2007 Georgia reservoir fishing prospects

2007 Georgia Reservoir Fishing Prospects
A publication of the Georgia Department of Natural Resources
Wildlife Resources Division Fisheries Management Section

Nottely

Chatuge

Blue Ridge Carters

Burton Rabun
Tugaloo

Weiss

Allatoona

Lanier

West Point Bartlett's Ferry
Goat Rock Oliver

Randy Poynter Varner Jackson
High Falls Juliette
Tobesofkee

Hartwell

Richard B. Russell

Oconee

Clarks Hill

Sinclair Hamburg

Walter F. George
Andrews

Blackshear Chehaw

Seminole
1. Allatoona 2. Andrews 3. Bartlett's Ferry 4. Blackshear 5. Blue Ridge 6. Burton 7. Carters 8. Chatuge 9. Chehaw 10. Clarks Hill

Reservoir Listing
11. Goat Rock 12. Hamburg 13. Hartwell 14. High Falls 15. Jackson 16. Juliette 17. Lanier 18. Nottely 19. Oconee 20. Oliver 21. Rabun

22. Randy Poynter 23. Richard B. Russell 24. Seminole 25. Sinclair 26. Tobesofkee 27. Tugalo 28. Varner 29. Walter F. George 30. Weiss 31. 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 2007. 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 at www.gaepd.org/Documents/fish_guide.html . To obtain lake conditions online: U.S. Army Corps of Engineers: www.sam.usace.army.mil/op/rec ; Georgia Power: www.southerncompany.com/gapower/lakes and TVA: 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

Page

Best Bets in 2007

Office

Allatoona ........................ 2 ............. crappie, hybrid bass, spotted bass, channel catfish, carp ............................................... Calhoun Andrews.......................... 3 ............. hybrid bass, channel catfish, largemouth bass, white bass, striped bass........................ Albany Bartlett's Ferry................ 3 ............. spotted bass, largemouth bass, hybrid bass, crappie, catfish ......................................... West Point Blackshear ...................... 4 ............. largemouth bass, crappie, hybrid bass, catfish............................................................... Albany Blue Ridge ...................... 4 ............. white & smallmouth bass, walleye, largemouth bass .................................................... Calhoun Burton ............................. 5 ............. brown trout, spotted bass, yellow perch, chain pickerel ................................................ Burton Carters............................. 6 ............. walleye, hybrid bass, spotted bass, white bass .............................................................. Calhoun Chatuge........................... 7 ............. spotted bass, bluegill, white bass, carp .......................................................................... Gainesville Chehaw ........................... 7 ............. catfish, shoal bass, crappie, bluegill, redear sunfish ...................................................... Albany Clarks Hill ..................... 7 ............. crappie, striped & hybrid bass, largemouth bass, redear sunfish, white perch............... Thomson Goat Rock....................... 8 ............. largemouth & spotted bass, hybrid & striped bass, bream, catfish, crappie................... West Point Hamburg ......................... 9 ............. crappie, largemouth bass, redear sunfish, chain pickerel .............................................. Thomson Hartwell .......................... 9 ............. hybrid bass, largemouth bass, crappie, striped bass....................................................... Burton High Falls ..................... 10 ............. crappie, bream, largemouth bass, catfish, hybrid & striped bass ................................... CEWC Jackson ......................... 10 ............. bream, crappie, largemouth & spotted bass, catfish ...................................................... CEWC Juliette........................... 11 ............. striped bass, largemouth bass, redear sunfish ................................................................ CEWC Lanier............................ 12 ............. spotted bass, striped bass, channel catfish, largemouth bass, walleye ........................... Gainesville Nottely .......................... 12 ............. crappie, largemouth bass, hybrid bass, spotted bass, striped bass ................................. Gainesville Oconee.......................... 13 ............. crappie, white bass, hybrid bass, catfish........................................................................ Social Circle Oliver............................ 14 ............. bream, crappie, largemouth bass.................................................................................... West Point Rabun............................ 14 ............. largemouth & spotted bass, yellow perch, walleye, bream............................................ Burton Randy Poynter .............. 15 ............. largemouth bass, crappie, hybrid bass, catfish............................................................... Social Circle Richard B. Russell ........ 15 ............. largemouth bass, spotted bass, crappie .......................................................................... Thomson Seminole ....................... 15 ............. largemouth bass, redear sunfish, catfish ....................................................................... Albany Sinclair.......................... 16 ............. catfish, crappie, largemouth bass................................................................................... Fort Valley Tobesofkee ................... 17 ............. largemouth bass, crappie, hybrid bass .......................................................................... Fort Valley Tugalo........................... 18 ............. largemouth bass, walleye, white bass, white catfish, redbreast sunfish ........................ Burton Varner ........................... 19 ............. largemouth bass, crappie, redear sunfish, bluegill ......................................................... Social Circle Walter F. George .......... 19 ............. largemouth bass, bream, crappie, catfish, hybrid bass................................................... Albany Weiss ............................ 20 ............. crappie, striped bass, largemouth bass, catfish, drum, smallmouth buffalo ................... Calhoun West Point .................... 21 ............. largemouth & spotted bass, hybrid bass, crappie, 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 US Army Corps of Engineers (COE) impoundment of the Etowah River is 30 miles north of Atlanta on I-75. Numerous COE facilities and a Georgia State Park located around the lake provide anglers convenient boat ramp access and parking, as well as camping opportunities. 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 fishing Allatoona from July September should concentrate their efforts in water no deeper than 30 feet, as dissolved oxygen is rarely satisfactory for fish at greater depths that time of year. When it comes to black bass, angler catch rates in Allatoona are better than most Georgia reservoirs, yet average bass size tends to be smaller on average. One reason is that spotted bass, which attain smaller adult size than largemouth bass, dominate the black bass fishery, making-up approximately 80-90% of the black bass population. The average spot will be 10-12 inches in 2007, while older fish will measure out in the high teens and low twenties. The less abundant largemouth bass will typically weigh in at around 1 lbs. and few largemouth bass over 6 lbs. will be caught in 2007. Target largemouth in the Little River and Etowah arms of the reservoir, as this is where the best largemouth habitat exists. Any type of woody debris, especially that found in the backs of coves, will hold largemouth bass. Spotted bass tend to hold in deeper habitats than largemouth. Drop shot and spooning are both good ways to target these deeper fish. Anglers should try both techniques around the 36+ locations the WRD and COE has placed fish attractors. These locations are typically in 25-30 feet of water at full pool and best fished from fall through spring. Updated fish attractor location maps can be downloaded and printed from the WRD website at: http://georgiawildlife.dnr.state.ga.us/content/displaycontent.asp?txtDo cument=117&txtPage=3. In April 2007, WRD will again tag spotted bass to gather information on their abundance, survival and angler harvest rates in Allatoona. More than 1,000 spotted bass will be tagged with individually numbered plastic tags. Anglers catching a tagged fish should snip the tag off close to where it enters the fish and call the number on the tag. Callers will be asked for their 1) name, address and phone number; 2) date of catch and general location, and 3) whether the tagged fish was released or taken home. Anglers also can mail or bring tag and information to the WRD Summerville (706-8573394) or Calhoun (706-624-1161) Fisheries Management Offices. Anglers can expect crappie fishing to be consistent with years past. The average crappie should be around 10 inches and weigh about lb., though larger crappie tipping the scales over 1 lb. will be caught. Most crappie anglers focus their efforts during the spring spawn, when the fish concentrate 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. Besides jigging or live bait fishing over structure, anglers should try slow trolling small artificials in these same areas. Trolling is a good way to cover a lot of water and locate schools of feeding fish. Popular areas to catch spring spawn crappie include the Kellogg, Illinois and Stamp Creek areas of the lake. 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 and light tackle around docks and bridges will likely be an angler's best chance at consistently boating finicky summer crappie. WRD continues to stock striped bass in Allatoona at a rate of 2.5

fish/surface acre. Striper fishing is best from October-June and trolling live shad is an angler's best approach to consistent catches. Stripers will be found in the main body of the lake in winter, but migrate to upper reaches of the lake on their spring spawning run. As summer heats up smaller stripers (<10 lbs.) will be found in the main lake, but most larger linesides migrate far up the Etowah River seeking coolwater in which to beat the summer heat. Enticing a summer bite from these large fish can be extremely difficult as they slow their feeding rates. However, with the onset of fall and cooling lake waters, these large stripers migrate back into the main lake body and feed voraciously as they pack on pounds lost during the hot summer months.
Increased stocking rates of hybrid striped bass by WRD in recent years continues to bear fruit... and lots of it! Hybrid abundance in Allatoona continues to remain high, rivaling some of Georgia's bestknown hybrid lakes. The average hybrid will be in the 1-2 lbs. range but plenty of 5-8 lbs. fish will be caught. Hybrids can be caught yearround, but summer is best for boating large numbers. Regardless of season, anglers seeking these hard fighters must locate their primary food source... shad. Locate schools of shad using depth finders, while keeping a sharp eye open for schooling hybrids "boiling" the water's surface as they feed on shad in the morning and early evening. White spinners, spoons and crankbaits will produce summer fish, but serious hybrid fisherman will slow troll with 3-5 inch live shad on free-line or down-line rigs. In the winter months live shad will continue to be an effective bait, but anglers wishing to use artificials can try umbrella rig trolling too. In terms of location, the mile of lake above and below the popular Galt's Ferry boat ramp is a year-round hotspot for Allatoona hybrids.
Spawning runs of white bass will be up somewhat from recent years, as the population begins recovering from several years of drought believed to have weakened the population. Target these spawn-run fish from March-April in the Etowah and Little River arms of the lake. The rest of the year "whites" can be caught on small baits in amongst the numerous striper and hybrid schools.
Bluegill, redbreast sunfish and redear sunfish are all present in Allatoona. Bluegill are the dominant sunfish species. However, they typically average 5 inches in length and few individuals over 7 inches are present.
Channel and flathead catfish also are available. While channel catfish are more abundant, flatheads tend to grow to a much larger size. Pursue channels and flatheads on the rocky bedrock banks in the Etowah River arm using chicken livers and live bait fished on the bottom. The numerous rip-rapped shoreline banks are also good areas to locate big Allatoona catfish.
Carp are numerous, widely distributed, and grow to moderately large sizes. Most carp fishing is concentrated in the Acworth Dam area. Carp are strong fighters and will give a worthwhile battle to those who pursue them. Gar also are numerous in Allatoona. Though not generally considered good eating, these toothy fish are strong fighters and can be great fun to catch. Gar can be caught using a number of techniques ranging from live shad or minnows fished below a bobber to sight fishing with minnow type lures made from frayed rope. Such lures rely on the gar's numerous teeth to become entangled in the frayed strands of rope during the strike.

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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 good during 2007, with the average hybrid weighing about 3 lbs., with some fish weighing 5 lbs. or better. 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 low, and as a result, anglers can expect to land few of these hard fighting fish. Currently, the majority of stripers in the population are smaller, averaging 2-3 lbs. However, in previous years, several stripers over 20 lbs. were landed. Several 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 gain access to the tailrace on the Alabama side and boats can be launched at the Corps of Engineers 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 opportunities for catching 4-6 lb. fish. Largemouth bass and bream fishing should be best in the spring, during the pre-spawn and spawning seasons, but bass anglers often do well for bass during the summer months. 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 over 40 lbs. have been caught in the area below the Walter F. George dam, and large flathead catfish can be found below both dams.
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 Wildlife Resources Division (WRD) facility at Idle Hour Park has a boat ramp, 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). Chambley's (334-768-2662) is a good source for current fishing information. Generating schedules and lake levels information is available by calling 706-317-6000. Largemouth bass abundance has been steady while spotted bass have been increasing in abundance. About one-half of the largemouth bass population is greater than 12 inches, and over 25 percent are greater than 15 inches. The largemouth anglers' catch should weigh 11 lbs. Boat docks and fishing piers are favorite areas for bass

anglers, but do not overlook rocky points and underwater humps. Early March through May, when water temperatures are in the mid-tohigh 60's, is probably the peak fishing time for largemouth bass. In the fall, try fishing further up the lake above GPC's Blanton Creek Park.
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 because of the lack of a minimum size restriction on Bartlett's Ferry. Look for the average-sized spot to be about 7 inches and weigh about lb. Spots tend to bite during the same time as largemouth. However, spots are more commonly found on rocky points and in deeper water.
Bartlett's Ferry is not known for bream fishing. Most bluegill catches will be 7 inches and under and weigh 2-4 oz. However, redear sunfish grow larger and provide anglers with catches averaging better than 1/3 lb. Both bluegill and shellcrackers are caught around docks and piers, most during the summer.
Fishing for hybrid bass has been good for several years. Hybrids are still found in Bartlett's Ferry in good numbers even though they have not been stocked since 1995. Most hybrids probably traveled downstream from West Point Lake where they are stocked. A few trophy-sized hybrids up to 14 lbs. have been caught. Catches will average 1-2 lbs., but a few larger 7-10 lbs. fish are available. Hybrids hang out below Riverview dam and should provide good action during normal flows. The few white bass should average 1 lb. or better in most years.
Gulf-race striped bass have been stocked annually since 1992 to support the recovery of the species in the Apalachicola River System. Our observations indicate that most striped bass are exceeding lengths measured for hybrids and are more abundant. Experienced anglers are currently taking a few striped bass weighing up to 25 lbs. or bigger. Look for the abundance of trophy-sized 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 spring spawning runs. During summer and fall, hybrids and stripers can be taken lakewide as they school after young-of-theyear 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 footballs.
Crappie enthusiasts are not usually disappointed at Bartlett's Ferry. Crappies are abundant and at least 50 percent or more are 10-14 inches. In most years, the average-sized crappie will vary from - lb. However, slabs are abundant. The best chance for a heavy stringer of crappie is usually early February through April. Also, try your luck at the six WRD fish attractors that provide good fishing. Maps showing their locations are available at WRD offices. In addition, WRD and GPC personnel recently planted hundreds of cypress and Tupelo (Black Gum) trees around the lower end of the lake. Look for these trees to grow in the next few years and provide fish habitat as well as marking shallow water areas for boaters.
Typically, fishing for catfish is good to excellent. Channel catfish are the favorite catfish species, but white catfish are also abundant in Bartlett's Ferry. Channel catfish up to 8-12 lbs. are possible, but individuals averaging 1-3 lbs. are most common. 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

