Digitized by the Internet Archive in 2013 
http://archive.org/details/georgiafishfishiOOzell 
 
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FISHING 
 
 Public Fishing Waters 
 
 Boat Landings 
 
 
 
 Fish Camps 
 
 
 
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 401 State Capitol 
ATLANTA 3# GA. 
 
ERNEST VANDIVER 
Governor 
 
FULTON LOVELL 
Director 
 
COMMISSIONERS 
 
-- J. T. TRAPNELL 
First District Metter 
 
-- FLANNERY POPE 
Sixth District Dublin 
 
-- RICHARD TIFT, Chairman Second District Albany 
 
-- JAMES B. LANGFORD 
Seventh District Calhoun 
 
-- WILLIAM E. SMITH, Secretary Third District Americus 
 
-- HARLEY LANGDALE 
Eighth District Valdosta 
 
-- WILLIAM Z. CAMP 
Fourth District Newnan 
 
-- BILLY WIKLE 
Ninth District Clarkesville 
 
-- CHARLES L. DAVIDSON, JR. 
Fifth District Avondale Estates 
 
-- L. L. COUCH 
Tenth District Lexington 
 
JAMES A GOETHE 
 
Coastal District Savannah 
 
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 Georgia FISH and FISHING 
 
Compiled by: Howard D. Zeller 
 
Introduction 
 
Fisheries Research Supervisor 
 
Abundant water supplies and an ideal climate help to make Georgia a fisherman's paradise;' There are fifteen major reservoirs in the state with a total of 257,933 acres, and seventeen large rivers ramble 2,81o miles across Georgia before they flow into the sea. In addition to this big water area there are 700 miles of cold water trout streams in North Georgia, and approximately 3,000 miles of smaller tributary warm water streams. Small lakes and ponds number over 10.000 in the state to add to the fishing 
water. 
This vast water area is teeming with fish. A total of 
124 separate and distinct species have been listed for Georgia waters. Of this total. 32 are desirable fish sought by fishermen and the remainder are rough fish and forage fish. Last year nearly half a million fishermen, or one out of every seven people in Georgia, went fishing somewhere 
in the state. And according to Game and Fish Commission 
records, nearly all of them caught fish. This fishing domain isj under constant surveillance by the Georgia 
Game and Fish Commission to insure fish stocking in 
areas where the need arises, and to provide research on fisheries problems, and supervise the development of new areas. Pollution inroads must be curbed and laws enforced to maintain this great resource for future 
generations. 
Fishery Resource Area 
Georgia has perhaps a wider variety of fishing water than any other state. The mountain streams of north Georgia are naturally populated with three species of mountain trout. In areas where trout fishing pressure is heaviest, these waters receive supplemental stocks of fish 
from two trout hatcheries. From the mountains to the black water swamp areas of south Georgia is a striking 
change, but the fishing is just as famous. This is the area of lunker bass and big bream in waters shaded overhead with Spanish moss. 
Along the Atlantic Coast fishing is good for speckled trout, mackerel, redfish, or king size tarpon to mention only a few. Inland, scattered all across Georgia is the vast reservoir system built initially for power and flood control, but now monopolized by fishermen. 
Countless thousands of smaller lakes and ponds dot the countryside and blend into the cities. Georgia state lines are defined on the eastern and western borders by great river systems, with other streams equally as large flowing in between. 
There are hundreds and thousands of smaller tributeries, some of them not even named, that join into the major river system. All of this vast water area is alive with fish . . . and fishermen are a natural by-product. 
 
Survey of Lakes and Streams A major step to develop and improve fishing in the state was the initiation in 1956 of a state-wide fisheries survey. This work was conducted with Federal Aid to Fish Restoration funds under Dingell-Johnson Project F-7-R-4, Fisheries Survey. The survey was undertaken to provide the Game and Fish Commission and the citizens 
of Georgia with a basic inventory of public fishing facilities throughout the state. Our purpose in this survey was to inventory all the major lakes and streams that are available to the general public; to collect information on the biology of these waters, the composition of the fish population, and degree of pollution; and to locate and mark all access to public fishing water in the state. 
The need of such a biological survey is clear. Any good business manager of a company will have at his 
fingertips an up-to-date inventory of material on hand. 
He will know his production, and what increases in pro- 
duction his facilities can handle for the future. Since the 
Georgia Game and Fish Commission is responsible for 
management and development of all the fishery resources of the state, a basic inventory and survey is also essential for the best fishing returns to fishermen. The fisheries survey has been completed and a huge volume of information on Georgia fish and fishing waters has been 
collected. This inventory data will be used to plan activities 
for the Game and Fish Commission in the future. Planning for the Future 
Work in fisheries management today must be geared for the future. The Bureau of Census has established 
that the population of Georgia will be doubled in about 10 years. This increase in population will be coupled with more leisure time, and the record shows fishing to be the most popular leisure activity of all. Construction of new fishing waters will continue, but the bulk of the 
fishing pressure will be on areas now in existence. Survey records show there are ample public fishing 
waters now, and that good fishing will be available for future generations of fishermen. The state-wide survey has been completed and information is now available on access roads to fishing sites, public boat launching ramps, 
and fish camps on lakes and streams. We have also pre- 
sented our biological findings on fish distribution in the state, composition of fish populations, and the abundance of game fish throughout the state. 
The goal of the Georgia Game and Fish Commission 
in publishing this booklet is to help provide a guide to 
Georgia Fish and Fishing, and we are confident that the information here will assist each fisherman, young or old. 
to shorten the time between bites. 
 
Acknowledgements 
 
This publication would not have been possible v> ithout the aid of all personnel in the Georgia Game 
and Fish Commission. The fisheries survey crew consisting of Claude E. Hastings, Leader; John E. Frey, Assistant Leader, and Biological Aides Charles l). Bryan, Donald Aderhold and John Smisson contributed most of the information on access and fish distribution. Duane Rayer graciously permitted the use of original water color painting for most of the color plates on Georgia fish. 
Copyright 
 
1960 
 
 CLARK HILL 
reservoir 
 
Clark Hill Reservoir is on the Savannah River 30 miles 
upstream from the city of Augusta. When the dam was 
completed, 78,500 acres of fishing water were formed along the Georgia and South Carolina line. This vast fishing area has often been called Georgia's inland sea. It is considered one of the best fishing lakes for large bass and crappie in the United States. Deep valleys and 
hill tops, flooded when the dam was completed, provide 
a varied habitat for the various species of fish in the 
Reservoir. 
Fish Population The composition of the fish population is shown below 
in a representative 2 acre population sample. 
TOTAL FISH SAMPLE 
FROM SHALLOW AND DEEP WATER 
POPULATION STUDY 
 
SPECIES 
 
Total number 
of fish 
 
Percentage of total population by weight 
 
Largemouth Bass 
 
121 
 
5 
 
Crappie 
 
511 
 
2 
 
Bluegill 
 
11,347 
 
45 
 
Shellcrocker 
 
7 
 
T* 
 
Warmouth 
 
592 
 
2 
 
Gizzard Shad 
 
591 
 
26 
 
Threadfin Shad 
 
1,290 
 
2 
 
Minnows 
 
37 
 
T* 
 
Yellow Perch 
 
2,282 
 
11 
 
Madrom 
 
25 
 
T* 
 
Suckers 
 
2 
 
T* 
 
Carp 
 
4 
 
2 
 
Channel Catfish 
 
43 
 
3 
 
White Catfish 
 
11 
 
1 
 
Bullheads 
 
9 
 
T* 
 
Pumpkinseed 
 
66 
 
T* 
 
Green Sunfish 
 
43 
 
T* 
 
Total 
% * Trace, less than 1 
 
16,981 
 
100% 
 
The population study shows a very good population of 
 
bass, crappie, and bluegill in the lake. These species are 
 
the dominant game fish present and most of the other 
 
species in the lake serve only as a supply of food for 
 
these game fish. The most important food of game fish 
 
in reservoirs is shad, as any fisherman who has looked 
 
in the stomach of a bass or crappie will tell you. 
 
Striped bass have been introduced in Clark Hill but very 
 
few fish have been caught and reproduction is uncertain. 
 
Creel Census 
 
Information on the kinds of fish present in a lake is 
basic for fisheries management. The success of a trip may be measured in a number of ways, hut in the final analysis 
it is the fish on the stringer that counts to the angler. In 
the same manner, the State Game & Fish Commission 
also takes strongly into consideration, what, where, and 
how many fish the successful fisherman takes in order to more efficiently plan for future programs of manage- 
ment and research. 
This information is obtained through creel census 
clerks who work a large number of our lakes. Their job 
is to check all fishermen on certain days, to count, identify, weigh, and measure all fish caught. Information is then obtained from the sportsman as to bait used, time 
 
he fished, and best depth. All this information & compiled 
monthly and the results from thousands of fishing trips are analyzed. It is now possible to determine which fish 
are caught, what the average size may be, and the best time to go fishing. The creel census information for Clark 
Hill shows that fishing is good. 
SPECIES COMPOSITION OF TOTAL CATCH IN PERCENT FOR CLARK HILL RESERVOIR 
 
Bass 
30% 
 
Crappie 
45% 
 
Bream 
19% 
 
Catfish 
5% 
 
White Bass Trace 
 
Other 
1% 
 
It is interesting to note that although a large number of bream were taken in population studies, comparatively few were caught by fishermen. Most of the bream were very small and they are probably more important as a source of food for bass than a game fish. Bream do not do well in large deep reservoirs because they are mostly bottom feeders, and the deep water of Clark Hill is low in oxygen and does not support a large variety of insect life as bream food. 
Fishing Tips Most fishermen at Clark Hill fished for bass and crappie. and they had good luck. Creel census records show that the average size bass weighed two pounds and that the crappie caught averaged slightly under one pound. 
The best month for bass fishing in Clark Hill is May, according to fishing success figures taken from creel census records. June bass fishing is also good, slightly better than April. Fishing picks up in the fall again with bass beginning to bite in September, but the peak fall fishing is not until October and November. 
Crappie fishing is actually better in the fall, with 
November the month crappie bite the best. During the 
spring, April is best with good fishing on into May as 
well. 
Fishing is good all over Clark Hill. Individual fishermen may prefer one location over another, however our creel census and population studies show fish distribution to be uniform. Some crappie fishermen prefer to fish in tree tops, and others choose the open water. Either method lias heen proved successful. 
Bass fishing is best on the points and coves early in the 
year. Bass usually move out later in the season and may be taken in more open water. The rolling land has created sunken islands at Clark Hill, and some areas in the middle of the lake are comparatively shallow and provide good bass habitat. The fishermen who fish the bottom in this^ 8-10 foot water report good catches. Preferred bass baits include a wide range of artificial and natural lures. Most of the bass taken from Clark Hill are on artificial lures, 
with spring lizards second choice by fishermen. 
 
 CLARK HILL RESERVOIR 
 
KEY TO PUBLIC FISHING WATERS 
 
FISHING CAMP. WITH BOAT RENTALS. FISHERMEN FACILITIES AND LAUNCHING RAMPS. 
 
HARD SURFACE BOAT LAUNCHING RAMPS 
 
OTHER BOAT LAUNCHING RAMPS. 
 
PUBLIC ACCESS TO WATER. NO LAUNCHING RAMPS 
 
HARD SURFACED PAVED ROADS. 
 
IMPROVED ROADS. 
 
UNIMPROVED ROADS 
 
1 
 
O 
 
1 
 
2 
 
1 
111 I I 
 
fi 
 
1 
 
SCALE IN MILES 
 
 ' 
\o 
) 
 
 
ALLATOONA 
 &  
 
'ACWORTH 
X 
^'/e, 
 
O'Neil 
AREA LOCATION MAP 
LAKE ALLATOONA LAKE JACKSON 
KEY TO PUBLIC FISHING WATERS 
(J) FISHING CAMP WITH BOAT RENTALS. FISHERMEN FACILITIES AND LAUNCHING RAMPS. 
 HARD SURFACE BOAT LAUNCHING RAMPS. Q OTHER BOAT LAUNCHING RAMPS. O PUBLIC ACCESS TO WATER. NO LAUNCHING 
RAMPS. 
^H HARD SURFACED PAVED ROADS. 
'^EM IMPROVED ROADS UNIMPROVED ROADS. 
 
