2003 Georgia rivers fishing prospects

2003 Georgia Rivers Fishing Prospects
A publication of the Georgia Department of Natural Resources Wildlife Resources Division, Fisheries Management Section

River

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Best Bets in 2003

Office

Alapaha ............................2......... redbreast sunfish, bluegill, spotted sunfish, suwannee bass ......................................... Bowens Mill Altamaha ..........................3......... largemouth bass, flathead catfish, crappie, bream ........................................................ Waycross Chattahoochee..................3......... wild & hatchery brown and rainbow trout....................................................................... Walton Chattooga..........................4......... bluegill, redbreast & redear sunfish, striped bass, white bass, drum ............................ Summerville Etowah..............................5......... blue, channel & flathead catfish, striped bass, freshwater drum .................................... Summerville Flint...................................5......... shoal bass, hybrid & striped bass, flathead catfish, bream ........................................... Albany Ochlockonee....................6......... redbreast sunfish, suwannee bass, catfish.................................................................... Albany Ocmulgee.........................6......... redear, bluegill, & redbreast sunfish, flathead catfish..................................................... Bowens Mill Oconee.............................7......... flathead catfish, bluegill & redbreast sunfish, crappie..................................................... Metter Ogeechee.........................7......... redbreast sunfish, largemouth bass, catfish, ................................................................. Demeries Creek Oostanaula .......................8......... blue & channel catfish, striped bass, bream, freshwater drum ..................................... Summerville Satilla ................................9......... redbreast sunfish, bluegill, spotted sunfish, crappie, catfish........................................... Waycross Savannah.........................9......... redbreast sunfish, bluegill, channel catfish, crappie....................................................... Demeries Creek St. Marys .......................10......... redbreast sunfish, bluegill, largemouth bass.................................................................. Waycross Suwannee ......................10......... chain pickerel, warmouth, flier, bullheads ...................................................................... Waycross

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2003 Georgia Rivers Fishing Prospects
T here are over 12,000 miles of warmwater streams in Georgia. The following is the 2003 fishing prospects for the Alapaha, Altamaha, Chattahoochee, Chattooga (NW Georgia), Etowah, Flint, Ochlockonee, Ocmulgee, Oconee, Ogeechee, Oostanaula, Satilla, Savannah, St. Marys, and Suwannee rivers. These prospects are based on sampling efforts conducted by the Georgia Department of Natural Resources, Wildlife Resources Division, Fisheries Management Section. Information collected allows fisheries staff to determine recruitment, growth, condition, sizes, abundance, and mortality of important game fishes. We hope this publication will prove useful in planning your fishing trips, as well as inform you about current issues and the status of the fish populations in these rivers. Sampling efforts and the development of this publication are funded through Sport Fish Restoration.
The Wildlife Resources Division encourages anglers to participate in the Georgia Angler Award Program. All sport fish are eligible, but there are minimum weights your fish must meet or exceed. The fish must be legally caught on sport fishing tackle, weighed on scales certified accurate by the Georgia Department of Agriculture in the presence of two witnesses, and be verified to species by Fisheries Management Section staff. Recipients will receive a certificate and an angler award cap embroidered with the year, fish species, and weight. Check the DNR web site www.gofishgeorgia.com, the current Sport Fishing Regulations, or call a WRD Fisheries Management Section office to learn more about this and other WRD programs.
The Georgia Department of Natural Resources 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, visit the WRD web site www.gofishgeorgia.com or visit the EPD web site www.dnr.state.ga.us/environmental/fishconsumptionguidelines .
Visit the WRD web site at www.gofishgeorgia.com for fishing regulations, to locate a boat ramp in Georgia, to purchase a fishing license, to register a boat, to find a new place to fish, and much more!

Fisheries Management Offices:

Albany ....................229-430-4256 Bowens Mill............229-426-5272 Waycross...............912-285-6094

Demeries Creek.....................912-727-2112 Metter .....................................912-685-6424

Summerville...........706-857-3394 Walton.....................770-918-6418

Abbreviations:

USCOE - U.S. Army Corps of Engineers; DNR - Georgia Department of Natural Resources; WRD - Georgia Wildlife Resources Division; USGS - US Geologic Survey