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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.
Fish ranging from 12-16 inches dominate Blackshear's bass population. Although overall bass numbers were down slightly in 2006, there will be fair numbers of fish greater than 14 inches available this year. 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 be found around cypress trees in Limestone Creek, Gum Creek, Collins Branch, the upper end of Swift Creek and the Gum Pond area located in the upper reaches of the reservoir. 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. Numbers of crappie greater than 8 inches should be higher in Blackshear this year, and the 2006 gill net sample revealed the highest numbers of fish greater than 12 inches since 1990 and anglers can expect to catch an occasional fish over 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 find some good crappie fishing. Another great place to start fishing is around the 10 fish attractors, which are conveniently marked with buoys. Maps showing location and GPS readings of these attractors are available at the Albany WRD Fisheries office (229-430-4256). 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.
Blackshear's hybrid bass population has improved substantially with the stocking of hybrids the past five years. Excellent survival and growth will provide good fishing for hybrids this year, as the 2006 gill net sampled showed the second highest overall numbers and the highest number of hybrids over 15 inches since 1990. Anglers can additionally expect some hybrids weighing over 3 lbs. in 2007. Although most white bass are less than 1 lb., expect the highest catches since 1990 .
As a result of stockings the past several years the number of striped bass will be fair. The striped bass population is dominated by fish less than 20 inches, but the 2006 gill net sample showed higher than normal numbers of fish over 20 inches and anglers can expect some fish over 6 lbs. Good areas are around Smoak Bridge, 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 (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 current Sport Fishing Regulations.
The bream population remains fairly stable in Blackshear. Spring electrofishing in 2006 revealed a slight decline in numbers of bluegill but an increase redear sunfish. Although bluegill fishing should remain fair, most fish will be 7 inches or less. As redear sunfish numbers are up, anglers who locate spawning fish should be rewarded with good numbers of 8-10 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 channel catfish 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 and cheese baits, and use live bait such as small bream, shad, and suckers for flatheads. While channel catfish can be caught lake wide, flatheads usually inhabit deeper water, where river and creek channels meet.
Blue Ridge The TVA operates this 3,290-acre reservoir on the Toccoa River near Blue Ridge, Georgia. 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, and even the occasional rainbow trout or yellow perch. Trout anglers can find out more about fishing the Blue Ridge Tailrace in the "2007 Georgia River Fishing Prospects". Walleye fishing is best from spring to fall on Blue Ridge. Because of the very clear water, successful walleye anglers usually fish at night. Throwing jigs and crankbaits along rocky banks, jigging spoons over deep structure, and live nightcrawlers are all good techniques for catching walleye. Until recently, the average Blue Ridge walleye was typically less than a pound in size, but with the illegal introduction of blueback herring sometime around the turn of the century, average walleye size has increased dramatically. Walleye growth has presumably increased on the wave of growing blueback herring numbers in the lake. A twopound "glass eye" used to be a good fish at Blue Ridge, but now it's only slightly better than average. Despite the initial benefit the illegal blueback herring introduction appears to have had, there is real concern what impact herring may have on the future reproductive success of the Blue Ridge walleye population. Bluebacks have been known to negatively effect walleye abundance in a number of Tennessee and North Carolina reservoirs in which they were introduced. Unlike common forage fish such as shad, blueback herring have been known to eat game fish fry and eggs. WRD sample data for Blue Ridge show young walleye numbers are down for a second straight year. Herring may therefore be a double-edged sword, offering adults a new food source, but at the cost of devastating reproductive success and overall walleye abundance in Blue Ridge Reservoir. Rocky points and shoals in the upper end of the lake are good places to find white bass bunched up in the spring. Small jigs like "doll flies", and plastic grubs in light colors along with small, herringimitating crankbaits fished on light spinning gear should be all the angler needs to get in on the spring white bass action. Outside of spring, white bass can be found throughout the lake chasing baitfish and perhaps even providing some summer evening surface action. Blue Ridge offers anglers one of the last remaining reservoir smallmouth bass populations in the Peach State. Smallmouth numbers have remained fair over the last few years, and these acrobatic, hard fighting fish should provide for some exciting fishing. Like walleye, "smallies" appear to have taken advantage of the new item on the menu - blueback herring. As a result, smallmouth are packing on the weight. While the typical smallmouth is around lb., "bronzebacks" over 5 lbs. should be caught in 2007. Like the Blue Ridge walleye population, there is serious concern of the effect that the illegal introduction of blueback herring may have on Georgia's last remaining

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smallmouth lake fishery. Blueback are thought to have reduced black bass abundance in several Southeast lakes in which they were introduced. Again, it is still too early to tell what long-term effect they may have on this unique Georgia fishery. Outside of April and May, when smallmouth can be found on rocky points spawning, an angler's best bet for consistent smallmouth hook-ups will be locating schools of herring. Find the herring and feeding "smallies" will be close by.
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. This becomes a problem as spotted bass compete with, and can hybridize with, smallmouth bass, resulting in the collapse of the smallmouth fishery as has occurred in other Georgia reservoirs. Remember, there is no size limit on spotted bass, and anglers are encouraged to harvest their limit (10) when ever possible in 2007. 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 up-river locations of the reservoir. Target the backs of coves and tributary mouths around fallen trees and stumps. The average Blue Ridge largemouth will run around 12 inches and weigh around 1 lb., though fish over 10 lbs. are available. "Bucketmouths" appear to be feeding on the illegally introduced blueback herring. Growth is anticipated to increase as a result and anglers may have larger than normal fish bending poles this year at Blue Ridge. However, long-term, largemouth abundance may be negatively influenced by the illegal blueback herring introduction, as has occurred in other north Georgia reservoirs.
Quality and not quantity is the rule when it comes to bream fishing. Blue Ridge is known for producing large bluegills in excess of 10 inches. Anglers should concentrate on fishing worms and crickets in 15-20 feet of water around blow downs. The Toccoa arm of the reservoir is a favored location for these large "gills", which become concentrated during the May-July spawning period.
Cat fishing 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.
Last year WRD and TVA placed several artificial fish attractors in the lake. Each site is marked with a surface buoy and their locations can be found at the following website: http://georgiawildlife.dnr.state.ga.us/content/displaycontent.asp?txtDo cument=117&txtPage=8 Preliminary underwater video (movie clip available at above address) assessment of these sites clearly show these structures are concentrating bait and gamefish in large numbers at certain times of the year. Look for new fish attractor sites to be created in 2007.
In winter (Nov-Feb), water level drawdowns of 30 feet or more occur. While these drawdowns often lead to excellent fishing, boat access during these periods is limited to ramps at the USFS's Morgantown Point Recreation Area and the Blue Ridge Marina. During extreme drawdowns, anglers should contact the USFS for information about boat ramp access.
Burton Lake Burton is a 2,775-acre reservoir that is located in the northeast Georgia mountains near Clayton, Georgia. Its scenic mountain beauty as well as the abundance of fabulous lakeside homes impresses newcomers to the lake. Anglers who like to cast baits from the boat will find that fishing is best for spotted bass. For those who like to troll in open water, brown trout will be plentiful this year. Chain pickerel, yellow perch and bluegill will also provide fun and

excitement to kids and grown-ups alike. Spotted bass dominates the catch each year, and 2007 will be no
exception. Spotted bass abundance is at record high numbers, but small fish less than 13-inches will account for three-fourths of the catch this year. On average, anglers can expect about one in every four spots to weigh over 2 lbs. Anglers can improve their odds of catching bigger fish by using larger baits. Pearl-colored soft-plastic jerk baits, topwater "walking baits", suspending jerk baits, spinner baits and finesse worms are the most popular lures for spotted bass on Lake Burton.
The prime time to catch spotted bass in Lake Burton are the spring and fall months. In early spring, spots will concentrate around the outside corners of boathouses in search of suitable spawning habitat. Fishing around boathouses located on or near rocky shorelines will increase your chances of success. By late spring, spots will move offshore where fishing topwater lures that "walk-the-dog" at dusk and dawn along points and humps are your best bets. When the sun rises well above the horizon, switch to slow, deepwater presentations in the 20 to 30-feet depth range. During the fall, spotted bass are on the prowl for blueback herring. Live baits such as crayfish, nightcrawlers, and minnows work great this time of year. Artificial lures like softplastic jerk baits, lipless crankbaits and suspending jerk baits worked on points can also be effective this time of year. If those baits are not working, switch to vertical jigging with spoons or fish slow-moving crayfish imitations along the bottom.
In the last few years, Lake Burton has developed into Georgia's only trout lake. The high numbers of brown trout stocked in 2005 will dominate the catch in 2007. These fish should range in size from 16 to 20-inches in length and 2 to 3 lbs. in weight. Trout over 4 lbs. will be much less frequent than in past years due to a dip in the blueback herring population. Trout fishing peaks from August to September and a second peak occurs from December to March. During the summer, coolwater habitat shrinks in Lake Burton to a relatively narrow band of water that typically spans the 30 to 60-foot depth zone. By late summer, trout will be concentrated in the lower section of the main lake from Mocassin Creek to the dam. Trolling with live bait (herring or minnows), trolling spoons, or shad-imitating crank baits in this depth zone have proven to be effective methods this time of year. With the onset of winter, blueback herring migrate toward the dam or the back of coves in search of warmer water, and hungry trout are usually close behind. Although the bluebacks are typically near the surface, trout can be located with a good depth finder underneath the schools of herring. Often times, fish will be located against the face of the dam. Down-lining live herring or vertical jigging with spoons are great ways to catch these fish at the dam. Suspending jerk baits and live bait worked near the stream mouth may also be effective on sunny, winter afternoons.
Lake Burton provides fishing opportunities for other species like largemouth bass, black crappie, yellow perch, bluegill and chain pickerel. Largemouth bass and black crappie are not very abundant, but some very big fish can be caught seasonally using traditional techniques. Large numbers of yellow perch can be caught during the warm months by fishing with nightcrawlers or small shiners along the bottom near weed beds at depths ranging from 15 to 25-feet. Ultralight fishing rods, light line, small hooks, and a box of crickets are the items needed to catch a stringer of bluegill from the bank or boathouse. For real excitement, try fishing for chain pickerel in the shallow flats at the back of every major cove. Pickerel are extremely aggressive and relatively easy to catch on a wide variety of artificial lures such as floating minnow baits and spinner baits. The key to catching one of these acrobatic fighters is to fish the shallow flats and visible structure thoroughly with flashy lures.

5

Bank fishing opportunities for the public are available at Lake

Burton Fish Hatchery and Moccasin Creek State Park located on

Highway 197 North. Several fishing piers provide good fishing for

bluegill and redear sunfish during the summer months. Burton

Hatchery allows children ages 11 and under to fish in a stocked catfish

pond. In addition, trout are stocked regularly into the special

regulation section of Moccasin Creek. If you are in the area but forgot

your fishing pole, stop by the hatchery or park office and ask for a

loaner pole. For more information about Lake Burton, visit the

Georgia

Power

Company

website

at

www.southernco.com/gapower/lakes.