 Lake 
ALLATOONA 
 
Lake Allatoona was formed through impoundment of the Etowah River and the reservoir extends across Bartow. Cohh and Cherokee counties in northwest Georgia. 
The lake was built in 1949 and covers 19.200 acres. Allatoona is the only reservoir in Georgia, and one of the few in the nation that is dominantly populated with 
spotted bass. 
Fish Population The fish population of Allatoona is shown below in a 
representative population sample. 
TOTAL FISH SAMPLE FROM SHALLOW AND DEEP WATER 
POPULATION STUDY 
 
SPECIES 
Largemouth Bass Spotted Bass White Bass Black Crappie 
Bluegill Redbreast 
Warmouth 
Log Perch Minnow Carp Suckers Threadfin Shad Flathead Catfish 
Total 
 
Total number 
of fish 
1 
107 4 
47 866 
71 33 101 
54 7 5 
288 
1 
1,594 
 
Perccntoge of total population by weight 
1 
15 2 3 
28 5 
1 
4 
1 
11 6 
17 2 
100% 
 
The population study shows a good population of spotted bass, white bass, crappie. and bluegill. 
Ckeel Census 
Creel census figures are ihe best index for fishing 
success and the kinds of fish caught. Figures show that fishing is good, and that the catch of the different game fish is about the same each year. 
SPECIES COMPOSITION OF TOTAL CATCH IN PERCENT FOR ALLATOONA 
RESERVOIR 
 
Crappie fishing, especially at night, is good at Allatoona. Tree tops are favored spots with good luck also from boat docks, bridges, and coves. 
March is by a wide margin the best month for crappie fishing. Fishing is also good during April, October and November. Night fishing is very good for crappie during 
Vugust. 
White bass begin their spring spawning run in Vlarch and April and are caught in large numbers near the headwaters of the lake. 
Lake JACKSON 
Although smaller in size (4,750 acres) Jackson lake \ ields good seasonal fishing. 
Bass, crappie, bluegill. yellow perch, and channel catfish make up most of the catch from Jackson Lake. Although the harvest of bass is not as high as some of the other reservoirs, the lake is well known for the exceplionallv large-sized bass it produces. 
Creel Census Catch figures from fishermen indicate fishing needs a shot in the arm. The size of fish taken from Jackson Lake are smaller than some of the other lakes, although numbers of fish caught by individual fishermen is high. 
LAKE JACKSON 
 
Bass 
12% 
 
Crappie 
65% 
 
Bream 
14% 
 
Catfish 
6% 
 
White Bass 
1% 
 
Others 
1% 
 
Most of the fish caught from Allatoona are crappie, with a comparable good catch of bass. The catch of white bass, although small in percent, is quite significant, since white bass were only recently stocked in Allatoona. 
Fishing Tips 
Fishing for spotted bass is good in Allatoona. Some 
largemouth bass are also taken but over 'JO' < of the total bass caught are spotted bass. 
Fishing is best in the coves and near the shore and alony the points early in the year. Trolling in moderately deep water is good later in the season. 
The best month for Bass fishinp in Allatoona is during October. Fishing is nearly as good in April, and it is also good in March and continued through May. Mid summer bass fishing is slow, but picks up again in September and continues through November. 
 
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Stark 
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.- 
 
0 
 
o 
 
 
 
i 
 
f 
 
f 
 
.-A-SO^r^ 
 
v 
to t*,o* 
 
 NORTH GEORGIA 
 
LAKE NOTTELY 
To Young 
Harris 
 
c{ 
BLUE RIDGE RESERVOIR 
 
'MORGANTON 
\ 
 
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<0 V 
 
\ 
 
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TOCCOA 
 
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I his is llu- <>nl\ lake In Georgia where the iVIuskelunge is found. I he rcc<ird muskie so fat taken from Blue Kidge Reser\oii neighed in al .'>6 |Jounds. Phis large member id the pike famih attracts fishermen from all 
o\ci | he south. 
 
Blue Ridge Reservoir was impounded on the loccoa River in 1930 and backs up ">,'>20 acres ol deep cool water. Although renowned foi muskie fishing. Blue Ridge Reservoir is also excellent for ba~s. crappie. and In ram. 
Fish Popi la i k>\ 
Studies recentl) made on Blue Ridge Reservoii show 
the fish population to be typical of the excellent fishing found in the Tennessee Valle) Association Reservoirs. 
TOTAL FISH SAMPLE FROM SHALLOW AND DEEP WATER 
POPULATION STUDY 
 
SPECIES 
Largemouth Boss Smallmouth Bass Black Crappie 
Bluegill Shcllcrackcr 
Warmouth Walleye Channel Catfish 
Flathead Catfish Gizzard Shad Redhorse Sucker Hog Sucker 
Minnow 
 
Total number 
of fish 
124 49 69 
337 6 
28 8 
28 8 
333 
21 2 
39 
 
Per centogo of tor al populot.on by weight 
7 
5.2 
27 
11.3 
r r 
TT* 
r 
47 5 23 
TT' 
 
Total Trace, less than 1 o 
 
,052 
 
(Continued on page 36) 
 
  Lake 
SI N C LAI R 
 
Lake Sinclair rates as one of the top fishing spots in Georgia. Located in the heart of Georgia on the Oconee River, the lake floods 15,350 acres in the rich Piedmont soil belt. Crappie grow larger and faster in Sinclair than any other lake, and bass are not far behind. 
Muddy water is a problem in early spring when the Oconee River is on its flooding rampage. The experienced fishermen who know where and how to fish this water 
say it is no handicap and have full stringers to back up their statement. 
Fish Population 
Good populations of game fish found in yearly studies by the Game and Fish Commission back up the good fishing reports from Sinclair. 
 
TOTAL FISH SAMPLE FROM SHALLOW AND DEEP WATER 
POPULATION STUDY 
 
SPECIES 
largemouth Bass Black Crappie 
Bluegill Redbreast 
Warmouth Channel Catfish White Catfish Brown Bullhead 
Flat Bullhead Golden Redhorse 
Madtoms Gizzard Shad Chain Pickerel 
 
Totol number 
of fish 
145 35 
905 137 183 
17 2 
18 82 
3 4 
197 4 
 
Percentage ot total population by weight 
4 2 
31 5 8 
6 
1 
3 6 
1 
T* 30 
2 
 
Total 
* Trace, less than 1% 
 
1,732 
 
100% 
 
The sample shows a high sustaining population of game fish in Sinclair Reservoir. Not found in the sample but known to be present in the lake are white bass, stocked several years ago by the Game and Fish Commission. White bass are taken in good numbers by Sinclair fishermen, especially in early spring during the spawning run. 
Channel catfish are in the lake and in whopper sizes. Creel census records show that channel catfish in the range of 20 pounds are not uncommon. Trot lines and 
set hooks are the most common gear used for these 
monsters. Bass and cr ippie fishing has held up good in the lake. 
The bass population appears to be increasing slightly from year to year. Sinclair does not produce as many crappie for the stringer as some of tlie other lakes but the size of the crappie caught commonly runs over 2 pounds. 
 
8 
 
Creel Census 
Fisherman success figures are available from Lake Sinclair to show the rate of catch for individual fish in the lake. This percentage catch from thousands of fisher- 
men is a pretty good barometer for the type of fishing in an impoundment. 
 
SPECIES COMPOSITION OF TOTAL CATCH 
IN PERCENT, SINCLAIR RESERVOIR 
 
Bass 
 
Crappie 
 
Bream 
 
Catfish 
 
White Bass 
 
Oiher 
 
29% 
 
18% 
 
27% 
 
20% 
 
5% 
 
T* 
 
* Trace, less than 1% 
 
Using these figures Sinclair rates as a bass lake with a high percent of this species in the creel. Crappie do not rate high in numbers but the quality of crappie fishing is 
excellent. 
Bream again rate high in numbers but the size caught is not too good. The problem is the same here as in 
several of the other reservoirs in the north half of Georgia; 
too much deep infertile water that does not produce bream 
food. 
Catfish rank high in the catch. The Oconee River left a good supply when the lake was impounded. The quality 
of this fishing is excellent. 
The percent of white bass in the catch is higher in Sinclair than any other lake where detailed records are 
kept. This fishery will definitely increase as time goes on and the population becomes firmly established in the reservoir. 
Fishing Tips 
After contacting a large number of fishermen and 
recording their catch, plus the hours they spent fishing, 
we derive a figure listed in Game and Fish Commission records as catch per hour. This is little more than a "fish 
biting index," since the higher the catch per hour, the better the fish are striking. 
Using these figures, the best month for catching bass in Sinclair is May. April fishing is good but May is tops year around. Fall fishing during October and November is also good. The most successful bass fishermen cast the coves with fairly deep running plugs or troll in water a 
little deeper across the points. Bass school in Sinclair, and if you pick one up trolling, chances are good for 
several more strikes in the same place. The average bass caught in Sinclair weighs about 2 pounds. 
Crappie hit the best during March, with April fishing a close second. These fish are in the shallow water early and during spawning, and are most often found in the flooded brush near the bank and in the shallower coves. The average size crappie caught in Sinclair weighs substantially over one pound. 
White bass run the tributary streams in schools to spawn during the spring. They are caught in the headwaters of the lake and in the rivers during the last half of April and on into May. Most of the white bass caught run from one to three pounds. 
Bream and catfish are found throughout the lake. Bream are restricted pretty well to the shallower waters of the coves. Catfish are found about everywhere in the lake. Crappie fishermen pick up a few catfish fishing with minnows. 
 
 EATONTON 
 
AREA LOCATION MAP 
 
LAKE SINCLAIR 
 
KEY TO PUBLIC FISHING WATERS 
 
FISHING CAMP, WITH BOAT RENTALS. FISHERMEN FACILITIES AND LAUNCHING RAMPS. 
 
HARD SURFACE BOAT LAUNCHING RAMPS. 
 
OTHER BOAT LAUNCHING RAMPS. 
 
PUBLIC ACCESS TO WATER. NO LAUNCHING RAMPS. 
 
HARD SURFACED PAVED ROADS. 
 
IMPROVED ROADS. 
 
UNIMPROVED ROADS. 
 
1 
 
o 
 
t 
 
SCALE IN MILES 
 
 u i tt or roini 
15 Miles 
 
To Hamilton 3 Miles 
 
.* 
 
i 
f  
I 
*  i 
\ 
 
 
A 
 
^O' Mulberry Grove 
 
 1    
 
i 
 
BARTLETTS FERRY RESERVOIR 
( LAKE HARDING ) 
GOAT ROCK RESERVOIR LAKE OLIVER 
 
KEY TO PUBLIC FISHING WATERS 
 
FISHING CAMP, WITH BOAT RENTALS, FISHERMEN FACILITIES AND LAUNCHING RAMPS. 
 
HARD SURFACE BOAT LAUNCHING RAMPS. 
 
OTHER BOAT LAUNCHING RAMPS. 
 
PUBLIC ACCESS TO WATER. NO LAUNCHING 
RAMPS. 
 
HARD SURFACED PAVED ROADS. 
 
IMPROVED ROADS. 
 
UNIMPROVED ROADS. 
 
1 
 
O 
 
1 
 
2 
 
IE 
SCALE IN MILES 
 
AREA LOCATION MAP 
 
 Bartletts FERRY, 
GOAT ROCK and 
Lake OLIVER 
 
This chain of lakes on the Chattahoochee River provides some really fin? fishing, too often overlooked by Georgia anglers. The three lakes are connected along the Alabama, Georgia state line but a Georgia fishing license 
is valid for fishing in all the lakes. 
These lakes were selected for the first experimental stocking of white bass and threadfin shad by the Georgia 
Game and Fish Commission. The program was tremen- 
dously successful for both species. The threadfin shad is a small fish which rarely grows 
larger than 6 inches long. Because of the small size, it 
serves as food for game fish throughout its life. This size factor makes the threadfin a most desirable forage fish in contrast to the gizzard shad, which is usually too large for crappie and all except the larger bass to eat in less than one year. High weight concentrations of 
gizzard shad ruin fishing as well. White bass were also very successful here and fish 
for stocking all the other reservoirs in Georgia were taken from here and stocked in new waters. Although these introductions were successful, white bass fishing in Bartletts Ferry and Goat Rock is still the best in Georgia. 
 
BARTLETTS FERRY 
 
This reservoir is also known as Lake Harding. It is 
the largest lake in the chain covering 5,500 acres, mostly 
in Harris County, Georgia. The water is nearly always 
slightly stained, but not to the serious detriment of fishing. 
Fish Population 
Bartletts Ferry supports a good population of game fish. Because of the abundant food supply in the form of threadfin shad; bass, crappie, and white bass grow very fast and are always in excellent condition. The table below lists the different species and their relative 
abundance. The population of sport fish is good in Bartletts Ferry. 
Best fishing is for bream, crappie. white bass, and largemouth bass. Channel catfish are also abundant in 
the lake. 
TOTAL FISH SAMPLE FROM SHALLOW AND DEEP WATER 
POPULATION STUDY 
 
SPECIES 
Largemouth Bass White Bass Crappie 
Bluegill Redbreast 
Longear Sunfish Shellcracker Yellow Perch Channel Catfish Threadfin Shad Minnow 
Total 
 
Total number 
of fish 
235 18 
449 
1,741 72 
116 89 5 
5 15,384 
112 
18,217 
 
Percentage of total population by weight 
6 
3 
22 20 
4 2 2 
1 
9 30 
1 
100% 
 
Threadfin shad arc dominant in the reservoir and provide a first class food suppl) for crappie and bass. These small shad ma) be seen schooling on the surface 
ol the lake at all seasons. Fishing Tips 
liass fishing is good during Ma) and June and also in late tall. Late fall fishing is especially good if the lake is clear. Live bait is probabl) the most reliable method for 
taking bass, with trolling a close second. Crappie are big here, and bite best during April and 
May and again in October and November. White bass school in the lake during the summer and 
may be taken on the surface casting into schools of shad. 
Trolling is also good for white bass at times, but the spring spawning run up the river is probably best. 
Channel catfish provide real sport, fishing with cut bait or minnows. Channel catfish from Bartletts Fen \ run ii| to 20 pounds, with June fishing the best. 
 
GOAT ROCK RESERVOIR 
 
Goat Rock is a long narrow reservoir covering 1.000 acres. It too sutlers from muddy water, but the lake does support a good population of game fish. 
 
Fish Population 
 
The fish population in Goat Rock is very similar to 
 
Bartletts Ferry. Large numbers of game fish in the lake 
 
have abundant food available in the form of threadfin 
 
shad, and growth of all fish is very fast. The most abun- 
 
dant sport fish are channel catfish, white bass, bream, 
 
crappie. and largemouth bass. 
 