Alapaha River The fishable portion of the Alapaha River begins near the Tift/Irwin County line and continues south to the Florida state line. The portion of the Alapaha River above US Hwy 82 is narrow and boat access is limited to drag in ramps below road crossings. This portion of the Alapaha is reduced to pools with no flow during low water conditions. Public boat ramps along the Alapaha are located off Hwy 168 along the Berrien and Lanier County line, off Hwy 129 east of Lakeland in Lanier County, and off Hwy 94 near Statenville in Echols County. The physical makeup of the Alapaha River changes as it makes its way to the Florida line. The upper portion of the river is sandy and sinuous. The lower portion has a straighter channel with more rocky shoals and high rocky bluffs. The primary sport fish in both sections of the Alapaha River is the redbreast sunfish. The size of redbreast sunfish is dependent on river flow conditions. Late fall and early winter rains pushed the Alapaha out of its banks, but throughout the entire month of January there has not been any measurable rainfall events and the river has been rapidly falling. If the watershed starts receiving regular rainfall that cause the river to rise into the floodplain for the rest of the winter, you can expect good numbers of 5-7 inch redbreast this spring and summer. Try pitching crickets and small spinners in the current near blow down trees, in eddy pockets behind sandbars, and near cypress knees and root wads close to shore. Red wigglers or other

worms are effective straight-lined on the bottom in the main channel. Although they are not as abundant as redbreast, you will also pick up the occasional spotted sunfish and bluegill using these same techniques.
Anglers may encounter a Suwannee bass during their fishing trips. The majority of the Suwannee bass population is found in the lower portion of the river. The Suwannee bass is only found in rivers and streams in the Suwannee River Basin. Suwannee bass do not get as big as their cousin the largemouth bass, as the state record Suwannee bass weighs 3 lbs 9 oz. Any Suwannee bass over 2 lbs can be considered a trophy. The largemouth bass population is a relatively small part of the overall fish population. Your best bet for largemouth bass is the lower portion of the river.
Other species that can provide good fishing are bullheads, channel catfish, and in the upper section, chain pickerel (jack fish) and the occasional redfin pickerel.
To date, the Alapaha River has not been colonized by flathead catfish. Anglers should not release this fish or any other fish species into Georgia's public waters. The flathead catfish has drastically changed the traditional fisheries of the Altamaha River system and other southeastern coastal rivers where they have been introduced.
Small size and limited access limits fishing pressure and it is not unusual to go without seeing another angler during a fishing trip. Limited access also makes the Alapaha a good candidate for a float

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trip. The flow is highly variable and dependent on rainfall. Fishing and boat access are best when the USGS gauge at Statenville is between 2-5 feet. If you have access to the Internet you can find information on gauge height at http://ga.waterdata.usgs.gov/nwis/rt
Altamaha River The Altamaha River is a popular destination for bass anglers with over 30 largemouth bass tournaments held annually. Comparing bass tournament results with other Georgia waters for the last several years shows that the Altamaha River consistently has one of the highest average catch rates in the state. Due to the severe drought conditions over the last few years, the largemouth bass population has declined slightly, but there are still good numbers of 10-14 inch bass and a few larger fish. Largemouth can be caught year-round, but bass fishing peaks in early spring as the spawning period approaches and again in late fall. Some of the more effective techniques are casting spinner baits and pitching jigs around heavy cover in current breaks or back-water areas. The Altamaha River is one of the premier flathead catfish rivers in the southeast. Many large flathead catfish are thriving in the river. Flatheads are an excellent fish to eat, and unlike channel catfish, the flesh of large flatheads maintains a high quality taste. Due to increased fishing pressure and extended drought conditions, flathead catfish numbers have declined over the last few years. However, there are still plenty of flathead catfish to provide high quality fishing. Fishing for flatheads begins in early spring and peaks in the hot summer months when the river is well within its banks. The better fishing occurs in deep holes located along the outside bends in the river. An electronic fish finder is useful in locating deep holes and fish. If you are using sporting tackle, a minimum of 30-pound test line is recommended due to the numerous snags in the river and the flatheads' large size (30-50 lbs fish are not uncommon!). Live bait is a must! Large worms (Louisiana pinks), shiners, and bream are some of the more popular baits. Set lines or limb lines are also a popular and effective way to harvest flatheads. Most anglers fish limb lines or trot lines overnight using hand-sized bream as bait. Since flatheads are more active at night, depth is not as critical with these gear types. Flatheads are prevalent throughout the river, but the highest densities are found between Jaycees Landing (river mile 67) and Altamaha Park (river mile 30). For more information on flathead catfish and fishing tips, obtain a free copy of the "Flathead Catfish Fishing Guide" from a Fisheries Management Section office. The crappie population has remained relatively stable over the past several years so angler success will be similar to 2002. The oxbow lakes that lie between US Hwy 84 and the Seaboard Railroad offer some of the better crappie fishing opportunities. Historically, the Altamaha River has been known for its outstanding bream fishery. Keeper size redbreast numbers have declined slightly over the last few years. This decline is most likely due to the low water conditions that have existed the past several years. However, a large number of smaller redbreast, below 4 inches are present. This winter the river briefly rose into the floodplain providing optimal conditions for over-winter growth and survival. However, the river has rapidly receded out of the floodplain due to the

