2003 Georgia reservoirs fishing prospects

2003 Georgia Reservoirs Fishing Prospects
A publication of the 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 2003. The outlook for each reservoir was compiled by fisheries biologists and is based on sampling efforts by the Georgia Department of Natural Resources (DNR), Wildlife Resources Division (WRD), Fisheries Management Section, 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 rivers and reservoirs across the state. Based on the best scientific information and procedures available, "Guidelines for Eating Fish from Georgia Waters" are developed to help Georgia anglers and their families evaluate the health risks of eating fish from wild populations. To learn more about these guidelines consult the current Sport Fishing Regulations or visit the WRD web site www.gofishgeorgia.com For a complete publication, visit the EPD web site www.dnr.state.ga.us/environmental/fishconsumptionguidelines .
To obtain lake conditions on line: US Army Corps of Engineers: www.sam.usace.army.mil/op/rec Georgia Power: http://lakes.southernco.comandTVA: www.tva.com
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!

Albany ............ 229-430-4256 Burton............. 706-947-3112 Calhoun.......... 706-629-1259 Calhoun.......... 770-387-4821

Fisheries Management Section Offices: Charlie Elliott Wildlife Center........................ 770-784-3059 Dawson...................................................... 229-995-4486 Fort Valley .................................................. 478-825-6151 Gainesville.................................................. 770-535-5498

West Point................. 706-845-4290 Social Circle.............. 770-918-6418 Summerville .............. 706-857-3394 Thomson................... 706-595-1619

Reservoir

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Best Bets in 2003

Office

Allatoona............................... 2............... crappie, hybrid & striped bass, spotted bass, carp.......................................................................... Calhoun Andrews............................... 2............... striped bass, channel catfish, bream, largemouth bass.................................................................... Albany Bartlett's Ferry ...................... 2............... spotted & largemouth bass, hybrid & white bass, crappie, catfish .................................................... West Point Blackshear............................ 3............... bass, crappie, white, hybrid & striped bass, catfish.......................................................................... Albany Black Shoals......................... 4............... largemouth bass, bream, crappie, catfish ........................................................................................ Social Circle Blue Ridge............................ 4............... white bass, smallmouth bass, bluegill, walleye, yellow perch........................................................... Calhoun Burton................................... 4............... brown trout, spotted bass, yellow perch, walleye............................................................................ Burton Carters................................. 5............... walleye, striped bass, crappie, spotted bass, yellow & white bass................................................... Calhoun Chatuge................................ 5............... spotted bass, white bass, walleye, bluegill....................................................................................... Gainesville Chehaw................................ 6............... channel & flathead catfish, largemouth bass, shoal bass.................................................................. Albany Clarks Hill ............................ 6............... crappie, striped bass, largemouth bass, hybrid bass, redear sunfish .............................................. Thomson Goat Rock............................. 7............... largemouth bass, bream, hybrid bass, catfish, crappie.................................................................... West Point Hartwell ................................ 7............... hybrid bass, largemouth & redeye bass, crappie, striped bass....................................................... Burton High Falls ............................. 8............... crappie, bream, largemouth bass, catfish, hybrid & white bass........................................................ CEWC Jackson ................................ 8............... bream, catfish, largemouth & spotted bass, hybrid bass .................................................................. CEWC Juliette................................... 8............... striped bass, redear sunfish, largemouth bass ................................................................................ CEWC Lanier................................... 9............... spotted & largemouth bass, crappie, striped bass, catfish ................................................................ Gainesville Nottely .................................. 9............... largemouth & spotted bass, crappie, striped bass, walleye.............................................................. Gainesville Oconee............................... 10............... crappie, white bass, hybrid bass, largemouth bass, catfish.............................................................. Social Circle Oliver.................................. 10............... bluegill, redear sunfish, crappie ...................................................................................................... West Point Rabun ................................ 11............... spotted & largemouth bass, bluegill, redear sunfish......................................................................... Burton Richard B. Russell.............. 11............... largemouth bass, crappie................................................................................................................ Thomson Seminole............................. 11............... bluegill, redear sunfish, channel catfish, largemouth bass, crappie.................................................. Albany Sinclair................................ 12............... catfish, crappie, largemouth bass, hybrid bass................................................................................ Fort Valley Tobesofkee......................... 13............... hybrid bass, largemouth bass, crappie ........................................................................................... Fort Valley Tugalo................................ 13............... white catfish, largemouth bass, crappie, white bass, bluegill ............................................................ Burton Varner................................ 14............... largemouth bass, crappie, bream, channel catfish........................................................................... Social Circle Walter F. George................ 14............... largemouth bass, crappie, catfish, hybrid bass................................................................................ Albany Weiss.................................. 14............... crappie, white bass, striped bass, black bass, catfish....................................................................... Calhoun West Point........................... 15............... largemouth & spotted bass, hybrid bass, crappie, channel catfish ................................................... Fort Valley

Abbreviations : DNR - Georgia Department of Natural Resources; WRD - Georgia Wildlife Resources Division COE - U.S. Army Corps of Engineers; TVA - Tennessee Valley Authority; USFS - U.S. Forest Service

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Allatoona This 11,860-acre COE impoundment of the Etowah River is 30 miles north of Atlanta on I-75. There are numerous COE facilities and a Georgia State Park located around the lake to provide anglers with ramps, parking, and camping. The lake receives heavy use by boaters, skiers, and anglers due to its close proximity to Atlanta. Fishing early and late daylight hours, and at night, are effective ways to avoid the crowds and catch wary fish. Anglers can expect fishing for crappie to be somewhat better than normal. The average crappie should be a little better than 8 inches and weigh about lb, though many larger crappie will be caught. Most crappie anglers focus their efforts during the spring spawn when the fish move up the creeks and rivers becoming concentrated in shallow water. Early spring is an excellent time to catch a trophy "slab" as the females will be laden with eggs and in excellent condition prior to the spawn. During the summer months, crappie will concentrate in deeper waters, where anglers can catch them by targeting brush piles and other fish attractors located on humps and channel ledges. Night fishing with the use of lights around docks and bridges will likely be an anglers best chance at consistently boating finicky crappie in the summer. Angler catch rates for black bass in Allatoona are better than most reservoirs in Georgia. This trend should continue as spotted bass are very abundant. Spots represent approximately 80-90% of the black bass population. The average spot will tip the scales at -1 lb in 2003. A strong year class of spotted bass 12-14 inches in length will likely drive angler catch rates up this year. The less abundant largemouth bass will weigh in at just over 1 lb. Unfortunately, few largemouth bass over 5 lbs will be caught. Springtime anglers are discouraged from catching bedded largemouth. Largemouth eggs and fry are often rapidly eaten by other fish even when the parent is quickly returned to the area. During the warmer months largemouth will spend the days in deeper water on points and ledges, but will move shallow at night and early morning to feed. Target largemouth at this time in the area above Little River, as this is where the best largemouth habitat exists. Spotted bass tend to hold a little deeper than largemouth and can be finicky in their willingness to bite. Experienced anglers rely on light line and smaller lures to trick spots into biting. Steep rocky banks and brush piles in 10-25 feet are favored places for spotted bass throughout the year. Anglers should also target the 25+ fish attractor locations. Fish attractor locations can be obtained by contacting the Summerville office (706-8573394). Anglers pursuing stripers in 2003 will likely catch fewer large stripers. Older, larger stripers are not as abundant than in previous years due to reduced stocking rates of stripers in 1998 and 1999. However, smaller 3-4 lbs stripers will abound. Allatoona anglers should strongly consider pursuing hybrid bass again this year. Good survival of large hybrids over the past couple years has resulted in good numbers of these large fish. Experienced hybrid anglers should prepare to land more 15-20 inch fish this year. Anglers seeking these hard fighters can use their depth finders to locate large schools of shad in open water. Stripers and hybrids typically school under the shad as they feed on them. Another telltale sign is to look for birds feeding on shad forced to the surface by feeding stripers and hybrids. Bucktail jigs or trolled live shad are the most popular methods for catching stripers and hybrids. During the summer, down lining live shad in the thermocline will entice both striper and hybrid strikes. Spawning runs of white bass will be down this year. Four plus years of drought are believed to have contributed to this decline. Bluegill, redbreast sunfish, and redear sunfish are available. Bluegill tend to average 5 inches, with few individuals over 7 inches. Anglers are encouraged to harvest bream this year. Channel and flathead catfish are also available. While channel catfish are more abundant, flatheads tend to