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). Over 130,000 walleye fingerlings have been stocked into Carters since 2003. Persistent walleye anglers can expect the average fish to be around 2 lbs. in 2007. Among these moderately sized "glass-eyes" will be some older walleye measuring out in the mid-20's and weighing 5-8 lbs. or larger. WRD has captured and released several walleye from Carters in recent years that if caught on rod-and-reel, would easily have broke the current lake record of 8 lbs. 11oz.! As walleye prepare to spawn in February and March, anglers should try to locate them staging along rocky shorelines and points in the upper Coosawattee River arm of the lake. Jigging spoons, deep diving crankbaits, and live bait fished on leadhead jigs are all popular walleye lures. Look for walleye on deeper structure where baitfish concentrate during summer and fall. From late fall through winter, walleye anglers should again focus their efforts on points in the Coosawattee arm of the lake. Throughout the year, evening and night fishing will be a walleye angler's best bet at consistently landing these toothy predators. Research by WRD biologists suggests the Carters striper fishery has suffered as a result of high summer water temperatures and low dissolved oxygen levels in the lake. Particularly affected are the larger stripers that are less tolerant of these conditions. Consequently, coaxing a summer striper bite can be difficult at Carters. The best lineside fishing is in the cooler months from October-June when striper anglers should troll live shad or trout amongst schooling stripers. One of the better locations for striper activity is found in the waters immediately adjacent to the Doll Mountain boat ramp. Expect better stripers at Carters to weigh in the 20-30 lbs. range. Hybrid striped bass were first stocked in Carters in 2003, so this fishery is still in its infancy. Hybrid growth over the first few years of stocking was excellent and anglers can expect some fish to be 8+ lbs. in size this year. There will be fewer small hybrids in the mix, as fingerling survival has been low over the past two years. Anglers will catch these "mini-freight trains" on artificial baits, but live shad or trout in the 3-5 inch range will likely be the ticket for consistency. Hybrids will be caught year-round, but summer fishing will likely shine brightest. Slow trolling summer down-lines in 20-30 ft. of water should put hybrids on the table fare for Carters anglers. Hybrids, like stripers, perform a double duty for Carters anglers. Directly, they offer fishermen another angling opportunity in the lake. More importantly though, Carter's striped and hybrid striped bass keep the shad population in check. By consuming the larger shad that 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, providing anglers with a higher quality fishery overall.
Based on sample data, spotted bass abundance in Carters is again at an all time high. Anglers should expect to boat good numbers of nice spots in 2007 as growth continues to be excellent and survival of large spots remains good. The average spot will be 10-12 inches and weigh around lb., but don't let this fool you, there are plenty of Carters famous "magnum" spots lurking the depths. Five and six pound plus lunkers will stretch lines again this year. In addition to spotted bass, which account for 90% of the black bass population, there are largemouth bass in the 7-8 lbs. or better range. These fish are typically found in the backs of coves in the tributary arms of the reservoir. Bass fishing can be difficult for the inexperienced due to the deep water, steep banks, and 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 45+ fish attractors WRD and COE personnel have placed within the lake. Attractor location maps can be obtained at the COE Resource Managers' office or by downloading them at: http://georgiawildlife.dnr.state.ga.us/content/displaycontent.asp?txtDo cument=117&txtPage=11
Though often overlooked, crappie can be found in Carters. The average crappie will be about 8 inches. Anglers should focus their effort around standing timber visible in a number of areas throughout the lake and under boat docks. Crappie will suspend in these areas year round, but typically spring is best.
White bass numbers will be up from recent years, as the population begins a slow recovery from several years of drought believed to have weakened the population. Vertically jigging spoons or small jigs in areas where shad are present can take these game fish. Some of the best fishing for "whites" will be in March-April when they make their annual spawning run up the Coosawattee River.
In addition to white bass, yellow bass are present in high number, but the species tends to be much smaller then white bass. Anglers are encouraged to harvest yellow bass, as this illegal introduction directly competes with the more desirable game fish in Carters.
Other offerings include channel catfish, flathead catfish, and bluegill. Channel catfish will average around lb., and the less abundant flatheads will average a bit over 7 lbs. Rocky banks and points upriver are likely spots to find these cats. Bluegill are abundant, although most fish will be less than 6 inches. A bucket of worms or crickets is all one should need to sample the bluegill action.
Though boat access is limited to small jon boats, the lower (reregulation) pool at Carters offers anglers a change of scenery. Species found in this 1,030 acre impoundment include largemouth bass, bream, white bass, striped bass, suckers, 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 Carters dam include spotted bass, 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. Anglers can find out more about fishing the Coosawattee Tailrace and beyond in the "2007 Georgia River Fishing Prospects".

6

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 fishermen must be licensed by

the state in which they are fishing. Regulations of the appropriate state

apply. Under TVA's reservoir operations plan that was revised in

2004, winter lake levels are expected to be 2 to 5 feet higher than lake

levels observed prior to 2005. Lake level information can be obtained

from the TVA Chattanooga office at 423/751-2264 or

http://lakeinfo.tva.gov.

Black bass fishing should be good this year because of the

abundance of spotted bass, which have dominated the Lake Chatuge

fishery since 1990. In 2007, anglers will have the opportunity to catch

large numbers of 1 to 2 lbs. spots. The abundance of bass over 3 lbs.

has declined from record numbers observed in recent years. Spotted

bass prefer the main river channel banks 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. Spotted and largemouth bass can be caught on live night

crawlers, crayfish, and bait minnows throughout the year.

Many other species are available to Chatuge anglers. White bass

numbers are increasing following the return of higher lake levels

during the spring spawning period since 2003. Anglers are expected

to see an improvement in their catch of this species in 2007. Whites

will average around 1 lb. this year. Jigging with hair jigs, plastic grubs

and spoons and fishing topwater lures from May through July are

effective methods for whites. Bluegill 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 lb. this year. Best panfish spots are downed

trees and backs of cove pockets with brush. The lake also supports a

good population of channel catfish. Carp are abundant and readily

take prepared catfish baits, corn and dough balls from May through

August.

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

outcompete young native fish for available food and predation on

larval fish, including bass less than 1-inch long. It is 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 blueback herring on sport fish populations.

In 2007, WRD, U.S. Forest Service, TVA personnel, and anglers

will install fish attractors. Attractors will be placed at the Towns

County Park, located on US Hwy. 76, and at three approved cove

attractor sites to increase fishing opportunities. The PVC pipe and

commercially constructed units, funded by TVA, will be permanent

fishing spots and do not need refurbishing like Christmas trees.

Information concerning the locations of these fish habitat sites,

camping facilities, and boat accesses can be obtained from the WRD

Gainesville office (770-535-5498) and U.S. Forest Service Blairsville

office (706-745-6928).

Chehaw Lake Chehaw (formerly named 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 a smaller 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 2007. Best areas for bass will be in the in the Kinchafoonee and Muckalee Creeks and the backwater sloughs off the Flint River in spring and fall. Many anglers who bass fish on Lake Chehaw go up the Flint River several miles above the reservoir to fish for shoal bass. Shoal bass, a lesser know member of the bass family, can be found in the fast-water shoal areas in the Flint River. These hard fighting fish will average 1-3 lbs. However, fish up to 6 lbs. are occasionally caught in this stretch of the Flint. A shoal bass caught during the summer of 2006 from the stretch of river between lakes Blackshear and Chehaw was ounce less than the state record (8 lbs., 3 oz.). Lures that imitate crayfish, a favorite food for shoal bass, and topwater lures can produce good catches. Midday can be a great time to target these fish.
Fishing for catfish on Lake Chehaw should provide plenty of action this year. The average channel catfish should weigh around 2 lbs., while flathead catfish should average 5-8 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 2007. For crappie, try using a jig and minnow around creek mouths and around any visible cover, such as old stumps or fallen trees in the upper part of the reservoir. A lot of submerged 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 8-10 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 artificials (bucktails, plastic jigs and crankbaits) 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 Georgia's largest reservoir at 71,535 acres. This U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (COE) reservoir is located 30 miles northeast of Augusta on the Savannah River. The numerous creeks feeding the lake, over 1,200 miles of shoreline, and large areas of open water provide a wide range of fishing opportunities. Navigation charts can be obtained from the Clarks Hill COE office (800/533-3478). Striped and hybrid bass are stocked each year to help control forage fish populations and provide great action for big fish. Clarks Hill consistently ranks near the top in Georgia for crappie fishing. Although the presence of hydrilla and blueback herring in the lake impacts largemouth bass behavior, there are plenty of bass to fill your cooler once you are on the right pattern. The spring shellcracker also is a favorite with the locals. A creel survey on the lake is being conducted in 2007. A major focus of the survey is to

7

determine the impact of pumpback operations at upstream Russell Dam on fishing in Clarks Hill Lake.
Crappie fishing was excellent last year and should be again in 2007. Crappie will average lbs. with the bigger slabs going 1 to 2 lbs. Fishing, Soap, Grays and Newford creeks and Little River near Raysville are great spots for spring crappie. There are several fish attractors in the lake and they 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. Late summer and fall are a great time to fish under the bridges for feisty papermouths. Try the backs of creeks such as Big, Hart, Dry Fork, Knoblick and Cherokee for winter and pre-spawn action.
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 Clarks Hill Lake, is expected to decrease, particularly at night, due to increased flow and water temperature from reverse-flow generation. A creel survey began in 2005 to assess the impact of reverse-flow generation on fishing success in the entire lake. A wet 2005 resulted in little pumping and minimal impact on fish behavior and fishing. A dryer 2006 resulted in substantially more pumping than in 2005. Results from the 2006 creel survey are not yet available.
Strong year classes in recent years are producing good numbers of fish. Average weights should range form 3 lbs. for hybrids to 7 lbs. for stripers. 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 U.S. Highway 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. Planer boards work great to get several baits away from the boat while trolling. Other techniques that work well are slowly trolling large minnow baits, deep diving crainbaits or in-line spinners 80-100 feet behind the boat, and jigging spoons near drop offs, ledges or humps in 20 to 30 feet of water.
By summer and into the fall the hot spots for linesides will be in the mouths of major feeder creeks and rivers. 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 work great. Surface action for schooling fish occurs predominately during late summer and fall. Bucktails and pencil-poppers work well on schooling fish.
Results from a recent largemouth bass tagging project indicate a high release rate (63%) of caught bass. The 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 bass in the 12-15 inch size range. Harvesting these fish will allow their "brothers and sisters" to grow faster, providing for more 3 lbs.+ bass in the future. Bass in Clarks Hill tend to orient away from the banks more so than in many other Georgia lakes due to the presence of hydrilla and blueback herring. Best bets in the fall and winter are Grays, Lloyds, and Rousseau creeks in the Little River arm and Soap, Murry, and Fishing creeks in the main Savannah River arm. Jigging spoons in creek channels or wherever baitfish are bunched up is a great mid-winter tactic. 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 in the to lb. range) 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.
Sampling efforts indicate there will be plenty of white perch in the lake 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. Look for white perch in 20-60 feet of water near ledges, drop-offs, and standing timber with small jigs, spoons, or minnows working best.
A population of chain pickerel (known as jackfish) has been steadily increasing since the arrival of hydrilla in 1995. These weed loving fish are concentrated around Bussey Point, and in creeks on the lower end of the lake including Cherokee, Grays, Cliatt, Keg, Mosley and Shriver. A variety of weedless lures and surface plugs work best. A wobbling spoon with trailing pork rind, plastic lizards, and hollowfaced chugger type surface plugs are some good bets for jackfish.
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 public ramp on the Georgia side near the dam. Georgia Power is in the process of making major improvements at this site. Plans include paved parking, constructing a new 2 lane boat ramp located closer to the main lake, restroom facilities, and a new courtesy dock. A public ramp owned by Georgia Power is located on the Alabama side at the upper end of the lake. Information on generating schedules and lake levels are 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 might be the best choice for bass anglers among the middle Chattahoochee River reservoirs judging by the abundance of large bass. Look for catches of lunker largemouth and spots to be common for the experienced bass angler. Larger spots averaging about 1 lb. can be found off rocky points and in deeper water than largemouth. There are no minimum size limits for spotted bass in Goat Rock. 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 Lake. The most productive places are in backs of coves and sloughs. Live worms and crickets are effective for catching bluegills and shellcracker (redear) sunfish. Catches of bluegills weighing - lb. and redear from -1 lbs. are abundant. The best months are usually from April to June. Gulf-race striped bass are being stocked into Goat Rock Lake. The lake is already home to a few larger striped bass. These fish

