2001 Georgia reservoirs fishing prospects

2001 Georgia Reservoirs Fishing Prospects
Georgia Department of Natural Resources Wildlife Resources Division, Fisheries Section

1 - Allatoona 2 - Andrews 3 - Bartlett's Ferry 4 - Blackshear 5 - Black Shoals 6 - Blue Ridge 7 - Burton 8 - Carters 9 - Chatuge 10-Chehaw

Location of Reservoirs
11 - Clarks Hill 12 - Goat Rock 13 - Hartwell 14 - High Falls 15 - Jackson 16 - Juliette 17 - Lanier 18 - Nottely 19 - Oconee 20 - Oliver

21 - Rabun 22 - Richard B. Russell 23 - Seminole 24 - Sinclair 25 - Tobesofkee 26 - Tugalo 27 - Varner 28 - Walter F. George 29 - Weiss 30 - West Point

Georgia offers some of the best, and most diverse, fishing opportunities in the Southeast with more than 500,000 acres of reservoirs available to anglers. The following is a description of the prospects for fishing on Georgia's reservoirs in 2001. The outlook for each reservoir was compiled by fisheries biologists and is based on sampling efforts by the Department of Natural Resources (DNR), Wildlife Resources Division (WRD), knowledge of past fishing trends, WRD staff=s own fishing experiences, and discussions with anglers and marina owners. We hope this information is valuable to you when planning your fishing trips. The collection and compilation of this information was made possible by funding through Federal Aid in Sport Fish Restoration.
DNR routinely tests the tissue of fish collected from the reservoirs in this publication. Based on the test results, DNR issues guidelines for eating fish to inform anglers of the health benefits and risks associated with eating fish caught from the wild. Consult DNR's web site or Georgia's 2001-2002 Sport Fishing Regulations to learn about "Guidelines For Eating Fish From Georgia Waters."
Visit the Georgia Department of Natural Resources web site at www.gofishgeorgia.com for fishing regulations, to
purchase a fishing license, to register a boat, to find a place to fish, for weekly fishing conditions in reservoirs, and more!

Fisheries Section Offices:

Calhoun Calhoun Atlanta # Summerville Burton Gainesville Social Circle (Atlanta)

706-629-1259 770-387-4821 706-857-3394 706-947-3112 770-535-5498 770-918-6418

Thomson Manchester Charlie Elliott Wildlife Center Fort Valley Albany Dawson

706-595-1619 706-846-8448 770-784-3059 478-825-6151 229-430-4256 229-995-4486

Reservoir

Page

Best Bets in 2001

Office

Allatoona Andrews Bartlett=s Ferry Blackshear Black Shoals Blue Ridge Burton Carters Chatuge Chehaw 6 Clarks Hill Goat Rock Hartwell High Falls Jackson Juliette Lanier Nottely Oconee Oliver Rabun Richard B. Russell Seminole Sinclair Tobesofkee Tugalo Varner Walter F. George Weiss West Point

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Crappie; hybrid & striped bass; largemouth & spotted bass; carp

2

Hybrid bass; channel catfish; largemouth bass

2

Black bass; hybrid & white bass; crappie; catfish

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Crappie; white & striped bass; catfish; largemouth bass

4

Largemouth bass, bream, crappie, catfish

4

Walleye; white bass; smallmouth bass; bluegill; catfish

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Brown trout, spotted bass; crappie; bluegill; yellow perch

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Walleye; striped bass; crappie; spotted bass; catfish

Calhoun

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Spotted & largemouth bass; white bass; walleye

Channel & flathead catfish; striped bass

Albany

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Largemouth bass; crappie; hybrid & striped bass; bream

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Largemouth bass; bream; hybrid bass; catfish

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Largemouth & redeye bass; crappie; hybrid bass

7

Crappie, bream, largemouth bass; catfish; hybrid bass

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Bream; catfish; largemouth bass; hybrid bass

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Striped bass; largemouth bass; redear sunfish

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Largemouth & spotted bass; white bass; crappie; striped bass

10

Black bass; striped bass; crappie; walleye

10

Crappie; white bass; hybrid bass; largemouth bass

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Bluegill; redear sunfish; crappie; hybrid bass; white bass

11

Largemouth bass; bluegill; redear sunfish; crappie; yellow perch

11

Largemouth bass, crappie

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Bluegill, redear sunfish, channel catfish, largemouth bass

12

Largemouth bass; crappie; channel catfish; hybrid bass

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Hybrid bass; largemouth bass; crappie

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Largemouth bass; white catfish; crappie; white bass; bluegill

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Largemouth bass; crappie; bream; channel catfish

14

Largemouth bass; crappie; catfish; white & hybrid bass

15

Crappie; white bass; striped bass; black bass; catfish

15

Largemouth bass, hybrid bass; crappie; channel catfish; white bass

Calhoun Albany Manchester Albany Social Circle Calhoun Burton
Gainesville
Thomson Manchester Burton CEWC CEWC CEWC Gainesville Gainesville Social Circle Manchester Burton Thomson Albany Fort Valley Fort Valley Burton Social Circle Albany Calhoun Fort Valley

Abbreviations : DNR - Georgia Department of Natural Resources; WRD - Georgia Wildlife Resources Division

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COE - U.S. Army Corps of Engineers; TVA - Tennessee Valley Authority; USFS - U.S. Forest Service

Allatoona

live shad fished below a bobber to sight fishing with minnow type

This 11,860-acre COE reservoir on the Etowah River is 41 miles plugs during the spring and early summer when they gang up in

north of Atlanta on I-75. There are numerous COE facilities and a shallow water to spawn.

Georgia State Park located around the lake to provide angler with

ramps, parking, and camping areas. The lake receives heavy use by

Andrews

boaters, skiers, and anglers due to its close proximity to Atlanta.

The COE operates this 1,540-acre mainstream reservoir on the

Fishing early and late daylight hours, and at night, are effective ways Chattahoochee River in Southwest Georgia for navigation. Lake

to avoid the crowds.

Andrews begins at the Walter F. George Lock and Dam near Fort

Crappie anglers can expect another good year at Allatoona as Gaines, and stretches for 29 miles downstream to the George W.

numbers remain high, and the crappie continue to show good growth. Andrews Lock and Dam near Blakely. This reservoir acts more like a

Excellent spawns of crappie in recent years are now paying off for large river than a lake. As a result, the fish populations and fishery

anglers. The average crappie should be a little better than 8 inches are riverine in nature.

and weigh just under 1 lb., though many larger crappie will be

Typically, excellent fishing can be found in the tailrace areas

caught. Most crappie anglers focus their efforts during the spring immediately below each dam. Hybrids, white bass, and stripers are

when the fish move up the creeks and rivers into shallower water to attracted to these areas, especially during late winter and early spring

spawn. Early spring is an excellent time to catch a trophy "slab" as (mid-February to late March). Hybrid bass fishing below Andrews

the females will be heavy with eggs and in excellent condition prior Lock and Dam should be good during 2001, with the average hybrid

to the spawn. Later in the summer, crappie will concentrate in deeper weighing around 3 lbs. Although hybrids can be taken on a variety of

waters, where anglers can catch them by targeting brush piles located baits, live shad consistently produce the best catches. Striped bass

on humps and channel ledges.

numbers below Andrews Lock and Dam are higher than they have

Spotted bass numbers remained high in 2000. Largemouth bass been for over a decade, and as a result, anglers can expect to catch a

numbers were also good in 2000, although they make up less than few of these hard fighting fish. Currently, the majority of stripers in

50% of the total catch of black bass. During the spring and fall, the population are smaller, 2-3 lbs fish; however, in previous years,

anglers should look for largemouth in the backs of pockets around several stripers over 20 lbs were landed. Many more of these hard

heavy cover such as log jams, shallow docks, and blow down trees. pulling fish are hooked by hybrid anglers each year, but are never

During the warmer months largemouth will spend the days in deeper landed. Using heavy tackle (20 lb line) will increase your chances of

water on points and ledges, but will move shallow at night and early landing one of these trophies.

morning to feed. Spotted bass tend to hold a little deeper than

Fishing in areas downstream from the dams is your best bet if

largemouth and can be finicky in their willingness to bite. you are interested in catching bream and largemouth bass. Although

Experienced anglers rely on light line and smaller lures to trick not noted for producing large numbers of bass, Lake Andrews does

spotted bass into biting. Steep rocky banks and brush piles in 10-25 provide a good chance at catching 4-6 lbs bass. Largemouth bass and

feet of water are favored places for spotted bass throughout the year. bream fishing should be best in the spring, during the pre-spawn and

Striper and hybrid populations in the lake are doing well, feeding spawning seasons. Crappie fishing is typically only fair on Lake

on the abundant gizzard and threadfin shad. Striped bass up to 40 lbs Andrews. However, anglers who are patient, and are willing to learn

have been taken from Allatoona, though the average striper will the lake, can be rewarded with some good fishing.

weigh 4-5 lbs and the average hybrid will be slightly smaller. Anglers

Fishing the lake at night in the late summer can provide an

seeking these hard fighters can use their depthfinders to locate large excellent opportunity to catch large, 4-6 lbs channel catfish. Smaller

schools of shad in open water areas. Stripers and hybrids typically catfish, and an occasional larger fish, can be caught year-round in the

school under the shad. Another tell-tale sign is to look for birds tailrace areas below both dams. Channel catfish can be caught using a

feeding on shad at the surface of the water. Bucktail jigs or trolled variety of baits, such as large worms, chicken livers, and shad or

live shad are the most popular methods for catching stripers and mullet guts.

hybrids. During the summer months, stripers and hybrids will seek

out cooler water so anglers should search up the rivers or in deeper

Bartlett's Ferry

water areas near the dam. White bass are also abundant in the

Constructed in 1926, the Georgia Power Company (GPC)

reservoir and anglers often target them in the rivers up lake during operates this 5,850-acre reservoir (a.k.a. Lake Harding) on the

their spring spawning run.

Chattahoochee River above Goat Rock Lake. It has many boat docks

Bluegill, redbreast sunfish, and redear sunfish are available to and piers that provide good structure for fish. There are two boat

the bream angler. Numbers of bream are relatively low, but as is ramps on the Georgia side. The WRD facility at Idle Hour Park has

often the case, this leads to the chance of catching some truly trophy- four lanes, paved parking, a restroom facility, and is open year-round.

sized bream. Channel and flathead catfish are also available in GPC's Blanton Creek Park also provides boating access, but is open

Allatoona. While channel catfish are more abundant, flatheads tend to only from about March 31 until Labor Day. For additional

grow to much larger sizes. Any rocky point along the Etowah River information on Blanton Park and public use areas around the lake

arm is likely to hold pan-sized channel cats, and a fresh chicken liver contact the GPC land department office at 706-322-0228. On the

fished on the bottom is a sure ticket to a good fish dinner.

