawl across the Georgia-Florida border where the Flint and Chattahoochee rivers meet. This shallow reservoir averages just 10 feet deep, creating vast grass beds that harbor monster largemouth bass.

The lake's extensive hydrilla growth requires specialized techniques. Hollow-body frogs, weightless flukes, and punch rigs excel when fishing the thick vegetation that dominates summer months.

Prime Grass Fishing Areas:

• Spring Creek arm (shallow spawning flats)
• Fish Pond Drain (consistent big bass)
• Sealy Point (grass edges and holes)
• River Junction (current breaks)

Seminole produced numerous 10-pound-plus largemouth bass, earning its reputation among trophy hunters. The Bassmaster organization regularly features this lake in their tournament trail.

12. Walter F. George - The Tournament Trail

Lake Walter F. George (locally called Lake Eufaula) stretches 85 miles along the Georgia-Alabama border. This 45,000-acre impoundment hosts more bass tournaments than any other Georgia lake.

The lake's extensive standing timber, grass beds, and creek channels create ideal bass habitat. Spring fishing explodes when bass move shallow, with sight-fishing opportunities for spawning fish.

Professional anglers favor the Pataula Creek arm for its consistent productivity. Chattahoochee State Park provides excellent public fishing areas with modern facilities.

13. Okefenokee Swamp - The Wild Card

The Okefenokee's 400,000+ acres represent one of North America's largest intact freshwater ecosystems. This vast wilderness supports 39 fish species, including impressive populations of largemouth bass, chain pickerel, and various panfish.

Fishing the swamp requires special preparation. Guided tours from Stephen C. Foster State Park or Okefenokee Adventures provide safe access to prime fishing areas.

Swamp Fishing Essentials:

• Heavy tackle for pulling fish from cover
• Weedless lures (frogs, Texas-rigged plastics)
• Bug spray (essential year-round)
• GPS device (easy to get lost)

The swamp's dark, tannin-stained water stays warm longer, extending the growing season. This produces hefty bass that fight hard in the thick cover.

14. Reed Bingham State Park Lake - The Quiet Achiever

Reed Bingham's 375-acre lake flies under most anglers' radar, creating excellent opportunities for those who discover it. Located near Adel in south Georgia, this state park lake offers surprising diversity.

The lake's healthy crappie population provides fantastic spring fishing around cypress trees and submerged brush. Bass fishing peaks during cooler months when fish relate to deeper structure.

Shore fishing access rings the entire lake, with a barrier-free fishing pier near the park office. The Georgia public fishing areas map highlights this as a family-friendly destination.

15. Public Fishing Area Lakes - The Hidden Network

Georgia's 11 Public Fishing Areas (PFAs) offer managed lakes specifically designed for angling success. These lesser-known waters receive regular stockings and habitat improvements.

Notable PFA Locations:

• Dodge County PFA (excellent bream fishing)
• Marben PFA (trophy bass potential)
• Paradise PFA (convenient to Atlanta)
• Evans County PFA (crappie specialists)

These lakes feature fish attractors, fertilization programs, and restricted access that limits fishing pressure. Most prohibit gas motors, creating peaceful environments perfect for kayak fishing.

Central Georgia's Premier Fishing Lakes (Lakes 16-20)

16. Lake Oconee - The Luxury Fishing Experience

Lake Oconee sprawls across 19,050 acres between Atlanta and Augusta, surrounded by upscale communities and championship golf courses. Despite the development, excellent fishing continues year-round.

The lake supports four bass species - largemouth, spotted, smallmouth, and hybrid striped bass. This diversity creates unique opportunities for multi-species days.

Professional guide services operate extensively on Oconee, offering half-day trips perfect for beginners. The lake's clear water and numerous points suit finesse techniques like drop shotting and shaky head jigs.

17. Lake Sinclair - The Year-Round Producer

Lake Sinclair's strategic location in central Georgia combines with a power plant to create exceptional year-round fishing. This 15,330-acre reservoir stays warmer in winter, keeping bass active when other lakes slow down.

The warm water discharge near the plant attracts baitfish, which draws predators. Winter fishing here rivals spring action on other lakes, with water temperatures remaining fishable even in January.

Seasonal Patterns:

• Winter: Power plant discharge area
• Spring: Shallow coves and pockets
• Summer: Main lake ledges and points
• Fall: Creek channels following shad

Sinclair's proximity to Milledgeville provides numerous launch ramps and facilities. The interactive fishing map Georgia anglers use shows detailed structure throughout the lake.