lack of rain throughout the month of January. If rainfall returns on a regular basis and causes the river to return to a flooded condition through the rest of the winter, anglers should see an improvement in redbreast fishing in 2003. Deep holes with cover along the main river channel are some of the more productive fishing areas. Redbreast can be caught using both live bait and artificial lures. Some of the more popular live bait tactics are fishing crickets and worms under bobbers or fishing them on the bottom with split-shot weights. Small beetle spins, rooster tails, and popping bugs (on a fly rod) are effective artificial lures for enticing redbreast sunfish to strike.
Bluegill and shellcracker numbers remained low in 2002, most likely due to the drought. Like the redbreast, if high water levels are present through the winter, bluegill and shellcracker numbers should recover and anglers should reel in plenty of quality bluegill and shellcracker in 2003. Try fishing for these two species in the stillwater (oxbow) lakes off the main river channel. Bluegill and redear fishing picks up in late April when they begin bedding and continues throughout the summer. Overall, it should be another good year for bream fishing with an abundance of quality-sized fish. Bluegill and redear sunfish can be harvested using the same methods as described for redbreast sunfish, but slower moving water is typically more productive.
A guide to fishing the Altamaha River is available. It contains a map, access sites, and helpful fishing tips. Call a Fisheries Management Section office for a free copy.
Chattahoochee River Many people are unaware that in addition to supplying nearly 70% of metro Atlanta's drinking water, the 48-mile stretch of the Chattahoochee River downstream of Buford Dam contains a worldclass trout fishery for both brown and rainbow trout. The current state record brown trout weighing an impressive 18 lbs 6 oz was caught from the Chattahoochee! The river is heavily stocked with hatchery raised nine-inch rainbow and brown trout. About 80% of the trout stocked are rainbows. In addition to offering some of the best trout fishing in North Georgia, the Chattahoochee also supports numerous other fish species including yellow perch, shoal bass, largemouth bass, chain pickerel, bream, catfish, and crappie. Trout water begins at the base of Buford Dam where cold, clear water flows from the bottom of Lake Lanier. Buford Dam is a peaking hydropower facility, which means it can release water at any time. Water levels can fluctuate as much as 4 feet, so before you start any fishing trip call 770-945-1466 for information on the water release schedule at Buford Dam and 404-329-1455 for the water release schedule at Morgan Falls Dam. Since the upper section is subject to the rapid rise of water, a personal flotation device must be worn at all times from Buford Dam to SR 20. The trout waters can be broken down into two distinct reaches. The first is from Buford Dam to Ga 400. Water temperatures are normally 50-65 F year round, so anglers should plan to wear insulated waders to protect against hypothermia. There are 19 county and federally maintained public access points offering bank access, wading, and boating opportunities. Boaters should be cautioned that the river is relatively shallow and rocky during low flow