Fishing for white bass and channel catfish in the upper 
 
end of Goat Rock is the best in Georgia. Fish are 
 
caught in phenomenal numbers the year around. This 
 
Dam particular area is the tailrace of Bartletts Ferry 
 
and 
 
supports good fishing for all game species. 
 
Fishing Tips Fish for white bass during the latter part of April and 
during May in the tailwater of Bartletts Ferry Dam for 
limit catches. Fishing is fair all summer with a peak again during the fall. White bass like the swift water of the tailrace and can be caught casting across the current or in the slower eddy water. Doll flies, small spoons, and spinners are all good. 
Channel catfish are found throughout the lake and in the tailwater. Minnows or any good catfish bait will generally yield a nice string. Fishing is good all year, but is especially productive when there is a rise in the river. 
Crappie. bream, and bass are also in Goat Rock, scattered along the shallow ledges and inlets. 
 
LAKE OLIVER 
Lake Oliver is the newest reservoir in this series. The lake covers .'5,000 acres near the city limits of Columbus, 
Georgia. 
The fish population is very similar to Bartletts Ferry. Since the reservoir is new, game fish will no doubt expand in the future. Growth has been very fast for all species and fishing has been good the first year. 
Fishing Tips Lake Oliver has just been completed and fishing trends have not been definitel) established. The pattern discussed for Bartletts Ferry and Goat Rock should produce results from Lake Oliver. 
11 
 
 To Aroen cus 
 
AREA LOCATION MAP 
LAKE BLACKSHEAR 
LAKE WORTH 
 
KEY TO PUBLIC FISHING WATERS 
 
FISHING CAMP. WITH BOAT RENTALS. FISHER. MEN FACILITIES AND LAUNCHING RAMPS. 
 
HARD SURFACE BOAT LAUNCHING RAMPS. 
 
e OTHER BOAT LAUNCHING RAMPS. 
 
o PUBLIC ACCESS TO WATER. NO LAUNCHING RAMPS. 
 
HARD SURFACED PAVED ROADS. 
 
IMPROVED ROADS. 
 
UNIMPROVED ROADS. 
 
1 
 
O 
 
1 
 
2 
 
 Lake 
 
Lake Blackshear on the Flint River is a shallow, rich lake, best known for fast growing bass and big bream. Black crappie, chain pickerel, white bass, and channel catfish add t<> the variety of desirable fish in the lake. 
Blackshear was constructed by the Crisp County Power Commission in 1930. The long narrow reservoir Hoods o.515 acres of rich bottom land in south Georgia. The upper one-half of the lake is heavily wooded in standing timber from the original impoundment. 
Fis+iing is good in Lake Blackshear for all game species. Prior to the time the lake was chemically treated fur rough fish control, fishing was general!) considered 
poor by local fishermen. 
Rough Fish Control Fishermen and local citizens asked the Game and Fish Commission to help improve fishing in the lake during the summer of 195!!. To initiate the program, population studies were made on the lake by fishery biologists to 
determine the condition of the fish population. Gizzard shad were found in such abundance that they had virtuall) 
taken over the lake. To return good fishing to the lake 
the gizzard shad population had to be drasticall) reduced. This problem was one brought on by time and nature. 
Gizzard shad, important as a forage fish for bass and crappie. soon reach a size too large for these game fish to feed upon. The answer to improved fishing then, is to reduce their numbers in the lake the same way a farmer would plow out weeds to increase the yield of held crops. 
The job on gizzard shad reduction was undertaken during the fall of 1951). The lake was chemically treated to eliminate rough fish, leaving the game fish population virtually unaffected. The next day, biologists estimated the kill to be 700,000 pounds of rough fish, mostly gizzard shad, and carp, with a small percentage of the total kill in game fish. 
The following spring, all the game fish spawned heavil) in the lake. Growth has been verv fast, and Blackshear is once again known for good fishing. 
Following the rough fish removal, the waters were stocked with white bass and threadfin shad. White bass have spawned in the lake and are available for the stringer. Threadfin shad, introduced as a forage fish because the) never grow larger than five or six inches. 
are also well established. 
Fishing Tips 
Crappie begin to hit early in Lake Blackshear. The best time is February and March, and usually October and November in the fall. 
Bass are striking good in April and bite good through May. Fall fishing starts to pick up during October. 
Bream begin to spawn in late April and May. Fishing off bream beds, sometimes an acre or more in size, is excellent at this time. Bream bite good the year around. 
White bass begin their spawning run during mid April. The place for white bass at this time is at the headwater of the lake and up the Flint River, and below the power dam. October and November is best fishing in the fall. The mouths of the creeks, especially Cedar. Swift and 
 
The treatment of Lake Blackshear for rough fish drastically reduced the population of these species in the lake. After removal of rough fish, game species spawned heavily and good fishing returned. 
Gum Creek, are excellent lor trolling or casting at this 
time. Use small flashy lures, or spinners. 
Lake WORTH 
 
Lake Worth on the Flint River below Blackshear at Albany, Georgia, provides 2.500 acres of good bluegill, shellcracker, and hass habitat. Saw Grass islands and shaded streams feeding the lake also support good populations of chain pickerel, crappie, and catfish. 
Lake Worth was treated for rough fish control at the same time as Lake Blackshear and the results 
were good. An estimated 100,000 pounds of gizzard 
shad, carp and gar were removed during the treatment. 
Game fish populations slumped back quickly and good 
fishing has returned. White bass and threadfin shad were introduced in Lake Worth after the rough fish removal. 
Fish Population The table below shows the fish population of Lake Worth dominated with game species. 
TOTAL FISH SAMPLE FROM SHALLOW AND DEEP WATER 
POPULATION STUDY 
 
SPECIES 
 
Total number 
of fish 
 
Percentage of total population by weight 
 
Largemouth Bass Black Crappie 
Bluegill Redbreast Shellcracker 
Warmouth Chain Pickerel Channel Catfish 
Speckled Catfish Minnows Spotted Sucker Gizzard Shad 
 
137 1,419 1,608 1,161 1,003 
54 7 
20 
21 
433 78 
2,007 
 
6.8 3.4 14.8 7.2 8.9 
1.1 
1 
12 5.1 T* 
16.2 20.7 
 
Total 
% * Trace, less than 1 
 
6,912 
 
100 o 
 
Bream fishing, especially for big shellcracker is good 
 
along with bluegill. redbreast, and bass. 
 
Fishing Tips 
 
lleavv use b) pleasure boats pretty well restricts fishing 
 
to feeder streams and shallow coves. 
Bream spawn during April and May and big bream 
 
beds can be located then. Bass hit good during April and 
 
May around the islands and up the feeder streams. Fish- 
ing for channel catfish is exceptionall) good in Lake 
 
Worth. 
 
3 -| 
 
 DONALSONVILLE' 
 
AREA LOCATION MAP 
 
LAKE SEMINOLE 
 
KEY TO PUBLIC FISHING WATERS 
 FISHING CAMP. WITH BOAT RENTALS. FISHER. MEN FACILITIES AND LAUNCHING RAMPS. 
 
HARD SURFACE BOAT LAUNCHING RAMPS. 
 
o OTHER BOAT LAUNCHING RAMPS. 
 
o PUBLIC ACCESS TO WATER. NO LAUNCHING 
RAMPS. 
 
HARD SURFACED PAVED ROADS. 
 
IMPROVED ROADS. 
 
UNIMPROVED ROADS. 
 
1 
 
O 
 
iaa 
 
1 
 
2 
 
a 
 
SCALE IN MILES 
 
* .... 
 
."*. X- 
 
--% C 
 
\* x 
 
RAYS LAKE 
 
^Fojrch.lds 
 
^ - 
L i 
 
I w^^ 
 
I 
 
X***V 
 
 :"o 
 
/m 
: 
;: 
 ** 
 
v^ 
 
> 
/ 
 
tL 
 
JIM WOODRU 
 
DAM 
 
14 
 
GEORGIA FLORIDA 
 
 Lake 
 
This reservoir is one of Georgia's newest and best, 
especially for year around fishing. Much of the 37,500 acres is in standing timber, shallow flats, and wooded 
islands. Bass fishing is good in almost any area of the lake, and the size of the bream beds in Seminole are measured in acres. Fishing for chain pickerel or "Jack" is especially good with fish 24-30 inches commonly netted around the grassy flats. 
Lake Seminole is shallow. The deepest water is only about 50 feet deep and the average is probably 15 feet or less. The reservoir is in the flat country of southwest 
Georgia, and the water from Jim Woodruff Dam has 
crept across fields and timber left standing along the Chattahoochee and Flint Rivers. Natural lime sink ponds flooded by the lake have left areas of cool, clear water, 
which add to the variety of habitat. Much of the rich 
shallow water is infested with aquatic vegetation that grows to problem proportions in late summer. 
Fish Population 
Lake Seminole has a wide varietj of fish and a greater number of species than any other lake in Georgia. 
 
TOTAL FISH SAMPLE FROM TWO-ACRE COMBINED SHALLOW AND DEEP WATER 
POPULATION STUDY 
 
SPECIES 
 
Total number 
of fish 
 
Largemouth Bass 
Bluegill Shellcracker Blue Spotted Sunfish Dollar Sunfish 
Orange Spotted Sunfish Warmouth Black Crappie White Crappie Chain Pickerel Grass Pickerel Spotted Sucker Chub Sucker Carp Brown Bullhead Channel Catfish White Catfish Bowfin Gizzard Shad Threodfin Shad Minnows 
 
130 1,162 
411 65 
492 
5 165 177 
59 9 2 30 9 24 101 
1 
1 
1 
104 674 763 
 
Percentage of total population by weight 
5 4 5 
T 
2 
T* 
2 
1 
T* 2 
1 
6 2 8 6 T* T* T* 12 8 T* 
 
Total 
% * Trace, less than 1 
 
4,385 
 
100o 
 
Seminole is principally a bass, bream, and crappie lake. Because of the wide expanse of shallow water here, bream fishing is far above average. The quality of the bluegill and shellcracker caught in Lake Seminole is legend among south Ceorgia fishermen. Crappie are caught in good numbers and frequently as large as 4 pounds. 
Bass are a readily available commodity, along with chain pickerel or ""jack." the latter is sometimes taken in almost equal numbers with bass on an average fishing 
trip. 
Most of the other species listed in the population study 
 
are unimportant in the catch. They serve principally as food for the game fish. 
The saltwater striped bass or rockfish is also in Seminole, trapped on its spawning run up-stream bj Jim Woodruff Dam. These fish move up the river through 
the navigation locks of the dam into the lake on spawn- 
ing runs to fresh water. Rockfish are taken in the Flint River below Albany and in the Chattahoochee near Columbus, where they are stopped on their spawning 
run by other impoundments that do not have navigation 
locks. 
Studies by Fisheries Research Biologists indicate these fish spawn in the tributaries that flow into Lake Seminole, and the young striped bass are trapped in the lake. The chances are now excellent for this species to 
landlock in Lake Seminole. An occasional striped bass 
is caught in the lake now at sizes up to nearly 40 pounds. The chances of this species spawning and establishing a fishery in the lake are most encouraging. Only time will hold the answer. Research studies are continuing and every effort to encourage a striped bass fishery 
will be made by the Georgia Game and Fish Commission. 
Fishiing Tips 
Bass start hitting a little earlier in Seminole than the more northern lakes. Best catches are during April and 
May with bass fishing generally good all year. Bass school in late summer and fall in all areas of the lake. 
Trolling for bass in the deeper channels is good in midsummer. Figures are not available on the average size bass caught in Seminole but we know that fifteen pounders and perhaps larger have been caught. Top water plugs and other artificial lures just about anywhere in Lake Seminole are good. 
Chain pickerel or "jack"' are caught in the same manner as bass and in good numbers. These fish seem to 
prefer the grassy flats in the lake. 
Bream usually spawn during April. May and June or 
when the water temperature reaches about 80 degrees Fahrenheit. Fishing spawning areas for bluegill and 
shellcrackers is best. Worms and crickets on the bottom 
in shallow water will take bream all over the lake. Bream fishing is good all year. 
Crappie usually bite early here in comparison to other reservoirs. February and March are top months, with good fall fishing in October and November. Crappie are mostly caught in 15-30 feet of water in the cypress trees along the old river channels. 
Most of the striped bass or rockfish caught in Lake Seminole are from the Spring Creek arm of the lake. 
15 
 
 Lake LANIER 
 
Lake Lanier is the most popular fishing and boating spot in Georgia. Last year it ranked near the top in the United Stales for total number of visits to a recreational area. Good fishing throughout the 55,000 acre expanse of the reservoir, plus year around sparkling clear water and good access to the lake account for the tremendous popularity of Lake Lanier. 
Deep clear water from the headwaters of the Chestatee and Chattahoochee Rivers, plus hundreds of small islands, coves, and inlets have made Lanier an ideal fishing lake. Fishing has been good and promises to be better 
in the future. Game fish populations are still expanding 
in the reservoir and fishing will continue to improve rluring the next few years. 
Fish Population 
The fish population of Lake Lanier is shown below in a representative two acre population sample. 
TOTAL FISH SAMPLE FROM COMBINED SHALLOW AND DEEP WATER 
POPULATION STUDY 
 
SPECIES 
 
Total number 
of fish 
 
Percentage of total population by weight 
 
Largemouth Bass 
 
229 
 
5 
 
Black Crappie 
 
345 
 
13 
 
Bluegill 
 
713 
 
14 
 
White Bass 
 
1 
 
1 
 
Redbreast 
 
65 
 
2 
 
Warmouth 
 
121 
 
1 
 
Green Sunfish 
 
803 
 
7 
 
Threadfin Shad 
 
2,699 
 
40 
 
Shiners 
 
209 
 
4 
 
White Catfish 
 
17 
 
3 
 
Yellow Perch 
 
193 
 
6 
 
Carp 
 
2 
 
1 
 
Channel Catfish 
 
1 
 
1 
 
Brown Bullhead 
 
20 
 
T* 
 
Flat Bullhead 
 
7 
 
T* 
 
Total 
% * Trace, less than 1 
 
5,437 
 
100% 
 
Game fish are now well established in the lake. This 
population should expand within the next few years to make Lake Lanier one of the top fishing lakes in the 
south. 
 