Halawakee Creek Arm (Alabama side) Mr. George Chambley (334-

Carp are numerous, widely distributed, and grow to large sizes. 749-5417) owns and operates a marina, boat ramp and store and is a

Most carp fishing is concentrated in the Acworth Dam area. Carp are good source to contact for current fishing conditions. Information on

very strong fighters and will give a worthwhile battle. Gar are also generating schedules and lake levels is available by calling 706-317-

numerous in Allatoona. Though they are not generally considered 6000.

good-eating fish, gar are very strong fighters and can be great fun to

Largemouth abundance has been steady while spotted bass

catch. Gar can be caught using a number of techniques ranging from numbers have been increasing. For every 10 largemouth bass there

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are 4 or 5 spotted bass. One half of the largemouth are greater than 12 inches and over 25% are greater than 15 inches. The largemouth you catch should weigh in the 1-1 lbs range on average. Boat docks and fishing piers that are found in abundance around the lake are favorite spots for bass anglers, but do not overlook rocky points and underwater humps. March through May when water temperatures are in the mid to high 60s is probably the peak fishing time for largemouth.
The increase in spotted bass means good news, as more black bass are available for anglers who frequent the lake. Because the spotted bass fishery is under utilized, WRD recommends that anglers catch and eat more spots. Remember, there is no minimum length restriction on spotted bass on Bartlett's Ferry. Look for the averagespot to be 10 inches and weigh about lb. Spots tend to bite during the same time as largemouth, but as a general rule they are found on rocky points and in deeper water.
This lake is not known for its bream fishing. Most bluegill catches will be 6 inches and under and weigh 2-3 oz. On the other hand, redear sunfish grow larger and provide anglers with catches averaging better than lb. Both are caught around docks and pier, most frequently during the summer months.
Fishing for white bass and hybrid bass has been good to outstanding for several years. Hybrids have survived well and it has been reported that trophy-sized individuals up to14 lbs have been taken. Hybrids have not been stocked in Bartlett's Ferry since 1995, but are still fairly abundant throughout the reservoir. Most of the hybrids caught in recent years have likely traveled downstream from West Point Reservoir where they are stocked. Catches will average 34 lbs, but larger fish up to 8-10 lbs will be available for the avid hybrid angler. White bass should average one pound or better in most years.
Striped bass have been stocked annually since 1992 to support the recovery of this species in the Applachicola River System. Our observations indicate that many striped bass are exceeding lengths measured for hybrids and are as abundant. Experienced anglers are currently taking a few stripers weighing up to 25 lbs and better. Look for the abundance of trophy-sized fish to increase in a few years as stripers grow to larger sizes. The best bet for hooking up with stripers is to fish near the dam during the winter and upstream to Riverview Dam in early spring. All species can be taken near the surface throughout the lake during the summer and fall as they school after young shad. Favorite baits are spoons and popping corks with trailing jigs. Fishing for stripers and hybrids is also good immediately below Riverview and Crow Hop Dams during periods of power generation at West Point. Bucktail jigs are particularly effective lures for these lunkers.
Crappie enthusiasts are not usually disappointed at Bartlett's Ferry. Crappie are abundant and about 50% or more are 10-15 inches. In most years the average will vary from 0.5-0.7 lbs. However, "slabs" are fairly abundant. The best crappie fishing months are usually February through April. WRD's six fish attractors provide good fishing areas. Maps showing fish attractor locations are available at WRD offices.
Typically, fishing for catfish is good to excellent. Channel catfish are the most sought after, but white catfish are plentiful. Together they provide bountifully for even the most ardent catfish enthusiast. Catches of channel catfish up to 8-10 lbs are possible, but individuals averaging 2-3 lbs will be the norm. White catfish should average -1 lb. This lake is a good bet for catfish at anytime of the year.

Blackshear Crisp County Power Company operates this 8,500-acre reservoir located on the Flint River in southwest Georgia. The waters of this shallow reservoir support good populations of bass, crappie, white bass, stripers and catfish. Bass fishing on Lake Blackshear should really heat up during 2001. A great bass spawn in 1995, and a newly imposed 14-inch minimum size limit for largemouth bass, have helped build a good population of 14-16 inch bass. Some of the favorite bass fishing spots are around the cypress trees in Limestone Creek, Cedar Creek, and Gum Creek. There are approximately 1,200 houses on this lake, and almost every house has a dock or pier where bass can be caught. Many tournament anglers reported their best catches in the north end of the lake around the Hwy 27 bridge during 1998. Early morning top water or spinner baits, and late afternoon Carolina rigged worms, are the preferred baits. The most productive months are March through May. Lake Blackshear has a good population of both black and white crappie. Crappie numbers are higher than recent years, and there is still a fair number of slab-sized fish in the population. Last year, anglers caught a lot of 1-2 lbs crappie, and fishing for these slabsized fish should be good again this year. During most times of the year, crappie can be caught in deep water near structure such as, river and creek channels, brush piles and bridge abutments, using jigs and minnows. However, in the spring, anglers who concentrate on Blackshear's numerous boat docks can be rewarded with some fantastic crappie fishing. Another great place to start fishing is around the 12 fish attractors, which are conveniently marked with buoys. Maps showing location and GPS readings of these attractors are available from Georgia Veterans State Park (912-276-2371), local bait and tackle stores, and marinas. Other favorite crappie fishing spots include the mouths of Collins Branch, Spring Creek, Gum Creek, Boy Scout Slough, and under Smoak Bridge on the Swift Creek arm. February and March are the best times to go crappie fishing. White and striped bass populations are good, whereas the hybrid bass population is at extremely low levels due to discontinuing the stocking of this fish in Lake Blackshear. White bass will provide plenty of action with the average fish weighing around lb. Striped bass populations continue to be strong. Since 1995 WRD has stocked Gulf Coast striped bass into Lake Blackshear to reestablish them in this portion of their former range, and the past six years of stocking are beginning to pay dividends. Although the striper population will be dominated by small fish (15-17 inches), anglers can expect some fast action from these hard fighting fish. Due to ongoing efforts to rebuild striped bass populations, fishing for all species will be closed in three springs located in Lake Blackshear from May thorough October. Please help us in this recovery effort by not disturbing the fish while they occupy these springs. For more information on these restrictions, please see the 2001-2002 Sport Fishing Regulations. The bream populations have been steadily improving over the past few years, and as a result, Blackshear is once again becoming a popular destination for anglers interested in catching these fish. Bluegill numbers are good and will average 6-7 inches this year. Redear sunfish numbers are also up from previous years, and anglers who can locate areas where these fish are spawning should be rewarded with plenty of 8-9 inch fish. Favorite bream fishing spots tend to be above the Hwy 280 bridge. The better bluegill fishing can be found in the Smokehouse Slough area. Redear hot spots are Spring Creek, Limestone Creek, Pecan Slough, and Wheatley's Slough. Anglers can expect their best catches on crickets and worms during

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May and June. Channel and flathead catfish populations look very good. Expect
most of the channels to be 1-2 lbs, while the flatheads will average around 10 lbs. Both species are bottom feeders, but channels are scavengers, while flatheads are predators. Therefore, fish for channels with worms or blood/cheese bait, and use small bream, shad, and suckers for flatheads. While channels can be caught lake wide, flatheads usually inhabit deeper water, where river and creek channels meet.
Black Shoals This 650-acre reservoir was constructed by the Big Haynes Creek Impoundment Authority to meet water needs for Rockdale County. The Rockdale County Parks and Recreation opened the lake to public fishing during April 2000. Public access is through Black Shoals Park located on Black Shoals Road off of Georgia Highway 20, about 6 miles north of Conyers. The park is open Thursday through Sunday. The park is generally open from sunrise to sunset, but varies by season. Fees (variable) are charged to enter the park and to launch a boat. Gasoline motors are prohibited on the lake. Directions and more details on park operations can be obtained by calling Rockdale County Parks and Recreation at 770 785-5922. The fish population supports good fishing for largemouth bass, bream, crappie, and channel catfish. WRD, in cooperation with Rockdale County, provides management of the fish population and fisheries. Anglers experienced the typical new-lake marvels with high catch rates when the lake first opened last April. The fish population remains in very good shape. Almost 70% of the largemouth are greater than 15 inches in length. Anglers should expect to catch nice bass again this spring, but it will require a little more finesse after their education last April. This spring will be the first time the black crappie fishery is truly exploited. All indications are that the population will be in good shape. There has been good reproduction and reasonable recruitment to the population each year since 1997, the first year of impoundment. Almost 70% of the fish exceed 11 inches. About 25% are 13-15 inches. This reservoir has approximately 16 acres of standing timber which should concentrate the crappie before and after the spring spawn. Bream, both bluegill and shellcracker, abundance and quality are good. Anglers should expect best results during the first spawns this spring. Shellcracker typically spawn once each year, normally early to mid May. Bluegill are multiple spawners, but the best is always the first sometime around mid May. Channel catfish are abundant as a result of stocking 15-20 large fingerlings per acre over the last four winters.
Blue Ridge The TVA operates this 3,290 acre reservoir on the Toccoa River near Blue Ridge in Fannin County. Being one of the cooler reservoirs in Georgia, Blue Ridge offers some unique opportunities for anglers. In addition to Georgia's more common reservoir fish such as bluegill, largemouth bass, and white bass, anglers have the opportunity to catch smallmouth bass, walleye, yellow perch, and even the occasional rainbow trout. Walleye numbers have remained steady for the last few years. Walleye fishing is best in the spring and fall. Because of the very clear water, successful walleye anglers usually fish at night. Topwater plugs and crankbaits along rocky banks, jigging spoons, and live nightcrawlers are all good techniques for catching walleye. In the springtime, anglers can usually find fast action as the

white bass make their annual spawning run up the Toccoa River. Rocky points and shoals in the upper end of the lake are good places to find the white bass bunched up. Small hair jigs and plastic grubs in light colors along with small, shad-imitating crankbaits fished on light spinning gear should be all the angler needs to get in on the spring white bass action. Later in spring and summer, the white bass will return to the lower end of the lake where they can provide some fine topwater action at dawn and dusk.
Smallmouth bass numbers have remained steady over the last few years, and these acrobatic, hard fighting fish should provide for some exciting fishing. Smallmouth can usually be found on rocky shorelines and points, and like the walleye angler, many smallmouth angler favor night fishing, particularly during the warmer months. Dark colored hair and rubber jigs and crankbaits are standard offerings for smallmouth. Spotted bass have recently been found in Blue Ridge, probably as the result of illegal stockings. Though still not very numerous, it is likely that bass anglers will begin catching more and more spots as they become established in the lake.
Bluegill numbers have increased slightly over the past five years. Blue Ridge is known for large bluegill, which is unusual for a large reservoir. Anglers should concentrate on fishing worms and crickets in 15-20 feet of water around blown down tree tops or the fish attractors placed by TVA. Maps showing the locations of these fish attractors are available from the WRD Fisheries office in Calhoun. Also, catfishing is often over-looked, but good populations of channel catfish and the larger flathead catfish are available. Channel cats can be caught on any number of baits ranging from chicken livers to cut shad. Flathead anglers generally prefer using a live bream with a heavy sinker to probe deep holes and river ledges.
In winter (Nov-Feb), water level drawdowns of 30 feet or more occur. While these drawdowns often lead to excellent fishing, boat access during these periods is limited to ramps at the USFS's Morgantown Point Recreation Area and the Blue Ridge Marina. During extreme drawdowns anglers can contact Blue Ridge Marina or the USFS office in Blue Ridge for information regarding boat ramp access.
Burton Lake Burton is a 2,775 acre reservoir that is located in the northeast Georgia mountains due west of Clayton. Its steep, rocky shoreline and cool, clear waters provide an ideal habitat for a variety of deepwater fish like spotted bass, walleye, yellow perch, and brown trout. Most anglers target their efforts toward spotted bass. Because spotted bass are living longer and growing bigger on a diet of blueback herring, fishing is improving. For this year, the number of spotted bass you catch should be about the same as last year, but the number of keepers will be much higher. In fact, more two-pounders than usual are in the population. Peak spotted bass fishing occurs in May, when the fish move inshore to spawn. At this time of year, anglers can enjoy topwater action by targeting rocky banks and blowdowns. After spring, spotted bass move into deeper water where crankbaits, jigging spoons, and plastic worms are effective. Several thousand brown trout were stocked into Lake Burton last year to help control the rapidly growing blueback herring population. Stocked trout found Burton's habitat and food base very suitable and grew rapidly. For 2001, trout should weigh 2-4 lbs. Great trout fishing opportunities await those who are willing to brave the cold this winter. Winter temperatures drive blueback herring into the shallows in search of warmer water. These sluggish herring are easy targets for hungry brown trout. Fishing shallow-running minnow imitations or trolling live bait near visible schools of herring will