grow to much larger size. Pursue channel cats and flatheads on the rocky banks in the Etowah River arm using chicken livers and live bait fished on the bottom.
Carp are numerous, widely distributed, and grow to large sizes. Most carp fishing is concentrated in the Acworth Dam area. Carp are very strong fighters and will give a worthwhile battle to those who pursue them. Gar are also numerous. Though they are not generally considered good eating, gar are very strong fighters and can be great fun to catch. Gar can be caught using a number of techniques ranging from live shad fished below a bobber to sight fishing with minnow type plugs during the spring and early summer when they gang up in shallow water to spawn.
Andrews The COE operates this 1,540-acre mainstream reservoir located on the Chattahoochee River in southwest Georgia. Lake Andrews begins at the Walter F. George Lock and Dam near Fort Gaines, and stretches for 29 miles downstream to the George W. Andrews Lock and Dam near Blakely. This reservoir acts more like a large river than a lake. As a result, the fish populations and fishery are riverine in nature. Typically, excellent fishing can be found in the tailrace areas immediately below each dam. Hybrids, white bass, and stripers are attracted to these areas, especially during late winter and early spring (mid-February to late March). Hybrid bass fishing below Andrews Lock and Dam should be fair during 2003, with the average hybrid weighing around 3 lbs. Although hybrids can be taken on a variety of baits, live shad consistently produce the best catches. Striped bass numbers below Andrews Lock and Dam are fair, and as a result, anglers can expect to catch a few of these hard fighting fish. Currently, the majority of stripers in the population are smaller, 2-3 lbs; however, in previous years, several stripers over 20 lbs were landed. Many more of these hard pulling fish are hooked by hybrid anglers each year, but are never landed. Using heavy tackle (20 lbs line) will increase your chances of landing one of these trophies. At Andrews Lock and Dam, bank anglers can get access to the tailrace on the Alabama side and boats can be launched at the COE boat ramp located on the Georgia side of the river. Fishing in areas downstream from the dams is your best bet if you are interested in catching bream and largemouth bass. Although not noted for producing large numbers of bass, Lake Andrews does provide a good chance at catching 4-6 lbs fish. Largemouth bass and bream fishing should be best in the spring, during the pre-spawn and spawning seasons. Crappie fishing is typically only fair. However, anglers who are patient, and are willing to learn the lake, can be rewarded with some good fishing. Fishing at night in the summer can provide an excellent opportunity to catch large, 4-6 lbs channel catfish. Smaller catfish, and an occasional larger fish, can be caught year-round in the tailrace areas below both dams. Channel catfish can be caught using a variety of baits, such as large worms, chicken liver, and shad or mullet guts. Blue catfish up to 30 lbs have been caught in the area below the Walter F. George dam in the past few years.
Bartlett's Ferry Constructed in 1926, the Georgia Power Company (GPC) operates this 5,850-acre reservoir (a.k.a. Lake Harding) on the Chattahoochee River just above Goat Rock Lake. The lake has many boat docks and piers that provide good structure for concentrating fish. There are two boat ramps on the Georgia side. The WRD facility at Idle Hour Park has four lanes, paved parking, a restroom facility, and is open year-round. GPC's Blanton Creek Park also provides boating access, but is open only from about March 31 until Labor Day. For additional information on Blanton Park and public use areas around the lake contact the GPC Land Department (706-322-0228).

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Mr. George Chambley (334-749-5417) owns and operates a marina, boat ramp, and store on the Halawakee Creek Arm (Alabama side) and is a good source for current fishing conditions. Information on generating schedules and lake levels is available (706-317-6000).
Largemouth bass abundance has been steady while spotted bass have been increasing in abundance. About one-half of the largemouth are greater than 12 inches and over 20% are greater than 15 inches. The largemouth you catch should weigh 1-1 lbs. Boat docks and fishing piers are favorite areas for bass anglers, but do not overlook rocky points and underwater humps. March through May, when water temperatures are in the mid-to-high 60 oFs, is probably the peak fishing time for largemouth bass.
The increase in spotted bass is good news, as more black bass are available for anglers. The spotted bass fishery is under utilized and anglers are encouraged to take spotted bass home for a meal. There is no minimum size restriction on spotted bass on Bartlett's Ferry. Look for the averagesized spot to be about 8 inches and weigh about lb. Spots tend to bite during the same time as largemouth, but as a rule, they are commonly found on rocky points and in deeper water.
Bartlett's Ferry is not known for bream fishing. Most bluegill catches will be 6 inches and under and weigh 2-3 oz. However, redear sunfish grow larger and provide anglers with catches averaging better than lb. Both are caught around docks and piers, most during the summer.
Fishing for white bass and hybrid bass has been good to outstanding for several years. Hybrids have survived well and trophy-sized individuals up to14 lbs have been caught. Hybrids have not been stocked in Bartlett's Ferry since 1995, but are still common throughout the reservoir. Most hybrids probably traveled downstream from West Point Lake where they are stocked. Catches will average 2-4 lbs, but larger 8-10 lbs fish are available. White bass should average 1 lb or better in most years.
Striped bass have been stocked annually since 1992 to support the species recovery in the Apalachicola River System. WRD observations indicate that many striped bass are exceeding lengths measured for hybrids and are as abundant. Experienced anglers are currently taking a few striped bass weighing up to 25 lbs or heavier. Look for the abundance of trophysized fish to increase in a few years as striped bass grow. The best bet for "hooking up" with striped bass is near the dam during winter and upstream to Riverview Dam in early spring. During summer and fall, hybrids and stripers can be taken lakewide as they school after young-of-the year shad near the surface. 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. Crappies are abundant and generally about 50% or more are 10-5 inches. In most years, the average sized crappie will vary from - lb. However, slabs are abundant. The best crappie fishing months are usually February through April. There are six WRD fish attractors that provide good fishing. Maps showing their locations are available at WRD offices.
Typically, fishing for catfish is good to excellent. Channel catfish are the most sought after species, but white catfish are plentiful. Channel catfish up to 8-10 lbs are possible, but individuals averaging 1-3 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, hybrid bass, stripers and catfish. Bass fishing should be fair during 2003. Presently, the bass population

is dominated by fish less than 4 lbs, with most fish ranging from 12-16 inches. Anglers should keep in mind that Lake Blackshear has a 14-inch minimum size limit for largemouth bass. During the spring and early summer bass are attracted to the many cypress trees found in the shallow waters. Good bass fishing can found in cypress trees in Limestone Creek, Gum Creek, Collins Branch, and the upper end of Swift Creek. Anglers who enjoy fishing boat docks will find Blackshear to their liking. There are approximately 1,200 houses on this lake, and almost every house has a dock or pier where bass can be caught. Early morning top water or spinner baits, and late afternoon Texas rigged worms, are preferred. The most productive months are March through May.
The lake has a fair population of both black and white crappie. The crappie population will be dominated by fish less than 12 inches long; however, anglers can expect to catch an occasional fish up to 1 lbs. 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 the numerous boat docks can be rewarded with some good crappie fishing. Another great place to start fishing is around the 12 fish attractors, which are conveniently marked with buoys. New brush was added to most of these sites in January 2003. Maps showing location and GPS readings of these attractors are available at Georgia Veterans State Park (229-276-2371), local bait and tackle stores, and marinas. Many anglers prefer to fish around cypress trees where many of Blackshear's crappie spawn. Other favorite spots include the mouth 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 fair; however, the hybrid bass population has improved substantially with the stocking of 42,000 hybrids in 2002. Excellent survival and growth will provide good fishing for 14-17 inch hybrids this year. White bass will provide limited action with the average fish weighing less than 1 lb.
As a result of stockings the past several years the number of striped bass will be at an all time high. The striped bass population will be dominated by fish less than 20 inches, with some fish up to 10 lbs. Good areas to try are around Smoak Bridge and in Gum Creek and Boy Scout Slough. Due to ongoing efforts to rebuild the striped bass population, fishing for all species is closed in three springs located in Lake Blackshear from May through 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 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 bream. Bluegill numbers are good and will average 6-7 inches. Redear sunfish numbers are also up and anglers who can locate spawning fish should be rewarded with good numbers 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 April, May and June.
Channel and flathead catfish populations are 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 live bait such as 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.

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Black Shoals This 650-acre reservoir was constructed to meet water needs of Rockdale County. Public access is through Black Shoals Park located on Black Shoals Road off of Ga Hwy 20, about 6 miles north of Conyers. The park is open six days a week and closed on Wednesdays. Park hours vary by season. Fees 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 (770-785-5922). The fish population supports good fisheries for largemouth bass, bream, crappie, and channel catfish. WRD, in cooperation with Rockdale County, provides management of the fish population and fisheries. Anglers continued to experience good catch rates in 2002 after excellent fishing in recent years. The fish population remains in very good shape, with the game fish populations almost unchanged from last year. Anglers can expect to catch nice bass again this spring. The water is normally very clear at Black Shoals, so light line, careful presentations, and small, realistic lures will usually result in more strikes from the bass. The black crappie population continues to be in good shape. Reproduction is strong and good numbers of fish are surviving and growing to catchable size. The lake has approximately 16 acres of standing timber that should concentrate the crappie before and after the spring spawn. Some extremely large crappie have been caught in the past year or two, and anglers who start early in the spring should have a good chance to catch some real slabs this year. Both bluegill and shellcracker numbers and quality are good to excellent. 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 first spawn around mid May is always the best. Channel catfish continue to be abundant as a result of past stockings. Hybrid striped bass were also stocked in the lake three years ago, and they should be showing up in angler's creels this year.
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. The Blue Ridge "glass eye" is typically less than 1 lb. Anglers landing walleye over 2 lbs have done well. 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. White bass are perhaps the most common game fish and are likely more abundant than most anglers realize. Rocky points and shoals in the upper end of the lake are good places to find the white bass bunched up in the spring. Small hair jigs and plastic grubs in light colors along with small, shadimitating crankbaits fished on light spinning gear should be all the angler needs to get in on the spring action. Later in spring and summer, 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 fair over the last few years, and these acrobatic, hard fighting fish should provide for some exciting fishing. "Smallies" can usually be found on rocky shorelines and points, and like the walleye angler, many smallmouth anglers favor night fishing, particularly during the warmer months. Dark colored hair and rubber jigs and crankbaits are standard offerings.