The cold headwater streams of Lanier have probably 
slowed the development of the fish population. Game fish common to reservoirs were not abundant in the Chestatee 
and Chattahoochee Rivers at the time the lake was impounded. Recenl population studies now show that bass, crappie, and white bass are well established, and with threadfin shad also well established as a forage fish. the future for fishing success in Lake Lanier is guaranteed. 
16 
 
^^^-/arr aaaa^Bfi^^gl! 
 
^ 
 
 
 
Creel Census Fishing success measured by creel census show fishing is best for bass, crappie, bream, and catfish. 
SPECIES COMPOSITION OF TOTAL CATCH IN PERCENT FOR LAKE LANIER 
 
Bass 
 
Crappie 
 
Bream 
 
Catfish 
 
White Bass 
 
Others 
 
5% 
 
32% 
 
33% 
 
29 % 
 
T* 
 
2% 
 
% * Trace, less than 1 
Bass and crappie fishing has significantly increased each year since impoundment. Bream fishing is generally declining in Lanier and will probably continue to decline. Bream fishing was excellent while the lake was filling up, and bream habitat and spawning area was abun- 
dant. Now that the lake is full, these areas have disappeared and bream fishing pressure will be largely trans- 
ferred to crappie. 
Crappie fishing shows a good return, according to fishermen who were checked on the lake. The population of crappie is high and still increasing. This species should be more abundant and larger in size next year. 
Bass are continuing to spawn heavy each spring with the population nearly doubled from last year. This in- 
crease is expected to continue into the future. Game and 
Fish Commission studies indicate that Lanier will continue to develop and improve in bass fishing. 
Fishing Tips Because of the cold water streams that feed Lanier, bass fishing is a little slower to get started. June rates 
as the best month for bass, with good fishing also in May, October, and November. Bass will hit pretty well throughout the summer. The average size bass caught from Lake Lanier weighs in at about 2 1 ^ pounds. 
Bass are found in the coves and along the points early, moving out to more open water during warmer weather. Trolling is good in Lanier with deep running lures, especially in mid summer. Bass will hit all good artificial lures and live bait. 
Crappie fishing is excellent in Lake Lanier early in the 
year, with May the top month for crappie in the spring. The best crappie fishing, according to the fishermen 
checked, is in the fall, starting in September and October and reaching a peak for the fishing season during November. 
Crappie like live minnows and doll Hies, fished fairly deep. Best luck will probabK be around a tree top or cover of some nature. 
Bream are scattered in Lake Lanier with the most likely spots around shallower coves and ledge-. 
White bass are definitely established from the Game 
and Fish Commission slocking of 2 years ago. The spawning run up the risers will be dining April and May. Fish close to the shore in headwater streams with small spoons or spinners for best luck. 
 
 BUFORD 
 
LAKE SIDNEY LANIER 
KEY TO PUBLIC FISHING WATERS 
FISHING CAMP. WITH BOAT RENTALS. FISHERMEN FACILITIES AND LAUNCHING RAMPS. 
 HARD SURFACE BOAT LAUNCHING RAMPS. 
9 OTHER BOAT LAUNCHING RAMPS. 
PUBLIC ACCESS TO WATER. NO LAUNCHING 
RAMPS. 
-- HARD SURFACED PAVED ROADS. 
=-n IMPROVED ROADS. 
.... UNIMPROVED ROADS. 
 
 Rainbow Trout 
Chain Pickerel 
Black Crappie ' f^f^- 
 
RAINBOW TROUT (Solmo gairdneri) is found only in the 
mountain streams of north Georgia. They were successfully introduced in Georgia trout streams many years ago from the Pacific coast and are now the most abundant trout in north Georgia. The rainbow is liberally speckled overall with black or olive spots. It is easily recognized by the broad red lateral band extending onto the cheek. Spawning occurs from February to April, depending on the water temperature. The female fans out a nest with her tail, and after the eggs are fertilized the nest is covered with sand and fine rocks. Rainbow trout feed mostly on insects and small fish. Fishermen prefer worms, 
crickets, small spinners, or flies for taking rainbow. 
BROOK TROUT (Salvelinus fontinalis) is the only trout 
that is native to Georgia. Locally they are called native trout or "specs." Brook trout are distributed throughout the 
range of trout water in north Georgia. They can be distinguished from the other species of trout by the black vermicular or worm-track markings on the upper parts of the body and the white edges on the belly fins. Brook trout spawn in the fall. The female digs a nest with her tail, and when the nest is completed she spawns with the male; then covers the eggs with fine gravel. Food consists of insects and small fish. Of all the mountain trout, brook trout are the most easily caught. Worms, crickets, small spinners, or flies are preferred by most fishermen. 
BROWN TROUT (Salmo trutta) was originally a European 
fish. It was introduced in this country many years ago and is now found widely distributed throughout the range of 
trout water in north Georgia. It is best distinguished from other trout by random scattered red spots, and brownish overall color. Brown trout spawn during the fall in the same general way of spawning exhibited by other mountain trout. Food consists primarily of insects and small fish. Brown trout are extremely wary and offer a real challenge to trout fishermen. They will strike a wide range of flies and small spinners and are also taken with 
live bait. 
WALLEYE (Stizostedion vitreum) is found in the lakes and 
several of the larger streams of north Georgia. This popu- 
lar game fish has recently been stocked in the cooler, 
deeper lakes of north Georgia. Its color is gold to brassy, with olive buff; everywhere mottled with black. The under surface is whitish and the jaws have long, sharp teeth. Spawning occurs early at water temperature in the range of 45 degrees Fahrenheit. The eggs are scattered in shallow water over the rocks, gravel, and sand bars. Food 
consists primarily of other fish. Walleye are much esteemed by fishermen and are usually taken in deep water 
with artificial trolling lures. 
CHAIN PICKEREL (Esox niger) is a species that prefers 
slow moving streams and warmer waters. It is found principally in the streams and lakes of middle and south 
Georgia. An excellent game and food fish, it may attain a 
length of 24 to 30 inches. This species is readily identified by the long slender body and posterior dorsal fin. The general color is grass green with distinct chain markings of black or dark olive on the sides. Spawning occurs in February and March. The eggs are laid in shallow water and left unattended. The chain pickerel is carnivorous, feeding on other fish, tadpoles, insects, and crustaceans. It is an excellent game fish on light tackle, and will hit almost any type of artificial lure or live bait. 
BLACK CRAPPIE (Pomoxis nigromaculatus) is one of the most important game fishes of large reservoirs. It is found 
throughout the state in reservoirs, streams, and lakes. This fish is colored olive green on the back, tapering to silvery white and yellowish on the sides. The body is spotted everywhere with irregulor black or dark green spots. It is best distinguished from the white croppie by the dorsal spines which normally number 7-8. Spawning occurs in the spring at a water temperature of 68 degrees Fahrenheit. The nest is built in shallow water, preferably on sand or gravel bottom. Food consists primarily of small fish and insects. Black crappie ore usually caught fishing with live minnows, around old tree tops or brush piles. Night fishing yields good catches. 
 
 LARGEMOUTH BASS (Micropterus solmoides) is truly the 
king of Georgia game fish. The world's record largemouth bass was caught in Georgia and they are found throughout the state in warm water streams and lakes. This 
species is readily distinguished from the other bass by the large mouth, which extends beyond the eye, and the spinous dorsal fin is almost completely separated from the soft dorsal fin. Young fish are characterized by a dark lateral band. Largemouth bass spawn in the spring, from 
Ma-ch through May at water temperatures of 60-70 degrees Fahrenheit. Large females may lay up to 40,000 
eggs. Food for the largemouth bass consists primarily of small fish, insects, crayfish, small turtles and frogs. They are readily taken on artificial lures or live bait. 
SMALLMOUTH BASS (Micropterus dolomieui) is found 
only in extreme north Georgia in the cool, clear streams and lakes. In this species the mouth does not extend past the eye and the color is a uniform olive brown with distinct bars on the side of the body. The spinous dorsal fin is well connected to the soft dorsal fin and scales are present on the base of the fins. Spawning occurs in the spring at a water temperature of 65-70 degrees Fahrenheit. Their food consists primarily of other fish, insects, and crayfish. Smallmouth bass are rarely caught in large numbers, but 
they are a highly sought game fish. They will readily strike a wide range of artificial lures and live bait. 
WHITE BASS (Roccus chrysops) has recently been intro- 
duced in most of the reservoirs of the state. It is a strikingly colored black and white fish. It differs from the striped bass in having the back considerably arched (see picture), and a slightly larger eye. White bass rarely exceed four pounds in weight. Spawning occurs from March to the middle of May. During spawning, white bass form large schools and move up the rivers to spawn. It 
is a prolific spawner and may lay a million eggs or more. Young fish return down stream to the lake during the summer. Food consists of insects and fish. White bass 
readily strike artificial lures and fishing is best during the spring spawning run. 
STRIPED BASS (Roccus saxatilis) sometimes called Rock Fish, live in salt water ascending fresh water streams to spawn. It is found in the Savannah, Ogeechee, Altamaha, Oconee, Ocmulgee, Satilla, St. Marys, Flint, and Chattahoochee Rivers, and is landlocked in Lake Seminole and Clark Hill. Specimens have been taken on spawning runs over 150 miles from salt water. Striped bass spawn in running water and the eggs hatch, floating downstream. Young fish usually return to salt water the same year except when stopped by impoundments. Best fishing occurs during the spawning run. This species is prized by anglers and individuals over 50 pounds are frequently taken. Bait most commonly used is large shad or eels. 
CHANNEL CATFISH (Ictalurus punctotus) is important 
both as a commercial and sport fish. It is widely distributed in streams and lakes throughout the state. Its color is silvery olive or slate blue above with roundish black spots. The tail is deeply forked. Spawning generally takes place when the water temperature reaches approximately 75 degrees Fahrenheit. Eggs are laid under overhanging ledges, hollow logs or similar shelter. Spawning is in running water. Food of the channel catfish is varied, consisting of all manner of plant and animal life. It is a good fighter on light tackle and may be caught with a wide range of bait. Because of its night feeding habits, channel catfish are readily taken at night with trot lines. 
BLUEGILL (Lepomis macrochirus) is probably the most popular of all the bream in Georgia. It is found throughout the state in steams, lakes, and ponds. Bluegill typically have a deep, short body and the gill flap is wide and entirely black. The belly is coppery red in old specimens and during spawning. Bluegill can usually be distinguished I from other sunfish by a dark blotch at the base of the I soft dorsal fin rays. Spawning occurs all during the summer when the water temperatures reach 80 degrees Fahrenheit. They nest in groups and supply excellent fishing at this time. Food consists of aquatic insects, insect larvae and some plant material. Best baits for Bluegill are worms and crickets, however, they will readily strike 
! , 
artificial flies. 
 
K 
-::' 
Largemouth Bass 
 
' lin-i ! 
 
Smallmouth Bass 
 
White Bass 
 
~ -mm,.,*,,,,, 
 
**.,, '"* 
 
^~+HH,,. ""ft..,,. 
 
N 
 
Channel Catfish 
 
Bluegill 
 
 Major Streams and Lakes, with Boundaries of River Drainage Systems. 
 
DRAINAGE SYSTEM LEGEND 
 
IDADE 
 
AtfHITFIELQ 
 
FANNIN I 
ION 
/ 
 
RABUN 
 
TENNESSEE RIVER 
J 
 
2 
 
ALABAMA RIVER 
 
3 
 
SAVANNAH RIVER 
 
[CHATTOOGA/^ GORDON 
 
3 A FRESH WATER COASTAL 
 
4 
 
ALTAMAHA RIVER 
 
FRA 
 
' 
 
t HART 
 
" JACKS0N 'maoison^^ 8 7, 
 
BARROWS 
 
OS. 
 
5 6 
6A 
7 
 
APALACHICOLA RIVER OGEECHEE RIVER FRESH WATER COASTAL SATILLA RIVER 
 
CLARK YflLL^ 
 
// \ / -r 
 
w i RESERVOIR 
<\ * VlNCOLN 
3 
 
\% ?/ 
 
YmORG An\6REENE 7 
 
NEWTON L 
 
^ 
 
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/tAKE 
 
PUTNAM \ 
 
\WARREN 
 
N 
, 
 
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<f 
T'RICHMONO 
 
7A 
8 9 10 
10A 
 
FRESH WATER COASTAL SUWANNEE RIVER OCHLOCKONEE RIVER ST. MARYS RIVER fresh water coastal 
 
/ HANCOCK 
 
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=.00' 
 
LAKE 
 
(&v 
 
CLAI" 
 
| 
Baldwin' 
 
JEFFERSON 
 
BURKE 
 
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APPLING r^"V\^?^ouN-^ LIBERTY 
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COFFEE 
 
WAYNE MC INTOSH* 
 
EARLY BAKER 
 
MILLER 
 
MITCHELL COLQUITT 
 
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COOK 
 
SA'ILLA Rlf/PR1 ERCE BRANTLEYr 
 
7A 
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w SEMINOLE OECATUR C R A D , r ? 
 