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conditions and passage upstream to Buford Dam is limited to shallow drafting boats with jet motors. Anglers need to be aware that there is a special regulation artificial lures only section between the SR 20 bridge and the Medlock Bridge Park boat ramp. An artificial lure is defined as any lure that is either man made or made of a natural substance (such as wood or cork), which isn't scented or contains chemical attractants.
Anglers interested in catching wild trout are in luck. Approximately 15% of the brown trout and 1-2% of the rainbow trout are naturally reproduced in the river. Normally, high flows in fall and spring prevent successful trout spawning. However, water conservation in Lake Lanier has kept flows lower than normal for the last 3-4 years and as a result, more brown and rainbow trout have successfully spawned. To find these fish, look for shoal areas upstream or downstream of areas with slower moving water and large woody debris. Consider using fly fishing gear, although spin fishing can be equally successful.
For fly fishing, small nymphs and flies work well. Popular flies for this area include a No.10 or No.12 brown or black bead-head wooly bugger or a No.14 bead-head Prince Nymph. When trout aren't responding, try a dropper rig with flies like a No.16 Elk Hare Caddis with a No.14 bead-head Prince Nymph as the dropper. Cast upstream across the current in runs for rainbows and near logs and overhangs for browns. For spin fishing, consider using 1/8 oz Rooster Tails in brown, green or yellow. Panther Martin 1/8 oz spinners in yellow or orange are also popular, as are size 3-5 inch Rapalas with perch, rainbow trout, gold or silver patterns.
The second reach extends from Morgan Falls Dam to Peachtree Creek. The habitat in this 12-miles of river is much wider and shallower than the reach below Buford Dam. As a result, water levels do not fluctuate as much. Storm flows can still make this reach unwadeable at times, so plan on calling 404-329-1455 for river conditions prior to fishing.
This reach was once considered a world-class trout fishery, but growth from Metro-Atlanta in the form of impervious surfaces (roads & parking lots) and commercial and residential development have produced heated storm water runoff that caused water temperatures to rise above that acceptable for trout. In November 2000, WRD introduced Delayed Harvest regulations in the five mile section from Sope Creek (off Columns Drive) downstream to US Hwy 41 (Cobb Parkway). Anglers must release all trout immediately and use and possess only artificial lures with single hooks from November 1 through May 14 annually. Anglers may use live bait and harvest trout from May 15 to October 31. Anglers fishing for species other than trout must abide by the artificial lure only regulation while fishing in the delayed harvest section.
For fly fishing, consider a Parachute Adams in a No.18-22. A black or olive wooly bugger seems to work well when fish are picky. Bead head Prince, Hares Ear and Pheasant Tail flies in No.14-18 also work well. During an insect hatch, a small Blue Wing Olive or Griffith's Gnat in a No.18-22 may be a better choice. Spin angles may want to use patterns similar to those mentioned above.
WRD stocks 50,000 brown and rainbow trout throughout this section each year. Stocked trout range in size from 9-22 inches.

WRD also stocks 100,000 brown and rainbow trout fingerlings throughout the 12 miles of river from Morgan Falls Dam to Peachtree Creek.
While providing excellent trout fishing opportunities, this reach is also known for other species of fish. Large striped bass are present during the summer months. Shoal bass are also present south of Hwy 41. There are largemouth bass, black crappie, yellow perch, spotted bass, bluegill, and redear sunfish (shellcracker) in the slower moving stretches all along the river.
Printed maps of the Chattahoochee River National Recreation Area are available by calling 770-918-6418. A downloadable version is available online at www.nps.gov/chat Printed directions to the Delayed Harvest section are also available.
Chattooga River The Chattooga River is a tributary of Weiss Lake. The river originates just south of Lafayette and meanders approximately 51 miles southwest through Walker and Chattooga counties. A narrow river channel with numerous navigational hazards makes most of the Chattooga River floatable only by canoe or small boat. Access to the river is limited to bridge crossings and an undeveloped ramp near Gaylesville, Alabama. Larger prop and/or jet boats can navigate the lower portion of the river below Hwy 27, but extreme caution should be exercised. The upper portion of the river is wadeable. Bream dominate the fishery. Bluegill, redbreast, and redear sunfish are found throughout the river. Bream 5-8 inches are common, with some slabs topping 10 inches. Low fishing pressure has likely contributed to an abundance of these larger sunfish. Skilled anglers will target deep pools, log-jams, and undercut banks in search of these pan fryers. During the summer these fish will bed in slack areas along the shore, behind debris, and on the downstream side of sandbars. When it comes to artificial baits small is the key. Small spinners and natural crawfish imitations, along with crickets and worms, will produce. In contrast to bream, the black bass fishery is relatively poor. Redeye, largemouth, and spotted bass can be found throughout the river, with redeye being more common in the upper reaches of the system. Spotted bass are the most dominant black bass species. Largemouth are present, but are much less common. Most bass will be small and generally well under a pound. The largest individuals will be nearest to where the river enters Weiss Lake. The catfish population is modest. Flatheads and blues are present, but they are greatly outnumbered by channel catfish. These speckled cats are generally under a pound, with few fish tipping the scales at 2 lbs. Channel cats are most often located in moderately deep flowing habitats, especially those found in the outside river bends. With the approach of spring, white bass will migrate into the lower Chattooga. Migrating fish may be fewer in number this year due to the persisting drought. Regardless, spawning runs will peak in March and April as fish stack up around creek mouths. White bass anglers will likely find most of these spawn-run fish in the lower river section below the Lyerly Dam area. The white bass bite will slow into