8

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.
Hybrid bass stocking has been discontinued in favor of the Gulfrace striped bass stocking program in Goat Rock. However, past stockings mean there is still a good population of hybrids remaining. The best time to pursue this quarry is in spring and summer during power generations. White bass are sometimes found with hybrids. The average hybrid catch will be 2-5 lbs., while the few white bass will be around 1 lb. 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 1-4 lbs. will be common, and white catfish will weigh in at 1 lb.
Crappie fishing is generally good in most years, with catches averaging over lb. Catches of "slabs" will be common for the dedicated crappie angler. Best sites are the WRD fish attractors.
Hamburg Hamburg is a 225-acre state park lake located 15 miles north of Sandersville on the Little Ogeechee River. This little known old millpond is home to some of the finest crappie slabs in the state. The bass, jackfish, and shellcracker fishing opportunities are also well worth the trip to the secluded Hamburg State Park. The quiet atmosphere at Hamburg in Washington County makes for a fishermen's paradise. Hamburg State Park has 30 campsites, many of which are on the banks of the lake. No jet skis are allowed on the stumpy lake. Boats may be powered with trolling motors or outboards up to 10hp. Johnboats with life jackets, seat cushions, and paddles, and trolling motors with batteries are available for rent by the half-day and full day. Fishing licenses and fishing tackle can be purchased at the park. Worms are also available at the park from March through October. Vendors in Sandersville and other outlying areas carry minnows and crickets. Hamburg State Park participates in the states' fishing rod loaner program. Anglers visiting the park may "check out" rod and reel combos and tackle boxes free of charge. Crappie fishing is good throughout the year. Crappie will average lbs. with the bigger slabs weighing in at 2 lbs. Cast to the banks with jigs and minnows in the spring for the best action. Slowly troll or drift along the old riverbed and cast to standing timber the remainder of the year. Fall sampling by state fisheries and park personnel revealed numerous quality-sized largemouth bass in the lake. A good number of 2-3 lbs. bass should be caught with several over 5 lbs. Try spinner baits and plastic worms on points and next to standing timber. Surface plugs do well on calm days in the spring and fall. Jerking spoons along the riverbed will land some chunky bass in the winter. Shellcrackers are big with many around lb. and easy to catch. Try crickets, worms, grubs, and spinners. The best time of year is April through early May. For some bonus panfish on your trip to Hamburg go below the dam and fish the Little Ogeechee River for redbreast sunfish. Chain pickerel, known as jackfish to the locals, are in Hamburg Lake as well. These weed loving fish are not sought after by many of the park visitors, but you can be sure they will get your attention when they strike. A variety of weedless lures and surface plugs work best. A wobbling spoon with trailing pork rind, plastic lizards, and hollowfaced chugger type surface plugs are some good bets for jackfish. The

locals say jackfish will aggressively attack anything red.
Hartwell Lake Hartwell is one of three large reservoirs on the Savannah River operated by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (COE). This reservoir is among the nation's most visited lakes, receiving over 10 million visitors annually. Lake Hartwell's 56,000 acres are formed by the Tugalo and Seneca Rivers, which merge to form the Savannah River. Lake Hartwell provides a wide variety of fish habitats that range from rocky bluffs on the upper Tugalo River arm to shallow cove pockets and sandy flats in the middle and lower sections of the lake. Long, gradually sloping points and humps are located on most inside bends along the main channel. These points attract striped bass and hybrid bass during the cool weather months. Large expanses of submerged timber are located at the mouth of many coves and along the main river channel. Boat access is available at many locations around the shoreline at boat ramps operated by the COE and State Parks. On the Georgia side of the lake, Tugalo and Hart State Parks also offer lodging, camping, picnicking and other recreational activities. Largemouth bass are the most sought after species by anglers fishing Lake Hartwell. The abundance of bass is near record high levels, and the highest this decade. For 2007, anglers can expect to catch higher numbers of bass in the 12 to 18-inch size groups. On the Georgia side of the lake, Lightwood Log Creek, Shoal Creek, Gum Log Creek and Eastanollee Creek typically yield the highest catch rates of bass. During the spring months, shallow water bait presentations around cover located in coves and pockets is the preferred technique. In early summer, bass key in on shad and herring on main lake humps and points. A favorite summer pattern is fishing early mornings and late afternoons with topwater walking baits, or soft-plastic jerk baits, in clear water around 25-feet deep near the reef marker points on the lower half of the lake. Fishing guides often comment how bass explode to the surface from their deep water hideouts to take these topwater baits. Bass anglers who want some fast fishing action on light tackle should consider targeting redeye bass. Most anglers overlook redeye bass, but they are very aggressive and easy to locate on rocky shorelines on the main lake. The area near Crawford's Ferry Access provides ideal redeye bass habitat. Redeyes will take almost any bait, but their natural prey includes crayfish and small fish. Last year was great for crappie fishing on Lake Hartwell and 2007 will be almost as good. This spring, anglers can expect to catch above average numbers of crappie in the 8 to 12-inch size range. Low lake levels last spring provided poor spawning habitat for crappie, so anglers will find lower numbers of small fish this year. Three key locations for the greatest concentrations of crappie on the Georgia side of the lake include Eastanollee Creek, Gum Log Creek, and Shoal Creek. As the water starts to warm in March, anglers will find fish in these areas around submerged trees, bridge abutments, and old road beds in 10 to 15-feet of water. As the water temperature rises in April, anglers should look for crappie in more shallow water (2 to 3-feet) in the back of the cove around submerged cover. During the fall, large numbers of crappie congregate in the submerged timber in Eastanollee Creek. Hybrid bass and striped bass are stocked annually into Lake Hartwell and support popular fisheries. Over the last few years, DNR has strived to stock equal numbers of hybrid and striped bass in order to improve the trophy potential of Lake Hartwell. As a result of this effort, the number of striped bass in the 6 to 12 lbs. weight classes is at record high levels; however, fish over 20 lbs. accounted for less than 2% of recent DNR samples. As the population continues to build over

9

the next five years, the abundance of trophy striped bass should

increase and rival that of other great striper lakes, where trophy-sized

fish account for a significantly greater portion of the population. The

forecast for hybrid bass in 2007 indicates an abundance of small fish.

Excellent stocking success over the past two years resulted in a higher

than normal abundance of yearling fish. In 2007, anglers will catch a

number of hybrids in the 12-inch (1 lb.) size range. When water temperatures range from 55 to 65o, small hybrids congregate on

secondary points located in major cove arms. These small fish are

easy to target during the spring and great fun for the novice angler to

catch on light tackle. When water temperatures are less than 75o, anglers can usually

find stripers and hybrids in or near shallow water. Anglers should

keep in mind four environmental cues to improve their chances of

locating and catching fish: Topography (points and adjacent banks in

major cove arms), Time (dusk and dawn), Turbidity (stained/ muddy

water), and Wind (fish the wind blown shorelines). These conditions

are ideal for concentrating baitfish and for attracting stripers and

hybrids. During the warm weather months, stripers and hybrids move

downstream toward the dam to find suitable water at the right

temperature and with sufficient oxygen. Down lining herring at night

is the best way to catch hybrids and stripers during the heat of summer.

The Striper Kings and Appalachian Striper Club are two fishing clubs

that provide up to date fishing reports for Lake Hartwell on their

respective websites (www.striperkings.com and www.asc.com).

For those who enjoy fishing from shore, numerous opportunities

are available at the state parks and boat ramp facilities around the lake,

but three or four sites are seasonal standouts. For stripers and hybrids

during the summer, anglers should fish live herring or cut bait at night

on the bottom at Long Point, located in Hartwell at the Corps of

Engineers' Long Point Boat Ramp. Walker Creek, which is the most

upstream ramp on the Georgia side, also offers good seasonal fishing

opportunities for walleye, hybrid bass, and striped bass from March

through May. These same species can also be caught from the shore a

little further upstream at the base of Yonah Dam. Stephens County

Park, adjacent to the Highway 123 Bridge, provides good bass fishing

along the rip-rap in April. Crappie are frequently caught around the

highway bridge pilings and around the culvert on the upstream side of

the bridge during the spring. For more information about Lake

Hartwell,

visit

the

COE

website

at

www.sas.usace.mil/srl/recreation.htm.

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, crappies are abundant in High Falls. Average size tends to run smaller than on other area lakes but anglers seeking large numbers should not be disappointed. The average size this year should be around 6-8 inches. However, nice crappies weighing 1-2 lbs. are out there. Trolling jigs above the dam, around drop-offs, points, and creek channels is very effective in winter and early spring for anglers seeking crappie "hot spots." Minnows and jigs fished in shallow water near brush, stumps, or blowdowns will be more effective once water temperatures reach 60oF in spring. Bream populations often provide ample catches of bluegill and redear sunfish (shellcracker). The typical size range for harvested

bluegill is 5-7 inches. Shellcracker 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. Approximately half 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 sate. Try crank baits and jigs in Buck Creek and Watkin's Bottom during spring and fall for big fish. Point bars and downed tress in the water are good spots to key. Anglers seeking lunker bass should try "pitching" spinner baits around docks and downed trees in early to mid-morning. 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 and striped bass should be available for anglers targeting these fish. 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. Using the previously mentioned methods, anglers should target Watkins Bottom if seeking hybrid or striped bass. Striped bass are now reaching catchable size in High Falls if anglers are targeting these fish. The use of blueback herring is illegal in High Falls Lake. 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 (478-993-3050).
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. For information on the location of the boat ramps, bank fishing opportunities, and lake drawdown schedules, contact the GPC Land Department (770-7754753). 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 redworms, 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

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catfish and bullheads are available for harvest and should average 3/41 lb. Lake Jackson has a greater 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 fish around 6-8 inches. Recent good spawning seasons will result in better than average crappie fishing. The bridge crossing at Highway 212 has proven to be a crappie "hotspot" in early spring when temperatures reach 60o F. Trolling small jigs around drop-offs, points, and creek channels is very effective for those anglers seeking crappie.
Largemouth bass abundance and quality has changed little in recent years. The black bass populations consist of around 70% largemouth and 30% spotted bass. The average-sized largemouth bass has remained 1-1 lbs. Approximately 40% of the largemouth bass caught in 2007 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 thru February). Crank baits and Carolina-rigged worms fished in or near deep water are most effective for larger bass. Anglers should also be successful targeting flooded timber in the upper reaches of Tussahaw Creek in the fall. A section of the lake that is not often targeted is the Yellow River arm. This section offers a variety of habitat for anglers seeking large bass. Early morning and night are the best times to fish during the summer.
The spotted bass population is stabilizing since spots were first found by WRD in 1998. Approximately 15% of 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.
Striped bass and hybrids are also available for anglers to target. Try casting bucktails or jigging spoons for hybrids and trolling creek channels for striped bass. Anglers should also target cooler water habitats around the dam or look for schools feeding on top in the spring and summer for these two species. Anglers should remember that the use of blueback herring is still illegal in Lake Jackson.
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 habitat 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 lowered 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 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 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 less than 5 lbs.
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 lbs. However, lunker largemouth bass are often caught. Twenty five percent of the largemouth bass are 15 inches or 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 abundance of food produces only fair crappie populations, but the average size is often good. Approximately 30% of the crappie caught in 2007 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 on of the best places to target crappie.
Lake Juliette is one of the best shellcracker lakes in the area. Fish will average about 6 inches, but anglers find large numbers every spring on beds in shallow, weedy areas. Fish one of these and expect a fish almost every cast. Bluegill, however, suffer from stunting and only the occasional hand-sized fish is caught. Yellow perch exist in significant numbers and offer anglers a unique opportunity for catching these species. Deep, clear water located near the dam offer the best habitat for this fish.
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 (770775-4753).
Lanier Lake Lanier is a 38,000-acre reservoir operated by the Corps of Engineers (COE) about 50 miles northeast of Atlanta. Lanier receives heavy fishing pressure due to its proximity to Atlanta. The most popular species are spotted bass, crappie, striped bass and catfish. Lake level information can be obtained from the COE at 770-945-9531 or www.usacelakelanier.net. Black bass fishing should again be excellent in 2007. Spotted bass are very abundant, in excellent condition, and are putting on weight from the ample supply of blueback herring and threadfin shad. Therefore, anglers should experience another good year catching numerous of 1 to 5 lbs. spotted bass. The largemouth bass population