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likely produce strikes. During the summer months, trout will be squeezed into a narrow band of open water that ranges from 20-30 feet deep. The lower half of the main channel holds the greatest concentrations of trout during the summer. Trolling live baits, like golden shiners, herring, or nightcrawlers, at this critical depth is the most productive late-summer method. During the fall months, brown trout will move into the tributaries to spawn. In these shallows, topwater baits and spinners will likely provide the best trout fishing of the year.
Anglers should also begin to reap the benefits of walleye stocking this year. Walleye stocked in 1998 and 1999 are relatively common and will weigh nearly 4 lbs this year. The best time to target walleye is March and April, when fish move into tributaries and shallow rocky banks to spawn. Trolling live nightcrawlers over rocky bottoms or simple casting and retrieving are reliable methods. For those inclined to fishing artificial lures, trolling Shad Raps in shad and crayfish patterns is your best choice. The yellow perch population has also turned around, and several large fish weighing up to 2 lbs were caught last year. Summer is a good time to target perch. They can be caught on live shiners and jigging spoons on deep water humps and points along the main channel.
Bluegills and shellcrackers should not be overlooked, especially by those who are taking a day trip to the mountains and can only fish from the shore. Red wigglers and crickets fished on the bottom around the public boat docks at Lake Burton Fish Hatchery usually provide enough action to entertain the kids. Pond fishing opportunities for children are also available at Lake Burton Hatchery, which is located on Hwy 197 north of Clarkesville. For more information about fishing on Lake Burton, contact the local Fisheries office at 706-947-3112.
Carters Located between Calhoun and Ellijay on the Coosawattee River, this 3,220-acre reservoir is about a 2 hour drive from Atlanta. Carters Lake is Georgia's deepest reservoir, with many steep bluff banks and a completely undeveloped shoreline. A map showing contours and other features of the reservoir, as well as access information, is available from the COE Resource Manager's office (706-334-2248). Walleye in year classes resulting from a large stocking in 1995 and a good spawn in 1996 have continued to grow due to the abundance of threadfin shad; however, natural mortality and fishing pressure have lead to fewer fish. WRD conducted an additional walleye stocking in 2000 to counter the decline in numbers. Anglers can expect walleye to average 3-4 lbs with some fish now approaching and exceeding 10 lbs. As fish from the 2000 stocking grow to catchable size, there should be good numbers of smaller fish mixed in with a few trophies. In early spring, as the walleye prepare to spawn, anglers should try to locate them staging along wind-swept rocky shorelines, points, and shoals. Jigging spoons, deep diving crankbaits, and live nightcrawlers fished on leadhead jigs are all popular walleye lures. Into the summer months, experienced anglers usually switch to a trolling approach, again using deep diving crankbaits such as Hot-N-Tots and Wallydivers. Look for walleye in the summer and fall on deeper structure where baitfish are concentrated. Striper stocking continues as the populations of gizzard and threadfin shad grow. Some of the earlier stocked stripers are now exceeding 20 lbs. Survival from recent stockings has been excellent due to the abundant forage base. While providing excellent fishing, the stripers are doing double-duty by gobbling up lots of big shad. This causes the shad to reproduce and provides more small shad for

the spotted bass, crappie and walleye to eat. Though often overlooked, crappie populations have responded well to the striper stockings and the good food base. The average length for crappie is 8-10 inches. Anglers should focus their effort around the areas of standing timber found throughout the lake. Crappie will suspend in the timber year round. White bass and yellow bass are also abundant and can be taken by vertically jigging spoons or small jigs in areas where shad are present.
Spotted bass and largemouth bass numbers have been stable over the past few years. The average spot will be a little better than 12 inches and weigh just over 1 lb. Don't let this fool you, there are still plenty of the "magnum" spots that Carters is famous for. Unless someone finds a big largemouth, most bass tournament big-fish prizes will go to a 4+ lbs spot. In addition to the big spotted bass, WRD staff have collected largemouth bass up to 9 lbs. Bass fishing can be difficult for the inexperienced due to the deep water, steep banks, and the lack of visible cover. However, this is a trophy bass lake and persistence has its rewards.
Other offerings include bluegill, channel catfish, and flathead catfish. Channel catfish will average between 1-2 lbs and the less abundant flatheads will average a bit over 7 lbs. Rocky banks and points upriver are likely spots to find the cats. Bluegill are abundant, although most fish will be less than 6 inches. A bucket of worms or crickets is all one should need to sample the bluegill action.
Though boat access is limited to small jon boats, the lower (reregulation) pool at Carters, comprising 1,030 acres, supports good quantities of fish year round. Species include largemouth bass, bream, white bass, drum, buffalo, and catfish. There are many areas around the lower pool where bank anglers can gain access. Those who do venture out in a boat are reminded to use extreme caution since the water level in this pool can change rapidly and there are numerous shallow stumps and rocks.
Fishing opportunities in the tailwaters below the dam include walleye, white bass, sunfish, crappie, and an occasional striper. Fishing jetties are located on both banks downstream of the lower pool dam with picnic, restroom, and playground facilities nearby.
Chatuge Lake Chatuge is a 7,050 acre TVA reservoir located in Towns County, Georgia and Macon County, North Carolina. About half of the lake lies in each state. Georgia licensed anglers may fish from boats in the North Carolina portion of the lake as long as the boats are not anchored to the shore or a dock. Bank anglers must be licensed by the state in which they are fishing. Regulations of the appropriate state apply. A dynamic spotted bass population anchors Lake Chatuge fishing. Anglers should expect to catch high numbers of 1-2 lbs spots. Because spotted bass are growing faster on a diet of threadfin shad and blueback herring, fishing should continue to be excellent this year. Largemouth bass will average heavier (1 lbs), but take a back seat to spotted bass in numbers. Best areas for largemouths are coves with structure, such as logs, stumps and brush throughout the reservoir. Spotted and smallmouth bass seem to prefer main river channel banks composed of gravel-to-boulder size rocks with cover (stumps, brush and logs) at mid and lower lake sections. Smallmouth numbers remain low and will be a rare catch in 2001. In 2001, a black bass tagging study will be conducted by WRD to gather information on fish population size, survival rates, and the effects of angling on these species. Study findings will be used to formulate management options aimed at improving fishing for black bass. Approximately 300 spotted bass and 300 largemouth bass will

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be tagged with orange plastic tags. Information needed from anglers who catch tagged fish includes: 1) angler's name, address and phone number; 2) general location and date of catch, 3) was the tagged fish released alive or taken home. Please mail or bring the tag and information to the GA DNR office at 2150 Dawsonville Hwy, Gainesville, GA 30501 (770-535-5498).
The population of white bass is down from past years, but should still provide good action. Whites will average around 1 lb. Jigging hair jigs, plastic grubs and spoons and fishing topwater lures from May through July are effective methods for whites. A few large hybrid bass (8-15 lbs) are also around for the lucky angler. Walleye numbers are down from poor spawning success in recent years. Two pounders will be the most common size walleye, with a number of 35 lbs fish in this year's catch. Bluegill, lbs in size, will be a consistent contributor to the sunfish catch again this year. Fishing for larger bream is best when adult fish are on spawning beds during the summer months. Crappie will average near 2 lbs this year. The lake also supports a good population of channel catfish.
The threadfin shad population has been recovering following a single stocking in May 1996. The improvement in shad abundance, coupled with significant spawns of blueback herring since 1997, was documented through 2000. Negative impacts of bluebacks include their ability to out compete other fish for available food and preying on larval fish, including bass less than 1 inch long. It is legal to fish with or possess live blueback herring on Lake Chatuge. Georgia and North Carolina biologists will be monitoring the impact of the dynamic shad and herring populations.
Chehaw Lake Chehaw (Lake Worth) is a 1,400-acre impoundment of the Flint River, Muckalee and Kinchafoonee creeks located partly within the Albany city limits. The reservoir is owned and operated by the Georgia Power Company. Three boat ramps provide public access to the reservoir. Although Lake Chehaw is not generally considered an excellent fishing lake, it does provide some good fishing opportunities for anglers living in, or visiting, the Albany area. While Lake Chehaw is usually not noted for producing good largemouth bass fishing, it should produce fair numbers of 1-3 lbs bass during 2001. Best areas for bass will be in the backs of the creeks in the spring and fall, and in the main lake and Flint River during the summer months. WRD annually stocks around 10,000 hybrid bass in Lake Chehaw, and this year should provide fair fishing for 1-2 lbs fish. For some fast action, look for schools of hybrids feeding on shad early and late in the day during the summer. Crappie, bluegill and redear sunfish (shellcracker) fishing will only be fair in 2001. For crappie, try using a jig and minnow around creek mouths and around any visible cover, such as old stumps or fallen trees. A lot of submersed tree stumps and standing timber can be found in the main reservoir basin. Most bluegill will be small, with the average being less than 6 inches. However, anglers that can locate shallow water spawning beds will be rewarded with some nice catches of redear sunfish. The average redear should be around 8 inches. Worms and crickets work best, and areas in the creeks and around the islands are the most productive. Fishing for catfish will provide plenty of action this year. The average channel catfish should weigh around 2 lbs, while flathead catfish should average 8 lbs. Use live bait (bluegill or shad) along the old creek and river channel drop offs for flatheads. Fish shallow water coves and flats near deeper water during spring and fall for channel catfish. Concentrate your efforts in areas along the main river and creek channels in the summer. Channel catfish can be caught

using a variety of baits, such as large worms, chicken livers, and shad or mullet guts.
Additional angling opportunities exist below the tailrace below the dam. Flathead catfish and striped bass will provide the best chance at catching a trophy fish. Flatheads weighing 5-7 lbs are fairly common during the summer, with the occasional fish weighing over 20 lbs. These monster catfish are usually caught below the dam using live bluegill or shad as bait. Stripers up to 20 lbs can be caught using live bait (shad, shiners and eels) and bucktail jigs during the winter and early spring. Be aware that fishing for striped bass in the Flint River is closed from May 1- October 31.
Clarks Hill Clarks Hill (J. Strom Thurmond) is a 71,535-acre COE reservoir located 30 miles northeast of Augusta on the Savannah River. Use caution when boating on Clarks Hill as the lake was about 10 feet low at the start of the year. Contact the COE for more information on which boat ramps to use (800-533-3478). More than 30 fish attractors are maintained throughout the reservoir and a cast from shore will reach the sunken Christmas trees at Lloyds Creek and Ridge Road. Navigation charts, which contain fish attractor site symbols, can be obtained from the Clarks Hill COE office (800-533-3478). Crappie fishing has been excellent the last several years and should be again in 2001. Crappie will average lb, with the bigger slabs going 1-2 lbs. Fishing, Soap, Grays and Newford creeks and the Little River near Raysville, are great spots for crappie. The fish attractors will come into full play when the spring spawning frenzy ends. Fish attractors are a great place to take kids fishing. In addition to crappie, they hold good numbers of shellcracker, bluegill, largemouth bass, and catfish. Striped and hybrid bass fishing continues to be good. Stockings of these fish, averaging over 700,000 per year, are producing annual catches of 90,000-150,000 fish. Average weights should range from 3 lbs for hybrids to 7 lbs for stripers. The low lake level is forcing baitfish out of cover, and into the mouths of hungry striped and hybrid bass. These fish will be like footballs in 2001! Several monster stripers exceeding 20 lbs and hybrids exceeding 10 lbs should be caught. Winter and early spring angling areas include Big Creek, the Little River near Germany Creek upstream to Holiday Park, Soap Creek from the confluence with the Savannah River to US Hwy 378, the north bank of the reservoir above the dam, and major creeks near Bussey Point. Drifting live blueback herring usually provides the best results. A light-to-moderate breeze makes for good drift fishing. Otherwise, use your trolling motor to control speed and direction. Other techniques that work well are slowly trolling redfins, Norman lures or roostertails 60-80 feet behind the boat, and jigging spoons near drop-offs, ledges or humps in 20-30 feet of water. By summer and into the fall the hot spots for linesides will be in the mouths of major feeder creeks and rivers, particularly in the Russell tailwaters. Anglers can fish from the pier on the Georgia side below Russell Dam or anchor a boat in the tailwaters near the buoy line and fish towards the dam. Three rock berms on the Georgia side below the buoy line have been constructed and are providing excellent fishing for both boat and bank anglers. Again, live blueback herring is the best bait. You can catch your own herring with a cast net or buy them at local bait shops. Dead or cut bluebacks, shad, and large minnows also work. Popular artificial lures include doll flies, sinking spoons, and floating "stick-baits". Surface action for schooling fish occurs predominately during late summer and fall. Bucktails and poppers work well on schooling fish. Clarks Hill Lake has produced three consecutive strong year