LAKE SEMINOL* 
 
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THOMAS 
 
BROOKS 
 
LOWNDE 
 
CHARLTON 
 
10AI 
 
 Georgia 
RIVER 
BASINS 
 
lS*_ ~*^&-*5gar* 
 
The boundaries of the river drainage systems in Georgia are outlined on the opposite page. These boundaries are determined by elevation and the general lay of the land. Within the boundaries shown, all run-off rain water and tributary streams flow into the one main drainage stream. This entire system of thousands of tributaries flowing into one main stream becomes a River Basin, with certain 
distinct characteristics. 
Almost all of the rivers in Georgia flow south toward the Atlantic Ocean, except the streams in the Apalachicola and Alabama River Basins which enter the Gulf of Mexico. The streams in extreme north Georgia, within the Tennessee River Drainage, are unique since they are the only waters in Georgia that How north, ultimately emptying into the Tennessee River, which in turn becomes a part of the Mississippi River. 
These River Basins and their boundaries are important in Fisheries Management since their boundaries control the distribution and kinds of fish in an individual river 
drainage system. Some fishes are found throughout the state in all drainage basins, while other forms ma) be 
restricted to a single basin. 
Survey Methods The fisheries survey recently completed supplied a vast 
storehouse of information on Georgia lakes and streams. Fish populations were sampled on all major streams and lakes to determine the kinds of fish present and their relative abundance. Access locations and places to go fishing were marked on maps and reproduced in this book as a guide to planning new and different fishing trips. Chemical analyses of all waters were made to serve as a nuide for factors affecting fish populations. 
Fish populations were most often sampled in streams using an electric shocker. This shocking equipment consists of a portable generator powered by a small gasoline engine. Electric current traveling through electrodes 
 
Electric shocking equipment powered by a portable generator is used to sample fish populations in streams. Electric current introduced directly into the water stuns the fish and they are picked up with dip nets. After the biological data is collected the game fish are released unharmed and rough fish are destroyed. 
 
dropped directly in the water enabled field personnel to 
 
obtain samples of fish affected by the electric current. 
 
hoc 
I 
 
fi>h 
 
are 
 
merel) 
 
stunned 1>\ 
 
the current 
 
and 
 
swim 
 
merril) awa\ when the) escape the electrical field. 
 
Fish collected are carefully counted, weighed and measured. After processing, game fish are released unharmed back into the water and all rough fish are destroyed. In some cases, game fish were tagged with small disc tags attached to their body in order to follow their movement and rate of growth in the stream. Scales were 
 
also collected from representative species to determine the age <d fish and rate of growth. 
 
Fish were also taken with nets and seines in some locations. Game fish were returned to the water after the necessar) information was collected. 
 
Lakes were sampled using long nets to block off small sections of the reservoir, and then treating the blocked 
 
oil section with a fish toxicant. All species were picked up, counted and weighed to determine the composition of the fish population. Such a sampling technique does not harm the fish population and provides valuable data for fisheries management. Data on these samples were included earlier in the section on lakes. 
 
In order to locate public access to fishing waters, all possible locations and landings in the state were investi- 
gated. Game and Fish Commission Wildlife Rangers and 
 
local citizens assisted in locating these areas. After the areas were located, they were placed in different categories 
and marked on maps according to the ke\ used in this 
book. 
 
Fisher) surve) methods involve hard work and long hours, the same as any inventory. The procedures must be continued to keep up to date and evaluate future needs 
 
for fishing water, stocking, and establishment and changes 
 
in fishing regulations. The surve) or inventory then be- 
comes a basis for management and serves as a guide for future research and development. 
 
21 
 
 census information and population studies previously discussed, shows the full picture of management needs. 
Striped bass studies to determine the status and reproduction of landlocked fish are also being made. Experiments on movement of striped bass through navigation locks and checks on streams to determine reproduction will provide valuable information on this important game 
fish. 
The vast number of ponds and small impoundments necessitates additional information on how to control weeds and unbalanced fish populations. Certain other factors that provide some ponds with good fishing and 
others with only fair fishing returns need to be studied to determine methods of improvement for all ponds. 
Studies on new and improved methods for rough fish control are constantly being made as well as refinements in methods and techniques for all fisheries work. Fisheries research to provide the answers to all problems in Georgia is a monumental task. Much work has been done 
but the future task is greater. 
 
The age of a fish and rate of growth can be determined from its scales after they are cleaned and magnified on a microprojector. Measurements and calculations from the scales show the amount of growth each year of life and enables biologists to evaluate the success of various management methods. 
Fisheries 
 
Research investigation geared for producing more fish on the stringer has established its value many times over. 
Some of the past products of fisheries research in 
Georgia includes liberalized regulations and limits; introduction of new species such as white bass, walleye, and threadfin shad; control of aquatic weeds and moss with chemicals; refinements in fertilization methods for small impoundments including lime treatment; chemical control of gizzard shad overpopulations in reservoirs; and the development of sound trout stocking programs for maxi- 
mum returns. 
Fisheries research is a growing program with the 
Georgia Game and Fish Commission. One of the major 
investigations underway at present includes continued studies on trout waters. Rough fish competition with trout is a major problem, and studies by research biologists are underway to determine the success of eradicating these fish populations and restocking with trout. Studies arc continuing on heavily stocked streams to determine the most effective methods for fish distribution 
for the best return to the creel. 
In order to evaluate fishing success and predict seasons, age and growth studies are conducted on all fish in Georgia reservoirs. Scales on fish show annual rings ver) similar to those on trees. These scales when cleaned and magnified show the age of fish and the rate they are growing. This is particularly important in lakes where new species arc introduced. This data along with creel 
22 
 
After a water area has been blocked off and chemically treated with a fish toxicant, all the fish are counted, weighed and measured. Fish are separated by species and divided into major groups of game fish and rough fish. This type of study shows the condition of the 
fish population. When studies are repeated yearly, trends and 
changes in fishing can be distinguished. 
Fishery 
MANAGEMENT 
The management of all River Basins in the state must be based on an inventory of present conditions and an evaluation ol the changes in the streams and lakes, and how these changes affect the fish population. 
Many factors control the type of fish found in certain waters. To mention a few would include water temperature, turbidity or muddy water, chemical composition of the water, type of bottom, and when we approach the coastal areas, the degree of salt or brackish water. When 
all these factors are considered, it is not surprising to find that in all the streams, the fish population changes 
as the conditions within the streams change. The Chattahoochee River, which is the longest stream in the state, is an excellent example of how these changes affect the fish population. Its headwaters spring from the mountains of north Georgia as a crystal clear, cold water stream thai supports an excellent population of rainbow, brook 
 
 and brown trout. As it follows its course towards the Gulf, poor land practices and pollution change the fish population to catfish, bream and bass and many species of rough fish. In extreme southwest Georgia the Chattahoochee has some salt water species. 
Of all factors considered that affect fish populations, turbidity is perhaps the most important. All of the important game fishes are sight feeders. If the waters stay muddy for long periods of time, game fish populations decline and rough fish increase in numbers. Increases in game fish can only be accomplished by changing the 
character of the stream from muddy to clearer water. 
We can take encouragement from the recent changes in 
land use patterns and soil conservation practices in Georgia, since regular checks show that our streams are slowly decreasing in turbidity. Clearing water brought on by good land use will help to increase game fish populations in all Georgia River Basins. 
POLLUTION 
 
J 
 
Many areas in Georgia are affected by pollution. In 
other areas polluting substances have so reduced 
the supply of fish food organisms that game fish are no 
longer prevalent. 
Pollution inroads must be curbed. As the number of fishermen increase, this problem becomes more and more acute. Until additional control measures are initiated, and waste treatment problems are solved, pollution exists as a potential menace to hundreds of thousands of fishermen. 
If the recreational opportunities of Georgia are to continue, the harmful dumping of municipal and industrial wastes must be stopped. Treatment of pollution wastes must be continued and increased in intensity. The future of Georgia fishermen, and all forms of water recrea- 
tion may depend on future programs of pollution control. 
 
'" 
/ 
The chemical analysis of water helps to determine which nutrient and mineral elements are important for fish growth and reproduction. Many factors, some of them chemical in nature, control production and growth of fish in lakes and streams. 
 
The rate and amount of reproduction determines the success of many game fish. Research biologists use egg sampling nets, shown below to collect striped bass eggs in streams during the spawning season. 
 
 KEY TO PUBLIC 
FISHING WATERS 
/gv FISHING CAMP. WITH BOAT RENTALS. FISHER 
J MEN FACILITIES AND LAUNCHING RAMPS HARD SURFACE BOAT LAUNCHING RAMPS 
5 OTHER BOAT LAUNCHING RAMPS 
O PUBLIC ACCESS TO WATER NO LAUNCHING 
RAMPS. 
MOUNTAIN district 
MANAGEMENT district 
GEORGIA GAME AND FISH COMMISSION 
 
The streams of north Georgia art best known for trout, redeye bass, smallmouth bass, and a wide variety of bream. The fishing 
pressure on streams is divided betic een the trout area to the north- 
east and the widely divergent game species of the northwest section. 
 
Trout Waters 
Georgia is one of the few southern state.- that supports a large trout fishers. Three species -brook, rainbow, and brown I rout are found in naturally reproducing populations in the mountainous area of Georgia. Since fishing pressure is increasing so rapidly for trout, supplemental stocking is necessar) to maintain the high caliber of 
fishing typical of this trout area. I he waters thai will support trout are those streams 
I hat have a mid summer temperature of less than 70 Fahrenheit. At temperatures warmer than 70. trout will 
not live and reproduce. There are about 700 miles of trout water in 150 streams that are suitable for trout in Georgia. 
Most of the trout streams are small and could not he 
located on the map for this area. Information on the 
location of all 1 1 out water and roads into the streams 
are available on request from the Georgia Game and Fish 
( iommission office in Atlanta. 
24 
 
The Trout Season on most streams is set each year 
l>\ the Game and Fish Commission. However, the fol- 
lowing waters, which include some of the bigger trout streams, are open the entire year. 
Hiawassee River below Rice Bridge (Highway 75 I Nottely River below the Highway 129-19 Bridge Toccoa River below the Butts Bridge Fightingtown Creek below Chestnut Gap 
Tallulah River below the Lake Rabun Dam 
Chattahoochee River below Nora Mills Soque River below Watts Mill Chestatee River below Garnet Bridge Etowah River below Highway 52 Bridge 
Cartecay River below Stegall Mill Dam 
Ellija) River below the mouth of Kells Creek Mountaintown Creek below Highway 76 Bridge Conasauga River below Alaculsy Valle\ Bridge 
Holl) Creek below the old CCC Camp 
Chattooga River for its entire length. 
 
 *>; 
The typically clear water of north Georgia enables skin diving biologists to observe the habits of fish in their natural surroundings. Underwater observations of fish spawning and use of artificia brush shelters have been made by Georgia biologists. 
These designated trout waters are clearly posted and any fisherman found upstream from the posted areas 
will be in violation of Game and Fish Commission regu- 
lations and subject to prosecution. The streams listed above offer good fishing during the 
regular trout season and after September 15th when the other streams close. Redeye bass are commonly caught in 
the lower reaches of these streams along with lunker 
trout, mostly brown and rainbow. The very best trout fishing is probably further north 
within the National Forest in the smaller cold water streams and the tributaries to the larger streams listed above as open for year around fishing. 
Trout Fishing Tips Light spinning tackle with small spinners, worms, or 
crickets catch the most trout in Georgia. Flyrod and flies. or the humble pole and line are also used successfully. 
Some fishermen prefer to wade upstream so silt and 
gravel will not be swept into the area they are fishing. Caution in approaching likely looking spots is a good rule 
to follow. 
Lures or bait fished across riffles and worked efficiently in the deeper holes will produce results. 
Other Streams Most all of the other streams in north Georgia that 
do not have trout populations support cooler water 
varieties of game fish. This is particularly true for the redeye, spotted, and smallmouth bass found only in the streams of this area. As the streams flow further south, these fish become less abundant and are finally completely replaced by largemouth bass. The elusive smallmouth bass is restricted almost entirely to the Tennessee River Drainage outlined on the map on page 20. 
The smaller streams in this area, too numerous to mention, are excellent fishing streams. Some can be waded, while others are best fished from a canoe or small boat. Oostanaula River 
According to survey records, this is the main stream in Georgia that supports lake sturgeon. Large sturgeon are frequently taken on trot lines, ranging upwards to 50 pounds in size. Walleye and flathead catfish, which are extremely rare stream fish, are also found in the 
Oostanaula. 
The game fish that provide most of the good fishing 
are spotted and redeye bass, largemouth bass, crappie, bluegill, and redbreast sunfish. Fishing is somewhat seasonal, with fall fishing the best. 
 