Unfortunately, spotted bass are now in Blue Ridge, probably the result of illegal stockings. Since their introduction sometime in the early 90s, anglers have steadily been catching more and more spots. Spotted bass compete with, and can hybridize with, smallmouth bass, which can result in the collapse of the smallmouth fishery as has occurred in other Georgia reservoirs. Anglers are encouraged to harvest their limit of spotted bass in 2003. This will help reduce spotted bass competition with smallmouth and help sustain a unique Georgia fishery for years to come.
Largemouth bass are most often found in the upriver locations of the reservoir. Target the shallow embayments around fallen trees and stumps. Diet analyses have shown largemouth feed heavily upon bluegill, as shad are much less abundant. Frogs emerging from the lake bottom after winter hibernation are also a major food item. Another unique finding was the abundance of salamanders in the largemouth's diet in late spring and early summer. Fishing lizard imitations around fallen trees will undoubtedly mimic this natural food source.
Quality, not quantity, is the rule when it comes to bream fishing. Blue Ridge is known for large bluegills. Anglers should concentrate on fishing worms and crickets in 15-20 feet around blown down tree tops. The Toccoa arm of the reservoir is a favored location for these large "gills". 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 liver 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 is limited to ramps at the USFS Morgantown Point Recreation Area and the Blue Ridge Marina. During extreme drawdowns, anglers should contact Blue Ridge Marina or the USFS office in Blue Ridge for information about boat ramp access.
Burton Lake Burton is a 2,775-acre reservoir located in the northeast Georgia mountains near Clayton. The lake's steep, rocky shoreline and clear waters provide ideal habitat for a variety of coolwater fish like spotted bass, walleye, yellow perch, and brown trout. Most anglers who come to Lake Burton fish for spotted bass. Burton's spotted bass population is known for its abundance and quality size. There should be a number of trophy-sized fish over 4 lbs. landed this year, but the majority of the catch will average about 1 lb. Peak spotted bass fishing occurs in May, when fish move inshore to spawn. A second peak occurs in fall when schooling spotted bass gorge themselves on herring. The largemouth bass population continues to decline, in part due to the effects of blueback herring. Over 12,000 ten-inch long brown trout were stocked last fall to help control blueback herring. These fish are expected to grow rapidly and could reach 2 lbs by fall. The numbers of trophy browns has declined sharply since last year, but there are a few 8-10 lbs fish still lurking around. Because Lake Burton is one of the only reservoirs in Georgia with year-round trout habitat, good trout fishing is available every season, but the fishing tactics will change according to the water temperature and herring movement patterns. Cold weather drives blueback herring into the shallows in search of warmer water. These sluggish herring are easy prey for hungry browns. Fishing shallow-running minnow imitations or trolling live bait near visible schools of herring will likely produce strikes. During the summer months, herring and trout will be squeezed into a narrow band of open water that ranges from 2030 feet deep. The lower reservoir from Billy Goat Island to Burton Dam holds the greatest numbers of trout during the summer. Trolling live bait, like golden shiners or herring, or flashy spoons and crankbaits at this critical depth are the most productive late-summer methods. During the fall, brown trout will

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move into the feeder streams to spawn. In these fast-flowing shallows, topwater baits and small spinners may provide the best trout fishing of the year.
Walleye are reappearing in low numbers as a result of successful stockings in 1998 and 1999. Walleye from these year-classes average 4 lbs. Annual walleye stocking is part of the management strategy to control blueback herring and diversify the sport fishery. Also making an appearance in the fishery is hybrid bass. Hybrid bass were stocked in 2000, but are just now showing up in the catch. In 2003, hybrids can be found schooling in open water during the spring and fall months. Top water baits such as pearcolored Zara Spooks and Super Flukes should be able to draw a strike during these surface feeding frenzies. Anglers should be prepared for quite a fight, since hybrids will average 6-8 lbs.
Those who are taking a day trip to the mountains and can only fish from the shore should not forget to pack their rods for some good bream fishing around the public fishing piers at Lake Burton Fish Hatchery. Bream fishing is best from April through June using red wigglers and crickets fished on the bottom. Pond fishing opportunities for children under 12 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 (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). Nearly 3 million walleye fry were stocked in Carters in spring of 2000. These three-year old fish are the most abundant age class in the lake, having grown rapidly on the abundant threadfin shad. Persistent walleye anglers can expect these fish to be 2 lbs in 2003. Among these moderately sized "glass-eyes" will be some older walleyes measuring out in the mid-20 inches and weighing 3-5 lbs. In February and March, as the walleye prepare to spawn, anglers should try to locate them staging along windswept rocky shorelines, points, and shoals in the Coosawattee River. Jigging spoons, deep diving crankbaits, and live bait fished on leadhead jigs are all popular walleye lures. Experienced anglers usually switch to a trolling approach in the summer months, again using deep diving crankbaits such as Hot-N-Tots and Wallydivers. Look for walleye on deeper structure where baitfish are concentrated during summer and fall. Evening and night fishing will be a summer angler's best bet at consistently landing these toothy predators. Striped bass stocking will continue in 2003 but at reduced rates. Research by WRD biologists suggests the lineside fishery has suffered as a result of high summer water temperatures and low dissolved oxygen levels. Particularly affected are the larger stripers that are less tolerant of these conditions. To fill the void from reduced striper stocking rates, hybrid bass will be stocked in the impoundment for the first time. Hybrids are more tolerant of the high summer water temperatures. Hybrids are anticipated to do well in Carter's deep, nutrient enriched, waters; however, it will be several years before they grow to a size angler's will seek. Hybrids, like stripers, perform a double duty for Carters anglers. Directly, they offer an additional opportunity within the system. More importantly though, Carter's striped and hybrid striped bass keep the shad population in check. By consuming the larger shad most other game fish cannot, a "healthy" shad population is maintained. A "healthy" shad population is one with few large individuals and large numbers of smaller shad that are more readily eaten by other species like black bass, walleye, and crappie. Consequently, these species grow faster,

bigger, and have better survival, which provides anglers with higher quality fishing.
Spotted bass numbers will continue to remain high in 2003. Anglers should expect to boat good numbers of nice spots as growth continues to be excellent and survival of large spots remains high. The average spot will be better than 11 inches and weigh around 1 lb. Don't let this fool you, there will be plenty of Carters famous "magnum" spots lurking the depths. Five and maybe even six lbs plus lunkers will stretch lines this year. In addition to the big spotted bass, which account for 90% of the black bass population, there are 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. Finesse and subtle presentation are the rule at Carters; however, this is a trophy bass lake and persistence has its rewards. A fish finder or word of mouth should put new anglers in areas of submerged brush found throughout the lake. More reliably, anglers should find fish holding on the 20+ fish attractors WRD and COE personnel have placed within the lake. Attractor locations can be obtained at the Summerville WRD office (706-8573394).
Though often overlooked, crappie populations have responded well to the striper stockings and the good food base. The average crappie will be 8 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 populations will be down this year. Regardless, vertically jigging spoons or small jigs in areas where shad are present can take these game fish. Anglers are encouraged to harvest yellow bass, as they attain smaller average size and directly compete with the more desirable white bass.
Other offerings include bluegill, channel catfish, and flathead catfish. Channel catfish will average around 1 lb, 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, 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 a number of summer stripers. Fishing jetties are located on both banks downstream of the lower pool dam with picnic, restroom, and playground facilities nearby. WRD is currently conducting a striped bass tagging study in the river below Carters. Anglers catching tagged stripers are encouraged to call the phone number on the tag to report the location of capture.
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. Spotted bass have dominated the fishery since 1990. In 2003, anglers will, for a third year, have the opportunity to catch high numbers of 2-4 lbs spots, especially during the spring. Fish size has improved because spotted bass are growing to a larger size on an ample diet of threadfin shad and blueback herring. Spotted bass seem to prefer the main river channel banks

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composed of gravel-to boulder-size rocks with cover (stumps, brush and logs) at mid and lower lake sections. Shad and herring imitation lures are excellent springtime bass baits. Largemouth bass will account for less than 20% of the black bass catch. Best areas for largemouths are coves with structure, such as logs, brush piles, and fallen trees throughout the reservoir. Smallmouth numbers remain low and will be a rare catch in 2003. Black bass can be caught on live night crawlers, crayfish, and bait minnows throughout the year.
White bass numbers are down due to poor spawning conditions during the recent drought. Fishing success for this species is expected to improve following the return of higher spring lake levels. Whites will average around 1 lb this year. Jigging hair jigs, plastic grubs, and spoons and fishing topwater lures from May through July are effective methods for whites. A limited reproducing walleye population exists in the lake. Two pounders will be the most common size walleye, with a number of 3-5 lbs fish in this year's catch. Bluegill, 1/3 lb, 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 from June through August. Crappie will average 1 lb this year. Best panfish 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). The lake also supports a good population of channel catfish. Carp are abundant and readily take prepared catfish baits, corn, and dough balls.
Significant spawns of blueback herring since 1997 have increased the food supply for spotted bass and other predator species. Negative impacts of bluebacks include their ability to out compete young native fish for available food and preying on larval fish, including bass less than 1-inch long. It is now legal to fish with or possess live blueback herring on Lake Chatuge. WRD and North Carolina Wildlife Resources Commission biologists will continue to monitor the impact of the shad and herring populations. For current lake level information call the TVA Chattanooga office at 423/751-2264 or email http://lakeinfo.tva.gov
Chehaw Lake Chehaw (formerly Lake Worth) is a 1,400-acre impoundment of the Flint River and 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 not generally considered an excellent fishing lake, it does provide good fishing opportunities for anglers in the Albany area. While usually not noted for producing good largemouth bass fishing, the lake should produce fair numbers of 1-3 lbs bass during 2003. Best areas for bass will be in the backs of the creeks in spring and fall, and in the main lake and Flint River during summer. Many anglers who bass fish on Lake Chehaw travel several miles up the Flint River to fish for shoal bass. Shoal bass, a lesser know member of the bass family, can be found in the fastwater shoal areas in the Flint River. These hard fighting fish will average 1-2 lbs; however, fish up to 5 lbs are occasionally caught. These fish feed primarily on crayfish, so lures that resemble crayfish are always a good choice. 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 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 summer. Channel catfish can be caught using a variety of baits, such as large worms, chicken livers, and shad or mullet guts. Crappie, bluegill, and redear sunfish (shellcracker) fishing will be fair in