11

appears to be rebounding from poor spawning success during the past drought years (1998-2002). Based on fish sampling in 2006, the abundance of 1 to 2 lbs. largemouth bass is much improved over the past three years. Spotted and largemouth bass can be caught on night crawlers, crayfish, and bait minnows throughout the year. Many Lanier anglers and fishing guides post fishing reports on the Bass Fishing Home Page (www.wmi.org/bassfish/reports/georgia/index.htm/). Consider checking internet bulletin boards like this one for hot tips before coming to Lanier.
Crappie anglers should experience an average year when it comes to numbers. The population of to lb. fish is stable and these pansized fish will be common this year. The heaviest stringers will be produced from late February through April when larger spawning fish are shallow. Top areas for these panfish are the upper Chattahoochee arm (Clarks to Lula Bridge), Thompson, and Taylor Creek.
Lanier anglers can expect another excellent year for striped bass. Angler success during the summer months will depend on oxygen conditions at cooler depths (greater than 25 ft.), the striper's habitat from July through September. The abundant supply of blueback herring, a preferred summer forage of stripers, plays a key role in maintaining a healthy population in Lanier. The lake supports an abundance of small (2 - 10 lbs.) stripers produced from successful stockings from 2003 to 2006. A good supply of 10 - 15 lbs. fish stocked from 2000-2002 will also provide plenty of action. An average number of trophy (20 - 30 lbs.) stripers are in the lake. Both winter (November-March) and summer (July-August) offer excellent striper fishing. Live bait (herring, shiners, bluegill and shad), softplastic jerk baits and trolled bucktail jigs will produce the best results.
WRD stocked 114,000 walleye fingerlings in 2005 and 2006 to enhance late winter fishing opportunities during walleye spawning runs up the rivers. WRD fall gill net samples verified that a good number of stocked fish survived. A number of anglers reported catching one-pound walleyes during 2006 in Wahoo Creek and the upper Chattahoochee River arm of the lake. These young walleye will weigh - 2 lbs. in 2007. Adult walleye are few in number but can be caught in the Chattahoochee River near Belton Bridge in February and early March. They migrate in summer to the lower reservoir seeking the cool, oxygenated waters (25 - 40 ft. depths) closer to the dam. Trolling the shoreline with spinners and crankbaits and still fishing nightcrawlers on the bottom at depths of 5 - 30 ft. is an effective method for taking walleye year around. Check out www.walleyehunter.com for tips on walleye fishing.
Channel catfish are numerous lakewide and average about 1 lb. Bluegill weighing - lb. can be caught on a regular basis from May through August. Carp are abundant and readily take prepared catfish baits, corn and dough balls from May through August.
In 2007, WRD, State Parks and COE personnel cut and anchored shoreline trees where permitted at two cove locations at the Don Carter State Park property, just below Lula Bridge. These downed shoreline trees will attract crappie, bass and other species for anglers to catch this year. Maps showing the locations of attractor sites can be obtained from the COE office at Lake Lanier (770-945-9531) and the Gainesville WRD office (770-535-5498). A guide to bank fishing opportunities is also available. Some key bank fishing spots include Lanier Point Park, Thompson Creek Park, Little Hall Park and Little River Landing. Buford Dam Park and River Forks Park are two good sites that also are accessible.
It is legal to fish with and possess live blueback herring, a preferred baitfish for stripers 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 available food and predation on larval fish,

including bass less than 1-inch long. WRD will continue to monitor the impact of this species on sport fish populations.
Nottely Lake Nottely is a 4,180-acre TVA reservoir in Union County, and is operated for power generation, navigation, and flood control. The lake's relatively fertile water supports a diverse fish community. The most popular species are largemouth bass, spotted bass, crappie and striped bass. Under TVA's revised reservoir operations plan, winter lake levels may be 10 to 15 feet higher than lake levels observed prior to 2005, if rainfall is adequate. Lake level information can be obtained from the TVA Chattanooga office at (423) 751-2264 or http://lakeinfo.tva.gov. Anglers can expect to see more largemouth bass in 2007, but still below the numbers from the 1990s. Your odds of catching largemouths can be increased by fishing in Ivy Log Creek, Young Cane Creek and cove pockets in the mid and upper lake sections. The decline in largemouth numbers can be attributed to poor survival of young largemouths. A major culprit linked to the survival problem is the blueback herring. This exotic forage species was illegally introduced into Nottely some time in the 1990s. Since then, the herring population has exploded. WRD research showed that during spring, herring cruise the shallows. They compete with newly hatched largemouth bass for food and will even eat the small (less than oneinch) bass hatchlings. WRD believes that this competition and predation has lowered the survival of young bass, which has reduced the number of adult bass for anglers to catch. WRD has implemented a three-point plan to restore largemouth bass in Lake Nottely. First, more striped bass and hybrid bass have been stocked to prey on the herring and reduce their abundance. Second, shoreline habitat has been enhanced to provide cover for newly hatched bass. With help from volunteers, TVA, and the U.S. Forest Service, more than 2,500 Christmas trees were placed in the lake during the last five winters. Third, an experimental largemouth bass stocking program was initiated in 2003. Bass stocking is typically not necessary in most lakes and streams. By keeping spring water levels steady, fishery managers allow for natural reproduction by resident bass. But Lake Nottely is a special situation. The herring seem to reduce the numbers of small largemouth bass well below the lake's carrying capacity. So in this special case, where restoring the population is the objective, bass stocking may be the right "tool" in WRD's management toolbox. These 1-2 inch bass fingerlings should be too big for herring to eat and may have a better chance to compete for food than smaller, lake-spawned bass. Ongoing research will determine if this stocking experiment works. Spotted bass, which spawn deeper than largemouths, have not declined due to the herring, but have become more abundant. Spotted bass will make up about 85% of the total black bass catch and will average near 1 lb. The spotted bass' aggressive nature and population dominance may be the greatest roadblock to the largemouth bass recovery effort. Spotted bass prefer rocky and steeper shoreline areas but frequently move into the shallows during the spring months. Spotted and largemouth bass can be caught on live night crawlers, crayfish, and bait minnows throughout the year. Based on population samples, striped bass weighing 4 to 15 lbs. will make up most of the 2007 harvest. The number of fish over 20 lbs. remains low, but these trophy-size specimens, including a few exceeding 40 lbs., will continue to be caught periodically. Fishing with large surface plugs around points near deep water in the main body of the lake should be productive. Bucktail jigs, soft-plastic jerk baits and live bait (bluegill, shad and blueback herring) fished deep off points and steep shorelines will also produce.

12

Anglers can expect to catch fewer hybrids this year due to the low numbers of small (less than 2 lbs.) fish in the population. On a positive note, four-year-old fish stocked in 2003 are plentiful and weigh 6-8 lbs.. Surface fishing with topwater baits, bucktail jigs and small minnow like lures is very productive from May through August. Live bait fishing with 3-5 inch minnows, shad, and herring in 10-20 ft. of water is effective in catching hybrids throughout the year. Crappie fishermen should expect an average year for filling their livewells with fish weighing lb. Older, larger slabsides, now 1 lb. in weight, will make up less than 10% of the panfish catch. March and April are the favorite months for crappie fishing, but WRD sampling showed numerous fish in fallen shoreline trees during November and December, too. Look for late winter and spring concentrations of fish around brush and fallen trees in 5-10 feet of water. The upper half of the reservoir supports the highest numbers of crappie.
Several other species should provide Nottely anglers with some action in 2007. Fishing for larger bream, to 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. Some key bank fishing spots include shoreline areas adjacent to the Jacks Creek Boat Ramp, Deavertown Ramp, and Canal Lake Ramp.
In 2007, WRD, U.S. Forest Service, Union County, TVA personnel and members of the Lake Nottely Association will place fish attractors in the lake. Artificial fish attractors will be placed in a number of selected coves to increase fishing opportunities. The PVC/plastic pipe and commercially constructed units, funded by TVA, will be permanent and not need to be refurbished, like Christmas trees. In addition, Christmas trees will be added to refurbish existing attractors at the Deavertown Ramp site. These trees will add natural cover to improve survival of young largemouth bass and provide fishing opportunities. Information concerning the locations of these fish habitat sites, camping facilities, and boating access sites can be obtained from the the Gainesville WRD office (770-535-5498) and U.S. Forest Service Blairsville office (706-745-6928).
Oconee Lake Oconee is located mainly in Greene County, near the towns of Madison and Greensboro. The 19,050-acre reservoir is operated by Georgia Power Company 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 pump back. 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 U.S. Forest Service boat ramps and parks. Several lakeside marinas also offer lodging, food, bait, tackle, and other fishing related services. Lake Oconee's slot limit is intended to improve bass growth by encouraging selective harvest of smaller bass. Under this 11 to 14 inch protected slot, largemouth bass less than 11 inches and over 14 inches may be kept, while bass between 11 and 14 inches must be released. Removing smaller bass will improve bass growth by increasing the food supply for the remaining bass. Continued harvest of small bass will be necessary to improve bass growth at Oconee. The removal of small bass is essential for slot limits to work, while harvest of larger bass is optional. Spinnerbaits and crankbaits fished around riprap and rocky areas

are popular for bass all year long. 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. Deep diving crank baits fished around main lake points produced many excellent catches of largemouth during summer, and many local anglers say it was one of the best summers for bass fishing on Oconee in several years. The summer crankbait bite is still a good way to catch nice bass in the summer.
Good numbers of harvestable size crappie should be available again this year. Crappie are best 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 for crappie in the spring, as are the upper ends of other major creek arms such as Richland, Sandy, and Lick creeks. Stay out toward the mouths of the creeks, near the main lake, in early February and gradually move back towards shallow water as the temperature increases in the spring. Bedding crappie can be caught around shallow cover when water temperatures reach the low 60s.
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. Tail spinners, in-line spinners, small crankbaits and curly tail grubs are the best lures for white bass on the 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 feeding on spawning threadfin shad. Hybrid fishing was excellent in 2006 for numbers of fish, and quite a few hybrids in the 5 10 lbs. range were caught. 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. The Oconee River arm from Lick Creek down to the dam is especially good for hybrids in the winter.
Anglers may begin to see a few juvenile striped bass this year. The young stripers will likely be mixed in with hybrids and white bass. In addition to hybrids, WRD stocked 10 stripers per acre during May 2006 and some of these fish should enter the creel this year. If striped bass perform well in Lake Oconee, the long-range goal is to phase hybrids out of the Altamaha River basin resevoirs, which includes lake Oconee, Lake Sinclair, Lake Jackson and several other smaller impoundments. WRD will stock a mix of stripers and hybrids again this spring.
Catfish fishing is excellent in Oconee, but the population is changing with the expansion of the recently introduced blue and flathead catfish populations. While there are still plenty of smaller channel and white catfish that can be consistently caught throughout the lake, the number of small, 6 - 10 inch fish has declined slightly and the overall size and quality of catfish has improved. Blues and flatheads continue to expand their population, and numerous flatheads over twenty pounds have been caught in the recent past. Live shad or bluegill and cut bait are the best baits for flatheads, and hot summer nights are the best time to catch them. Morning and night fishing is particularly good for all species of catfish during the warm summer months, and the 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.
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, has the only boat ramp on the Georgia side of the lake. It also has a public fishing pier. In addition, the area adjacent to the marina has recently been dredged providing much-needed depth to improve lake access. One other public access area offering boat launching is located at the upper end

13

on the Alabama side of the lake. Georgia Power is in the process of improving access at this site. Recreational boating is heavy during the summer, but anglers do not usually encounter heavy boating traffic during early spring and late fall. Wildlife Resources Division (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. In addition, the lake has many boat docks and piers that provide good structure for concentrating fish.
WRD suggests that you contact the City Marina (706-323-0316) for information on what's biting, where and on what. For additional information on usage-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 5-6 inches with weights of about - lbs. Live worms work best, and the backs of coves and sloughs are often the most productive sites. Redear sunfish are even larger with some reaching 1-1 1/3 lbs. Pink worms and crickets may be the best baits for these shellcrackers.
Crappie anglers have typically done well. Crappie enthusiasts prefer various jigs, but minnows are effective on most occasions. Favorite 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 1/3 lb., but a few giants are available to the dedicated angler.
Gulf-race striped bass are being stocked into Lake Oliver. Indications are that a striped bass fishery is developing while good numbers of hybrids remain from past stockings. Fishing for hybrid bass and white bass is sometimes good, particularly below Goat Rock Dam where large numbers congregate during the spring spawning run. Look for hybrids to average about 1-3 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. Occasionally, catches of largemouth up to 10 lbs. occur, but fish will average 1-1 lbs. Catches of spotted bass will range from 8-12 inches and average just under lb. Boat docks and fishing piers are favorite areas for largemouth and spot anglers, but do not overlook rocky points, small coves, and stumpy areas. Typically, spots can be found in deeper water than largemouth. Shoal bass are caught occasionally in the tail waters below Goat Rock Dam.
Rabun Lake Rabun is an 834-acre lake located a few miles downstream of Lake Burton in the northeast corner of Georgia near Clayton. This mountain reservoir is long and narrow with miles of steep, rocky shoreline. The upper two miles of the lake is relatively shallow and contains mud flats with weed beds along the river channel and long sections of blown down trees. Spotted bass, largemouth bass, bluegill and shellcrackers are the favorite targets of local anglers. Yellow perch and walleye also are seasonally abundant. Although the numbers of largemouth bass and spotted bass are nearly equal, largemouth bass are more abundant in the upper half of the lake whereas spotted bass seem to prefer the deeper and rockier shorelines on the lower half of the lake. Largemouths will average 14inches in length and 1.5 lbs. in weight. Spotted bass will run a little bigger than normal this year. Anglers can expect 1 out of every 3 spots to be over 2 lbs. Soft-plastic jerk baits are a great lure to use for both species during the spring and fall months. During the summer, crank baits worked along points on the lower lake is an effective