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classes of largemouth bass, resulting in numerous small bass. WRD will tag 500 bass this spring to study the population closer. If you catch a tagged fish, please return the tag to the address printed it. This tagging study, along with other data collected by WRD, will helpful to improving the bass population. A large number of 12-14 inch bass should be available this year. Anglers have three good reasons to harvest these -1 lb bass: their "brothers and sisters" will grow faster, providing for more 3-5 lbs+ bass in the future; you will be trading fish that would have died of natural causes for fish in the frying pan; and these fish are perfect frying pan size. Best bets in the fall and winter are Grays, Lloyds, and Rousseau creeks in the Little River arm and Soap, Murry, and Fishing creeks in the Savannah River arm. Concentrate your efforts near Bussey Point and in Cliatt, Cherokee, and Big creeks during spring and summer. The flats around the confluence of the Savannah and Broad rivers are usually productive all year. Be sure to fish over hydrilla beds, particularly in the spring and fall, for some great surface action. Look around Bussey Point, Cherokee Creek, and Fort Gordon for the best concentration of hydrilla.
Shellcracker are big (many - lb) and easy to catch. Try crickets, worms, grubs, spinners, flies or wasp larvae. The best areas are usually Keg, Lloyd, Grays, Cliatt, Soap, Big and Fishing creeks. Hot spots for catfish are Little River near Holiday Park, Germany, Big and Hart creeks and the Broad River. Several 40+lbs flathead catfish have been caught in recent years.
There will be plenty of white bass and white perch for the next couple of years. The best time to catch white bass is during the spring spawning run. Check out the Broad River at Anthony Shoals and Little River past Hwy 78. Cast lightweight jigs into the current and let them flow downstream. White perch, a relative of the white bass and striped bass, are tons of fun on lightweight tackle and make an excellent meal. Look for white perch in 20-60 feet of water near ledges, drop-offs, and standing timber. Small jigs, spoons, or minnows work best.
Goat Rock Constructed in 1912, this 940-acre reservoir is located on the Chattahoochee River ten miles above Columbus between Oliver and Bartlett's Ferry reservoirs. The Georgia Power Company (706-3220228) operates this lake principally for "peaking" hydropower generation. The reservoir has limited access with one private ramp on the Georgia side near the dam, which is owned and operated by Reuben Britton. A public ramp is located on the Alabama side at the upper end of the reservoir and is owned by Georgia Power. WRD suggests that you contact Mr. Britton (706-322-6076) for current fishing conditions. Information on generating schedules and lake levels is available by calling 706-317-6000. The shoreline is primarily undeveloped and has little shoreline structure left. The shoreline is steep-sided and rocky and provides little woody structure. WRD maintains fish attractors to concentrate crappie and other fish. The fish attractors are marked with white buoys and their locations are available from WRD offices. Due to frequent power generation events at Bartlett's Ferry Dam at the upper end of the lake, water level fluctuations of 3-4 feet are common. Warmer water temperatures can lag behind other area reservoirs by as much as 2-3 weeks. Therefore, this lake may be the place to go after fishing has peaked on other waters. Little recreational boating takes place and anglers will find it a quiet place to fish. Goat Rock may be the best choice for bass anglers among the middle Chattahoochee reservoirs judging by the abundance of large bass. Average weights have remained stable at 1 lbs for largemouth

bass and just over lb for spotted bass from 1995-1999. Look for catches of lunker largemouth and preferred-sized spots to be common. Spots averaging about 1 lb can be found off rocky points and in deeper water than largemouth. The best months are April through June. A third black bass species, the shoal bass, is also present. Shoal bass are caught occasionally below Bartlett's Ferry Dam and up Mulberry Creek.
Bream fishing has historically been good on Goat Rock. The most productive spots are in backs of coves and sloughs. Live worms and crickets are effective for catching bluegills and redear sunfish. Catches of bluegills weighing - lb and redear from -1 lb are fairly abundant. The best months are April to June.
Annual stockings of hybrid bass have been paying off for anglers. The best time to pursue this quarry is during the spring and summer during power generations. A trophy-sized hybrid over 21 lbs was caught there in 1995. White bass are also present and are often found with the hybrids. The average hybrid catch will be 3-4 lbs, while the white bass will be around 1 lb.
Though not stocked in Goat Rock, a few striped bass are present. One striper collected by WRD in 1997 weighed over 22 lbs, but the others were smaller (10-18 inches). These fish likely traveled downstream from Bartlett's Ferry where they were stocked. WRD confirmed a striper catch of 26.3 lbs from Goat Rock in 2000. A striper fishery appears to be developing and the experienced angler targeting stripers can make similar catches. Angling during power generation in the tail waters below Bartlett's Ferry Dam should prove effective for stripers, as well as for hybrids.
If you are a catfish enthusiast, you cannot pick a better reservoir. Many large channel catfish up to 10 lbs or better and white catfish up to 2 lbs are caught throughout the year. Catches of channel catfish averaging 3-4 lbs will be common, and white catfish will weigh around 1 lb on average.
Crappie fishing is generally good in most years, with catches averaging 0.5-0.6 lb. Catches of "slabs" will not be uncommon for the dedicated crappie angler. Best sites are our fish attractors. Maps showing their locations are available at WRD offices.
Hartwell Lake Hartwell is a 56,000 acre reservoir located on the Savannah River along the Georgia-South Carolina border. Although only a 1 hour drive northeast from Atlanta, the lake receives only moderate fishing pressure when compared to other large Georgia reservoirs. Many boat ramps, camping areas, and state/county parks are scattered along the Georgia shoreline near the towns of Hartwell, Lavonia, and Toccoa. For the coming year, anglers can expect good fishing success when targeting largemouth bass, crappie, and hybrid bass. Anglers can expect their catch of largemouth bass, numbers and size, to be similar to past years. Fish in the 1-2 lbs weight classes will dominate the catch once again. From March to May, largemouth will be found nesting in shallow water in the small cove pockets and feeder creeks within the major coves of the lake. In early summer and fall, bass often feed on schooling shad near main lake points and riprap bridge crossings. During the summer doldrums and cold winter months, largemouth retreat to deep water where only slow moving baits that are patiently worked along the reservoir bottom will entice a strike. Redeye bass, a smaller cousin of the largemouth, are very abundant in Lake Hartwell and easy to catch with artificial lures. Redeyes are commonly found around rocky structure on the lower end of the lake. Anglers fishing for crappie will should find a number of black and white crappie over 10-inches. In fact, several crappie were

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collected in DNR fish surveys that tipped the scales at 2 lbs! Biologists expect these large slabs to begin appearing in the livewells of anglers early this spring. The major cove arms in the upper section of the reservoir, especially Eastanollee Creek, support more crappie than the deeper and more clear waters on the lower lake. Anglers should concentrate their efforts around visible structure, especially downed trees lying in five to 15 feet of water.
Hybrid bass fishing is very popular on Lake Hartwell. Incidental catches of a trophy striped bass provide an added bonus for anglers who target hybrids. A very strong year-class of hybrid bass was produced by the 1998 stocking. These fish, which weigh between 3-4 lbs, will dominate the catch. As the strong 1998 year-class grows over the next three years, trophy hybrids will become common place once again.
High Falls DNR operates this 650-acre State Park lake located north of Forsyth and just east of I-75 (exit # 198). Public access is provided by two boat ramps, one at the park office near the dam and one in Buck Creek. The lake is open to fishing during daylight hours only and the operation of outboard motors greater than 10 horsepower is prohibited. Boats with outboard motors greater than 10 horsepower may be used, but the outboard motor must not be operated. Crappie and bream are the species targeted by most anglers on this lake and account for over 80% of the total harvest. Typically, crappie are abundant, but tend to run smaller than on other area lakes. The average size should continue to be around 6-8 inches. However, nice crappie weighing 1-1 lbs are out there for the persistent angler. The chances of catching big crappie are greater early in the spring before their numbers diminish from heavy fishing pressure. Trolling small jigs around drop-offs, points, and creek channels is very effective in winter and early spring. Minnows and jigs fished in shallow water near brush, stumps, or blowdowns will be more effective once water temperatures reach 60oF in spring. Bream populations often provide ample catches of bluegill and redear sunfish (shellcracker). The typical size range for harvested bluegill is 5-7 inches. Shellcrackers of 7-9 inches are the most common size, with occasional fish exceeding 10-12 inches. Quite a few shellcrackers in the 7-10 inch size range were present in fall 2000! Largemouth bass numbers have been stable for several years and the average weight across all sizes is over 1 lb. The relative abundance of large bass (15-25 inches) is ranked near the top among major reservoirs within the state. In 2000, 24% of the fish were larger than 15 inches. Try crankbaits and jigs in Buck Creek and Watkin's Bottom during spring and fall for big fish. Point bars and downed trees in the water are good spots to key. Relatively low bass fishing pressure and high numbers of large fish should result in some very good bass fishing for those who try their luck at High Falls. Channel catfish and bullhead catfish are the most common catfish species, with fewer numbers of flathead catfish. The average channel catfish is 2-3 lbs, but fish exceeding 5 lbs are fairly abundant. Trophy size flathead catfish of 20 lbs or greater are available. The former state record flathead (53 lbs) was caught on High Falls. Try fishing deep holes and channel bends in the lower end of the lake for flatheads and channel cats. Hybrid striped bass have been successfully stocked for several years. Anglers targeting these fish should be rewarded with catches that average 2-3 lbs. Hybrids from 5-10 lbs are common, and some 10 lbs and better fish are also available. The lake record hybrid is 13.9 lbs. Several other hybrids over 12 lbs have also been caught.

White bass are present and are usually found with the hybrids. Catches up to 2-3 lbs for dedicated white bass anglers are likely. High Falls is a `sleeping giant' for hybrid and white bass. This is practically an untapped fishery that has the potential to yield some excellent catches in number and size. One suggestion for hooking up with white bass is to fish the upper reaches of the lake and into the Towaliga River during the March and April spawning runs. Another proven method is working spoons and grub baits just above the dam during winter and early spring. Drift fishing with live or cut shad can produce big hybrids and catfish.
For more information regarding fishing opportunities and park facilities, contact the High Falls State Park office at 912-993-3053.
Jackson Lake Jackson is a 4,750 acre impoundment located in Jasper, Butts, and Newton counties in central Georgia and is owned and operated by Georgia Power Company. Lake Jackson is formed by the Alcovy, South, and Yellow Rivers and Tussahaw Creek. Several boat ramps provide public access. One ramp is owned and operated by Georgia Power (Lloyd Shoals Park) and the others are at privately operated marinas. There is also a GPC boat ramp and fishing pier just below the dam that provides fishing access to the upper Ocmulgee River. The shoreline is heavily developed and the lake is very popular with recreational boaters and skiers during the summer months. Annual lake drawdowns occur between December and March and only two or three of the boat ramps are usable when the drawdown approaches 8 feet or more. For additional information on the location of the boat ramps, bank fishing opportunities, and lake draw-down schedules, contact Georgia Power Company's Land Department at 770-775-4753. Lake Jackson is one of the better bream lakes in middle Georgia. Bluegill and redbreast sunfish typically reach 5-7 inches. However, redear sunfish (shellcracker) are also numerous and often much larger. Live bait such as red worms, meal worms, or crickets fished just off the bottom will often result in catches of redear from 7-10 inches, and individuals weighing 1 lb or more are common. April, May, and June are the best months for big bluegill and redear. The current lake record is 2 lbs 3 oz. Catfish are the second most-harvested fish. Most will be white catfish or bullheads and average -1 lb. Large channel catfish, 10 lbs or better, are there for the dedicated catfish angler, but expect the average size to be about 2-3 lbs. The crappie population has remained fairly stable in recent years. Most will be about 8 inches. A couple of good spawning seasons within the last six years have resulted in better than average crappie fishing. Those fish have continued to grow and should produce some nice catches again this year. Largemouth bass abundance has not changed notably in recent years. The average bass has remained -1 lb. In 2000, 13% of the bass were greater than 15 inches, and averaged just under 1 lb. Anglers seeking large bass (5 lbs or better) have the most success during fall, winter, and early spring (October-February). Crankbaits and Carolina rigged worms fished in or near deep water are most effective for larger bass. Early morning and night are the best times to fish during the summer. The spotted bass population appears to be on the increase. Last year the average spotted bass was just under 9 inches. Spots will undoubtedly provide increased fishing opportunities in the future and should be targeted by anglers looking for something a little different. Spotted bass tend to be located deeper than largemouth bass. They are commonly caught at depths of 25-40 feet, but they may also be attracted by surface baits when they are