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May and become non-existent as the fish return to Weiss Lake with the approach of summer. Small jigs and crankbaits are favored lure choices for these "mini-linesides".
Like white bass, larger striped bass move into the Chattooga during the spring months. However, unlike white bass, stripers often stay the summer searching for cool water refuges. Linesides from 125 lbs can be caught, though the average fish will be near 6-7 lbs. Live gizzard shad are an angler's best bet, but stripers will hit shad imitations and top water plugs. More important than bait choice is fishing the right locality. Stripers congregate in large numbers in deep flowing water, especially around tree canopies and log jams on the outside river bends. Flowing water near cover is key to catching one of these skinny water monsters. WRD is currently conducting a striped bass tagging study in the Chattooga River. Anglers catching tagged stripers are encouraged to call the phone number printed on the tag to report the location of all tagged fish captured.
Carp, drum, suckers, and a number of redhorse species can be found in the river. Freshwater drum average slightly better than 12 inches in length, and a fair number of larger (17+ inches) humpbacks are present. The largest drum are concentrated in the "runs" of the river. These runs are generally 2-3 feet in depth at normal flows and can be characterized as having relatively swift flows. Runs along undercut banks and fallen trees are ideal places to catch drum. Small jigs fished along the bottom, crayfish, cut mussels, and shrimp are all good bets for boating these unique fish.
Etowah River Extending nearly 49 miles from the Lake Allatoona Dam downstream to Rome is the lower Etowah River. Water flow in the Etowah is greatly influenced by water releases from Allatoona Dam. During dam operation the waters can rise as much as 3-4 feet in a short period, creating sometimes dangerous boating conditions. The water release schedule is variable; however, information about the weekly generating schedule can be obtained from the USCOE at 706-334-7213. Access is limited to portages at bridge crossings. The lower stretch of river is boat accessible from the concrete ramp at the Rome/Floyd County Park in Rome. Boaters should use extreme caution as fluctuating water levels and rocky shoals throughout the river make navigation a challenge. Bluegill, redbreast, and redear sunfish dominate the bream fishery. The average fish approaches 6 inches, with nicer 7-8 inch fish present. Sunfish numbers are greatest in the river above state Hwy 411. Fallen trees and log jams are the key if anglers want to catch these species in numbers. Small jigs and spinners will work, but live bait is probably an angler's best approach for catching "dinner" numbers of these fish. Do not overlook the "whiskered" resources of the lower Etowah River. Catfish likely offer anglers one of the best angling opportunities in the area. Channels, blues, and flatheads all call the Etowah home. Channel catfish are more abundant than blues and flatheads, but what the blue cat lacks in numbers it more than makes up for in size. The average blue tips the scales at nearly 3 lbs, with 8-10 lbs fish being commonplace. However, more excitingly, blue cats over 40 lbs are caught every year. These aren't your typical chicken liver