2003. 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.
Additional angling opportunities exist in 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 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 winter and early spring. Be aware that fishing for striped bass in the Flint River below Albany 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 Clarks Hill Lake. This lake is about 5 feet low to begin 2003. Contact the COE for up to date information on which boat ramps are usable while the water is low (800-533-3478). More than 30 fish attractors are maintained throughout the reservoir. 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 2003. Crappie will average lbs with the bigger slabs going 12 lbs. Fishing, Soap, Grays, and Newford creeks and 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 shellcrackers, bluegill, largemouth bass and catfish. Striped and hybrid bass fishing continues to be superb. Good survival of stocked fish in recent years is producing good numbers of fish. Average weights should range from 3 lbs for hybrids to 8 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, much like last year, will be like footballs in 2003! Several monster stripers exceeding 30 lbs and hybrids exceeding 10 lbs were caught last year and should be again. 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 are slowly trolling redfins, Norman lures or roostertails 60-80 feet behind the boat, and jigging spoons near drop offs, ledges, or humps in 2030 feet of water. By summer and into the fall hot spots for linesides will be in the mouths of major feeder creeks and rivers. Again, 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 on the bottom also work great. 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. The COE resumed reverse-flow generation at Russell Dam in September 2002. Fishing success for striped and hybrid bass below this dam (the uppermost section of the lake) is expected to decrease, particularly at

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night, due to reverse-flow generation. DNR tagged 500 largemouth bass in spring 2001. Should you catch a
tagged fish, please return the tag to the address indicated on the tag. Results from the tagging project indicate a high release rate (63%) of caught bass. This high release rate, combined with strong year classes, has resulted in numerous small bass. Anglers are encouraged to take some of their catch home, particularly 12-14 inch bass. Harvesting these fish will allow their "brothers and sisters" to grow faster, providing for more 3 lbs+ bass in the future. Best bets in fall and winter are Grays, Lloyds, and Rousseau creeks in the Little River arm and Soap, Murry, and Fishing creeks in the main Savannah River arm. During spring and summer concentrate your efforts near Bussey Point, and in Cliatt, Cherokee, and Big Creeks. 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 Ft. Gordon for the best concentration of hydrilla.
Shellcrackers 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 Broad River. Several 40+lbs flathead catfish have been caught in recent years.
There will be plenty of white perch for the next couple of years. White perch, a relative of the white bass and striped bass, are tons of fun on lightweight tackle and make an excellent meal. Fish for white perch in 20-60 feet near ledges, drop-offs, and standing timber with small jigs, spoons, or minnows.
Goat Rock Constructed in 1912, this 940-acre reservoir is located on the Chattahoochee River 10 miles above Columbus between Lakes Oliver and Bartlett's Ferry. The Georgia Power Company (706-322-0228) operates this lake principally for "peaking" hydropower generation. The lake has limited access with one private ramp owned and operated by Reuben Britton on the Georgia side near the dam. A public ramp owned by Georgia Power is located on the Alabama side at the upper end of the lake. 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. The shoreline is also 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. Because of the 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 in Goat Rock 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. The lake is quiet and anglers will encounter little recreational boating activity. Goat Rock may be the best choice for bass anglers among the middle Chattahoochee River reservoirs judging by the abundance of large bass. From 1995-1999 the average largemouth bass has weighed 1 lbs and the average spotted bass weighed just over lb. Look for catches of lunker largemouth and spots to be common for the experienced bass angler. Spots averaging about 1 lb can be found off rocky points and in deeper water than largemouth. The best months are April through June. Shoal bass are occasionally caught below Bartlett's Ferry Dam and up Mulberry Creek. Bream fishing has historically been good on Goat Rock. The most productive places 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 abundant. The best months are usually from April to June.
Annual stockings of hybrid bass by WRD have been paying off. The best time to pursue this quarry is in spring and summer during power generations. White bass are often found with hybrids. The average hybrid catch will be 2-4 lbs, while white bass will be 1 lb.
Though not stocked into Goat Rock, a few striped bass are present. These fish probably traveled downstream from Bartlett's Ferry where they were stocked. A striped bass weighing 32.6 lbs was caught from Goat Rock in May 2001. Indications are that a striped bass fishery is developing and the experienced angler targeting stripers could make similar catches. Fish for both striped bass and hybrids in the tailwaters below Bartlett's Ferry Dam during power generations.
If you are a catfish enthusiast, Goat Rock is an excellent choice. 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 in at 1 lb.
Crappie fishing is generally good in most years, with catches averaging about lb. Catches of "slabs" will be common for the dedicated crappie angler. Best sites are the WRD fish attractors.
Hartwell Lake Hartwell is a 56,000-acre reservoir located on the Savannah River along the Georgia-South Carolina border. For the coming year, anglers can expect good fishing success for largemouth bass, crappie, hybrid bass, and striped bass. Largemouth bass is the most popular Hartwell species. Although the drought caused lake levels to remain below full pool for the past three years, the largemouth bass population was able to maintain stable numbers. For 2003, anglers can expect their catch of largemouth bass to be similar in numbers, and weight, to past years. The prospect for a full lake in 2003 seems high. If so, bass should have a very successful spawn this year because of the vast amounts of newly flooded grass flats and small trees. This spring, anglers should explore these grass flats for big bass using a big-bladed spinnerbait or fluke. In early summer and fall, bass often feed on schooling shad near main lake points and bridge crossings. During winter months, largemouths retreat to deeper water where only slow moving, bottom-bouncing baits 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. Redye bass up to 2 lbs are not uncommon, but most will weigh less than 1 lb. Redeyes prefer all types of rocky structure, especially on the lower half of the lake. Great hybrid bass and striped bass fishing await anglers this year. High survival of stocked fish over the last three years will provide good numbers of fish in a wide range of sizes. Due to a greater stocking emphasis on striped bass, the number of small stripers is nearly equal to the number of small hybrids. Most stripers caught this year will weigh between 1-4 lbs; however, Hartwell also has a reputation for producing an occasional 40 pounder. Live herring is the preferred bait, and live-lining and trolling are the preferred methods, depending on water temperature. Anglers fishing for crappie will find above average numbers of black and white crappie from 10-12-inches. The major cove arms in the upper reservoir, especially Eastanollee Creek, support more crappie than the deeper and clearer waters on the lower lake. This spring, anglers should concentrate their efforts around visible structure, especially downed trees lying in 5-15 feet of water. During summer and fall, night fishing with live shiners under lights is extremely effective around bridges. For more information about fishing on Lake Hartwell, call the local WRD office (706947-3112). For lake level information, call 706-376-3500.

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High Falls DNR operates the 650-acre State Park lake located north of Forsyth and just east of I-75 (exit #198). Two boat ramps provide public access, 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 hp is prohibited. Boats with outboard motors greater than 10 hp may be used if the outboard motor is not operated. Crappie and bream are the species targeted by most anglers and account for over 80% of the total harvest. Typically, crappie are abundant, but overall abundance has declined over the last several years. Average size also declined to run smaller than on other area lakes. The average size this year should be around 6-8 inches. However, nice crappie weighing 1-1 lbs are out there. 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 60 oF 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. Largemouth bass numbers have been increasing over the last several years. More than one-fourth of the harvestable fish will exceed 15 inches. In fact, the relative abundance of larger bass (15-25 inches) ranks near the top among major reservoirs within the state. Try crank baits 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. Channel catfish and bullheads are common, along with fewer numbers of flathead catfish. The average size channel catfish is 1-2 lbs, but fish exceeding 5 lbs are abundant. Trophy-size flathead catfish of 20 lbs or greater are available. The former state record flathead (53 lbs) was caught on High Falls in 1993. Try fishing deep holes and channel bends in the lower end of the lake for flatheads and channel cats. High Falls is a `sleeper' for hybrid and white bass. The untapped fishery has the potential to yield some excellent catches in both number and size. WRD successfully stocked hybrid bass for several years. Catches that average 2-3 lbs will reward anglers targeting these fish. Hybrids from 5-10 lbs are relatively common. Approximately 46% of the hybrids will be over 16 inches. White bass are usually associated with hybrids. Catches up to 2-3 lbs are likely. One suggestion for hooking up with white bass and hybrids 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 High Falls State Park (478-993-3053).
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 (GPC). The Alcovy, South, and Yellow Rivers and Tussahaw Creek form Lake Jackson. Several boat ramps provide public access. GPC owns and operates one ramp at 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 information on the location of the boat ramps, bank fishing opportunities, and lake drawdown schedules, contact the GPC Land Department (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, mealworms, 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.
Catfish are the second most-harvested fish. White and channel catfish and bullheads are available for harvest and should average -1 lb. Lake Jackson has a higher proportion of "memorable-sized" (greater than 30 inches) channel catfish than most other central Georgia reservoirs, but expect the average to be about 2-3 lbs.
The crappie population has remained stable with most around 6-8 inches. A couple of good spawning seasons will result in better than average crappie fishing. Those fish have continued to grow and should produce some nice catches again this year.
Largemouth bass abundance and quality has changed little in recent years. The black bass population consists of around 60% largemouth and 40% spotted bass. The average-sized largemouth bass has remained -1 lb. Approximately 40% of the largemouth bass caught in 2003 will be greater than 15 inches. Anglers seeking large bass (5 lbs or better) have the most success during fall, winter, and early spring (October-February). Crank baits 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 is on the increase since spots were first found by WRD in 1998. The population has rapidly expanded. Approximately 12% of the spots will be greater than 15 inches. Spotted bass tend to be located deeper than largemouth bass. Anglers commonly catch spotted bass at depths of 25-40 feet, but surface baits may attract spots when the fish are shallow enough to take notice of these offerings. Unlike largemouth bass, there is no minimum size limit on spotted bass in Lake Jackson.
WRD has stocked hybrid bass annually since the early 1980s. Hybrids will average 1-3 lbs, and some will weigh in at 7-8 lbs. 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 adjacent to Hwy 23. Impounded in 1980, the lake provides cooling water for Plant Scherer's electric generating facility. Two boat ramps, owned and maintained by GPC, are available for public use. DNR prohibits the use of outboard motors greater than 25 hp. Boats with larger outboards may be used, but the outboard cannot be operated. A small watershed, clear water, and extensive aquatic plant beds characterize the lake. The combined result is a relatively infertile reservoir with somewhat smaller sport fish populations. 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 lakes slightly lower productivity. Smaller crowds, an undeveloped shoreline, beautiful scenery, and abundant wildlife should also attract anyone interested in a quality fishing experience. WRD stocks striped bass annually at relatively low rates due to the