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shallow enough to take notice of these offerings. Remember that there is no minimum size limit on spotted bass in Lake Jackson.
Hybrid striped bass have been stocked annually since the early 1980s. Hybrids will average 1-3 lbs, and some will weigh in at 7-8 lbs. Though not noted for large hybrids, the lake record is 15 lbs 2 oz. Hybrids are in good condition and average just under 1 lb. Try casting bucktails or jigging spoons around the dam or looking for schools feeding on top in the spring and summer.
Juliette Lake Juliette, also known as Rum Creek, is a 3,600 acre Georgia Power Company (GPC) reservoir located 15 miles north of Macon. Impounded in 1980, the lake provides cooling water for the coal fired Plant Scherer electric generating facility. Two boat ramps owned and maintained by GPC are available for public use. The use of outboard motors greater than 25 horsepower is prohibited. Boats with larger outboards may be used, but the outboard must not be operated. Lake Juliette is characterized by a small watershed, clear water, and extensive aquatic plant beds. The combined result is a relatively infertile reservoir with somewhat smaller sport fish populations than are found on other middle Georgia reservoirs. However, standing timber that remains in coves and main lake areas contribute to the diverse array of habitats that provide varied fishing opportunities. Low fishing pressure and the liberal, no-minimum length limit on largemouth bass offset, to some extent, the lake's slightly lower productivity. Smaller crowds, an undeveloped shoreline, beautiful scenery, and abundant wildlife should also attract anyone interested in a quality fishing experience. Striped bass have been annually stocked at relatively low rates due to the limited food supply. An abundance of cool water during the summer has resulted in excellent survival and growth and a strong fishery has developed for Juliette stripers. Many striped bass anglers concentrate their efforts near the pump discharge located just above the dam. This is an excellent place to catch stripers when water is being pumped in from the Ocmulgee River. Other successful methods include trolling creek channels during the cooler months, then moving to the cooler depths located in the main lake during summer. Drifting or fishing on the bottom with live or cut shad has produced some of the largest catches in recent years. Several striped bass around 35 lbs have been caught over the past three years and Juliette's reputation as a trophy striper lake continues to grow. The new lake record (40 lbs) was caught in 2000. The average weight for striped bass is just under 5 lbs. The striper stocking rate was back to the desired rate in 2000 and should be continued into 2001. The occasional shoal bass has been caught near the rocky areas in the vicinity of the pumped water discharge. Blueback herring, a bait that are preferred by striper and hybrid anglers, were first detected in Lake Juliette in 1999. WRD believes that anglers have released them into the lake in recent years. It is not known to what degree they have successfully spawned, but they are becoming more common and are being caught in cast nets by anglers with increasing frequency. Negative impacts of bluebacks include their ability to out-compete other fish for food and their predation on larval fish, including bass less than 1 inch in length. Like in other reservoirs where this fish has been introduced, WRD will be monitoring the impact of blueback herring on the lake's fish populations. It is now legal to fish with or possess live blueback herring on Lake Juliette. Largemouth bass abundance remains below that found in other middle Georgia reservoirs. Average bass size has increased gradually in recent years and now stands at about 1 lb. Twenty-five percent of

the largemouth bass are 15 inches and greater. The average harvested bass weighs a respectable 1 lbs, and a number of trophy bass from 12-16 lbs have been caught in the past. Bass can usually be found concentrated along the edges of aquatic plant beds, but remember to use light line in the clear water. Good catches are made off points, creek channels, and other deep water structure in the middle portions of the lake during summer and winter. Deep diving crankbaits and Carolina rigged plastic worms are two of the most effective baits for largemouth bass.
The low abundance of food produces only fair crappie populations, but the average size is often fairly good. In 2000, 30% of fish were over 9 inches in length. Light-colored jigs fished in the upper end of the lake are most effective in spring and early summer. The area around the Holly Grove boat ramp is one of the best places to target crappie.
Lake Juliette is one of the best shellcracker holes in the area for numbers. Fish will average about 6 inches, but large numbers are found every spring on beds in shallow, weedy areas. Find one of these and expect a fish almost every cast. Bluegill, however, suffer from overpopulation and stunting and only the occasional hand-size fish is caught.
The small catfish population is composed almost entirely of bullheads and fishing for these bottom dwellers is poor. Channel catfish juveniles were stocked this winter to help bolster the population and to potentially improve fishing for this species. Flathead catfish have entered the reservoir through pumping operations and may add diversity and trophy potential. More information on Lake Juliette facilities can be obtained from the Georgia Power Land office at 770-775-4753.
Lanier Lake Lanier is a 38,000 acre reservoir operated by the COE about 50 miles northeast of Atlanta. Lanier receives very heavy fishing pressure due to its proximity to Atlanta. Spotted bass, crappie, striped bass, and catfish are the species most sought after. Results of the 1997 bass tagging study predicted the 14-inch minimum length limit would improve spotted bass by anglers by as much as 50%. Therefore, anglers should see an improvement in their catch of 1-3 lbs spotted bass in 2001, the third year of regulation change. Largemouth bass abundance has remained stable. Good numbers of 2-3 lbs fish are present. Abundance of largemouth bass over 5 lbs appears average, with more big bass upstream of the confluence of the Chestatee and Chattahoochee rivers. Crappie anglers should have an average year when it comes to numbers. One-half pound fish will be the rule this year. The heaviest stringers will be produced from late February through April when larger spawning fish are shallow. Top spots for these panfish are the upper Chattahoochee arm (Clarks Bridge area) and Thompson and Taylor creeks. Also, crappie will concentrate at fish attractors constructed and maintained by COE and WRD staff. Maps showing the locations of recently refurbished attractor sites can be obtained from the COE office at Lake Lanier (770-945-9531) and the Gainesville WRD office (page 1). A guide to bank fishing opportunities is also available. Some key bank fishing spots include Lanier Point Park, Sardis Creek Ramp, Little River Landing, and Charleston Park. Buford Dam Park and River Forks Park are two good sites that are accessible to persons with disabilities. This will be an average year for white bass. Anglers should fill their creels with lb fish and larger whites (2 lbs). The key to early success is to fish the spawning runs up the Chattahoochee and Chestatee rivers in March and April.

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Lanier anglers can expect fishing for striped bass to be similar to last year, but with an increase in fish size. The apparent improved weight gains by striped bass in recent years are likely due to good dissolved oxygen levels in deep water during summer and to an abundant supply of blueback herring, a preferred forage species. Young stripers produced from the successful stocking in 1998 will range between 4-7 lbs and are expected to be a major contributor to the Lanier fishery for the next 2-3 years. One out of every five stripers should weigh between 15-20 lbs due to good survival of fish stocked in 1991,1993, and 1996. Numbers of older, larger (25-30 lbs) stripers will be rare. The colder months of the year (NovemberMarch) offer the best striper fishing. Live bait (trout, shiners, bluegill and shad) and bucktail jigs will produce the best results.
Several other species should offer good fishing opportunities. Channel catfish are numerous lakewide and average about 1 lb. Bluegill in the -1/3 lb category can be caught on a regular basis from May through August. In recent years, walleye abundance and catches increased due to better spawning success. Walleye concentrate in the upper reaches of the reservoir in late winter, but migrate in summer to the lower section of the reservoir seeking the cool, oxygenated waters (25-40 feet) closer to the dam. Shoreline trolling with spinners and crankbaits and still fishing nightcrawlers on the bottom at depths of 5-30 feet are effective methods for taking walleye year around.
Live blueback herring, a preferred baitfish for stripers and hybrids, became legal to possess and fish with on Lake Lanier in November 2000. Since this exotic species has become well established, there is no longer the need to prohibit their use as live bait. Negative impacts of bluebacks include their ability to out compete other fish for available food and preying on larval fish, including bass less than 1-inch long. WRD will be monitoring the impact of this species on the fish populations.
Nottely Lake Nottely is a 4,180 acre TVA reservoir in Union County, and is operated for power generation, navigation, and flood control. The lake's relatively fertile water supports a diverse fish community. The most popular species are largemouth bass, crappie and striped bass. There is a good supply of largemouth bass, with most catchable fish ranging from 2-4 lbs. Nottely's reputation as a big bass producer should not be tarnished this year. Anglers can expect to catch fewer 1 lb fish this year due to poor recruitment of young largemouth to the population in recent years. Hot spots for largemouth are Ivy Log Creek, Young Cane Creek and most cove pockets in the mid and upper lake sections. Spotted bass will make up about half of the total black bass catch and will average near 1 lb. Spotted bass and smallmouth bass prefer rocky and steeper shoreline areas on the lower half of the reservoir. Striped bass weighing 5-15 lbs will make up most of the 2001 harvest. The number of fish over 20 lbs remains low, but these trophy-size specimens, including a few exceeding 40 lbs, will continue to be caught periodically. In addition to fishing the spring run up the Nottely River, fishing with large surface plugs around points near deep water in the main body of the lake should be productive. Bucktail jigs and live bait (shad and bluegill) fished deep off points and steep shorelines will also produce. Blueback herring, a preferred baitfish for stripers and hybrids, are now very common because they have spawned annually since 1996. Bluebacks are able to out compete other fish for available food and prey on larval fish, including bass less than 1-inch in length.

Fisheries biologists will be monitoring the impact of this species on the fish populations. It is legal to fish with and possess live blueback herring on Lake Nottely.
Hybrid bass were stocked for the first time in 1999 to reduce the blueback herring population. Hybrids appear to survive at a higher rate and grow faster than striped bass early in life. They may give Nottely predators an upper hand in reducing the herring population to acceptable levels. These two year fish are surviving and growing well. The Nottely hybrids will grow to 3-4 lbs by the end of the year on a diet of shad and herring.
Crappie anglers should expect to fill their daily creel as often as they did last year with an average fish weighing 2 lbs. Numbers of older, larger slabsides, now -1 lb, will make up about 25% of the catch. March and April are the favorite months for crappie fishing. Best spots are the coves with fish attractors constructed and maintained by WRD, USFS, TVA, and local anglers. Maps showing these attractor sites, camping facilities, and boat access sites can be obtained from the Gainesville WRD office (770-535-5498) and USFS Blairsville office (706-745-6928).
In addition to the fish attractors, 120 spawning benches were installed in 1998 and 1999 to improve spawning areas for smallmouth bass. In 2001, fish cover constructed of natural brush, treetops, and Christmas trees was installed over 1-mile of shoreline in the vicinity of Jacks Creek as added cover to improve survival of young largemouth bass.
A fishable walleye population exists from limited survival of lake-spawned fish. Walleye around 2-4 lbs are available with a few larger fish in the population. Shoreline trolling with spinners and crankbaits and still fishing nightcrawlers on the bottom at depths of 5-30 feet are effective methods for taking walleye year around. Nighttime tactics include casting small crankbaits along moderate to steep, rocky banks and still fishing live bait (shiners and nightcrawlers) on the bottom near main channel points. Walleyes prefer cooler, oxygenated water with temperatures ranging from 650F to 720F.
Several other fish species offer good fishing opportunities. The white bass population is in good shape and should provide a lot of action for boat and bank anglers. Small curlytail grubs (chartreuse, white) and crankbaits are effective on white bass. Fishing for larger bream, -1/3 lb, is best when adult fish are on spawning beds throughout the lake from May through August. Try live earthworms or crickets. The best fishing for catfish species will be in the upper half of the reservoir. Carp are abundant and readily take prepared catfish baits, corn, and dough balls.
Oconee This 19,050-acre Georgia Power impoundment was formed by the construction of Wallace Dam in 1979. Lake Oconee is approximately 60 miles east of Atlanta near the towns of Madison and Greensboro. The lake's primary function is hydropower generation and is operated with Lake Sinclair as a pump-storage facility. This unique operation in combination with the lake's long and narrow shape produces noticeable water flow during power generation. Standing (1,250 acres) and 50 topped timber plots were left along creek and river channels as fish attracting structures. Public access is readily available through eight Georgia Power and USFS facilities and several lake-side marinas which offer lodging, food, bait, tackle, and related services. Lake Oconee's protected slot (11-14 inches) regulation is used to improve bass growth through the selective harvest of small fish. A wholesale catch and release approach is not the best strategy for