The Conasauga and Coosawattee, which are tributaries to the Oostanaula are excellent redeye bass fishing streams, especially in the fall. These two tributaries and the Oostanaula River proper are probably the best streams in Georgia for redeye bass. Etowah River 
The headwaters of the Etowah supports trout, but as the stream flows south, spotted and redeye bass gradually replace the trout when the water warms up. 
Walleye and flathead catfish are found in the Etowah, but best fishing is for bass, redbreast, bluegill, and crappie. Best times for fishing is during the spring and 
fall. 
Coosa River Restricted to a small area within Georgia, the Coosa 
contains most of the species mentioned for the two previous streams. 
Freshwater drum are caught in large numbers from the Coosa River. May and June are usually the best months for taking freshwater drum. 
The bulk of the fishing pressure on the Coosa is maintained by bass, bream, and crappie. Fishing is best in the fall when stream levels are stabilized and the water is 
clear. 
Chestatee River Ibis is an excellent trout stream at its headwater, which 
gradually changes to a redeye and spotted bass stream as the water warms up. Largemouth bass, redbreast, bluegill, 
and warmmouth are the other dominant game species. 
Fishing is best in the spring and fall, but the cooler water supports good year around angling. 
White bass are found in the Chestatee on spawning runs 
up from Lake Lanier during April and May and fishing is 
good in the headwaters of the lake at this time. Chattahoochee River 
The Chattahoochee also supports trout at the head- 
water section in the National Forest; gradually shifting to redeye and spotted bass, redbreast, and bluegill as the water warms. 
This is an excellent stream for small boat trips, fishing 
the deep holes and fast water along the way for redbreast sunfish and bass. 
The area above Lake Lanier where the river enters the lake is good for crappie and bass, and spring runs of 
white bass. 
Abundant pools and riffles create ideal trout habitat in the cold water streams of the mountainous area. Streams such as these establish Georgia as one of the few Southern states with a natural 
trout fishery. 
 
 Large deep nets pictured above are used to enclose areas in population sampling. Blocked off areas are chemically treated, and since fish cannot move in or out of the area, accurate population sampling 
is possible. 
 
This section is rich in species and variety of fishing. It is the area of red piedmont soils, and along the southern limits, the beginning of the upper coastal plain. Swamps, dead lakes, backwaters, and rapid flowing shoal areas provide a variety of fish habitat and a wide range of game fish. 
Stream Fish Populations 
The fish populations of the streams in this area differ considerably from the lakes in central Georgia. Such changes are normal following the impoundment of water. The lakes formed after large dams are built cause many 
streams fish to disappear, while other species increase. 
Dominant game fish in reservoirs are generally bass, crappie, white bass, and bluegill. The important species in streams includes a much greater variety. Bass, redbreast sunfish, warmouth, chain pickerel, and channel catfish are the more important fish that are caught by 
stream fishermen. 
Rough fish also change in population density following impoundments on streams. The most striking change is the increase in gizzard shad in reservoirs which is evident from reservoir population studies discussed earlier. Gizzard shad are not generally dominant in streams, but many different species of suckers are found in great 
abundance. 
Typical stream fish population for this central Georgia area is given below: 
STREAM FISH POPULATION OCMULGEE RIVER, AVERAGE OF SIX 
STATION SAMPLES 
 
SPECIES 
GAME SPECIES: 
Largcmouth Bass Black Crappie White Crappie Chain Pickerel 
Bluegill Redbreast Sunfish Shellcracker 
Warmouth 
Spotted Sunfish Dollar Sunfish Yellow Perch Channel Catfish 
OTHER SPECIES: 
Bowfin Longnose Gar Gizzard Shad American Shad Spotted Sucker Redhorse White Mullet Creek Chubsucker Carp Striped Mullet Bullhead 
Total 
26 
 
Total number 
of fish 
28 94 
1 
13 
76 260 
37 
1 
7 6 9 14 
13 11 11 
6 48 
6 
1 
3 
2 
M 
= 745 
 
Percentage of total population by weight 
7.98 3.40 
.02 2.40 2.27 5.30 2.60 
.38 .28 .04 .34 2.80 
16.54 2.62 2.56 .02 
17.43 2.38 1.21 .57 
21.78 .62 
6.34 
100 % 
 
PINE MOUNTAIN 
 
district 
PIEDMONT 
district 
 
GEORGIA 
GAME AND FISH 
COMMISSION 
 
PLAINS 
 
district 
 
AREA LOCATION MAP 
Fishing Tips Stream fishing offers a wider variety of sport than any other type of angling. Smaller streams can best be fished wading or from the bank. Larger rivers offer good sport on float trips downstream, fishing while the current carries the boat gently along. Backwaters and old river runs or ox-bows present a fine place to anchor for still fishing. It is hard to duplicate the variety and types of fishing available in streams. Chattahoochee River Fishing is fair all year with peak periods during the spring and fall. Fall fishing for bass, redbreast sunfish, and channel catfish is good when the water clears. Striped bass are found in the Chattahoochee as far up river as Columbus. Best chances for taking big striped bass is in the spring. White bass run up the river in large schools above Bartlett's Ferry during the spring on spawning migrations. Best luck for white bass is probably during late April 
and early May a short distance up river from the lake. 
Flint River This is one of the finest fishing streams in Georgia. It 
is best known for the flint River variety of the redeye bass (locally called smallmouth bass), and good largemouth bass fishing. Fall fishing in shoal areas and deep holes when the water is low and clear is best. 
Redbreast sunfish and bluegill are also found in good numbers and provide excellent year around fishing. 
 
 KEY TO PUBLIC FISHING WATERS 
FISHING CAMP. WITH BOAT RENTALS. FISHERMEN FACILITIES AND LAUNCHING RAMPS 
 HARD SURFACE BOAT LAUNCHING RAMPS. 
OTHER BOAT LAUNCHING RAMPS 
) PUBLIC ACCESS TO WATER NO LAUNCHING RAMPS 
 
Ocmulgee River Redbreast sunfish, large- 
mouth bass, channel catfish, bluegill. and a few striped bass are the most important game species in the Ocmulgee. 
Fishing is good all year in shoal areas and backwaters. Bass fishing is probably best during the fall and late summer when the water is clear and low. Spring fishing is also good but turbidity can be troublesome. 
The worlds record largemouth bass weighing over 22 pounds was caught in the southern part of the Ocmulgee River near its junction with the Altamaha. 
Oconee River 
Spotted bass are taken occasionally above Lake Sinclair near the headwater of the lake, but are seldom found below this area. Largemouth bass, channel catfish, bream and redbreast are the important game species of the 
 
Oconee. Fishing is fair all year, but high turbidity early in the spring is often a problem. White bass spawning runs in the spring above Lake Sinclair are excellent during April and May. Occasional striped bass are also taken in the Oconee as far upstream as Milledgeville. Ogeechee River This area of the Ogeechee where it flows through central Georgia is good for largemouth bass, redbreast, chain pickerel, and channel catfish. The Ogeechee is a comparatively small stream in this area, but fishing is good all year. Savannah River Striped bass run the river during the spring and offer good fishing potential for big stripers. Shad fishing is good, although seasonal, as well as white bass fishing above Clark Hill Reservoir. Fishing for redbreast, largemouth bass, chain pickerel, 
and bluegill is best when the water is clear. 27 
 
 district 
WAYCROSS district 
GEORGIA GAME AND FISH COMMISSION 
 
?W>^> 
 
KEY TO PUBLIC FISHING WATERS 
FISHING CAMP. WITH BOAT RENTALS. FISHER MEN FACILITIES AND LAUNCHING RAMPS 
HARD SURFACE BOAT LAUNCHING RAMPS 
 OTHER BOAT LAUNCHING RAMPS o PUBLIC ACCESS TO WATER. NO LAUNCHING 
RAMPS 
 
The Flint River is nationally known for the coastal plains redeye bass, commonly called smollmouth bass. The spotting effect and small mouth is typical of this species. 
Some of the finest stream fishing in the country is 
found in this area of south Georgia. Since most of the streams flow through sandy coastal plain soils, tur- 
bidit) is not a problem. Game fish populations are high 
and offer a wide range of species. 
Stream Fish Populations 
The different rivers in this area support varying fish 
populations. The population sample is generall) representative ol the two districts. 
The streams in this area are characterized by pood populations of panic fish and excellent fishing. The quality of fishing is probably superior to most ponds and 
lakes in Georgia. Fishing Tips 
Stream fishing in this section of south Georgia is at its peak in the spring, when water levels are slightly higher than normal and again in the fall when cooler weather is the rule. Fishing for redbreast, warmouth. and bluegill is pood year around. 
\ll of the streams in this area are rich in backwater sloughs, swamps and ox-bow lakes. 
 
 , 
 
Chattahoochee River 
 
but fishing for warmouth early in the spring and bass 
 
The area above Lake Seminole is good at times for 
 
and chain pickerel a little later is excellent. 
 
spring runs of white bass and an occasional striped bass. Channel catfish, redbreast, bluegill and largemouth bass 
 
Sal ilia River 
The Satilla ranks as one of the finest fishing streams 
 
are the species most often caught in the lower section of 
 
in the country. The unusually high game fish population, 
 
the river. 
Flint River 
The national reputation of the Flint River was estab- 
lished in this section of south Georgia. It is in that 
section of the river and its tributaries between Lake Worth and Lake Seminole where the Coastal Plains Race of the redeye bass ( locally called smallmouth bass ) are consistently taken. These bass grow to lunker size and are tremendous fighters on light tackle. Fishing is best from October through January when the river is low and clear. The rapids and shoal areas are the favorite hideouts for the "smallmouth bass," especially in the fall. They are caught on a wide variety of natural and artificial bait. 
Fishing for largemouth bass in the Flint River is equally exciting. The two species are usually found together and stringers of bass from the Flint River will be mixed, with the largemouth more abundant. 
All of the small tributaries to the Flint are good fishing. The best known tributary for the Coastal Plain Race of the redeye ( smallmouth ) is Ichawaynochaway Creek. 
Good striped bass fishing is found below the dam at 
Lake Worth. Striped bass fishing is also good in the Flint River at Newton, Georgia. April is probably the best month for stripers, but some fish are apparently in the tailrace of Lake Worth nearly all year. 
Fishing for redbreast sunfish. bluegill, warmouth, and channel catfish is good in the river all year. Ochlockonee River 
This stream (lows through only a short section of the state, and unfortunately, fishing suffers somewhat from 
pollution. 
There is good fishing, however, for chain pickerel, bluegill, redbreast, warmouth, and largemouth bass in most 
sections of the river. 
Little River 
 
especially for redbreast, largemouth bass, and chain pickerel shown in the population study is unsurpassed. 
Fishing is probably the best in the spring when water levels are stabilized. Fishing is good overall for a wide range of game fish. 
Redbreast sunfish are the pride of the Satilla. Big redbreast are caught all year in good numbers. Bluegill 
and warmouth supply good fishing the year around in nice sizes and good numbers as well. 
Close behind the redbreast in popularity is the largemouth bass. Big fish caught the year around is the rule for bass fishing in the Satilla. Fall fishing for bass is excellent and probably shades spring fishing by a narrow margin. 
A lot of chain pickerel or "jack" are caught by bass 
fishermen. 
STREAM FISH POPULATION STUDY SATILLA RIVER, AVERAGE OF FOUR POPULATION SAMPLES 
 
SPECIES 
GAME SPECIES: 
Largemouth Bass Black Crappie Chain Pickerel Redfin Pickerel 
Bluegill Redbreast Sunfish 
Warmouth 
Spotted Sunfish 
Flier Dollar Sunfish 
OTHER SPECIES: 
Bowfin Gar Spotted Sucker Lake Chubsucker Brown Bullhead Yellow Bullhead Striped Mullet 
 
Total number 
of fish 
58 
1 
27 
1 
32 28 57 25 
5 9 
3 2 53 7 10 2 14 
 
Percentoge o( total populate by weight 
14.22 .24 
16.40 .18 
3.98 5.85 12.12 3.34 
.41 .24 
5.67 .88 
18.26 3.63 3.92 1.12 
954 
 
This is a comparatively small stream but is rich in 
game species and offers some quality fishing. Largemouth bass, redbreast sunfish. bluegill, and chain 
 
Total 
 
334 
 
100 % 
 
Fishing in areas adjacent to the Okefenokee Swamp in the Waycross District provides full stringers and some real thrills. 
 
pickerel are abundant. One of the more popular types of fishing in Little River is for warmouth. This hefty fighter 
 
iV 
 
' 
 
 
I  *f II 
 
K' ' ..** 
 
. 
 
(M 
 
is very abundant and offers excellent sport. Alapaha River 
This stream is ideal for float trips and canoe fishing. 
 
&M\  < 
 
It is a comparatively small river but the deep holes and 
 
, 
 
backwaters are loaded with fish. There are virtually no 
 
turbidity problems but low water is occasionally a prob- 
 
lem in the fall. Population studies show chain pickerel, largemouth 
 
4*' 
 
* 
 
bass, bluegill. redbreast sunfish, and warmouth are most 
 
abundant. Fishing for "jack" is tops in the fall. 
 
f- 
 
Suwannee River The Suwannee flows through a short section of Georgia 
but the scenic beauty and good fishing the full length of the stream are not easily forgotten. 
The game species for the Suwannee are comparable to the other rivers of this section. Fishing is good all year, 
 
 district 
COASTAL district 
GEORGIA GAME AND FISH COMMISSION 
 
Excellent stream fishing coupled with off shore salt water fishing, and brackish water sounds where five great river s\ stems enter the Atlantic Ocean offer a wide variet) of angling in this area. Fishing opportunities in this section of Georgia are truly unlimited. 
Salt water fishing off the coast will be dealt with on 
the following pages in considerable detail. Our comments here will be restricted to the fresh and brackish waters. 
 