cats. Though this approach will boat catfish, the trophy individuals will hold out for offering of live or cut shad. Hunt these behemoths in deep flowing pools, especially those associated with some type structure.
Striped bass are the lower Etowah's second crown jewel. Stripers move into the Etowah in April and reside there through October. The average fish will be 6-7 lbs, with "pole-benders" approaching 30 lbs lurking the depths. These fish congregate in the numerous coldwater refuges the Etowah offers during the summer heat. Fish are most susceptible to angling in the late spring and early summer and again in late summer or early fall. Coaxing a summer bite is not impossible, but somewhat more challenging. Linesides will congregate in deep pools and at the mouths of coolwater tributaries. Live bait is key, though artificials have their place. WRD is currently conducting a striped bass tagging study in the Etowah River. Anglers catching tagged stripers are encouraged to call the phone number on the tag to report the location of all tag fish captured.
Three black bass species can be found over the length of the Etowah. Spotted bass comprise 81% of the bass population. Largemouth and redeye bass make up the difference. Overall the black bass population would be characterized as "fair". The bulk of the population is made up of fish less than 12 inches, however spots to 20 inches can be found. The largest spots are often boated using live bait fished in deep water. Work baits near cover, especially cover associated with deep flowing water.
Smallmouth buffalo, freshwater drum, and several sucker and redhorse species can be found. Buffalo and drum are two of the most abundant species residing in the river. Anglers do not often pursue freshwater drum, nevertheless these hard fighters offer a unique angling opportunity. Atop large numbers of 12-inch fish, the Etowah produces some extremely large humpbacks. Drum over 20 inches can be found in the best river habitats. These bottom feeders will concentrate in the runs of the river. Water 2-3 feet deep moving at a good clip will hold the greatest number and largest drum. Small jigs bumped along these areas, live crawfish, cut mussels, and shrimp fished on the bottom will entice a strike. Some of the best drum water can be found in the mile or two stretch of river above Hwy 1 (Rome Loop) near Rome.
Flint River The Flint River has long been recognized for its outstanding shoal bass fishing. This unique bass is native only to a few rivers in Georgia, Alabama, and Florida. The current Georgia record shoal bass was caught on the Flint River and weighed an impressive 8 lbs 3 oz. Summer (May-July) and fall (Sept.-Oct.) represent the best opportunities to catch shoal bass. Some of the best action can be found in the shoal areas below Newton, in Baker County, and immediately upstream of Hwy 32 in Lee County. Another productive section lies upstream from the mouth of Ichawaynochaway Creek. The small islands found in this section are good places to find shoal bass. Anglers should encounter an abundance of 12-15-inch fish this year; however, the number of fish greater than 3 lbs will be down due to poor spawning success during the mid-1990s. Shoal bass feed heavily on crawfish, so jigs and soft plastics in crawfish patterns are favorites among anglers. Small crankbaits and topwater lures

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can be very productive as well. Fly fishing is a challenging and increasingly popular way to fish for shoal bass. Woolly Buggers should be a standard in any fly box.
Although largemouth bass don't receive the same attention as do shoal bass, fishing can be good in certain areas along the Flint. For quality largemouth, anglers should try the 2-mile stretch of river below Warwick dam. Bass fishing is often overlooked during the winter months; however, this can be a good time to fish, as bass will often congregate around the many springs in the river, which remain a constant 68oF.
Beginning in late February, white bass, striped bass, and hybrids begin their run up to the Albany dam. Most people cast bucktails for hybrids and striped bass, but crankbaits like shad raps and rapalas work well too. Striped bass fishing in the river this year should be comparable to last year. Most stripers will be in the 16-20inch range and weigh less than 4 lbs; however, a few fish over 30 lbs are caught each year. Both striped and hybrid bass numbers are good, and this should result in some fantastic fishing in the spring of 2003, below the Albany dam.
Flathead catfish are also a favorite among Flint River anglers. The number of flatheads has remained high and stable over the last several years, but big flatheads (greater than 20 lbs) are rare. Most of the flatheads caught in 2003 will range from 20-24 inches and weigh less than 5 lbs. The best fishing usually takes place during the summer months when flatheads occupy the deeper holes in the river. Live bait is a must, with bream being the bait of choice. Some of the more productive areas can be found downstream of Hwy 32 in Lee County and the river section above Newton in Baker County. Flathead catfish should be more abundant with good numbers of large fish (greater than 10 lbs.) near the Hwy 27 bridge in Dooly and Sumter counties.
Due to high water conditions during this past winter, bream fishing should be above average in 2003, and a good number of quality bluegill (6 inches) will be available. Likewise, the average size of redbreast sunfish should be up from previous years. Snags and blowdowns in the river section above Lake Blackshear and upstream from Lake Worth to Abram shoals offer good fishing spots for bluegill. Redbreast sunfish are more abundant in and around the shoal areas of the river.
Ochlockonee River The Ochlockonee River may not be as familiar as other major rivers in South Georgia. However, this slow-moving blackwater stream offers good fishing for redbreast sunfish. Traditionally, redbreasts are more numerous in the lower portions of the river, from Hwy 93 to Hadley's Ferry Road. Anglers will usually fair better using live crickets and worms during early spring and switching to artificial lures, such as beetle spins and popping bugs, as spring progresses and water temperatures rise. The Ochlockonee River has a fair largemouth bass population. The backwater areas near Thomasville and the section of river upstream from Hwy 93 are good largemouth bass locations. Anglers fishing the Ochlockonee will often encounter a unique member of the sunfish family, the Suwannee bass. The Suwannee bass is smaller