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producing quality-size bass on this reservoir. Approximately 50% of the bass during 2000 were small (less than 11 inches) legal-size fish, which is an improvement from a couple of years ago when small bass comprised about 70% of the population. Angler return of tags from largemouth tagged during February 2000 indicates that release of all largemouth is still too common of a practice for Lake Oconee. The removal of small bass is essential for slot limits to work, while harvest of larger fish is optional.
Crappie account for the largest portion of fish harvested each year. It appears that good numbers of harvestable fish will be available to anglers again this spring with about one-half exceeding 10 inches in length. Crappies are caught year-round, but the best conditions for good catches occur from February through April. Most of the "slabs" are caught between winter fronts on warm February afternoons. Concentrate your effort at this time of year near or on mudflats in the upper reaches of the reservoir. As water temperatures begin to hover around 60oF fish stick-ups in shallow water for bedding fish.
Spawning white bass in the Oconee and Apalachee rivers during March and April allow anglers to enjoy this fishery and crappie fishing on the same day. Good numbers of white bass are present, but hybrid numbers are down again this year. Appreciable numbers of white bass begin to move upstream as river temperatures break 50oF. Hybrids tend to make this same migration a little later than white bass during years with strong river flows. A major peak in hybrid fishing coincides with the threadfin shad spawn during April. The shoreline spawning habits of the shad attract and concentrate hybrids to accessible areas. Many breaking and submerged hybrid schools will be found in the middle third of the reservoir from late spring through early fall. These fish tend to move back to the lower third of the reservoir by November and remain there through winter.
Lake Oconee supports a "sleeper" fishery for channel catfish. This species comprised a large percentage of fish population again this past year. Channel catfish can pick-up the slack when the more glamorous species fall off during the warmer months. They are a great first-time fishing species to target, especially for youngsters. Two other species of catfish, blue and flathead catfish, have established populations through unauthorized stockings over the last few years.
Oliver Located on the Chattahoochee River within the city limits of Columbus, Georgia Power Company (GPC) operates this2,150 acre reservoir. The City Marina near the dam on the Georgia side has the only paved boat ramp open to the public on the lake. One other public access area offering boat launching is located at the upper end (Alabama side). The ramp is of gravel composition and affords launching to small fishing boats. Oliver has lots of recreational boating during the summer months, but anglers do not usually encounter heavy boating traffic during early spring and late fall. WRD maintains three fish attractors on the lake. These are marked with buoys and maps showing their locations are available at the marina and at WRD offices. Also, a pier near the marina is open to the public for fishing. WRD suggests that you contact Bobby Barron at the marina (706-323-0316) for up-to-the-minute information on what's biting, where and on what. For additional information on use areas around the lake contact the GPC land department office at 706-322-0228. Information on generating schedules and lake levels is available by calling 706-317-6000. Lake Oliver is probably best known for its bream fishing. Bluegill fishing is good during April and May, and the average catch

is 6-8 inches with weights of -1/3 lb. Worms work best, and the backs of coves and sloughs are the most productive sites. Redear sunfish are even larger with some reaching 1-1 lbs. Pink worms may be the best bait.
Crappie anglers have typically done well on Oliver. Crappie enthusiasts prefer various jigs but minnows are effective on most occasions. Favorites spots are the mouth of Standing Boy Creek and under Standing Boy Creek Bridge. The boat dock at the Green Island Marina is also productive. Try these areas and our fish attractors during late winter and early spring. Look for catches to average 0.4 lb, but a few "slabs" are available.
Fishing for hybrid bass and white bass is sometimes good, particularly below Goat Rock Dam where large numbers congregate in the spring. Look for hybrids to average about 2-3 lbs, while whites should average 1 lb.
You can catch three species of black basses including largemouth, spotted bass, and shoal bass. Largemouth is the more prevalent and sought after species, followed by spotted bass. Catches of largemouth up to 10 lbs have been reported, but fish from 1-1 lbs are the average. Catches of "spots" will range from 10-14 inches and average under 1 lb. Boat docks and fishing piers found around the lake are favorite areas for largemouth and spot anglers, but do not overlook rocky points and stumpy areas. Shoal bass are caught occasionally in the tailwaters below Goat Rock Dam.
Rabun Lake Rabun is the third reservoir in a chain of lakes on the Tallulah River, which is located in the northeast Georgia mountains near Clayton. This narrow reservoir is 10 miles long and covers 834 acres. Spotted bass and largemouth bass are relatively abundant and the favorite targets of local anglers. Many anglers also enjoy summer time fishing for bluegill, redbreast, and shellcrackers. Black crappie, yellow perch, and walleye add a little variety to Lake Rabun fishing. The spotted bass population continues to grow in numbers and average size. Spotted bass are more abundant along the steep, rocky shorelines on the lower end of the lake. In contrast, largemouth show a preference for the shallow and flat areas on the upper half of the lake, especially in the area known as the Big Basin. During spring, spots will be found in 8-15 feet of water and holding close to the rocks and blowdowns. For those who enjoy topwater fishing, activity peaks in April and May. If you who enjoy catching big largemouth on live bait, February and March are prime months. During late winter, largemouth can be found bunched up around blown down trees. Lake Rabun has traditionally been known for its excellent bream fishing. Bluegill and shellcracker weighing up to 1 lb are relatively abundant. Bream are easiest to catch during the summer when they congregate around boat docks. Bluegill readily take a cricket, whereas the larger shellcrackers prefer red wigglers in deeper water. Two small public fishing piers are located at the upper boat ramp. The habitat around these piers has been enhanced to attract sunfish. Black crappie, yellow perch, and walleye can be caught occasionally. From February through May, crappie fishing is best in the narrow section of the upper lake where a number of trees have fallen into the lake. Most crappie will range from 10-12 inches and weigh around lb. In March and April, the few remaining walleye will also migrate into this narrow, upper section on their way to the shallow headwaters. These fish will weigh 6-8 lbs this spring. Bumping nightcrawlers or crankbaits along the bottom is the best method for hooking into one of these rare trophies. Yellow perch can be caught on small spinners and red wigglers during the spring and summer. Schools of perch can usually be found on weedy flats next

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to the river channel in the upper section of the lake. Nacoochee Park, which is located at the headwater section just below Nacoochee Dam, is an excellent place to cast small spinners from the bank.
Richard B. Russell This 26,650-acre reservoir is nestled between Lakes Hartwell and Clarks Hill on the Savannah River. Please refer to the 2001-2002 Sport Fishing Regulations to learn how an agreement between Georgia and South Carolina benefits anglers from both states. Largemouth bass fishing in 2000 was fair most of the season. Water levels did have an impact on catches. Adult largemouth bass are plentiful with approximately 30% over 16 inches in size. Largemouth are often found in structure 20-30 feet deep and can sometimes be caught by jigging spoons. Spotted bass are becoming more plentiful. They can be located near the Pearl Mill area of the Beaverdam Creek arm and from the forebay area of Russell dam upstream to the Mountain View/Pickens Creek area on the Savannah arm. About 25% of the black bass population is spotted bass. Crappie catches should be similar to last year's harvest. Catches should average about 11 inches and weigh of a pound. Picken's Creek, Van Creek, Allen Creek and the upper arm of Beaverdam Creek should be good spring hot spots. Although striped bass and hybrid bass are not stocked into Russell, small numbers are entering the lake. Hybrids and striped bass in the 6-10 lbs range can be found in the big water from the railroad trestle to the dam and in the headwater areas of the lake. Fishing the upper areas of the Rocky River arm in the spring months can be very successful for striped bass anglers. Blueback herring make good bait and are abundant in the lake.
Seminole Since its impoundment in 1957, this 37,500-acre COE reservoir, formed at the junction of the Flint and Chattahoochee Rivers in the southwestern corner of Georgia, has earned the reputation for producing excellent fishing. During 2001, Lake Seminole should provide excellent fishing for bluegill, redear sunfish (shellcracker), and channel catfish and good fishing for largemouth bass and crappie. Largemouth bass fishing continues to show signs of recovering from the bass fishing slump that occurred during the mid-1990s on this famous bass fishing destination. The number of bass larger than 12 inches is presently greater than it's been in recent years. As a result, bass fishing will continue to improve again this year, especially for 2-3 lbs fish. All indications are that bass fishing will continue to improve over the next few years, and Lake Seminole will regain its reputation as one of the premier bass lakes in Georgia. Since 40% of the reservoir is covered with aquatic vegetation, the key to catching bass is learning to fish weedbeds. Your best bet will be to throw a plastic worm, spinner bait, or top-water lure along the edges of the weedbeds. March through May are the best months. Hybrid bass will provide plenty of action this year. Hybrid numbers are down somewhat; however, anglers can expect to catch good numbers of 3 lbs fish. Striped bass numbers are higher than they have ever been. Fishing is expected to be good for this species, with fish averaging around 2 lbs. Because these fish prefer open water, your best bet at catching some nice hybrids, or stripers, will be in the areas near the dam, or up the Flint or Chattahoochee River arms in the spring and winter months. Due to the ongoing efforts to rebuild striped bass populations, fishing for all species will be closed in five springs located in Lake Seminole from May through October. For more information on these restrictions, please see the 2001-2002

Sport Fishing Regulations. Channel catfish numbers continue to be good, and catfish anglers
should be rewarded with excellent fishing this season. The good catfish population is probably the result of fish escapement from upstream ponds, lakes, and a private hatchery during the flood of 1994. The average catfish caught will weigh around 2-3 lbs, but the chances of catching 10 lbs and larger catfish will be good. Main lake areas in the Flint and Chattahoochee River arms should provide the best fishing. According to local anglers, prepared blood and cheese baits fished on small artificial worms is a year round favorite.
Although Seminole is not usually noted for its crappie fishing, it can produce some good catches, especially in winter and spring. Crappie numbers will be good this year, and the average weight will be nearly 1 lb, with fish over 2 lbs available. Your best bet is to use minnows and jigs in the open areas near the dam and in the Flint and Chattahoochee River arms.
Bluegill and redear sunfish fishing was excellent in both numbers and size last year. All indications are that fishing will be equally good this year. The average size fish should be 8 inches and larger, with an occasional one pounder. The key to consistently catch these fish is to locate shallow water spawning beds during spring and early summer. Good areas to start looking are Spring Creek, Saunder's Slough, and in backwater areas off the Chattahoochee River. The best baits are red wrigglers and crickets.
The infestation of Hydrilla, an exotic plant, continues to restrict boating and fishing access in approximately 15,000 acres of the lake. The problem is worse in late summer and fall when Hydrilla grows to the surface. The most accessible areas of the lake are along the river channels. The COE is currently using sterile grass carp to help control Hydrilla in the Fish Pond Drain and Cypress Pond areas. Grass carp were stocked behind barriers in these two areas. The barriers are designed to contain the grass carp and allow boat passage. Boaters should use caution when navigating through these areas and report any damage to the COE as soon as possible. Grass carp caught within the confined areas should be immediately returned to the water. Dead grass carp found inside, or outside, the barriers should be iced, or frozen, and given to the COE. Beginning in early summer, the COE is planning to control Hydrilla in the Spring Creek arm of the reservoir with a large-scale, low dose, application of the aquatic herbicide Sonar. Call the COE Resource Management Office (912-662-2001) for information and lake maps, or visit the COE web site www.sam.usace.army.mil/sam/op/rec/seminole Current fishing reports and information on lodging in the Lake Seminole area can be found on the Bainbridge Bass Club web site www.bassangler.com/bbc.
Sinclair Lake Sinclair is located north of Milledgeville off Hwy 441. The reservoir covers more than 14,750 acres and stretches over Baldwin, Hancock, and Putnam counties. It is owned and operated by Georgia Power Company, but Georgia DNR (DNR) manages the fishery resources. This reservoir provides good fishing opportunities for catfish, crappie, largemouth bass, and hybrids. Catfish are both abundant and popular. The primary catfish species of interest is the channel catfish, however, both white catfish and bullheads are also common. Most channel catfish will be -2 lbs, with good numbers up to 5 lbs. The reservoir has trophy potential with some 20-30 lbs fish. Crappie numbers will be down slightly from last year. However, the quality of the catch should be excellent this spring with some individuals more than 2 lbs. The catch in this spring will be