strategy. Natural baits like nightcrawlers and crayfish will work yeararound. Unlike most clearwater mountain reservoirs, many of the points on the lower end of the lake support dense stands of submerged aquatic vegetation that extend from 10-20 feet deep. These areas provide the perfect summertime retreat for bass, crappie, and bream during the heat of summer.
During early summer, anglers should try their luck fishing for yellow perch. Yellow perch are great tasting and relatively easy to catch. Anglers should concentrate their efforts along the shallow flats on the upper lake. Good numbers of perch can be found along the river channel adjacent to the scattered weed beds. Fishing with night crawlers or small shiners in these areas may yield a good stringer of yellow perch and an occasional walleye.
DNR initiated a walleye stocking program in 2001. These stocking efforts created a sizeable population, and anglers now have an opportunity to catch walleye in northeast Georgia. In mid-March, walleye migrate to the headwaters of Lake Rabun to spawn. Georgia Power's Nacoochee Park is a great place to try your luck at nighttime walleye fishing. This area is easily fished from the bank, and it is well lit at night. The area from the bridge to about 100-yards upstream is the area of highest walleye spawning activity. During generation periods, cast floating minnow baits, twister-tail grubs, or nightcrawlers across the river and work it back with a slow, steady retrieve. From April through September, walleye roam the lower portions of the reservoir at depths from 30 to 50-feet feeding on blueback herring. By October, walleye move onto shallow points at night to feed on small bluegill, yellow perch, and blueback herring. Fishing at dusk with nightcrawlers and crank baits (suspending crankbaits, lipless crankbaits, or suspending jerk baits) on gently sloping points on the lower lake is a great way to catch walleye during the fall months.
Lake Rabun is also known for good bream fishing. Bream are easiest to catch during the summer when they congregate around boat docks. Bluegills readily take a cricket whereas the larger shellcrackers prefer red wigglers in deeper water. For anglers who enjoy fishing from shore, two small public fishing piers are located at the upper boat ramp. For more information about Lake Rabun, visit the Georgia Power Company website at www.southernco.com/gapower/lakes.
Randy Poynter Lake (formerly Black Shoals) Randy Poynter is a 650-acre reservoir constructed to meet the water needs of Rockdale County. Public access is through Black Shoals Park located about six miles north of Conyers on Black Shoals Road (off of Ga. Hwy. 20). The park is open six days a week, but closed on Wednesday. Hours are 7 am 9 pm (Daylight savings) and 7 am 6 pm the remainder of the year. Fees are charged to enter the park and to launch a boat. Gasoline motors are prohibited on the lake. Directions, hours, fees, and other details on park operations can be obtained by calling Black Shoals Park (770-761-1611). Don't be shy about asking the staff at the gatehouse about the fishing. The staff is proud of their lake and wants you to have a great day of fishing. The lake supports good fisheries for largemouth bass, bream, crappie, channel catfish and hybrid bass. Anglers will continue to experience good fishing in 2007, after excellent fishing in recent years. The fish population remains stable and in good shape. Anglers can expect to catch nice largemouth bass again this spring. Numbers have increased somewhat, with more than 30% of the population over 14 inches. 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

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standing timber that should concentrate the crappie before and after the spring spawn. Some extremely large crappie have been caught in the past and anglers who start early in the spring should have a good chance to catch some real slabs this year.
WRD stocked 6,500 hybrid bass in 2006, the first stocking in many years. They survived well and had grown into the 11 12 inch range by December. WRD plans to stock again in 2007, so hybrid fishing prospects are good and getting better!
Anglers should expect best results for bream - bluegill and redear sunfish (also called shellcrackers) during the first spawns this spring. Shellcracker typically spawn once each year, normally mid to lateApril. Bluegills are multiple spawners, but the first spawn around mid to late-May is always the best. Expect the bluegill to run fairly small, but some large shellcrackers are out there for the dedicated bream angler. Around 3,700 channel catfish fingerlings were stocked by WRD in February 2006 to "sweeten the pot" for channel catfish. Look for catfishing to pick up in 2007 as these fish continue to grow. A new lake record of 43 lbs. was caught in November 2005.
Richard B. Russell This 26,650-acre U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (COE) 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 spotted bass population continues to expand. The spots 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 is beginning to make fishing for largemouth bass more difficult in some areas. Spotted bass are more abundant than largemouth bass throughout the Savannah arm of RBR and near the dam. Largemouth bass are more abundant than spotted bass in the Beaverdam Creek arm and in the tributary creeks off the Savannah arm. Largemouth and spotted bass can be targeted in depths ranging from 2 - 10 ft. using lures like jerkbaits, crankbaits, spinnerbaits and soft plastics. Anglers should fish on points, standing timber and riprap. Following the April and May spawning period (May through September), fish move to offshore habitats like deep points, ledges and humps and can be targeted with deep-diving crankbaits, soft plastics (Carolina or Texas rig), drop shot rigs and jigging spoons. Fish can be found suspended around bridge columns and can be targeted with soft plastics on light jig heads and jerkbaits. Fish can also be found in the shallows early and late in the day using topwater lures. In October and November, both species migrate into creeks following baitfish and can be targeted using small crankbaits, spinnerbaits, and soft plastics. In the winter (December and January), bass will move to deep water (20 to 40 feet) and can be caught with jigging spoons and soft plastics. Black crappie in 2007 will be more numerous because of the large numbers of crappie less than eight inches in the population. Most keepers will be in the 8 12 inch class, with relatively few larger than 12 inches. However, the larger the RBR crappie grow, the fatter they get! The upper tributary areas, Rocky River and Beaverdam Creek are good spring hot spots for crappie limits. Approximately 29,000 striped bass fingerlings (one per acre) were stocked into RBR in May 2004. This one-time experimental stocking is being done to determine if a trophy striped bass fishery can be established in RBR. Time will tell how this new fishery will develop, but early indications are encouraging! Anglers have caught small numbers of striped bass over the years. However, those fish were not

stocked into RBR (probably entered from upstream Lake Hartwell). Striped bass in the 6-10 lbs. range can be located in the big water from the railroad trestle to the dam and in the headwater areas of the lake. Target stripers by free-lining or down-lining live blueback herring or shad (threadfin or gizzard) and soft plastic shad bodies on a jig head.
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 fantastic fishing. During 2007, Lake Seminole should provide excellent fishing for largemouth bass, redear sunfish (shellcracker) and channel catfish and good fishing for crappie and bluegill. Anglers can expect to catch largemouth bass averaging around 2 lbs., with good numbers of 5-6 lbs. bass available. Seminole has a reputation of producing big bass, and consistently ranks near the top of large Georgia reservoirs for catches of bass greater than 5 lbs. Because of the abundance of aquatic plants in Seminole, the key to consistently catching bass is learning to fish these abundant plant beds. Your best bet will be to throw a lipless crank bait, plastic worm, spinner bait or top-water lure along the edges of these aquatic plants. February through May are the best months. Redear sunfish fishing was good for both numbers and size last year, and all indications are that fishing will be as good in 2007. While the average size redear in Lake Seminole is less than 8 inches, fish over 1 lb. are not uncommon. The key to consistently catch bream is to locate shallow water spawning beds during spring and early summer. The numerous backwater areas off the Chattahoochee River arm can produce some good catches of redear. Best baits are red wrigglers and crickets. Although not as abundant, some bluegill up to 7 inches in length can be found in Lake Seminole as well. 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 2-3 lbs., but the chances of catching catfish of 10 lbs. and larger 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 are a year-round favorite. Seminole is not usually noted as a top hybrid bass fishing spot and the reservoir has not been stocked with hybrids since 2003 due to efforts to boost striped bass numbers in the ApalachicolaChattahoochee-Flint system. However, hybrids do escape from Walter F. George and Blackshear reservoirs and can be caught in Seminole. Anglers who put in the time to locate these hybrids can expect to catch 2-4 lbs. fish, with some weighing over 5 lbs. Despite stocking efforts, overall striped bass abundance remains fairly low. However, striper fishing can be good at times, with the average fish weighing around 3 lbs. Your best bet at catching some nice hybrids and stripers, will be in the areas near the dam, where the Spring Creek channel enters the Flint River or up 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. For more information on these restrictions, please see the Sport Fishing Regulations. Although not usually noted for its crappie fishing, Seminole can produce some good catches, especially for larger sized crappie in the

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winter and spring months. Anglers can expect crappie numbers to be fair, with the average fish weighing lb., and fish over 2 lbs. are available. Your best bet is to use minnows and jigs and concentrate on shallow backwater areas while the fish are spawning, in February and March and target the old Flint and Chattahoochee river channels during the winter and summer.
The infestation of Hydrilla, an exotic plant, continues to restrict boating and fishing access in Lake Seminole. 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. Call the COE Resource Management Office (229662-2001) for more information.
Sinclair Lake Sinclair is located north of Milledgeville off U.S. Hwy. 441. The reservoir covers more than 14,750 acres and stretches over Baldwin, Hancock and Putnam counties. Georgia Power Company owns and operates the reservoir but the Georgia Department of Natural Resources (DNR) manages the fishery resources. This reservoir provides good fishing opportunities for crappie, catfish, largemouth bass and hybrids. The quality of the crappie catch should be similar to the past several years with a few fish over 2 lbs. More than half the fish caught this spring will be over 8 inches in length with a third of the catch larger than 10 inches. The current lake record for black crappie on Sinclair is a 2 lbs. 11.5 oz. fish caught in 2000. Late-winter trolling in the Beaverdam Creek arm or spring trolling in the upper ends of coves with crappie jigs 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 deeper submerged treetops and around docks with brush. When the water really warms up in the summer, try fishing with lights under bridges, deep brush in coves or around deepwater lighted-docks at night. Catfish are both abundant and popular on Lake Sinclair. The primary catfish species of interest is the channel catfish. However, both white catfish and bullheads are also common in the reservoir. Lake Sinclair has some of the highest catfish densities in Georgia piedmont reservoirs. Most channel catfish caught will be -1 lbs. with fair numbers up to 4 lbs. The reservoir has trophy potential with some fish in the 20-30 lbs. range. Fall sampling conducted by WRD indicates an expanding population of blue catfish. Blue catfish were initially detected in 2004 in Sinclair. Anglers probably introduced the blue catfish illegally into Lake Oconee and the fish have since spread downstream into Lake Sinclair. Blue catfish have the potential to reach large sizes, in excess of 50 lbs. Anglers prize this fish in its native range due to the large sizes it can attain and high value as a food fish. Initially, most blue catfish caught in Sinclair will be a good eating size, in the -1 lbs. range. Popular bait for blue catfish are shad fished either live or cut. Sinclair produces many harvestable-sized largemouth bass that are caught and released each year, however, Sinclair is not typically noted as a trophy bass reservoir among bass anglers. Many bass tournaments are annually hosted on Sinclair. In fact, according to the most recent Georgia B.A.S.S. data available (2005), Sinclair ranked second only to Clarks Hill in the number of tournaments held among reservoirs across the state. Largemouth fishing will be good in 2007 with abundances of fish in the harvestable size range similar to last year. The most

noticeable difference early in the year will be in the numbers of 8"-12" bass in the catch. Excellent reproduction and recruitment in 2005 and 2006 produced large year classes that will dominate early in the year. Those fish should pass the 12" mark around early to middle summer. These two large year classes to the fishery should produce quality bass fishing over the next several years! The lake record is currently a 13 lbs. 2 oz. fish caught in 1990. Studies show that over 90% of the bass caught on Sinclair are released to be caught another day.
Best fishing for largemouth bass in the early spring is on main points in deeper water or on underwater structure (humps). As the water warms, the fish move to shallow water to spawn. Anglers should try fishing drop-offs, deep brush piles, and lighted docks at night in the summertime. The edges of weed beds early in the morning or late in the afternoon can also be productive. In the fall, the fish move back into the shallows of the creeks. Many anglers report their best success during the generation or pump-back phase at Wallace Dam, when water movement occurs, especially in the Oconee River arm. Baits to try include spinner baits, crank baits, jig and pig, plastic worms, lizards or buzz-baits.
In addition to these other species, hybrid bass and striped bass should provide Sinclair anglers with an added sport fish dimension. The hybrid catch this spring will be dominated by fish in the 2-4 lb. range with fair numbers of fish up to 20 inches. The current lake record for hybrid striped bass in Sinclair is a 10 lbs. 7 oz. fish caught in 1998. DNR plans to continue with the re-introduction of striped bass into Lake Sinclair to better utilize larger forage species in the reservoir. Striped bass and hybrid striped bass were stocked in Sinclair in 2006 at the rate of seven stripers/acre and five hybrids/acre. Plans call for the complete phase-out of hybrid stocking in 2007. Some of the stripers stocked in 2005 should approach 20 inches in length by the middle of this summer. WRD expects the stocking of stripers to add a trophy potential with fish of 10-20 lbs. possible after several years. The striper lake record for Sinclair is 42 lbs., although WRD does not expect stripers to reach this size again because of changed water quality conditions.
White bass populations have leveled off to consistent but low levels since a decline following the construction of Wallace Dam in the early 1980's. Sizes will generally average between 1-2 lbs. Look for hybrids, white bass and striped bass in the Beaverdam Creek arm during late winter. The action will move up in the major tributaries during the spring spawning run. Good locations include Little River and Murder Creek. Another traditional area for white bass, large hybrids, and stripers this spring is directly below Wallace Dam, although this area is not as productive as it once was. Another area worth trying for large hybrids and stripers this spring is the Oconee River below Sinclair dam.
Both bluegill and redear sunfish (shellcrackers) are available for harvest on Sinclair, 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 or 7 inches. Sizes of shellcrackers will be better with the average size of 6-7 inches with some individuals up to 10 inches.
Public access is readily available through four Georgia Power Company and U.S. Forest Service facilities and ten privately operated lakeside marinas. Many privately owned marinas offer boating access for a fee besides camping, food, bait, and tackle. Georgia Power Company 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. A fishing platform designed for physically challenged individuals improves the tailrace area. A safety railing extends along the west side of the tailrace for a distance of 800 ft.