18. Lake Jackson - The Winter Wonder

Lake Jackson proves that size doesn't determine quality. This 2,700-acre power plant lake near Jackson produces exceptional bass fishing, especially during cold weather.

The heated discharge keeps portions of the lake warm year-round. When other lakes experience winter kill conditions, Jackson's bass feed actively in the discharge area.

Budget-conscious anglers appreciate Jackson's free public ramps and minimal boat traffic. The smaller size makes it perfect for jon boats or kayaks, reducing fuel costs while maximizing fishing time.

19. West Point Lake - The Bass Factory

West Point Lake forms where the Chattahoochee River meets the Georgia-Alabama border. This 25,900-acre Army Corps reservoir consistently ranks among the Southeast's top bass producers.

The lake's extensive shallow flats grow abundant grass, creating textbook largemouth habitat. Spring fishing reaches its peak when bass cruise these flats looking for spawning sites.

Tournament-Proven Areas:

• Wehadkee Creek (major spawning area)
• Glass Creek (deep water sanctuary)
• Yellowdirt Creek (transition zones)
• Dam area (summer striped bass)

West Point's reputation attracts competitive anglers, but its size provides plenty of room. The map of Georgia with lakes clearly shows West Point's strategic location between LaGrange and Atlanta.

20. Clarks Hill Lake - The Striper Giant

Clarks Hill Lake (officially J. Strom Thurmond Reservoir) claims the title as Georgia's largest lake at 71,100 acres. This massive impoundment stretches along the Georgia-South Carolina border, offering 1,200 miles of diverse shoreline.

The lake's reputation centers on trophy striped bass. Fish exceeding 40 pounds swim these waters, with 20-30 pound stripers considered common during peak seasons.

Striper Fishing Techniques:

• Live blueback herring (most effective)
• Umbrella rigs with swimbaits
• Planer boards with live bait
• Jigging spoons over schools

Beyond stripers, Clarks Hill supports excellent populations of all bass species, crappie, and catfish. The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers maintains numerous parks and boat ramps around the lake.

Georgia Fishing Lake Maps and Navigation Tools

Modern technology transforms how we locate and catch fish. Georgia anglers benefit from numerous digital resources that pinpoint productive areas before launching the boat.

Essential Mapping Resources:

• Navionics (detailed lake contours)
• Google Earth (seasonal water level changes)
• FishBrain (crowd-sourced catch data)
• Georgia DNR Lake Maps (free PDF downloads)

Boat Ramp GPS Coordinates (Top 5 Lakes)

1. Lake Lanier: Lanier Park Ramp - 34.2847° N, 83.9508° W
2. Clarks Hill: Wildwood Park - 33.6639° N, 82.3508° W
3. Lake Seminole: Seminole State Park - 30.7139° N, 84.8739° W
4. Lake Hartwell: Big Oaks Ramp - 34.4719° N, 83.0158° W
5. Lake Allatoona: Blockhouse Ramp - 34.1444° N, 84.7147° W

Best Fish Species by Georgia Lake

Understanding which species thrive in each lake helps target efforts effectively. This comprehensive breakdown shows primary and secondary species for planning multi-species trips.

Largemouth Bass Leaders

1. Lake Seminole (grass specialist)
2. West Point Lake (shallow water)
3. Lake Eufaula (timber expert)
4. Okefenokee Swamp (heavy cover)
5. Lake Jackson (year-round action)

Spotted Bass Specialists

1. Lake Lanier (numbers and size)
2. Lake Burton (state record)
3. Lake Allatoona (schooling fish)
4. Lake Hartwell (deep structure)
5. Richard B. Russell (clear water)

Striped Bass Giants

1. Clarks Hill Lake (40+ pounders)
2. Lake Lanier (consistent action)
3. Lake Hartwell (improving fishery)
4. Lake Seminole (river run fish)
5. Chattahoochee River (summer refuge)

Month-by-Month Georgia Lake Fishing Calendar

January-February: Target power plant lakes (Sinclair, Jackson) for active winter bass. Clarks Hill stripers school deep.

March-April: Pre-spawn bass fishing peaks statewide. Crappie move shallow around docks and brush.

May-June: Post-spawn patterns emerge. Topwater action begins at dawn/dusk. Stripers follow shad schools.

July-August: Deep summer patterns dominate. Night fishing excels. Mountain lakes provide cool relief.

September-October: Fall feeding frenzy begins. Schooling bass create explosive surface action. Trophy season arrives.

November-December: Transition to winter patterns. Focus on points and channels. Jigging spoons produce quality fish.