than its cousin, the largemouth bass, and is found in only a few streams in South Georgia and north Florida. The current state record Suwannee bass (3 lbs 9 oz) was caught in the Ochlockonee River. Suwannee bass typically prefer swifter water. As the summer progresses and the river recedes, Suwannee bass can be caught in the deeper pools using small crankbaits and soft plastics.
Catfish are also a good bet. Anglers looking to catch a mess of catfish would be wise to try the Ochlockonee during warmer months. Your favorite catfish bait fished on a simple bottom rig should be effective on a variety of species including channel catfish, white catfish, and bullheads. Currently, there are no confirmed reports of flathead catfish in the Georgia portion of the Ochlockonee and anglers who suspect they have caught a flathead should keep the fish and call the Albany Fisheries office (pg 1) as soon as possible.
Ocmulgee River The Ocmulgee River south of Hwy 280 flows 91 miles from the bridge at Abbeville until it combines with the Oconee River to form the Altamaha River near Hazlehurst. It is a large, sluggish river with many meandering bends and some oxbow lakes. Montgomery Lake, an oxbow lake off the Ocmulgee in Telfair County, produced the world record largemouth bass (22 lbs 4 oz) in 1932. It is unlikely this lake will produce another world record because now it is much shallower and is isolated from the river except during high water. Still, the opportunity to fish this area excites many bass anglers. Anglers unfamiliar with the river should obtain the free brochure, A Guide to Fishing the Lower Ocmulgee River. This guide is available from any Fisheries Section office and contains a map of the river with directions to improved boat ramps. Four consecutive years of drought have reduced both size and numbers of all fish species in the Ocmulgee River. Rainfall was more abundant during the fall of 2002 and early winter of 2003 and river flows increased significantly. Higher water levels allow most species of fish to access a more abundant food supply on the river's floodplain. Fishing should be better in 2003 if this high-water trend continues throughout the winter and spring. Fewer bluegills are present, but the number of fish larger than 6 inches is about the same as in recent years. If water levels remain high throughout the winter and spring, bluegill fishing should be better than last year. The best time to fish for them is between mid-April and mid-June. Popular baits include crickets and catalpa worms fished near the bottom below a light cork. Try pitching your bait around cover along the shoreline in oxbow lakes, sloughs, slack-water areas, or eddy pockets. Redbreast fishing will also be better this year if the water remains high. The number of redbreast is about average, but the percentage of quality fish in the population has increased. Popular techniques for catching redbreast include fishing crickets or worms in flowing water around structure along creek and river channels. Also, try the head and tail ends of sandbars. Fish your bait suspended below a float just above the bottom or straight-lined on the bottom. The flathead catfish population in the river has declined in recent years due to removal efforts, fishing pressure, and natural cycling of the population. Hopefully, this decline will allow the

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redbreast sunfish population to rebound. Extended low-water conditions did not reduce the redear sunfish
(shellcracker) population. In fact, the number of 2-3 inch fish increased. These small fish should grow and produce harvestable sized fish in the years to come. The Ocmulgee continues to produce a good number of fish in the 9-12 inch range. They are not as abundant as redbreast and bluegill, but they make up for it with their larger size. It is not uncommon to catch redear that tip the scale at 1 lb and better. The best fishing will occur in early spring when redear move into shallow water in sloughs and oxbow lakes to spawn. Favorite baits include red wigglers or crickets fished near the bottom under a cork. Later in the summer, fish around woody debris and overhanging vines along the riverbank.
The largemouth bass population continues to suffer from the extended low-water conditions caused by the drought. Competition for forage fish has been fierce and as a result, the number of bass present has declined and they are thinner than usual. If the current high-water levels persist throughout the winter and spring, the remaining largemouth bass will fatten up quickly. Expect most of the bass caught to be around the minimum legal size limit of 14 inches, but there are a few larger fish out there. Oxbow lakes and slackwater areas containing overhanging willows and woody structure are popular fishing locations, especially in the spring. Later in the summer, try fishing eddy pockets, the downstream end of sandbars, and heavy cover along the banks. Popular lures include crankbaits, spinnerbaits, plastic worms, and lizards.
Catfishing in general should be fair to good this year. There are a fair number of quality channel catfish in the river, but expect most of the catch to be around 12-14 inches long. The flathead catfish population continues to decline, but there are still large flatheads out there. Since flatheads have reduced the abundance of sunfish populations, WRD encourages anglers to fish for and harvest them. Remember, it is illegal to move flathead catfish from one river to another. All sizes of flatheads make good table fare. Anglers commonly catch flatheads on heavy-duty sporting tackle and on limb or trotlines. Live bait works best. Try fishing shiners, bream, or Louisiana pinks around snags in the deep holes along outside bends of the river channel during the day. Flatheads tend to move into shallower water to feed after dark and you will have to move with them to be successful. You can catch flatheads year-round, but the best time is from late winter to late summer. For more information on flathead catfish, including additional fishing techniques and tips, obtain a free copy of A Flathead Catfish Fishing Guide from your nearest DNR, Fisheries Section office.
Oconee River The largemouth bass population has declined in the lower Oconee River due to drought conditions. The size structure and density of the largemouth bass population is similar to the other rivers in the Altamaha system, yet this river receives the least amount of bass fishing pressure. Overall bass fishing will be fair with most bass caught being in the 12-14 inch size range. Anglers should also find a fair number of larger, lunker sized bass in the river. As with the Ocmulgee and Altamaha rivers, angler catches of