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dominated by fish over 8 inches with almost half of the catch larger than 10 inches. Late-winter trolling in the Beaverdam Creek arm or spring trolling in the upper ends of coves with crappie jigs or Hal-flys is usually productive for spring-spawning crappies. Toward late spring when the water begins to warm, try pitching jigs, small crank baits, or fishing minnows in submerged treetops and around docks with brush. When the water really warms up in the summer, try fishing with lights under bridges or around deepwater lighted-docks at night. In addition, do not overlook the fish attractors maintained by DNR for crappie fishing. These areas are marked by white buoys and are typically surrounded by sunken trees and brush that serves to attract all species of game fish.
Although not typically noted as a big bass reservoir, many harvestable sized largemouth bass are caught and released each year. The reservoir's popularity for largemouth bass fishing is evidenced by the many bass tournaments held annually. Largemouth fishing will continue to be good this year, with overall abundance at a sevenyear high. Quality will be similar to the last several years. There are good numbers of 15-20 inch fish in the population. The lake record is currently 13 lbs 2 oz..
Best fishing for largemouth bass in the early spring is on main points in deeper water or on underwater structure (humps). As the water warms, the fish move to shallow water to spawn. Anglers should try fishing drop-offs, deep brush piles, and lighted docks at night in the summertime. The edges of weed beds early in the morning or late in the afternoon can also be productive. In the fall the fish move back into the shallows of the creeks. Many anglers report their best success during the generation or pump-back phase at Wallace Dam, when water movement occurs, especially in the Oconee River arm. Baits to try include spinner baits, crank baits, jig and pig, plastic worms, lizards, or buzz-baits.
Hybrid bass continues to be popular. Last spring, more than 369,000 hybrids were stocked (25/acre). Hybrids are scheduled to be stocked again this year. Good stocking success in 1999 and 2000, means that more hybrids will be available to catch over the next several years. Although many of those fish are initially smaller, they should reach 15-20 inches in less than two years. The catch this spring will be dominated by 2-4 lbs fish, with good numbers of fish up to 20 inches and longer.
White bass populations greatly declined following the construction of Wallace Dam, but have leveled off to consistent levels over the past several years. Look for both hybrids and white bass in the Beaverdam Creek arm during late winter. The action will move up in the major tributaries during the spring spawning run. Good locations include Little River and Murder Creek. Another traditional area for white bass and large hybrids in the spring is directly below Wallace Dam, although this area is not as productive as it once was. An area worth trying for large hybrids in the spring is the Oconee River below Sinclair dam.
Both bluegill and redear sunfish (shellcrackers) are present, but like most other middle Georgia reservoirs, sizes are generally small. Bluegill will average about 4-5 inches, with some individuals up to 67 inches. Shellcrackers will be much bigger, with the average around 6 inches. Some up to 10 inches will be caught.
Public access is readily available through four GPC and USFS facilities and ten privately owned lakeside marinas. Many privately owned marinas offer boating access for a fee besides camping, food, bait, and tackle. A popular area for bank anglers is the Sinclair Dam tailrace area, which is owned and operated by GPC. The area is found immediately downstream of Sinclair Dam and is accessible from Sinclair Dam Road on the west side of the river. The tailrace has

been improved with a fishing platform designed for persons with disabilities. A safety railing extends along the west side of the tailrace for a distance of 800 feet. Bank anglers can also fish the areas near and around most bridge and railroad overpasses. The bridge overpasses that are used most are along Hwy 441, Crooked Creek, Twin Bridges, and Hwy 212. For more information concerning the location of boat ramps, bank fishing opportunities, or other facilities, contact the GPC Land Department (706-485-8770).
Construction continues on a large, new access area in Putnam County just upriver of the Hwy 441 bridge on the Little River arm. This project is a combined effort of Putnam County, DNR, and GPC. The area is expected to be opened sometime in 2001. Eventually, the site will have six lanes for boat launching and parking for up to 300 boaters. The site will have the capacity to hold large tournaments without crowding out other anglers and boaters. A fishing pier has already been constructed. Additionally, there will be ample shoreline area for bank fishing. This area will be accessible off Twin Bridges Road and should be convenient to boaters and anglers from Macon, Eatonton, and Milledgeville.
Tobesofkee Tobesofkee is a 1,750-acre lake owned and operated by Bibb County near Macon. An admission fee is required to gain access to the lake. The shoreline is becoming heavily developed on the lower end, but is still relatively undeveloped above the Lower Thomaston Road bridge. The Bibb County Recreation Department maintains a large area for bank fishing on the upper end of the lake called the "fingers." This area is a good place to catch crappie, catfish, and hybrids, particularly in the springtime. You can catch crappie, white bass, and hybrids directly below the dam in the spring. On a per acre basis, Tobesofkee probably has the most public bank fishing access of any reservoir in middle Georgia. The lake is very popular with summertime pleasure boaters. This can make summer fishing difficult. At other times of the year, in early morning or late evening, Tobesofkee can be an excellent choice for hybrids, largemouth bass, and crappie. Some anglers find the fish difficult to catch, but if you are willing to get to know the underwater "landscape" and fish that structure, Tobesofkee can be the place for serious hybrid, largemouth, and crappie fishing. Lake levels were seriously impacted by the drought in 2000. Underwater boating hazards that were submerged in the past were exposed during the record low lake levels. Upper areas were virtually impassable to boating traffic. On the positive side, the low water levels gave die-hard anglers a chance to check out some of that underwater structure. The good news is that the fish populations were virtually unaffected by the low lake levels. Tobesofkee should have one of the more abundant hybrid populations among middle Georgia reservoirs. Hybrids have been on the comeback because of good survival of 35,000 and 39,500 hybrids stocked in 1999 and 2000. Hybrids are scheduled to be stocked in the spring of 2001. Over half of the fish caught in 2001 will be 15-20 inches in length. Anglers can expect to catch a few larger hybrid bass. The largemouth bass abundance will be similar to last year. Quality will be improved as the 1998 and 1999 strong year classes continue to grow. Average weight will continue to increase. Approximately one-third should be over 15 inches and some will exceed 22 inches. Overall crappie abundance is at the highest level we've seen in several years. Greater than 50% of the catch will be over 8 inches, with a fair number of fish over 12 inches. Don't overlook the fish attractors maintained by DNR for crappie fishing. These areas are

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marked by white buoys and are typically surrounded by sunken trees and brush that serves to attract all species of game fish.
Channel catfish abundance will be at higher than normal. The majority of fish caught will be -1 lbs, with decent numbers of "quality" 5-10 lbs fish.
Tobesofkee is not noted as a bream lake. Bluegill and shellcracker (redear sunfish) are available, but sizes are not as good as on some area lakes. Bluegill will average around 4 inches, with some at 7-8 inches. Shellcracker will average around 6 inches, with some at 8-9 inches.
No contaminants were found in Tobesofkee fish in levels that cause health concerns earning the lake the distinction of having no restrictions on eating fish! Tobesofkee is a nice place to take the family for the day. Picnic areas, a marina, camping areas, and a large swimming beach are present for your enjoyment. The lake has two excellent boat ramps, Claystone and Arrowhead, with plentiful parking. For more information on the recreational opportunities, contact the Tobesofkee Recreation Area (912-474-8770).
Tugalo Lake Tugalo is the fifth reservoir in a chain of lakes on the Tallulah River, which flows through the northeast Georgia mountains near Clayton. Its scenic shoreline surrounds 597 acres of water and covers the lower sections of the Tallulah and Chattooga Rivers. The lake's canyon-like walls are an extension of Tallulah Gorge and tower nearly 1000 feet above the surface of the water. Its small size and light boating traffic make it an excellent place for canoes and jon boats. Anglers regularly catch largemouth bass, white catfish, white bass, crappie, and bluegill. Of all the lakes in the Tallulah River system, Lake Tugalo offers the best chance of catching a trophy largemouth bass. Despite its small size, numerous bass over 10 lbs are taken each year. Anglers can also expect to catch unusually high numbers of small largemouth bass this year. The abundance of this size group offers hope for more trophy bass in the future. The upper sections of each river arm tend to hold more bass than the lower, more steep-sided section of the lake. White catfish are very abundant. The area near the South Carolina boat ramp on the Chattooga River arm is usually very productive for white catfish, especially on a warm summer evening during power generation. The lakewide flow toward the dam during power generation seems to trigger a strong and predictable feeding response in catfish. For the best success, catfish anglers should time their fishing trip with the summer generation schedule. White catfish ranging from 1-2 lbs will be common this year. Worms, liver, and artificial catfish concoctions are popular baits. During the summer, catfish are more concentrated near the river channel rather than near the shoreline or in the small cove pockets. White bass fishing has declined the past few years, but 1 lb white bass will be unusually abundant this year. Anglers should venture into the headwater areas in April to take advantage of the white bass spawning migration. Small white jigs cast against the bank and retrieved steadily has proven to be a reliable technique for catching these scrappy fighters. Lake Tugalo also offers a fair chance for anglers to catch both white and black crappie. Anglers should focus their efforts on the upper reaches of both arms of the lake during the spring and fall. Crappie will typically range in size from 8-12 inches. Summer bream fishing is also popular among the local anglers. Several shellcracker weighing 3 lbs have been caught. Because the blueback herring population has expanded rapidly, DNR plans to stock walleye and trout this year. Trout should quickly grow to a weight of 1-2 lbs by the end of the year. Anglers are

encouraged to take advantage of this new fishery resource. Public access on the Georgia side of the lake is limited to one boat ramp in Tallulah Gorge State Park, which is located on Hwy 441 in the city of Tallulah Falls. For directions or fishing information, contact the local fisheries office (706-947-3112).
Varner This 850 acre drinking water reservoir was constructed by Newton County in 1990-91 and first opened to public fishing in 1992. The lake is located approximately two miles northeast of Covington on Alcovy Road (I-20 Exit 92). Lake Varner and its recreational facilities are managed by the Newton County Parks and Recreation Department. Typically, the park is open daily from sunrise to sunset. A double lane boat ramp, fishing pier, and bank access are available to the public in the park area. Gasoline motors are not allowed on the lake, even if not in use. Visitors, other than Newton and Walton County residents, are charged a $5 fee per vehicle for parking and an additional $5 per boat. The fish population provides good fishing for largemouth bass, bream, crappie, and channel catfish. WRD, in cooperation with Newton County, manages the fishery. Largemouth bass abundance and quality have remained in a good range for the last several years. More than one-half of largemouth bass exceed 12 inches and about 30% are at least 15 inches or longer. Largemouth exceeding 5 lbs will be less common in the catch than in 1999. This lake has an excellent reputation for producing good pan fish. Crappie, redear sunfish (shellcracker), and bluegill populations are in good condition. Quality-size crappie will make up 30% of the catch. A strong year-class of smaller fish is present, which should begin to contribute significantly to fishing during late fall. Crappie fishing should peak sometime in April, depending on water temperatures. Bluegill and shellcracker should provide the best opportunities in May during the first spawn. Bluegill should spawn at least two more times during the summer months. White bass were stocked several years ago, but have not spawned successfully since their introduction and continue to decline in abundance. However, hybrid bass, first stocked in 1998 and in 2000, are filling the void left by white bass. The 1998 fish are now 34 lbs. Unfortunately, gizzard shad (an undesirable species) was found in the lake for the first time in 2000. It appears this unauthorized introduction is well on its way to establishing a population. We are not sure if the stocking was intentional or an innocent release of bait. The consequences, however, are the same. Generally, gizzard shad take away much more from the sport fishery than they contribute. We will keep you informed, but you should expect a downside associated with this fish's introduction.
Walter F. George Operated by the COE, this 45,180-acre Chattahoochee River reservoir encompasses 640 miles of Georgia and Alabama shoreline and 85 river miles between Columbus and Ft. Gaines. Power generation schedules and lake elevations can be obtained by calling the COE powerhouse, 24 hours/day (912-768-2424). There are 23 boat ramps on this lake, and the COE charges a $2.00 daily launch fee. They also charge $3 per car or $1 per person daily beach use fees. Users can pay an annual fee of $25, which covers all daily use of boat ramps and beaches. Fuel is available at George T. Bagby State Park and Florence Marina on the Georgia side and at Lake Point Resort and Chewalla Marina on the Alabama side.