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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 GPC pumps water into the reservoir from the Ocmulgee River. Other successful methods include trolling creek channels during the cooler months, and 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. Anglers caught several striped bass around 35 lbs over the past four years and Juliette's reputation as a trophy striper lake continues to grow. The average weight for striped bass is just under than 5 lbs. WRD anticipates increased stocking rates in the coming year in conjunction with an expanding blueback herring population.
WRD first detected blueback herring, a preferred striper and hybrid bait, in 1999. WRD believes that anglers have released them into the lake in recent years. Anglers catch bluebacks in cast nets 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. WRD monitors the impact of introduced fish like blueback herring in reservoirs. It is now legal to fish with or possess live blueback herring on Lake Juliette.
Largemouth bass abundance generally remains below that found in other middle Georgia reservoirs. Anglers will find largemouth bass fishing comparable to previous years. Average bass size has increased gradually in recent years and now stands at about 1 lb. Thirty percent of the largemouth bass are 15 inches and greater. The average harvested bass weighs a respectable 1 lbs, and anglers caught a number of trophy bass from 12-16 lbs 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. Anglers make good catches off points, creek channels, and other deep-water structure in the middle portions of the lake during summer and winter. Deep diving crank baits 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 good. Approximately 30% of the fish caught in 2003 will be over 8 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 lakes in the area in terms of numbers. Fish will average about 6 inches, but anglers find large numbers 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. Flathead catfish have entered the reservoir through pumping operations and may add some diversity and trophy potential. Anglers can obtain more information on Lake Juliette facilities from the GPC Land office (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 by anglers. Spotted bass numbers have increased following the regulation change to a 14-inch minimum length. Spotted bass are in excellent condition and putting on weight from the ample supply of blueback herring and threadfin shad. Therefore, anglers should experience another good year catching lots of 1-4 lbs spotted bass. The average largemouth bass will weigh 1-3 lbs.

The number of largemouth bass over 4 lbs appears to be down, with the greatest concentration of big bass upstream of the confluence of the Chestatee and Chattahoochee Rivers. On a positive note, the lake is full and there is an abundance of flooded natural cover (grass, pine saplings, live brush) along the shoreline for young bass to escape predators. Under these conditions, the survival of largemouth bass hatched this year should be excellent. Black bass can be caught on live night crawlers, crayfish, and bait minnows throughout the year.
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 in 2003 are the upper Chattahoochee arm (Clarks Bridge area) and Thompson and Taylor Creeks. Also, crappie 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. A guide to bank fishing opportunities is also available. Some key bank fishing spots in 2003 include Lanier Point Park, Thompson Creek Park, Little Hall Park, Little River Landing, and Van Pugh Park. Buford Dam Park and River Forks Park are two good sites that are accessible.
Lanier anglers can expect a bonus year for striped bass. The apparent weight gain by striped bass in recent years is due to good dissolved oxygen levels in deep water during the past 3-4 summers and to an abundant supply of blueback herring, a preferred summer forage species. Stripers produced from successful stockings from 1998-2000 will range between 5-15 lbs and are expected to be a major contributor for the next 2 years. Numbers of trophy (20-30 lbs) stripers are increasing too. Both winter (NovemberMarch) and summer (July-August) are excellent times to fish for stripers. Live bait (herring, shiners, bluegill and shad), super flukes and bucktail jigs trolled will produce the best results.
This year will be another off year for white bass. White bass numbers are down due to poor spawning conditions during the recent drought. White bass fishing is expected to improve following several years of normal rain and lake levels. The best action is to fish the spawning runs up the Chattahoochee and Chestatee rivers in March and April. Channel catfish are numerous lakewide and average about 1 lb One-quarter to one-third pound bluegill can be caught on a regular basis from May through August. Walleye are few in number but can be caught in the upper reaches of the reservoir in late winter. They 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.
It is legal to fish with and possess live blueback herring, a preferred baitfish for stripers and hybrids, on Lanier. Spotted bass and striped bass populations have benefited from the increased food supply of herring. Negative impacts of bluebacks include their ability to out compete other young fish for food and that they prey on larval fish, including bass less than 1-inch long. WRD will be monitoring the impact of this species. For lake level information contact the COE office at Lake Lanier (770-945-9531) or www.usacelakelanier.net.
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, spotted bass, crappie and striped bass. Anglers can expect to catch fewer largemouth bass in 2003. The drop

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in bass numbers can be attributed to poor survival of young largemouths in recent years. However, numbers of largemouth greater than 3 lbs should be similar to last year. Best areas for largemouths are Ivy Log Creek, Young Cane Creek, and most cove pockets in the mid and upper lake. Spotted bass will make up about 75% 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. Black bass can be caught on live night crawlers, crayfish, and bait minnows throughout the year.
Striped bass weighing 5-12 lbs will make up most of the 2003 harvest. The number of fish over 25 lbs remain low, but these trophy-size specimens, including a few exceeding 40 lbs, will continue to be caught periodically. Fishing with large surface plugs around points near deep water in the main body of the lake should be productive. Bucktail jigs, super flukes, and live bait (bluegill, shad, blueback herring) fished deep off points and steep shorelines will also produce.
Blueback herring, a preferred baitfish for stripers and hybrids, are now common. Negative impacts of bluebacks include their ability to out compete other fish for food and that they prey on larval fish, including bass less than 1-inch in length. WRD will continue to monitor their impact on largemouth bass. 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 give stripers and other Nottely predators an upper hand in reducing the herring population. It may be working! Hydroacoustic sampling estimated an adult population of 132,000 herring in 2002 compared to 670,000 herring in 1999. Hybrids stocked in 1999 have grown to 6-8 lbs and those stocked in 2002 have survived well. These one-year old fish are plentiful and weigh around 1 lb.
Crappie anglers should expect to fill their daily creel as often as they did last year with an average fish weighing lb. Numbers of older, larger slabsides, now 1 lb, will make up less than 10% of the panfish catch. March and April are the favorite months for crappie fishing. Look for spring concentrations of fish around brush and fallen trees in 5-10 feet of water.
A fishable walleye population exists from limited survival of lakespawned 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 are effective methods for taking walleye year around. Walleye prefer cooler, oxygenated water with temperatures ranging from 65-72oF.
Several other fish species will offer good fishing in 2003. White bass numbers are down due to poor spawning conditions during the recent drought. Fishing success for this species is expected to improve following the return of higher spring lake levels and improved spawning success. Small curlytail grubs (chartreuse, white) and crankbaits are effective on white bass. Fishing for larger bream, -1/3 lb in size 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.
In 2003, natural brush, treetops, and Christmas trees were installed by WRD, USFS, TVA, and local anglers in Jacks Creek, Ivy Log Creek and near the main channel below Canal Lake Boat Ramp as added cover to improve survival of young largemouth bass. Maps showing these fish habitat sites, camping facilities, and boat access sites can be obtained from the Gainesville WRD office (770-535-5498) and USFS Blairsville office (706745-6928). For current lake level information call the TVA Chattanooga office at 423-751-2264 or http://lakeinfo.tva.gov.
Oconee Lake Oconee, located mainly in Greene County near the cities of Madison and Greensboro, was impounded in 1979 by the construction of