Georgia Lake Fishing Regulations You Need to Know

Staying legal ensures sustainable fishing for future generations. Georgia's regulations protect fish populations while providing excellent angling opportunities.

Basic License Requirements:

• Residents 16-64: $15 annual license
• Non-residents: $50 annual / $10 one-day
• Trout stamp: Additional $5 (required March-October)
• Senior lifetime (65+): $35 residents only

Key Regulations by Species:

• Largemouth Bass: 10 fish daily, 14-inch minimum
• Spotted/Smallmouth Bass: 10 fish combined daily
• Striped Bass: 2 fish daily, 22-inch minimum
• Crappie: 30 fish daily, no size limit
• Catfish: No limit on channels, 1 flathead over 14 inches

Special regulation waters exist throughout Georgia. Always check current rules before fishing, as regulations change annually based on population assessments.

Pro Tips for Fishing Georgia's Lakes

Twenty years of guiding Georgia's lakes taught me secrets that consistently produce fish. These proven strategies work across all our featured lakes.

Equipment Essentials:

• Medium-heavy baitcasting setup (primary)
• Spinning rod for finesse techniques
• Quality electronics (side-imaging preferred)
• Polarized sunglasses (amber or copper)
• Landing net (rubberized for catch-and-release)

Money-Saving Strategies:

• Fish weekdays (less pressure, better bite)
• Share guide costs with friends
• Buy annual licenses (pays off after 3 trips)
• Join local fishing clubs for tournament access
• Stock up during tackle sales

Safety remains paramount on Georgia's large reservoirs. Weather changes quickly, especially during spring and summer thunderstorm season. Always wear life jackets and monitor weather conditions.

Family-Friendly Features at Georgia's Fishing Lakes

Georgia's lakes offer more than just fishing, making them perfect for family adventures. These amenities ensure everyone enjoys the outdoors.

Top Family-Friendly Lakes:

Vogel State Park - Lake Tralyta

• Beach swimming area
• Playground equipment
• Hiking trails
• Pedal boat rentals

Richard B. Russell State Park

• Disc golf course
• Nature programs
• Camping facilities
• Fish cleaning stations

Seminole State Park

• Interpretive center
• Gator viewing areas
• Picnic pavilions
• Guided eco-tours

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best overall fishing lake in Georgia?

Lake Lanier ranks as Georgia's best overall fishing lake due to its size, accessibility, species diversity, and consistent year-round action. Its 38,000 acres support healthy populations of spotted bass, striped bass, and crappie.

Which Georgia lakes are best for largemouth bass?

Lake Seminole, West Point Lake, and Lake Eufaula excel for largemouth bass. These shallow, cover-rich reservoirs grow trophy-sized largemouth that regularly exceed 8 pounds.

Where can I catch striped bass in Georgia?

Clarks Hill Lake produces Georgia's largest striped bass, with fish over 40 pounds caught annually. Lake Lanier and Lake Hartwell also offer excellent striper fishing, especially during spring and fall.

Do I need a boat to fish Georgia's lakes?

No, many Georgia lakes provide excellent shore fishing opportunities. State park lakes, PFAs, and dam areas offer fishing piers and bank access that produce quality catches without a boat.

What's the best time of year to fish in Georgia?

Spring (March-May) offers the best overall fishing as bass move shallow to spawn. However, Georgia's mild climate provides good fishing year-round, with each season offering unique opportunities.

Which Georgia lakes have the best crappie fishing?

Lake Chatuge, Richard B. Russell, and Reed Bingham State Park Lake rank among Georgia's top crappie destinations. Spring spawning season produces the fastest action around shallow cover.

Are there any free fishing days in Georgia?

Georgia typically offers two free fishing days annually - one in June during National Fishing Week and another in September during National Hunting and Fishing Day. Check Georgia DNR for exact dates.

Conclusion

Georgia's diverse lakes offer something for every angler, from family-friendly state parks to trophy bass factories. Start with lakes closest to your location, then expand your horizons as skills and confidence grow.

Success comes from understanding seasonal patterns, matching tackle to conditions, and respecting our natural resources. Whether targeting public fishing lakes in Georgia or exploring remote mountain reservoirs, these waters create memories lasting a lifetime.

Ready to experience Georgia's incredible fishing? Grab your license, study the Georgia fishing lakes map, and discover why anglers travel nationwide to fish our lakes. The next trophy catch awaits in Georgia's beautiful waters!

For additional resources, lake-specific guides, and current fishing reports, visit the Georgia Department of Natural Resources website or download their mobile app for real-time updates.