Stream Fish Populations Stream fishing is excellent in this section and ranks high on the preferred list for Georgia fishermen. Game fish populations are good in the area, illustrated by the 
representative population sample given below. 
 
STREAM FISH POPULATION OGEECHEE RIVER, AVERAGE OF TWELVE POPULATION SAMPLES 
 
SPECIES 
GAME SPECIES: 
Largemouth Bass Black Crappie Chain Pickerel Red Fin Pickerel 
Bluegill Redbreast Sunfish Shellcracker 
Wormouth 
Spotted Sunfish 
Flier Striped Bass 
Channel Catfish 
OTHER SPECIES: 
Bowfin Longnose Gar American Eel Gizzard Shad Spotted Sucker Creek Chubsucker Bullhead Striped Mullet Atlantic Needlefish Southern Flounder 
Total 
 
Total number 
of fish 
75 13 42 
2 58 
266 10 9 33 25 6 
3 
28 
3 
1 
2 94 
6 55 18 
1 1 
75, 
 
Percentage of total population by weight 
13.53 1.70 6.10 .18 1.70 
,275 
.21 .57 1.41 .23 
228 
.21 
27.04 1.46 .26 .56 
15.39 .85 
8.16 5.39 
.02 
100 % 
 
Main salt water panic fish arc found in the streams of ibis section. The best fishing in Georgia for striped bass 
and shad is in the general area indicated on the map 
on the opposite page. 
Si. Marys River Located in the extreme southeast corner ol the state. 
the St. Marys River offers excellent fresh water and 
seasonal salt water fishing. Fresh water fishing is far above average for bass, 
redbreast, bluegill, and crappie. Spring fishing during April and Mav is best for these species, with fair results the \ ear ai ound. 
I he St. Marys Rivei supports a good spoil fishery for Shad from Januar) to April, Big fish arc readily taken casting with small s| n> and weighted ji," v - 
I'eilli^li I sometimes called channel bass) are found in 
30 
 
The 43-pound striped bass from the Ogeechee River is regular fisherman's luck in this fine stream. Fishing is also good for largemouth bass and redbreast sunfish. 
the mouth of the river along with fine winter trout fishing. Winter trout are caught best from October through March with December and January the best months. 
Striped bass are in the river, moving upstream to spawn. Rockfish are taken as a rule from late November on until spring. The big fish are found in the sound and on up river about fifty miles. 
Satilla River 
Burnt Fort is considered the general boundary in the Satilla River between fresh water fishing and salt or brackish water fish. Bass and redbreast sunfish are very abundant upstream from Burnt Fort and offer excellent fishing. These fresh water game species are also found downstream, although fishing pressure is generally light here for bass and redbreast. 
Striped bass fishing is good from November on till 
spring with heavj concentrations of big fish in the canals which criss-cross this area. This is one of the heaviest populated rockfish areas in the state. 
Tarpon fishing is good in the tributary White Oak and Waverly Rivers near the mouth of the Satilla during the summer months. 
Winter trout and redfish are in the salt water sounds and inlets from October through March, with December and January best months for the big fish. 
lltamaha River 
Fishing is best for bass, redbreast sunfish. bluegill. 
and channel catfish. Most of the salt water game fish 
previously discussed are in the river on a seasonal basis. Tarpon are very abundant in the river during the 
summer and quite readily caught trolling in the area below Highway 17 bridge. It is not uncommon to see a 
hundred big fish rolling in this area on a days fishing 
trip. The tarpon range from a maximum of about 125 
pounds on down. Trout and redfish move into the river during fall and 
winter. Good catches are made with shrimp or cut bait in the area below the Highwa) 17 bridge to Altamaha 
Sound. 
Ogeechee River 
This is one of the finest black water fishing streams in the nation. Salt water species arc seasonally found in the Ogeechee. with shad and striped bass taken in the area generally south of Highwa) 17 bridge. Lesser concentrations of these lish move on upstream. March is apparently the best month lor shad in the river, with striped bass fishing good in the fall and spring. 
I In- reallv good fishing in the Ogeechee is for redbreast and largemouth ba^s in the entire river. Backwaters and 
 
 This scene is typical of the rivers in the coastal area where saltwater and freshwater fish are often found together. Fishing thrills and catch potentials are unlimited in the coastal rivers 
 
KEY TO PUBLIC FISHING WATERS 
 FISHING CAMP. WITH BOAT RENTALS. FISHER. MEN FACILITIES AND LAUNCHING RAMPS 
 HARD SURFACE BOAT LAUNCHING RAMPS  OTHER BOAT LAUNCHING RAMPS. 
PUBLIC ACCESS TO WATER NO LAUNCHING RAMPS 
 
fish found in this section of Georgia is unexcelle< Savannah River 
This is big water with plent) of room for fishing an fair populations ol game fish in the areas not seriously 
affected h\ pollution. 
The river is characterized b) salt and brackish water in the sound and inlets, utilized seasonall) by winter trout, redfish. and tarpon. 
Sport fishing for shad is good in the Savannah with peak fishing in upstream areas during March and 
occasionall) into April. Fresh water fishing for hluegill. redbreast sunfish, bass, 
and channel catfish is good at times in the upper areas ol the Savannah, particular!) in the spring. 
 
St. Andrews Sound Cumberlond Is 
 
 Saltwater 
FISHING 
 
Georgia's coastline offers a thousand miles of variety 
and thrills for saltwater fishermen. Game fish habitat 
is divided between a multitude of rivers, creeks, and sounds, woven into the vast estuarine marshes between harrier coastal islands and the mainland. Coastal fishing it) sounds, saltwater rivers and creeks as well as deep sea fishing offers a challenge to any fisherman. Variety is the real lure to saltwater fishing, both in kinds of fish that can be caught and the potential size of a wide range of marine species. At least one good "tackle buster" for 
 
each trip to salt water is to be expected, and who can tell how big a fish will be until after it strikes and the hooks are set solid. Many a saltwater angler has been left with a broken line and shaking hand after encountering any one of a dozen man-sized game species that are abundant along the Georgia coast. 
Marine Game Fish 
Newcomers to saltwater fishing should first be impressed with the fact that when a line is dropped into saltwater, there are virtually no limits to the size and 
variety of fish that can be caught. After a few trips to salt water, this idea will probably become firmly entrenched through experience. 
There are approximately twenty species of game fish caught along the Georgia coast. The caliber of fishing ranges from smaller fish taken on pole and line or light tackle to muscle testing endurance against fish that weigh several hundred pounds. 
The reputation of good saltwater fishing is maintained and enhanced by the speckled sea trout and red fish or channel bass. These are probably the favorite and most sought after game species along the Georgia coast. 
Bottom fishing for sheepshead. drum, flounder, croaker, eddyfish, spots and sunfish, to mention a few. ranks second in popularity. 
Fishing for tarpon, striped bass, shad, jack crevalle, Spanish mackerel, cobia. and bluefish is excellent during certain periods and has a wide following. 
For the better equipped and more adventurous angler willing to seek his prize further from shore there are sailfish, barracuda, amberjack, and albacore. 
The type and methods of fishing can be tailored to meet the needs of any angler. Fishing is good along the coast and the resource in numbers and weight of fish 
is unlimited. Fishing Tips 
Time of year and the tide are important factors in planning salt water fishing trips. The chart on the opposite page gives a good summary of suitable conditions. Fishing tackle depends on the taste of the fisherman and the size of fish he is seeking. For the most part, spinning tackle in heavier than average size is most popular. For big fish, regular deep sea rigs heavy enough to wear big fish down is a must. For sounds and inlets, a slip cork with varying amounts of lead will work the best. 
Most of the fish discussed previously can be found all along the coast. The kev to good catches of these game fish will be through location of suitable habitat. 
The successful saltwater fisherman has a hoard of favorite spots. Heading the list for still fishing will be shell beds, and cover in the form of pilings or submerged 
wrecks. 
 
-rr-. 
' 
 
Tarpon move close to shore during the summer and ore often caught in tidal sections of the rivers where this 130-pounder was landed. 
 
 Surf casting is good for big channel bass from sandbars in the mouth of the sounds. During the summer these fish run big as a rule, in the range of 5 to 20 pounds with an occasional lunker up to 50 pounds. 
Trjout will be on the shell beds. Live shrimp on the bottom will take trout with an occasional channel bass. Light tackle is generally preferred. Best fishing for trout is duirng the fall and winter, extending to early spring. During periods of neap tides and suitable weather, speckled trout and channel bass are in coastal waters in heavy concentrations, moving up tidal rivers for short distances. 
Bottom fishing around pilings and old wrecks is excellent for sheepshead, drum, flounder, croaker, and eddyfish, to mention a few. Fishing is best for these species from April to about September. 
For tarpon, jack crevalle, Spanish mackerel, cobia, and bluefish. trolling the adjacent waters of the Atlantic and coastal sounds will take the most fish. Best months for these species is 
probably May through August extend- 
ing into early September. Tarpon move up the rivers and many are caught in tidal sections of nearly all the streams along the coast during the summer. 
Further out from the coast are the sailfish, barracuda, amberjack, and albacore or little tuna. This type fishing requires special equipment. Mid summer fishing for these species is probably best. 
Shad and striped bass are in the St. Marys, Altamaha, Satilla, Ogeechee. and Savannah Rivers during the winter and spring months. There are some real thrills trolling or casting for these fighters and limit catches are the rule when conditions are right. 
Saltwater fishing is keen sport for any fishermen. For "dyed in the wool" saltwater fishermen and for the sports- 
man who is looking for new thrills, 
the Georgia coast can fill the order. 
And as a special bonus, this area consistently extends some of the finest southern hospitality known to man- 
kind. 
 
SPECIES 
Eddytish (Tripletoil) 
Torpon 
Albocore (Little Tuna) Sailfish 
Amber,ock 
fact (Jock cre.olle) Anglefish Blockfish 
common seo boss Spanish Mackerel King Mackerel 
(Kingfish) Cob.a Bluefish 
Drum (Black Drum) Chonnel Bass 
Whiting IKing Whiting) Sheepshead 
Winter Trout (Speckled seo trout) Summer Trout (Weokfish) Barracuda Striped Bass 
Shod 
 
GUIDE TO SALTWATER SPORT FISHING IN GEORGIA 
 
METHOD OF 
FISHING 
 
TIDES 
 
BAITS 
 
LOCATION AND TIME OF YEAR 
 
Still Fish 
Troll Still Fish Cost 
Troll 
Troll 
Troll Still Fish 
Troll Still Fish 
Still Fish 
Still Fish 
Troll Still Fish Troll 
Troll Still Fish Troll Still Fish 
Still Fish 
Troll Still Fish Cost Still Fish 
Still Fish 
Cost Still Fish 
Cast Still Fish 
Troll 
Troll Still F.sh Cost Troll Cost 
 
Low tide or high slack tide 
 
Shrimp Crob Squid 
 
Any tide offshore morning and afternoon Low water flood tide inshore Any tide early morning or late afternoon 
Any tide early morning 
2PM or afternoon offer 
Any tide early morning ond middle to late afternoon Any tide offshore Slock flood tide inshore 
Any tide, morning best 
Any tide 
High flood inside, any tide offshore Any tide 
 
Lire Shrimp Cut Mullet Spoons Plugs 
Cut Mullet Squids Spoons 
Cut Mullet Whole Small Mullet Spoons. Yellow Feather 
Live Bait (mullet) Lures (resembling small fish) Large Cut Bait 
Lire bait. Plugs Cut Mullet Spoons 
Shrimp Broken Crab 
Shrimp. Crab Cut Bait 
Shrimp. Squids Cut Mullet. Spoons 
Shrimp. Squids Cut Mullet. Spoons 
 
Any tide 
Any tide offshore, highwoter flood tide 
in inlets 
 
Lite Bait, Crabs Shrimp. Lures 
Cut Mullet Squids Spoons 
 
Slock tide, high or low 
High flood tide ond high slack tide 
Low ebb tide or flood inside, low flood on beaches 
slock tide best 
 
Shrimp Crab Squid 
Spoons, Cut Mullet Live Bait, Crob Shrimp, Squid, Plugs 
Shrimp Small Crob 
Fiddler Crabs Shrimp 
 
Low ebb tide, high flood fide 
Low ebb tide, high flood tide 
Any tide 
Any tide, slock flood tide the best 
Flood tide best 
 
Live Shrimp Shr.mp Plugs 
Shrimp Plugs 
Cut Mullet, Lures L,,e Bait. Squids 
Natural Looking Lures Crob, Clams. Squids. Cut Mullet, Shrimp 
Flies, Spoons Lures Resembling Insects 
 
Around deep wrecks, channel buoys, beacons, ond other shady spots April to September, but most abundant in early July. 
Sounds, inlets and rivers close to ocean ond offshore waters. Last of Moy to first bod weather in the fall July and August best months 
Offshore waters-- seldom closer than edge of Gulf Stream Moy through August 
Offshore waters-- seldom closer than 10-12 miles offshore Moy through August 
Offshore waters 
May through August 
Sounds, inlets ond offshore waters Summer months 
Offshore waters, eorly spring to late fall 
Offshore waters around wrecks, buoys, rock piles, etc Summer months 
Sounds, inlets and offshore woters Moy through August 
Offshore woters Generally while fishing for Spanish Mackerel 
May through August 
Olfshore waters around chonnel markers. buoys, wrecks, etc April through November 
Offshore waters and occasionally in inlets and sounds Two runs lasting approximately 45 days, one in April and Moy. the other in August, to September or October 
Rivers, sounds, inlets ond channels Usually around piling, buoys, channel markers, wrecks, etc, April to October. 
Rivers, sounds and inlets around oyster beds, sandbars along beaches in summer Spring and summer into early fall 
and beaches Caught on bottom Eorl, spuno, to loH foil 
Creeks, rivers, sounds, close to docks, pilings, rock piles, wrecks, etc. Early spring to late fall 
Creek-, rivers, sounds, ond inlets around oyster beds October through March. December ond January best 
Creeks, rivers, sounds and inlets around oyster beds Year around but more evident in summer when winter trout disappear 
Offshore Waters May through August 
Sounds, rivers, inlets, beaches, ond creeks Spring months 
Caught predominantly in St Marys. Altamaha, Ogeechee ond Savannah Rivers January through March 
 
St- Marys Party boats in summer, rowboats and outboards year around. 
 