Wallace Dam. The 19,050-acre reservoir is operated with Lake Sinclair as a pump-storage (pumpback) hydropower generation facility. This unique operation in combination with the lake's long, narrow shape produces noticeable water current throughout the lake during power generation and pumpback. Game fish tend to be more active and feed more aggressively when water is moving through the dam. Fifty plots of timber topped off below water level and 1,250 acres of standing timber were left along creek and river channels to serve as fish attractors and provide fish habitat. Public access is readily available through eight Georgia Power and USFS boat ramps and parks. Several lakeside marinas also offer lodging, food, bait, tackle, and other fishing related services.
The lake's slot limit is intended to improve bass growth by encouraging selective harvest of smaller bass. Under this 11-14 inch protected slot, bass less than 11 inches and over 14 inches may be kept, while bass between 11-14 inches must be released. Harvesting bass less than 11 inches will improve bass growth by increasing the food supply for the remaining bass. Approximately 40% of the bass in 2002 were small, legal size fish (less than 11 inches). This is an improvement over the past several years, when as much as 70% of the population was made up of small bass. Some larger bass, including some around 8-10 lbs, were collected and released by WRD in 2002. A tagging study completed in 2001 indicates that angler harvest has increased slightly since 1995. Continued harvest of small bass will be necessary to improve bass growth. The removal of small bass is essential for slot limits to work, while harvest of larger bass is optional. Spinnerbaits fished around rip rap and rocky areas are popular for bass any time water temperatures are above 60oF. During the summer months, most fish are caught on main lake points, around deep bridges and steep banks, or up the Oconee and Apalachee rivers above I-20.
Good numbers of harvestable size crappie should be available again this year. The most, and biggest, crappie are caught from February through April, with the biggest slabs usually caught on warm afternoons in February. Fishing around standing timber in Sugar Creek and the upper end of the lake is a good bet in the spring, as are the upper ends of other major creek arms such as Richland, Sandy, and Lick creeks. Bedding crappie can be caught around shallow cover when water temperatures reach the low 60oFs.
White bass and hybrids will make spawning runs up the Oconee and Apalachee rivers in March and April, and the fishing can be great on the right day. Little George's, rooster tails, small crankbaits, and curly tail grubs are the best lures for white bass on spawning runs. Hybrids can also be caught in April and May in the middle and upper end of the reservoir around bridges and other rip rap when feeding on spawning threadfin shad. Hybrid numbers have been down the last few years, but numbers of 15-20 inch fish have increased in the past two years and should provide some nice catches this year. Hybrids will often school in the middle third of the reservoir throughout the summer, and then move to the lower end of the lake throughout the winter.
Catfish are available in great numbers, particularly channel and white catfish, that can be consistently caught throughout the reservoir. Morning and night fishing is particularly good during the warm summer months, and their consistent bite makes them a great fish to target when introducing kids to fishing. Worms or cut bait fished on the bottom are hard to beat. Blue and flathead catfish have also become established through unauthorized stockings and will provide additional catfishing opportunities. Flathead catfish in the 20-lbs range are now present in the upper end of the lake.
Oliver Located on the Chattahoochee River within the city limits of Columbus, Georgia Power Company (GPC) operates this 2,150-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. It also has a public fishing pier. One

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other public access area offering boat launching is located at the upper end (Alabama side). The ramp is gravel and affords launching to small fishing boats. Recreational boating is heavy during the summer, 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. Maps showing fish attractor locations are available at the marina and at WRD offices.
WRD suggests that you contact Bobby Barron at the marina (706-3230316) for information on what's biting, where and on what. For additional information on use areas around the lake contact the GPC Land Department (706-322-0228). Information on generating schedules and lake levels is available by calling 706-317-6000.
Lake Oliver is probably best known for bream fishing. Bluegill fishing is good during April and May, and the average catch is 6-8 inches with weights of -1/3 lbs. Live 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. 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 the WRD fish attractors during late winter and early spring. Look for catches to average lb, but a few "slabs" are available to the dedicated angler.
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 2-4 lbs, while white bass should average about 1 lb.
Three species of black bass, including largemouth bass, spotted bass, and shoal bass, are present. Largemouth bass is the most abundant and sought after species, followed by spotted bass. Catches of largemouth up to 10 lbs occur, but fish will average 1-1 lbs. Catches of spotted bass will range from 10-14 inches and average just under 1 lb. Boat docks and fishing piers are favorite areas for largemouth and spot anglers, but do not overlook rocky points and stumpy areas. Shoal bass are caught occasionally in the tail waters below Goat Rock Dam.
Rabun Lake Rabun is an 834-acre lake located in the northeast Georgia mountains near Clayton. Spotted bass, largemouth bass, bluegill, shellcrackers, and redear sunfish are the favorite targets of local anglers. The spotted bass population has been increasing for the past few years. Today, the number of spotted bass over 12-inches is relatively high and trophy-sized fish are more frequent. The rocky shorelines along the main channel, especially from Hall's Marina to the dam, provide the most favorable spotted bass habitat. Largemouth bass are different than spotted bass in habitat preferences, angling success, and population abundance. The largemouth bass population has remained relatively stable over the past several years, but the clear waters and limited shoreline cover make it more difficult for anglers to hook into an overly suspicious largemouth bass. Largemouth bass also prefer woody cover in coves and creek channels rather than the main channel. For both bass species, fishing success is best from April to June. At this time, largemouths can be enticed to strike spinnerbaits and plastic lizards, whereas spots cannot resist the fluttering action of a Super Fluke or Rattlin' Rogue. Bass fishing peaks again in October and November, when blueback herring are schooling in the long, narrow corridor of the upper lake. Again, Super Flukes and other surface plugs are best bets for schooling bass. Lake Rabun is also known for its excellent bream fishing. Bluegill and shellcracker weighing up to 1 lb are common. Bream are easiest to catch

during the summer when they congregate around the numerous boat docks that dot the shoreline. Bluegill readily take a cricket whereas the larger shellcracker 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. Crappie fishing is best in the narrow section of the upper lake where numerous trees have fallen into the lake from February through May,. Most crappie will range from 10-12-inches and weigh around lb. In March and April, walleye migrate into the headwater area from Rabun Beach to Nacoochee Dam. Bumping a live nightcrawler or Shad Rap along the bottom is the best way to entice a strike from these rare trophies. Walleye stocking is planned this spring to increase their population size and to control blueback herring. Yellow perch can be caught on small spinners and red wigglers fished around the weedy flats adjacent to the river channel. Nacoochee Park, which is located at the headwater section just below Nacoochee Dam, is an excellent place to bank fish for perch.
Richard B. Russell This 26,650-acre reservoir is nestled between Lakes Hartwell and Clarks Hill on the Savannah River. Shoreline development is not allowed at Richard B. Russell (RBR) making it one of the more pristine reservoirs in the state. There are very few recreational boaters and skiers during the summer months. Since this is a pumped storage facility, water levels are relatively stable throughout the year. The largemouth bass fishing in 2002 was fair. Adult, 3-5 lbs, largemouth bass are often found in structure 20-30 feet deep and can sometimes be caught by jigging spoons. The number of spotted bass has increased since 1994. They are in excellent condition and are putting on weight. Threadfin shad and blueback herring populations provide ample food for this expanding bass population. The number of spotted bass are beginning to make fishing for largemouth bass more difficult in some areas. In the fall of 2002, spotted bass were two to three times more abundant than largemouth bass throughout the Savannah arm of RBR. Largemouth bass were two to three times more abundant than spotted bass in the Beaverdam Creek arm and in the mid to upper areas of the tributary creeks. Shallow areas in spring are especially good for both black bass species. Black crappie will be more numerous this season because of the unusually large numbers of 8-9-inch crappie recruiting into the fishery. However, a good number of -1 lb slabs are also out there. Upper tributary areas, Rocky River, and Beaverdam Creek are good spring hot spots for crappie limits. Although striped bass and hybrid bass are not stocked into Richard B. Russell, small numbers are entering the reservoir from lake Hartwell. Hybrids and striped bass in the 610 lbs range can be located in the big water from the railroad trestle to the dam and in the headwater areas of the lake. Changes in the structure of the oxygen system, which covers about 65 acres in the forebay of the RBR, have caused a change in the fish patterns in summer and early fall. Large stripers, hybrids, and largemouth bass are associated with habitat created by this system and offer persistent anglers a chance for some trophy catches.
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 2003, Lake Seminole should provide excellent fishing for bluegill, redear sunfish (shellcracker), and channel catfish and good fishing for largemouth bass and crappie.