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Look for construction to soon begin for a WRD boat ramp on land leased from Georgia Power Co. located below Sinclair Dam that will allow access to a mostly untapped fishery. Expected completion date is the summer of 2007.
Fishing piers for bank fishing opportunities are located at the Oconee tailrace below Wallace Dam, at Cosby's Landing in the Island Creek area in Hancock County, at the east side of Hwy. 441 just north of the Little River bridge, and at the Dennis Station Access located off Twin Bridges Road. Other popular areas for bank anglers include the areas near and around most bridge and railroad overpasses on Lake Sinclair. Anglers use the bridge overpasses for shoreline fishing along U.S. Highway 441, Crooked Creek, Twin Bridges and Georgia Highway 212. For more information concerning the location of boat ramps, bank fishing opportunities, location and directions to fishing piers, or other facilities, contact Georgia Power Company's Land Department at 706-485-8770.
WRD will continue to implement an aquatic habitat enhancement program at Lake Sinclair over the next several years. High on the list of projects will be the installation of fish attractors with the conversion of construction materials used in making fish attractors from natural to artificial materials. WRD's work with construction of fish attractors with natural materials on a number of reservoirs over many years led to a realization that time, effort and cost could be economized with the development of a fish attractor constructed of artificial materials. Brush and trees tend to break down after a couple years and need to be refurbished on a continual basis. However, fish attractors constructed of artificial materials can last for many years. Initial cost on a per unit basis is somewhat higher for an artificial attractor, but costs over the long term are expected to be less. This past year, DNR constructed and installed 32 PVC "tank trap" attractors in three sizes (5-ft, 7-ft, and 10-ft.) These attractors were placed along an axis that generally runs from (N330 12.226 W830 16.819) through (N330 12.229 W830 16.806) to (N330 12.230 W830 16.786) in Rooty Creek. The attractors are located at depths ranging from 20 ft to 40 ft.
Another aspect of the aquatic habitat enhancement program will consist of shoreline enhancement/protection through "bioengineering." Selected erodible shoreline areas will be enhanced with native aquatic vegetation. Vegetation along the shoreline serves many useful purposes for terrestrial and aquatic organisms, such as for feeding, reproduction, or cover. Young fish and their food items require abundant aquatic and semi-aquatic vegetation along the shoreline in order to thrive and even to survive. In 2006, DNR planted over 1,400 quart-size maidencane plants in suitable habitat areas in Sinclair. Once established, maidencane can grow in dense stands, provide spawning habitat, and cover for many species of fish.
Development has continued on a large, new angler access area in Putnam County just upriver of the U.S. Hwy. 441 bridge on the Little River arm. The undertaking for this project is a combined effort of DNR, Georgia Power Company, and Putnam County. "Dennis Station Access" initially opened for public use in 2001 with a double-lane concrete boat ramp, dual service piers, a 100-ft. "L"-shaped fishing pier, and ample parking. In 2002, another double-lane concrete boat ramp with dual service piers was added. Parking has been expanded to accommodate the additional boat lanes. In 2003, the parking area was paved and accessible restroom facilities were added. Numerous fish attractors were added around the fishing pier to enhance bank-fishing opportunities. In fact, the entire shoreline of the area is available for bank fishing. There are no charges associated with 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 (just follow

the signs) and is convenient to boaters and anglers from Macon, Eatonton, and Milledgeville.
Tobesofkee Tobesofkee is a 1,750-acre lake owned and operated by Bibb County near Macon, Georgia. An admission fee is required to gain access to the lake. Property owners have developed the shoreline on the lower end but the upper end is still relatively undeveloped above the Lower Thomaston Rd. Bridge. The Bibb County Recreation Department maintains a large area for bank fishing access on the upper end of the lake called the "fingers." This area is a good place to catch crappie, catfish and hybrids, particularly in the springtime. Another popular bank fishing area in the spring is the area directly below the dam. Anglers catch crappie, white bass and hybrids there in the spring. On a per acre basis, Tobesofkee probably has the most public bank fishing access of any reservoir in middle Georgia on a per acre basis. The lake is very popular with pleasure-boaters in the summer, which makes fishing more difficult. 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 largemouth bass, hybrids and crappie. Some anglers find the fish difficult to catch. However, if you are willing to get to know the underwater "landscape" and are willing to fish that structure, Tobesofkee can be the place for serious hybrid, largemouth and crappie anglers. WRD surveys conducted in the fall of 2006 reveals that the largemouth population should continue to be good going into 2007. Abundance in the fall of 2006 continued to remain well above the past 12-year average, in terms of numbers. Numbers and quality of harvestable fish in 2007 will be very similar to 2006. The most noticeable difference from last year will be the greater numbers of stock-size fish (<12 inches) in the catch. Good reproduction and recruitment in 2005 and 2006 produced large year classes that will dominate early this year. Those fish should become harvestable around early to middle summer. Continued recruitment of these two large year classes to the fishery should continue to produce quality bass fishing over the next several years. Hybrids and striped bass in the 1-3 lbs. range will be common with a few "memorable" hybrid striped bass of over 20 inches in the catch. Stripers that were initially stocked in 2005 should approach 20 inches by mid-summer. Eleven stripers/acre and five hybrids/acre were stocked in 2006. Plans call for the end of hybrid stockings this year with only stripers planned for stocking. The larger-growing stripers are better able to utilize forage fish such as larger gizzard shad that are common in the reservoir. Predation on larger gizzard shad by larger stripers should improve the forage dynamics in the reservoir for other predators, such as crappie or largemouth bass, by reducing the average size of gizzard shad. Crappies are another popular fish species in Tobesofkee. Crappie numbers will be up somewhat this year. Year classes produced in 2004 and 2005 will dominate the catch in the spring of 2007, with most of the fish between 6-10 inches in length. Up to 10% of the catch may exceed 12 inches with some fish up to 14 inches in length. The current lake record is a 2 lbs. 12 oz. crappie caught in 1995. Do not overlook the fish attractors maintained by WRD for crappie fishing opportunities. White buoys mark areas of fish shelters that serve to attract all species of game fish. In 2003, WRD constructed eight fish attractor areas, each area with approximately eight units constructed with artificial materials. Each unit is up to eight feet tall and eight of these units are situated around each white marker buoy. Generally, Tobesofkee isn't noted as a bream lake by anglers. Bluegills, redbreast sunfish and shellcrackers (redear sunfish) are

17

available for harvest; however, sizes are not as good as on some other area lakes. Bluegill sizes will average around 4-6 inches with some individuals up to 7 inches. Redbreast sunfish will average around 5-6 inches with some fish up to 7 inches. Shellcrackers will average around 6-8 inches with some individuals up to 9 inches.
Channel catfish abundance and quality will be similar to the last several years. Some larger individuals will also be available for anglers to catch. The majority of fish will be in the to 1 lb. range with good numbers of "quality" fish in the 5-10 lb. range.
Another species that has been increasing in abundance over the last several years is the chain pickerel. You can catch this toothy predator on small spinners or minnows. Anglers often catch them while targeting largemouth bass. Look for this ambush predator around the edges of the many water willow (bass grass) beds found in the reservoir. The current lake record is a 2 lbs. 1 oz. individual caught in 2004.
Tobesofkee not only provides ample angling opportunities, but is also a nice place to take the family for the day. Picnic areas, a marina, camping areas, and a large swimming beach are present for your enjoyment. The lake has two excellent boat ramps, Claystone and Arrowhead, with plentiful parking. For more information on the recreational opportunities at Lake Tobesofkee, contact the Tobesofkee Recreation Area at 478-474-8770.
Tugalo Lake Tugalo is a scenic 600-acre lake formed by the Tallulah and Chattooga Rivers on the Georgia- South Carolina border. The lake's canyon-like walls are an extension of Tallulah Gorge and rise nearly 1,000-feet above the surface of the water in places. The shoreline is rugged and undeveloped, with the exception of two small boat ramps. A few primitive camping sites are scattered around the lake, which are only accessible by boat. The lake's small size and light boating traffic make it an ideal place for canoes and jon boats, and outboard motors are restricted to a 25 horsepower limit. Lake Tugalo provides excellent fishing for largemouth bass, walleye, redbreast sunfish and white catfish. A spawning run of white bass also occurs in the headwaters each spring. Largemouth bass are very abundant in Lake Tugalo, but small fish dominate the population. Anglers can expect to catch high numbers of fish, but over two-thirds of the catch will be bass in the 10 to 14-inch size range. Anglers are encouraged to keep a few fish of legal size (12-inches) in order to reduce the number of smaller fish and provide better growth for the remainder. When fishing for bass on Lake Tugalo, three seasonal patterns emerge. During spring months, when topwater baits are most effective, bass are found along the edge of the shoreline, especially near cover located in the numerous small pockets that indent the shoreline. During the heat of summer, surprisingly high numbers of bass move into the cooler headwaters of both river arms. Anglers should try fishing the headwaters with artificial crayfish and blueback herring lures, or with crayfish, nightcrawlers, or live minnows. The fall months are a time when largemouth bass gorge on blueback herring. Anglers should watch for surface feeding fish in the upper reaches of the lake and cast toward breaking fish with crank baits and surface plugs. Last year, several anglers reported good catches of walleye ranging from 1 to 8 lbs. In mid-March, walleye congregate in the flowing waters of the Tallulah River below the Tallulah Falls Power Plant. Nighttime fishing below the power plant with nightcrawlers and floating minnow baits are the best bets this time of year. Unfortunately, this area is only accessible by boat. During the summer months, walleye congregate on the lower half of the lake at depths

from 40 to 60-feet deep. Jigging spoons and nightcrawlers fished near

points are the most effective lure selections. In the fall months,

walleye move into shallow water along points on the lower half of the

lake to feed on bluegill, yellow perch, and blueback herring. Again,

nightcrawlers and shad-imitating lures are effective this time of year.

Walleye have a very light bite, so anglers new to walleye fishing

should remain alert to slight movements in the line, which may

indicate a strike.

Of the other fish species in Lake Tugalo, white bass, white catfish,

and redbreast sunfish are among the favorites of anglers. April should

provide another good run of white bass into the upper reaches of both

river arms of the lake. For those who enjoy catfishing, Lake Tugalo

should be on your list of places to fish because white catfish are very

abundant. Late-afternoon during the summer, when power is being

generated, is the best time to catch white catfish on Lake Tugalo, and

the Chattooga River arm near the South Carolina boat ramp seems to

hold the greatest numbers of fish. Worms, liver, and artificial catfish

concoctions are the most popular baits. In addition to catfish and

white bass, Lake Tugalo also supports an abundance of redbreast

sunfish. Although redbreast sunfish are usually more common in

rivers, redbreast do very well in Lake Tugalo and seem to be more

abundant than bluegill and shellcrackers (redear sunfish). Casting

crickets, rubber spiders or ants, and small spinners underneath

overhanging limbs is the best way to take these colorful fish.

Because of Lake Tugalo's rugged terrain, bank fishing

opportunities are not available. Boating access on the Georgia side of

the lake is available through Tallulah Gorge State Park, which is

located off Highway 441 in Tallulah Falls, Georgia. Motorists should

be aware that four-wheel drive vehicles are strongly encouraged on

this steep, rugged access road. Easier access is available a little further

north on the South Carolina side of the lake. From Highway 441 in

Clayton, Georgia, turn onto Highway 76 East. After crossing the

Chattooga River Bridge, travel about three miles to Orchard Road.