Brunswick Charter and party boats from late spring though summer, Rowboats and outboards year around 
 
Darien 
 
Rowboats and outboards year around. 
 
Crescent Rowboats and outboards year around 
 
Shellman Bluff 
 
Rowboats and outboards year around. 
 
Midway 
 
Rowboats and outboards year Qround. 
 
Savannah Charter and party boats from late spring though summer. Rowboats and outboards year around 
 
Guides, bait and tackle are available in all localities. 
 
Speckled sea trout and channel bass or redfish are the mainstay of saltwater fishermen on the Georgia coast. 
 
-^ - 
 
; 
 
 Spotted bass shown above are similar in appearance to largemouth bass. This species is commonly caught in Lake Allatoona. 
 
Distribution of 
GEORGIA FISHES 
Survey records list 124 separate and distinct fresh- 
water fishes in Georgia. Some of these are not important 
economically to sport fishing. Several large groups of 
fishes, such as the minnow family, are so difficult to distinguish that a microscope and a trained Ichthyologist 
are necessary for proper identification. 
The more significant species, including all game fish and most rough fish, appear on the chart below. Mountain trout are not included in this group since they are found 
only in cold water streams of north Georgia. Distribution Patterns 
Only a few fishes are found in all waters of Georgia. Largemouth bass, black crappie, bluegill, redbreast sunfish, and warmouth are found in every lake and stream in the state. This family of fish, known as sunfish, are the most important group in Georgia and supply most 
of the fishing. 
Stream fish populations are slightly different from lakes. Nature provides a population balance in all waters, 
 
STREAMS: ALAPAHA 
ALTAMAHA BROAD CANOOCHEE CHATTAHOOCHEE 
CHESTATEE COOSA ETOWAH FLINT LITTLE RIVER LOOKOUT OCHLOCKONEE OCMULGEE OCONEE OGEECHEE OHOOPEE OOSTANAULA SATILLA SAVANNAH ST. MARYS SUWANNEE 
RESERVOIRS: 
ALLATOONA BARTLETT'S FERRY BLACKSHEAR 
BLUE RIDGE BURTON CHATUGE CLARK HILL FORT GAINES 
GOAT ROCK HARTWELL JACKSON LANIER NOTTELY 
OLIVER 
RABUN SEMINOLE 
SINCLAIR 
WORTH 
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 and the condition of the water determines what species will be present. Running water of streams provides a wider range and greater number of species than the still water of ponds and lakes. 
In some cases, watersheds or drainage basins restrict fish to certain streams and lakes. This pattern was fixed at the beginning of time and the system still holds 
true except where man has made introductions of fish to new waters. 
Distribution may also be determined by movement to 
and from spawning areas. A good example is striped bass, 
which actually live in salt water but ascend fresh water streams to spawn. Young striped bass return to salt water to mature except when they are trapped by impoundments where they become landlocked. 
The opposite type of spawning movement is exhibited by the American eel. This fish spends its life in fresh water, but goes to the ocean to spawn. Young eels return to fresh water to develop into maturity and the same cycle is repeated. These young eels are often trapped by dams on their return to fresh water, and prohibited from moving upstream. It is a common sight to see thousands of these young fish trapped below a dam. fighting to move upstream. 
 
Habitat of Fishes The habitat or surroundings where an animal lives has a considerable influence on its development. As could be expected, the condition of the water determines the abundance and type of fish. 
Muddy water is poor habitat for game fish, because they rely on sight for feeding. For many rough fish, such 
as the carp and suckers, this is not a problem since they feed on the bottom. The sucker type mouth is a natural development for this type of life, the same as the big mouth of bass and other game fish is developed for feeding on other fish. 
Coloration of fish is also affected by habitat. Fish 
from muddy water are light in color, while fish from the 
black water of south Georgia are very dark. These color changes are the influence of surroundings and will change as surroundings change. 
The fishes of Georgia are an interesting and important group, and good fishing is a vital natural resource. The problem of fishery management is the responsibility of the 
State Game and Fish Commission, and with continued 
support of Georgia sportsmen, sound conservation programs and fishery resources will continue to develop and improve. 
 
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35 
 
 NORTH GEORGIA LAKES (Continued from page 6) 
 
In all of the lakes located in extreme north Georgia, fish populations have been established and separated by the Tennessee River Drainage. Within this watershed are smallmouth bass, muskelunge, walleye, and flathead catfish. These species are not found in other 
 
waters of Georgia except where they were introduced. 
 
Fishing Tips 
 
Fishing is best from April through June, and September through November for both largemouth and smallmouth 
 
bass. Crappie fishing is good a little earlier in the spring. Mid summer fishing is better than average in Blue Ridge since the water is always cooler than the more southern 
 
reservoirs. 
 
LAKE NOTTELY 
 
Nottely is also within the drainage of the Tennessee 
 
River and is typical of the good fishing in the north Georgia chain of reservoirs. The lake was completed 
 
in 1942 and the impoundment covers 4,290 acres. 
 
Fish Population 
 
Nottely is best known for bream, bass, and crappie 
 
fishing. Smallmouth bass are also present although the largemouth is more commonly caught. 
 
Fishing Tips 
Crappie fishing is best during March and April during 
 
the spawning season. The best bass fishing is found on 
 
into April and May, and September through November. 
 
Fishing is good in all areas of the lake. 
CHATUGE RESERVOIR 
 
Lake Chatuge is known throughout Georgia for big 
 
bass and excellent fisherman facilities. Chatuge is the 
 
TVA largest of the 
 
reservoirs in Georgia covering 7.150 
 
acres. 
 
The lake is divided between Georgia and North Caro- 
 
lina, and fishermen must have a North Carolina license 
 
to fish across the state line. 
 
Fish Population The game fish population in Chatuge is similar to the 
 
other lakes in this area, differing in a heavy population 
 
of very small yellow perch. This fish lives in the deeper 
 
waters of the lake and its numbers have greatly increased 
 
over the years. 
 
This increase in numbers has produced stunted fish 
 
and their numbers must be reduced to allow for growth, and to eliminate competition with other game fish. 
The solution to this problem is the walleye, a vicious fish eating predator that inhabits deep water in the same 
 
area thai yellow perch use. 
Steps to establish walleye as a game species have already 
 
been taken with the recent stocking of 200,000 small fish 
 
36 
 
by the Game and Fish Commission. This stocking program 
will continue until the walleye is well established in the 
lake. 
Fishing Tips 
Crappie fishing is excellent during March and April. Fishing around man-made brush piles is always good for crappie with good fishing out in the deeper water at times. 
In this lake live minnow fishing for bass is very popular 
-- and for good reason some of the biggest strings of bass 
have been taken on minnows. Artifiicials. including a wide range of deep running and topwater plugs, are also good. Best times for bass is generally April and May, and October and November. 
LAKE BURTON 
Lake Burton is a trout lake. Planned introductions of trout, plus a water supply from richly populated trout streams has established good fishing for rainbow and brown trout. Trout are consistently taken from Burton weighing up to eight pounds in most all areas of the 2,775 acre lake. 
Bass, crappie, bream, and yellow perch are the main- 
stay species for the non-trout fishermen. Many dedicated Lake Burton fishermen vow this is one of the best bass lakes in Georgia, and they may be right. 
Fish Population Good populations of all game fish are found in Burton. Yellow perch are abundant but in stunted, small sizes similar to Lake Chatuge. Walleye have also been introduced in Burton to help control the perch population, and large brown trout were stocked a year ago to help reduce the yellow perch. Both these introduced fish inhabit the cooler deep water where yellow perch live. 
Fishing Tips Trout fishing is good the year around in Burton. Best luck is usually in the mouth of the feeder streams entering the lake. Favorite trout lures are deep running spoons and spinners fished slowly. Bass hit well in the coves and along the shore early, 
from April through May and again in the fall, starting in September. Jump fishing around schools of shad in mid summer is good at times. 
LAKE RABUN 
Lake Rabun, located on the Tallulah River below Lake Burton, has produced one of the largest trout ever caught 
-- in Georgia a 12Vi> pound brown caught in the summer 
of 1959. 
Built in 1926, Rabun is a good trout lake. It receives stocks of trout from the Game and Fish Commission, but most of the trout are native fish. Rabun has also been 
stocked with walleye in recent years. 
Bass fishing is good in Rabun. Bream are also caught 
consistently, but crappie fishing is only fair. 
Fish Population The comparatively high percentage of bass reflects the good bass fishing in Lake Rabun. Bluegill do well in Rabun too, and help sustain midsummer fishing. Trout, are often caught and grow very rapidly. 
Fishing Tips Trout fishing is good the year around with rainbow and brown trout caught in mid winter by hardy fishermen. 
Bass fishing is best in the spring with April, May and 
early fall the best time. 
 
 SPOTTED BASS (Micropterus punctulatus) has a striking 
resemblance to the largemouth bass but differs in having a smaller mouth, and less separation between soft and spinous section of the dorsal fin. There are dark blotches on the back above the lateral line, but perhaps most distinctive of all is the interrupted line pattern on the rides, below the lateral stripe and teeth on the tongue 
lear its base which may be felt with a finger. The spotted 
bass is found in most of the streams of northwest Georgia 
and makes up over 90% of the total bass population in 
Allatoona Reservoir. Its feeding and spawning habits are about the scime as the largemouth bass. This species is an excellent game fish and will strike a wide range of artificial and natural baits. 
REDEYE BASS (Micropterus coosae) sometimes called 
coosa bass is a fish of the cooler streams of north Georgia. 
It may be distinguished from the other species of smallmouth bass by the more rounded body, lack of pro- 
nounced horizontal stripes on its sides, and the faintly colored bar markings on its back. Oftentimes redeye bass taken from the cool swift streams will have a brilliantly colored red edge to the lower fins and tail and a bright red eye. This species rarely reaches a large size in north Georgia streams. However, bass taken in the lower Flint River and its tributaries locally called "smallmouth bass," are believed to be a genetic race of the redeye bass. This 
species may reach a size of seven pounds or more, and 
is quite vividly spotted. Spawning and food habits are similar to the smallmouth bass. 
YELLOW PERCH (Perco flovescens) is primarily a north- 
ern fish that has become established in Georgia. This species is found generally throughout the state but is caught most often in Lakes Lanier, Burton, and Rabun. It seldom exceeds one pound in weight but is an excellent eating fish. It resembles the Walleye in appearance, but the color is more yellowish and the sides are distinctly barred. Fins are often tinged with red. Food consists of insects and small fish. Spawning occurs earlier and at cooler temperatures. Eggs are layed over sand and gravel bars and are unattended. Yellow perch are usually found in the deeper, cooler waters and will readily strike live minnows and artificial lures. 
WHITE CRAPPIE (Pomoxis annularis) is found throughout 
the state in streams and lakes. It is usually found along with the black crappie previously described, although it is generally much less abundant. It may be distinguished from the black crappie by the dorsal spine count which normally number six, in comparison to seven and eight in the black crappie. The color is generally lighter overall, with a barring effect on the sides of the body. Spawning and food preference is the same as the black crappie 
previously described. 
REDBREAST SUNFISH (Lepomis auritus) is the bream most commonly caught by stream fishermen. This species is 
found throughout the state in all waters. It resembles the bluegill somewhat, but can be easily separated by the longer ear flap and less rounded body. The cheek is streaked and in older individuals and spawning fish, the fins and sides of the body are tinged with red. The breast is bright red with overall greenish color above. Redbreast spawn throughout the summer. They tend to be solitary spawners and build large nests. Food consists mainly of aquatic insects and some vegetative matter. Redbreast are 
a very popular game fish and will strike artificial flies, worms and crickets. They are sometimes found in ponds and lakes but the best fishing for this species is in rivers and streams. 
WARMOUTH (Chaenobryttus gulosus) is found in all lakes, 
ponds and streams of Georgia. It is one of the most widely distributed game fish in the state. Warmouth fishing is usually better in south Georgia, especially in the area of the Okefenokee Swamp. Color of the Warmouth varies but it is generally an olive-bronze. The eye is tinged red and the gill cover usually has four prominent bluish black stripes. The mouth is large, extending past the eye. Spawning occurs throughout the summer. Nesting habits are quite similar to bream. Food consists mainly of water insects, crawfish, and small fish. Warmouth are most often caught using live bait and are good fighters on light tackle. 
 
Yellow Perch 
,,<** 
White Crappie 
Redbreast Sunfish 
jV\MERS/7Y rmeettf-o' 
 
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