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Largemouth bass fishing continues to show signs of recovery. Anglers can expect to catch bass averaging around 2 lbs, with good numbers of fish larger than 5 lbs available. 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. The key to catching bass is learning to fish the abundant weedbeds. Your best bet will be to throw a plastic worm, spinner bait, or top-water lure along the edges of the weedbeds. February through May are the best months.
Bluegill and redear sunfish fishing was excellent in both numbers and size last year. All indications are that fishing will be as good in 2003. Fish should average around 7 inches and larger. Aquatic vegetation control efforts by the COE have been successful in reducing the overabundance of hydrilla in the Spring Creek arm. This resulted in excellent redear sunfish fishing last year. The abundance of aquatic plants is expected to be similar in 2003, so look for a repeat of this fantastic fishing. 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. Best baits are red wrigglers and crickets.
Channel catfish numbers continue to be good, and catfish anglers should be rewarded with excellent fishing this season. The average catfish caught will weigh around 1-2 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.
Hybrid bass fishing will be fair. Hybrid numbers are down somewhat; however, anglers can expect to catch a few 3-4 lbs fish. Striped bass are not as abundant as hybrid bass, and striper fishing is expected to be fair, with fish averaging around 3 lbs. Because these fish prefer open water, your best bet at catching some nice hybrids and stripers, will be in the areas near the dam, or up the arms of the Flint or Chattahoochee rivers in spring and winter. 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.
Although not usually noted for crappie fishing, the lake 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 some fish weighing over 2 lbs. Your best bet is to use minnows and jigs in the open areas near the dam and the arms in the Flint and Chattahoochee rivers.
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 reaches 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. In addition, the COE is using a low dose application of fluridone, an aquatic herbicide, to control Hydrilla in the Spring Creek arm of the reservoir. Call the COE Resource Management Office (229-662-2001) 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 can be found at www.bassangler.com.
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. Georgia Power Company (GPC) owns and operates the

reservoir. WRD 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 common. Lake Sinclair has some of the highest catfish densities of Georgia piedmont reservoirs. Most channel catfish in the creel will be -1 lbs, with good numbers up to 6 lbs. The reservoir has trophy potential with some 2030 lbs fish.
The quality of the crappie catch should be among some of the best we've seen over the last several years, with more individual fish over 2 lbs. Fish over 8 inches long will dominate the catch in the spring of 2003 with almost 60% of the catch larger than 10 inches. It is possible that the current lake record (2 lbs 5.4 oz) could be in jeopardy in 2003! 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 in summer, try fishing with lights under bridges or around deepwater lighted docks at night. In addition, do not overlook the fish attractors maintained by WRD. White buoys mark areas of sunken trees and brush.
Sinclair is typically not noted as a trophy bass lake. However, anglers catch and release many harvestable largemouth bass each year. According to the most recent Georgia BASS data, Sinclair rankes second only to Clarks Hill in the number of bass tournaments held. Largemouth fishing will continue to improve this year, with bass abundance continuing to expand. Quality will be similar to the last several years. There are good numbers of 15-20 inch fish. Fish the main points in deeper water or on underwater structure (humps) in spring. As the water warms, the fish move to shallow water to spawn. Anglers should fish drop-offs, deep brush piles, and lighted docks at night in summer. Edges of weed beds early in the morning or late in the afternoon can also be productive. Fish move back into the shallows of creeks in fall. 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. Use spinner baits, crank baits, jig and pig, plastic worms, lizards, or buzz-baits.
Hybrid bass continue to be popular. Annually stocked hybrids maintain good fishing. WRD stocked almost 214,000 hybrid fingerlings in the spring of 2002 (15/acre). Additional hybrids will be stocked again this spring. Good stocking success in 2001 and 2002 means more hybrids will be available to catch over the next several years. This spring's catch will be dominated by quality 2-4 lbs fish, with good numbers of fish up to 20 inches and greater.
White bass populations have leveled off; however, they should be slightly more abundant this spring. Sizes will generally average between 1-2 lbs. 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 spring white bass and large hybrids is directly below Wallace Dam and the Oconee River below Sinclair dam.
Both bluegill and redear sunfish (shellcracker) are available, but like most other middle Georgia reservoirs, sizes are generally on the small side. Average bluegill size will be about 4-5 inches with some individuals up to 6-7 inches. Sizes of shellcracker will be much better, with the average size of 6-7 inches and some individuals up to 10 inches.
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 and camping, food, bait, and tackle. GPC owns and operates the Sinclair Dam tailrace area, a popular area for bank anglers. The area is found immediately downstream of Sinclair Dam and is accessible from Sinclair Dam Road on the west side of the river. An

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accessible fishing platform improves the tailrace area. A safety railing extends along the west side of the tailrace for a distance of 800 feet. Popular areas for bank anglers include the near and around most bridge and railroad overpasses. Anglers use bridge overpasses for shoreline fishing along Hwy 441, Crooked Creek, Twin Bridges, and Hwy 212. For information concerning boat ramp and bank fishing locations, or other facilities, contact the GPC Land Department (706-485-8770).
Development will continue on a large, new angler access area in Putnam County just upriver of the Hwy 441 bridge on the Little River arm. The undertaking for this project is a combined effort of DNR, GPC, and Putnam County. "Dennis Station Access" opened in 2001, with a double-lane concrete boat ramp, dual service piers, a 100-foot "L"-shaped fishing pier, and ample parking. In 2002, another double-lane concrete boat ramp with dual service piers opened. Parking has also been expanded to accommodate the additional boat lanes. There is no fee for the use of these facilities. Eventually, the site will have six boat 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. The area is accessible off Twin Bridges Road and is convenient to boaters and anglers from Macon, Eatonton, and Milledgeville.
Tobesofkee Tobesofkee (1,750 acres) is owned and operated by Bibb County near Macon. There is an admission fee to gain access. Property owners have developed the shoreline on the lower end, but the upper end (above the Lower Thomaston Road bridge) is still relatively undeveloped. 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. The area directly below the dam is also popular for spring bank fishing where anglers catch crappie, white bass, and hybrids. 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 pleasure boaters in summer and can be difficult to fish. Try your luck early and late in the day to avoid peak boating. At other times of the year, Tobesofkee can be an excellent choice for hybrids, largemouth bass, and crappie. Some anglers find the fish difficult to catch; however, if you are willing to get to know the underwater "landscape" and to fish structure, Tobesofkee can be the place for serious hybrid, largemouth, and crappie anglers. Tobesofkee should have one of the more abundant hybrid bass populations among middle Georgia reservoirs in 2003. The population has been trending upwards since 1999 due to an emphasis on increased stocking rates related to good forage abundance and increased survival of stocked fish. WRD stocked fingerling hybrids in 2001 and 2002. The schedule calls for stocking additional hybrids this year. The majority of hybrids caught this spring will be larger than 16 inches. Anglers can also expect to encounter a few memorable hybrid bass of up to 25 inches. Tobesofkee will have a good largemouth bass population in 2003. Abundance and quality will be similar to last year as strong year classes produced in 1999 and 2000 move through the population. An excellent year class produced in 2001 should ensure good bass fishing for at least several more years. Over a third of the largemouth caught should be at least 15 inches, with some individuals over 22 inches. Crappie numbers will be lower and the catch will be dominated by smaller fish in this spring. However, over 50% of the catch will still be over 8 inches, with a fair number of fish over 12 inches. Do not overlook the fish attractors maintained by WRD for crappie fishing. White buoys mark areas of sunken trees and brush. In 2003, WRD will be gradually replacing the natural fish attractor materials with those constructed of artificial materials that should last longer.

Channel catfish abundance and quality will be similar to the last several years. Some larger individuals will be caught. The majority of fish will weigh -1 lbs, with decent numbers of quality 5-10 lbs fish.
Generally, Tobesofkee isn't noted as a bream lake. Bluegill, redbreast sunfish, and shellcracker (redear sunfish) are available for harvest. However, sizes are not as large as on some area lakes. Bluegill sizes will average around 4-5 inches, with some individuals around 7-8 inches. Redbreast sunfish will average around 4-5 inches, with some fish up to 7 inches. Shellcracker will average around 7-8 inches, with some individuals 8-9 inches.
Picnic areas, a marina, camping areas, and a large swimming beach make Tobesofkee a nice place to take the family for a day. The lake has two excellent boat ramps, Claystone and Arrowhead, with plenty of parking. Call the Tobesofkee Recreation Area (478-474-8770) for information.
Tugalo Lake Tugalo is a 597-acre lake formed by the Tallulah and Chattoga rivers. The lake's canyon-like walls are an extension of Tallulah Gorge and tower nearly 1,000-feet above the surface of the water. Small size and light boating traffic make the lake an ideal place for canoes and jon boats. Outboard motors are restricted to a 25 hp maximum, which precludes skiing activity. Lake Tugalo anglers regularly catch largemouth bass, white catfish, white bass, crappie, and bluegill. Walleye should also appear in the creel in 2003. White catfish are abundant and the most popular target of Lake Tugalo anglers. White catfish are smaller than other species of catfish and typically range in size from 1-2 lbs. The main channel banks on the Chattooga River arm are the most productive areas for white catfish, especially on summer afternoons during power generation. The gentle flow of water toward the dam during power generation seems to trigger a strong and predictable feeding response in catfish. Worms, liver, and artificial catfish concoctions are popular baits. Lake Tugalo was once known as a trophy bass lake, but today, numerous smaller bass ranging from 12-16-inches have replaced the trophies. During the spring, bass hold close to shoreline cover found in the numerous small pockets that indent the shoreline. In the heat of summer, surprisingly high numbers of largemouth bass move into the cool headwaters of both river arms. Anglers should explore the shallow flowing water with crayfish and blueback herring imitations. In fall, bass move off-shore to chase the many schools of blueback herring. Spotted bass appeared for the first time in WRD samples last fall. It will be interesting to watch their progress over time in this unusual reservoir. Would you like to know a place where you can catch trophy shellcrackers? Lake Tugalo is your place! For the last few years, WRD biologists have collected shellcrackers weighing over 3 lbs. These unusually large fish start showing up in shallow water during May to spawn. Fishing red wigglers near tree tops in 10-feet of water seems to be the key to hooking into one of these trophy shellcrackers. The white bass population is showing a rebound. In late-March and early-April, anglers should venture into the fast-flowing headwaters for white bass. A small white jig or spinner cast to the bank and retrieved steadily is a proven method for catching these scrappy fighters. Walleye stocked in 2001 and 2002 demonstrated good survival and rapid growth. Anglers may be surprised this spring to catch one of these golden-colored critters with big eyes and long teeth. Most walleye will weigh 1-2 lbs. Walleye stocking plays an important role in WRDs efforts to control blueback herring in Lake Tugalo and other Tallulah River lakes. Public access on the Georgia side is limited to one boat ramp in Tallulah Gorge State Park, located on Hwy 441 in the City of Tallulah Falls. Contact the local Fisheries office (706-947-3112) for directions or fishing information.