Turn right onto Orchard Road and proceed to the stop sign at the end

of the road and turn right on to Battle Creek Road. In a couple of

miles, the road forks. Bear to the right at this intersection. After

passing Damascus Church, turn right onto the gravel road. This road

will lead to the boat ramp, which becomes paved and very steep near

the boat ramp. For more information about Lake Tugalo, visit the

Georgia

Power

Company

website

at

www.southernco.com/gapower/lakes.

Varner This 850-acre drinking water supply reservoir is located approximately two miles northeast of Covington, Georgia on Alcovy Road (Exit 92 off I-20). 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 fisheries for largemouth bass, bream, crappie, channel catfish, and hybrid bass. Largemouth bass abundance and quality have remained in a good to excellent range for the last several years. Sampling conducted during November 2004 indicated that about fifty percent of the bass are fourteen inches or longer in length. Varner offers a great opportunity to catch a largemouth bass over five pounds, particularly in the spring and fall when bass are most likely to be in shallow water and are more easily caught. Crankbaits and suspending jerk baits fished around cover or structure such as creek channels and points

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produce great results in the late winter and early spring, as do jig-andpig combinations fished around submerged stumps and brush piles. Later in the spring, topwater lures, floating worms and soft plastic shad imitations work great. Try plastic worms and deep diving crankbaits in the summer, and spinnerbaits in the fall to round out the year. Varner is a productive lake with fast growth rates for largemouth bass. Anglers can help the lake continue to produce quality largemouth by practicing selective harvest; in other words, harvest smaller, legal fish (bass must be at least 12 inches) and release larger bass (over 18 inches) so they can continue to grow and possibly reach trophy size. A bass that already weighs four or five pounds has a much better chance of reaching ten pounds than a one or two pound bass. Varner has the potential to produce many ten-pound plus bass if the quality fish are not over harvested.
Varner has a reputation for producing good panfish. Crappie, redear sunfish (shellcracker) and bluegill populations are in good condition. Winter and early spring crappie fishing using minnows in deep water near the creek channels is usually productive. Crappie will gradually move to shallower water as water temperatures approach sixty, and the upper end of the two major tributaries are the best places for spawning crappie. The crappie fishing normally peaks sometime in April depending on water temperatures. Bluegill and shell-cracker should provide the best opportunities in May, during the first spawn of the season. Bluegill should spawn at least two more times during the summer months. Unfortunately, gizzard shad (an undesirable species) have become established in the lake recently, and they will probably have a negative effect on the sport fishery over the next few years, particularly on the bluegill fishery. 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 the hybrids will be over 22 inches long (6 to 8 lbs.) in 2005, and good numbers will be present in the 15 to 18 inch size. Hybrids were caught schooling and chasing shad on the surface quite often in the past year and provide some exciting topwater action.
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 (229-768-2424). There are 23 boat ramps on this lake and the COE charges a $3 daily launch fee. They also charge $3 per car or $1 per person daily beach use fees. Users can pay an annual fee of $30, 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. Although the 2006 electrofishing sample conducted by WRD personnel showed a slight decline in overall numbers of fish, largemouth bass fishing should be good on this legendary bass lake in 2007. The bass population will have good numbers of fish from 14-18 inches, while the numbers of bass larger than 5 lbs. will be average. With a 14-inch minimum size limit for largemouth bass, the catch rates for keeper-sized bass should be good. During the spring local anglers prefer plastic worms, spinner baits, and shallow running crankbaits. The most productive spring fishing sites are near Lake Point Resort, Hwy. 82 causeway, and the back end of creeks and coves. 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 from year to year on this reservoir. Bluegill will be relatively small, averaging 4-6 inches, and the average redear will be 7-9 inches. 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 April through June.
This should again be a good year for crappie fishing. Crappie will average 10 inches and weigh around lb. this spring, and there will be good numbers of fish up to 1 lbs. Crappie are usually the first fish to start biting each year, and anglers should start looking for them during the winter, but the best fishing will be during February through April. Favorite spots are at creek mouths and under bridges. Other hotspots include Moccasin Slough, Pataula Creek, White Oak Creek, Rood Creek and Grass Creek. Most successful anglers fish with minnows or jigs, at 12-16 foot depths. A good place to start is at any of the 24 fish attractors located on the Georgia side of the reservoir. The sites are marked with buoys, and a map of their locations can be obtained by calling the COE office (229-768-2516). Bank anglers should try the fishing piers at Hardridge Creek, and Florence Marina or the marked fishing areas at East Bank and River Bluff boat ramps. These fishing piers are accessible to anglers with disabilities.
Hybrid bass fishing will be good this year. While the number of fish less than 2 lbs. will be low, there will be good numbers of larger 3-4 lbs. fish, with some weighing over 5 lbs. Shiny artificial lures that imitate shad work well. Local anglers use spoons, in-line spnners, lipless crankbaits and deep diving crankbaits. 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 flats in 10-15 feet of water. Good areas to try are found from Sandy Creek to Pataula Creek, near Cool Branch landing, and just 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 1-2 lbs., but larger fish are present. Worms and blood bait fished in 15-20 feet will produce good results for both species. While both species can be found throughout the reservoir, blues are more common in the upper end of the reservoir and large blues (up to 30 lbs) have been caught in recent years.
Several new infestations of Hydrilla, an exotic aquatic plant, were found in this reservoir last year despite efforts by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers to treat it. Anglers can play an important role in helping to prevent the spread of these, and other nuisance aquatic plants, by inspecting their tackle, boat motor, and trailer and removing all plant fragments before entering or leaving boat ramps. Please help keep all nuisance weeds out of Lake George, and other Georgia reservoirs.
Weiss The lower Coosa River from Mayo's Lock and Dam near Rome to the Georgia-Alabama state line is the Georgia portion of Weiss Reservoir, an Alabama Power project. This portion encompasses approximately 2,000 acres of river and shallow backwater habitats. A "Guide to Fishing the Coosa River" in PDF format (645 kB) contains access and fishing tip information and a color map with river-mile designations. The map can be obtained at the following website: http://georgiawildlife.dnr.state.ga.us/assets/documents/Coosa_Map.pdf Boaters unfamiliar with the area should use caution when navigating outside of the main river channel. Popular access points include Lock and Dam Park operated by the Rome-Floyd County Recreation

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Department and the Brushy Branch boat access. Both facilities have paved ramps, courtesy docks, and ample parking. The Lock and Dam Park also has a bait shop, nature center, camping, picnic, and restroom facilities.
Lake Weiss has earned the title "crappie capital of the world" for good reason. Despite heavy fishing pressure for crappie, an excellent forage base supports the population resulting in quality fishing year after year. Slabs over 2 lbs. are routinely caught every year from these waters. Trolling small jigs or live minnows on multiple rods is a favored method for locating crappie schools especially from mid-late winter. Anglers should also key in on downed shoreline trees and logjams, as crappie will congregate in these areas especially in the postspawn period. Anglers can download and print out a map of brush piles placed in the Brushy Branch area of Weiss Lake by GA and AL Power and WRD at: http://georgiawildlife.dnr.state.ga.us/content/displaycontent.asp?txtDo cument=117&txtPage=35
In late February through early April, white bass can be caught as they make their annual spawning run up the Coosa River. Numbers will be down this year, as prior droughts have reduced white bass spawning success and overall population size. Nonetheless, the area from the River Road boat ramp upstream to the Lock and Dam Park is "prime A" territory for catching spawn-run white bass. Key in on creek mouths and fallen trees with good water flow around them in the main river. Hungry white bass congregate in these areas waiting on food to pass by on the current. Anglers targeting white bass should try casting small jigs and crankbaits in shad patterns or use live bait. Most likely, anglers will catch a mixed bag of white bass and crappie using these techniques.
Striped bass fishing in the Coosa should remain excellent in 2007 as the population continues to remain strong. Stripers exceeding 30 lbs. are often caught during spring from the Lock and Dam upriver 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 a few stripers are fooled using artificial lures such as 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 waters to beat the summer heat. These fish can be found hiding wherever there is cool water in the rivers above Weiss and the smaller tributaries to the lake. Find one of these spots and striped bass could be on the menu all summer. 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. From mid to late winter the area between Brushy Branch and the main body of Lake Weiss are good places to find some winter striper action.
Largemouth bass numbers and quality continue to be good in the upper portion of the lake. The average fish will weigh 1-2 lbs., with larger individuals topping the 7-8 lbs. range. 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 backwater tributaries off the main Coosa River channel. Such stump-laden areas like Kings Creek, and Mt. Hope Creek hold plenty of largemouth, but must be boated with care. 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 over 4 lbs. are available to anglers fishing bluff banks and creek mouths along the Coosa River.
Blue, channel and flathead catfish of all sizes are abundant. The larger blue catfish can top the 50 lbs. range in the riverine portion of the lake. Fish for these whiskered behemoths in and around the log jams and undercut banks common in this area. Cats can be taken with a number of unsavory baits, but anglers should keep in mind most

"pole-breaker cats" are after live prey such as shad or bream. 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, and redear sunfish 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 in Lake Weiss or its surrounding waters. The lake sturgeon, once a resident of the Coosa River system, disappeared in the 1960s. Pollution and over-fishing are believed to have eliminated these archaic fishes from the river system. Thankfully since then, water conditions have improved in the river and WRD has begun to restock lake sturgeon in an effort to reestablish this native fish. Since their first stocking in 2002 more than 54,000 sturgeon fingerlings have been released in the Coosa basin. This long-term reintroduction project will require annual stockings over the next 15 to 20 years to reestablish this native fish. 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 cut the line near the hook and release the fish with the hook. If you catch or otherwise see a sturgeon, please contact one of the following Georgia WRD offices to report the location from which the sturgeon was caught {(706) 624-1161 or (706) 857-3394}. Such "sightings" are very helpful to biologists trying to assess the survival and dispersal of these magnificent fish. Those wondering what impact 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 making its impacts negligible. In fact, the species 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 U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (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. The 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 is typically somewhat higher than that from other middle Georgia reservoirs. The population continues to maintain a healthy overall condition. Over 35 percent 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. Blowdowns are another popular largemouth hiding spot in the warmer months. 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 around 50 to 60 percent of the total black bass population. However, the two species seemed to have reached equilibrium in the last couple of years. Most spotted bass are presently in the 6 - 11 inch range.

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Remember that there is no size limit on spotted bass on West Point and with the recent increase in abundance, anglers are encouraged to remove spotted bass from West Point.
The abundance and average size of crappie continue to indicate a healthy and stable population and 2007 should be no exception. About 20 percent of the population is between 9-12 inches and over 20 percent are in the 8-9 inch range. Average weight will be just less than 1/3 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. Crappies are also found around bridges.
Over the years, West Point has maintained an excellent reputation for hybrid fishing because of a combination of high stocking rates and lake characteristics that produce good survival and growth. Total hybrid numbers will be good in 2007, and the typical fish will weigh approximately 1 lb. Hybrids are found in abundance below the shoals in Franklin in the spring and scattered along the main river and tributary channels throughout much of the year.
Gulf-race striped bass were stocked into West Point Lake for the first time in 2004 since 1990 and 1992. A few larger striped bass in the 20 lbs. range have been caught in the past years. Because of the limited natural reproduction, total striped bass numbers have declined in recent years. These numbers should increase greatly with the revitalization of the striper-stocking program. The white bass population has also declined slightly due to the relatively weak classes produced in the last several years. Over 25 percent 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 in Franklin.
West Point is probably the best channel catfish lake in middle Georgia with many 15-24 inch quality-sized fish. As on most large reservoirs, bream are overpopulated and few reach catchable size. Average length for bluegill is about 4 inches and the less abundant redear (shellcracker) average 7-8 inches.
Visitors to West Point should be aware of ongoing efforts to improve fish and wildlife habitat as well as general aesthetics. The COE, Wildlife Resources Division (WRD), and West Point Lake Coalition have planted maidencane and cypress trees at several locations. Since the late 1980s, 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 plants should provide benefits to the lake in the years to come. In addition, night anglers will be pleased to know, the COE has installed flashing lights on the main channel buoys.
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 undertook 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. The locations of all the attractor sites can be obtained by contacting the WRD Fisheries Management office in LaGrange (706-845-4180). In an effort to create additional largemouth bass and crappie habitat, 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.
www.gofishgeorgia.com
Other Publications available from the WRD Fisheries Management Section
(in both hard copy and online):
2007 Georgia River Fishing Prospects Trout Streams of Georgia (map)
Introduction to Georgia Trout Fishing Guidelines for Eating Fish from Georgia Waters
2007-2008 Sport Fishing Regulations

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