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The excellent largemouth bass spawn of 1998 should begin to improve fishing on this legendary bass lake in 2001. These three year old fish, which will average around 15 inches, will provide plenty of action. WRD lowered the minimum size limit for largemouth bass to 14 inches in November 2000, so catch rates of keeper sized bass should be phenomenal this year. The 1997 disease die-off of large bass reduced catches of big bass last year, and will once again make it challenging to catch trophy-sized bass. Local anglers prefer artificial worms, spinner baits, and shallow running crankbaits. The most productive spring fishing sites are near Lake Point Resort, riprap at the dam, Hwy 82 causeway, and the back end of coves. As a result of low water last year, extensive areas of emergent vegetation are present throughout the reservoir. If water levels return to normal this year, this vegetation should provide good areas to catch bass. The most productive time period is mid-March through May, but the warmer summer months can also be productive when fishing deepwater structure along creek channels.
Bream fishing (bluegill and redear sunfish) changes little from year-to-year. Bream will be relatively small, averaging 4-6 inches for bluegill and 5-8 inches for redear. Favorite fishing spots for bluegill are the shallow ends of coves, creeks, and sloughs, especially above the US Hwy 82 causeway. The shallow flats from East Bank boat ramp, north to Sandy Creek, is often a productive site for redear fishing. Favorite baits are crickets and worms, and the best time is May and June.
This should be a good year for crappie fishing. Crappie will average 10 inches and weigh nearly 2 lbs this spring, but by the end of the year they will grow to 12 inches and weigh around 3-4 lbs. Crappie are the first fish to start biting each year, and anglers should start fishing during the winter, but the best fishing time is February through April. Favorite spots are at creek mouths and under bridges. Other popular sites are Moccasin Slough, Pataula Creek, White Oak Creek, Hardridge Creek, Barbour Creek, Rood Creek, and Grass Creek. Most successful anglers fish with minnows or jigs, at 12-16 foot depths. A good place to start is at any of the 24 fish attractors located on the Georgia side of the reservoir. The sites are marked with buoys or pilings. A map of their locations with G.P.S. readings can be obtained by calling the COE office (912-768-2516). Bank anglers should try the fishing piers at Hardridge Creek and Florence Marina or the marked fishing areas at East Bank and River Bluff boat ramps. These areas are also accessible to anglers with disabilities.
Hybrid bass fishing will good this year. The majority of the hybrid bass will be under 2 lbs this spring, however, good numbers of 3-4 lbs hybrids are present. Shiny artificial lures, that imitate shad, work well for hybrids. Local anglers use Hopkins spoons, shysters, rooster tails, and rattle traps. Some anglers have good luck bottom fishing with chicken livers, but the most popular fishing technique is trolling over sand flat areas in 12-15 feet of water. Such habitat is found from Sandy Creek to Pataula Creek, near Cool Branch landing, and above the Hwy 82 causeway. To locate schools of feeding hybrids anglers should look for diving gulls late in the afternoon.
The catfish population is dominated by channel catfish, but there are an increasing number of blue catfish in the reservoir. Blue catfish, a relative to channel catfish, have a narrower head and longer, straight edged anal fin. Both channel and blue catfish will generally be small, averaging 12 inches, but larger fish are present. Worms and blood bait fished in 15-20 feet of water will produce good results for both species. Large blue catfish, up to 30 pounds, have been caught in the upper end of the reservoir the past few years.
No new infestations of Hydrilla, an exotic weed, were found last year. A few new areas were discovered with Lyngbya, a filamentous

blue-green algae. Lyngbya is not as aggressive as Hydrilla, but is resistant to many of today's herbicides. Anglers can help prevent the spread of these, and other weeds, by inspecting their tackle, boat motor, and trailer and removing any fragments of plants before entering or leaving boat ramps. Anglers that have experienced good fishing around Hydrilla mats on Lake Seminole believe this plant will help fishing on Lake George. This is not the case. Bass fishing has been excellent on Lake Walter F. George without Hydrilla. Please help keep all nuisance weeds out of Lake George. Report any sightings of Hydrilla to the COE or our Regional Fisheries office (912-430-4356).
Weiss The lower Coosa River from Mayo's Lock and Dam near Rome to the Georgia-Alabama state line is the Georgia portion of Weiss Reservoir, an Alabama Power project. This portion encompasses approximately 2,000 acres of river and shallow back-water habitats. Boaters unfamiliar with the area should use caution when navigating outside of the main river channel. Lake Weiss has earned the title "crappie capital of the world" for good reason. Despite heavy fishing pressure for crappie, an excellent forage base supports the population resulting in quality fishing year after year. Trolling small jigs or live minnows if a favored method. Casting is also effective once a crappie school is found. Popular access points include Lock and Dam Park operated by the RomeFloyd County Recreation Department and the Brushy Branch access. Both facilities have paved ramps, courtesy docks, and ample parking. The Lock and Dam Park also has a bait shop, camping, picnic, and restroom facilities. In spring, white bass are abundant as they make their annual spawning run up the Coosa River. Anglers targeting white bass should try casting small jigs and crankbaits in shad patterns or live bait. Most likely, anglers will catch a mixed bag of white bass and crappie using these techniques. White bass tend to concentrate in the mouths of feeder creeks, and anglers can often limit-out from one creek mouth. Brushy Branch, Big Cedar Creek, and the Lock and Dam area all usually hold good numbers of white bass in the spring. Striped bass fishing in the Coosa should remain excellent as the population continues to grow. Stripers exceeding 20 lbs are often caught during the spring around the Lock and Dam, but the average striper caught in the area will weigh about 5 lbs. Live or cut shad is the most popular bait, but many stripers are taken using artificial lures such as bucktail jigs, shad colored crankbaits, and large jerkbaits. After the spawn, many stripers will spend the summer in the cooler waters upstream of the Lock and Dam in the Etowah and Oostanaula rivers. When cooler fall temperatures arrive, stripers will begin moving back toward the main lake where anglers can find them chasing shad on the main river. Creek mouths and river bends are good places to find some fall striped bass action. Largemouth bass numbers and quality continue to be good in the upper portion of the lake. The average fish will weigh 1-2 lbs. Most bass fishing in this part of the lake is done in the Brushy Branch area. Spotted bass are also numerous in the upper sections of Weiss. Spotted bass tend to stay in the main river channel, while largemouth spend more time in coves and backwaters. Though generally a little smaller on the average than largemouth, spotted bass up to 4 lbs are available to anglers fishing bluff banks and creek mouths along the Coosa. Blue, channel, flathead, and white catfish as well as black, brown and yellow bullheads of all sizes are abundant. The larger blue and flathead catfish can exceed 20 lbs. Freshwater drum, smallmouth

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buffalo, carp, bluegill, redbreast sunfish, redear sunfish, and an occasional walleye are also present. Buffalo, carp, and drum are abundant and can provide anglers with much enjoyment.
West Point West Point is a 25,900-acre reservoir operated by the COE on the Chattahoochee River on the Georgia-Alabama border. Excellent facilities, close proximity to Atlanta, and a special regulation on largemouth bass contribute to the reservoir's popularity. A 16 inch minimum length limit on largemouth bass and an abundant spotted bass population combine to consistently produce quality bass fishing. Total black bass catch rates are typically somewhat higher than those from other middle Georgia reservoirs and the population continues to maintain a healthy overall condition. Over 30% of largemouth bass are within the preferred 15-20 inch category and the average largemouth bass will weigh about 12 lbs. For early springtime action, concentrate on warmer areas in protected coves using shallow-running crank baits and spinner baits. Fish deeper main creek and river channel structure with deep-running crank baits and worms during late spring and summer. Also, try fishing under the tree canopy near the upper ends of major creeks. Winter action is found deep, near main channel structure, and preferred lures are deep-diving crank baits, jigs, and worms. Good spawning success in the last several years has resulted in a substantial increase in spotted bass numbers and they now comprise just over 50% of the total black bass population. Although most are presently 7-11 inches, about 25% of the population is in the quality 11-14 inch range. Remember that there is no size limit on spotted bass on West Point and with the recent increase in abundance, anglers are encouraged to take their spotted bass catch home for the table. The abundance and average size of crappie continues to indicate a healthy and stable population, and 2001 should be no exception. About 25% of the population is 10-12 inches and 40% are 8-10 inches. Average weight should be just under 2 lbs. The best crappie action is usually found by trolling jigs in the traditional springtime hot spots in the upper portions of Beech, Whitewater, Wehadkee, and Stroud creeks. Over the years, West Point has maintained an excellent reputation for hybrid fishing due to a combination of high stocking rates and lake characteristics that produce good survival and growth. Total hybrid numbers will be above average in 2001 and the typical fish should weigh in at 1 lb. Hybrids are found in abundance below the shoals at Franklin in the spring and scattered along the main river and tributary channels throughout the remainder of the year. Limited experimental striped bass stockings were made in 1990 and 1992 and most have been caught, a few as large as 20 lbs. Total striped bass numbers have declined in recent years, but a small population is being maintained through natural reproduction. The white bass population has also declined slightly due to the relatively weak spawns produced in the last several years. About 30% of the population is currently in the preferred 12-15 inch range. Exceptional fishing can be found during the spring in the upper reaches of the Chattahoochee River arm at Franklin. West Point is probably the best channel catfish lake in middle Georgia. About 30% are within the quality 24 inch range. As on most large reservoirs, bream suffer from overpopulation and few reach catchable size. Bluegill will average 4 inches and the less abundant redear (shellcracker) will average 6-7 inches. West Point is a productive largemouth bass and hybrid lake and these remain your best bets for 2001. Increased numbers of spotted

bass continue to improve fishing success. The white bass fishing should also be productive with healthy crappie and channel catfish populations helping to round out the picture.
Visitors to West Point should be aware of ongoing efforts to improve fish and wildlife habitat as well as general aesthetics. The COE has planted maidencane and banker's willow at several locations throughout the reservoir. Since 1987, larger cypress trees have been planted on shoals and other high points to serve as markers as well as provide fish habitat. A limited number of larger cypress trees have also been planted in coves in recent years and additional plantings are planned for the future. These trees should provide benefits in the years to come.
Anglers will also notice that the COE continues to replace the triangular wooden shoal markers with 6-inch PVC shell markers to improve visibility and safety. A permit is no longer required to construct fish shelters on West Point using Christmas trees, but the COE Project Managers Office (706-645-2937) should be notified if more than 10-20 trees are used. Finally, fishing has been improved at the Rocky Point and McGee Bridge piers with the recent addition of PVC fish shelters.
Georgia DNR recently completed a major habitat enhancement project with the construction of 10 large fish attractors. Each of the attractors is constructed of numerous plastic peach crates anchored to the bottom. They are distributed widely over the entire lake below Highland Marina, as well as in Yellow Jacket Creek. The fish attractors can be easily identified by the large orange and white buoy markers and precise locations of all the attractor sites can be obtained by contacting the DNR Fisheries office in Fort Valley (478-8256151). In an effort to create additional largemouth bass and crappie habitat, DNR also cut large trees and dropped them into the water along the shore in Yellow Jacket Creek between buoy markers 9 and 17. DNR and the COE will continue to improve shoreline fish habitat by cutting trees at suitable locations throughout the lake and anglers can expect exceptional fishing in these areas for many years.
Publications available from the Fisheries Section:
Guide to Fishing the Altamaha River Guide to Fishing the Upper Ocmulgee River Guide to Fishing the Lower Ocmulgee River
Guide to Fishing the Ogeechee River Guide to Fishing the Satilla River Flathead Catfish Fishing Guide
2001 South Georgia Rivers Fishing Prospects Trout Streams of Georgia (map)
Introduction to Georgia Trout Fishing Small Lakes Open to Public Fishing
Public Boat Ramps in Georgia

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2001 Guidelines for Eating Fish from Georgia Waters Guide to Accessible Outdoor Activities 2001-2002 Sport Fishing Regulations
Many of these publications are available on WRD's web site
www.gofishgeorgia.com
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