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Varner This 850-acre drinking water reservoir was constructed by Newton County. 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 fee of $5 per vehicle for parking and an additional $5 per boat. The fish population supports good fishing for largemouth bass, bream, crappie, and channel catfish. WRD personnel, in cooperation with Newton County, manage the fisheries. Largemouth bass abundance and quality have remained in a good range for the last several years. About 50% of the bass are 14 inches or longer, and an impressive 15% of the bass are over 20 inches. Varner offers a great opportunity to catch a largemouth bass over 5 lbs, particularly in spring and fall when bass are most likely to be in shallow water and are more easily caught. Varner has an excellent reputation for producing good panfish. Crappie, redear sunfish (shellcracker), and bluegill populations are in good condition. Crappie fishing usually peaks 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. Unfortunately, gizzard shad (an undesirable species) have become established in the lake, and will probably have a negative impact on the sport fishery over the next few years, particularly on bluegill. This is yet another example of how illegal and unauthorized stockings of fish in public waters can harm sport fishing. Hybrid bass have been stocked several times since 1998 in an effort to control the gizzard shad population. The largest of these fish will be over 22 inches (6-8 lbs) in 2003, and good numbers of 15-18 fish will be present. Hybrids were caught schooling and chasing shad on the surface quite often in the past year and provide some exciting topwater fishing.
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. The excellent largemouth bass spawn of 1998 will continue to improve fishing on this legendary bass lake in 2003. These five-year old fish, which will average around 17 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. Although the number of bass larger than 5 lbs is increasing, the effects of the disease caused die-off of large sized bass during 1997 are still evident. Anglers can once again expect the catch rates of bass larger than 5 lbs to be below average. Local anglers prefer plastic 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 creeks and coves. As a result of low water the past few years, 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 deep water structure along creek and river channels.
Bream fishing (bluegill and redear sunfish) changes little. 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 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 9 inches and weigh around lb this spring, but by the end of the year they will grow to 11 inches and weigh around lb. 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, which all received new brush in February 2002, located on the Georgia side of the reservoir. The sites are marked with buoys. A map of their locations with G.P.S. readings can be obtained by calling the COE office (229-7682516). 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.
Hybrid bass fishing will be good this year. The majority of the hybrid bass will be under 2 lbs this spring; however, good numbers of 3-5 lbs hybrids are present. Shiny artificial lures that imitate shad work well. Local anglers use Hopkins spoons, shysters, rooster tails, and rattle traps. Some anglers have good luck bottom fishing at night with chicken liver or dead shrimp, 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.
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 will produce good results for both species. Large blue catfish, up to 30 lbs, have been caught in the upper end of the reservoir the past few years.
Several new infestations of Hydrilla, an exotic weed, were found last year. Anglers can help prevent the spread of these, and other weeds, by inspecting their tackle, boat motor, and trailer and removing all 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 without Hydrilla. Please help keep all nuisance weeds out of Lake George. Report any sightings of Hydrilla to the COE (229-768-2516) or the Fisheries office (229-430-4256).
Weiss The lower Coosa River from Mayo's Lock and Dam near Rome to the Georgia-Alabama state line is the Georgia portion of Lake Weiss, 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, an excellent forage base continually supports the crappie population. The result is quality fishing year after year.

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Trolling small jigs or live minnows is a favored method. Casting is also effective once a crappie school is found. Popular access points include Lock and Dam Park operated by the Rome-Floyd 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 late February through early April, white bass can be caught as they make their annual spawning run up the Coosa River. Spawning runs may potentially be down this year as a consequence of four years of drought. 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 down stream of the Rome 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 30 lbs are often caught during spring from the Lock and Dam to Rome, 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 like bucktail jigs, shad colored crankbaits, and large jerkbaits fished in swift water near fallen trees. After the spawn, stripers disperse all over the Coosa River basin in search of cool water to beat the summer heat. These fish can be found in the rivers above Weiss and the smaller tributaries to the lake. 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. WRD is conducting a striped bass tagging study in the Lake Weiss basin. Anglers catching tagged stripers are encouraged to call the phone number on the tag and report the location of capture.
Largemouth bass number 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, but largemouth will be found in any of the backwaters off the main river channel. Spotted bass occur in fair numbers in the upper sections of Weiss. Spotted bass tend to stay in the main river channel and are generally a little smaller on the average than largemouth. Spots up to 4 lbs are available to anglers fishing bluff banks and creek mouths along the Coosa.
Blue, channel, and flathead, catfish as well as black, brown, and yellow bullheads of all sizes are abundant. The larger blue and flathead catfish can exceed 20 lbs. Fish for these whiskered behemoths in and around the log jams common in this area. Freshwater drum, smallmouth buffalo, and suckers are extremely abundant in this portion of the lake. The average drum is slightly over 12 inches, but be prepared to hook into some bull drum over 20 inches in length. Bluegill, redbreast sunfish, redear sunfish, and an occasional walleye round out the fishing opportunity in the Georgia portion of Lake Weiss.
A few anglers may encounter an odd-looking fish they have never seen before. The lake sturgeon was once a resident of the Coosa River system, but it disappeared in the 1960s. Pollution and overfishing are believed to have eliminated these archaic fish. Thankfully, water quality has improved and WRD made an initial stocking of 6-inch sturgeon in December of 2002 as part of an effort to reestablish the species. This reintroduction project will require similar, annual stockings over the next 15 to 20 years. The species grows slowly and does not mature for 12-15 years, so it is important to protect them from harvest until they can reproduce and once again support some limited harvest. As their name implies, they do have a tendency to inhabit slow waters, which will likely include Lake Weiss. Anglers accidentally catching a lake sturgeon should immediately release the fish

unharmed. Fish hooked deep will often survive if anglers will cut the line near the hook and release the fish with the hook. If you catch a sturgeon, please contact the Summerville (706-857-3394) or Calhoun (706-629-1259) office to report the location where the sturgeon was caught. Such "sightings" are very helpful to biologists trying to assess the survival of these magnificent fish. Those wondering what impact this sturgeon will have on their favorite game species can rest easy. Because of its low reproductive potential, the fish does not establish itself as a prominent species and its impacts are negligible. In fact, the specie's poor reproductive potential has caused it to be listed as rare or endangered throughout most of its original range.
West Point West Point is a 25,900-acre reservoir operated by the COE on the Chattahoochee River at the Georgia-Alabama border. Excellent facilities, close proximity to Atlanta, and a special regulation on largemouth bass contribute to the reservoir's popularity. A new 14 inch minimum size limit on largemouth bass and an abundant spotted bass population combine to consistently produce quality bass angling on West Point. Total black bass abundance are typically somewhat higher than those from other middle Georgia reservoirs. The population continues to maintain a healthy overall condition. Over 40% of the largemouth bass population is within the preferred 15-20 inch category and the average largemouth bass weighs about 1 lbs. Concentrate on warmer areas, like protected coves, using shallow-running crank baits and spinner baits for early spring action. 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 about 50% of the total black bass population. Most spotted bass are presently between 7-11 inches. 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 home for the table. The abundance and average size of crappie continue to indicate a healthy and stable population and 2003 should be no exception. About 25% of the population is between 10-12 inches and over 50% are in the 8-10 inch range. Average weight will be just under lb. The best crappie action is usually found by trolling jigs in the traditional spring 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 2003 and the typical fish will weigh in at about 2 lbs. 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 substantial numbers have been caught, a few in the 20 lbs class. 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 year classes produced in the last several years. Over 50% of the population is currently in the preferred 12-15 inch range and 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 with many 16-24 inch quality sized fish. As on most large reservoirs, bream are overpopulated and few reach catchable size. Average length for bluegill

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is about 4 inches and the less abundant redear (shellcracker) average 7-8 inches.
West Point is a productive largemouth bass and hybrid lake and these remain your best bets for 2003. Increased numbers of spotted bass continue to improve fishing success. 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 maiden cane and banker's willow at several locations. 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 recently planted in coves and additional plantings are planned for the future. These trees should provide benefits to the lake 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. It should be noted that a permit will no longer be required to construct fish shelters on West Point using Christmas trees, but the COE Project Manager Office (706-645-2937) should still 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 addition of PVC fish shelters.
WRD 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 and they are distributed widely over the entire lake below Highland Marina as well as in Yellow Jacket Creek. These 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 WRD Fisheries Management office in LaGrange (706-845-4290). In an effort to create additional largemouth bass and crappie habitat, WRD also cut large trees and dropped them into the water along the shore in Yellow Jacket Creek between buoy markers 9 and 17. WRD and the COE will continue to improve shoreline fish habitat by cutting trees at suitable locations and anglers can expect exceptional fishing in these areas for many years.
Publications available from the Fisheries Mgt. Section: 2003 Georgia Rivers Fishing Prospects Trout Streams of Georgia (map) Introduction to Georgia Trout Fishing Small Lakes Open to Public Fishing
Guidelines for Eating Fish from Georgia Waters Guide to Accessible Outdoor Activities 2003-2004 Sport Fishing Regulations
Useful Web Sites: WRD web site for useful information:
www.gofishgeorgia.com * to determine stream flow conditions at USGS gauges
http://ga.waterdata.usgs.gov/nwis/rt * to locate a boat ramp in Georgia www.gofishgeorgia.com
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