bream and redbreast should improve in 2003, if high water conditions persist throughout the winter. Decent numbers of qualitysized (5-7 inch) redbreast and a fair number of bluegill greater than 6 inches should be caught if favorable water levels are present this winter. Fishing live baits, such as worms or crickets, on the bottom using split-shot weights, under a bobber in slack water areas, or around structure in flowing waters are effective methods.
Crappie should provide good fishing opportunities in the winter and early spring before the bream and bass fishing picks up. Anglers will be most successful by fishing woody cover in slack water areas. Live minnows and artificial jigs tend to be the best bait for crappie.
Flathead catfish remain a favorite target of catfish anglers on the Oconee River. They grow to a very large size, presenting an opportunity to catch a trophy-sized fish. Most success for flatheads comes from fishing limb lines or trot lines set overnight and baited with a hand-sized live bream. Flathead catfish are introduced predator to the Oconee River, and anglers are encouraged to harvest any flatheads they catch.
Overall, fishing conditions should compare to previous years. In general, fishing for most species is better in the lower portion of the river below I-16, south of Dublin.
Ogeechee River Unlike most rivers in Georgia, the Ogeechee River's flow is not regulated by dams. This allows the river to rise and fall according to the amount of rainfall in its watershed. This natural fluctuation in river level plays a big role in fish growth and fishing success. The prolonged drought has impacted fish populations in the Ogeechee as well as anglers ability to fish the river. During low flow periods, fish are unable to benefit from the rich food source located in the flood plain, which results in slower growth. Due to normal rainfall amounts in fall of 2002 and winter of 2003, the Ogeechee is back to normal flows which will be favorable for the 2003 fishing season. Traditionally, the Ogeechee River has an excellent redbreast sunfish fishery; however, the extended drought continues to cause poor growth and moderate recruitment for redbreast sunfish. Look for good numbers of hand-sized redbreast sunfish and bluegill, but don't expect to see many rooster reds or large bluegill this year. Forecasters are predicting a return to normal rainfall in the near future, which will improve habitat conditions and allow fish to utilize the vast resources located in the flood plain once again. For some steady redbreast action, try the outside bends of the river and pitch those crickets near heavy cover for some steady redbreast action. Other panfish species present include bluegill, redear sunfish (shellcracker), black crappie, and spotted sunfish (stumpknockers). The drought has impacted these species as well. Anglers should concentrate their efforts for bluegill and redear fishing upstream of Midville, near the Jenkins County line, to McCroans Bridge, south of Louisville. In addition, good-sized fish can also be caught in the brackish water tidal area around US Hwy 17. Scattered pockets of black crappie provide exciting cold weather fishing from Hwy 204 upstream as far as Jenkins County. Live bait works well; however, grubs and small screw-tail jigs can also produce nice size

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crappies. Although smaller than other popular panfish, the spotted sunfish is plentiful in the backwaters of the Ogeechee and should not be overlooked.
The Ogeechee River has never been viewed as a major largemouth bass stream among anglers fishing coastal freshwater rivers. Less than three percent of the angler harvest is made up of largemouth bass. However, Ogeechee largemouth bass are plentiful and healthy. If there has been a positive effect of the drought, it has been realized in an increase in number of largemouth bass between 8-12 inches. Largemouth bass recruitment has been very good for the last two years and this has produced a large number of bass in the river. Look for good bass fishing in the spring as water temperatures rise. April is usually the month when the largest number of bass are caught. Take some time this spring to tap into this unique largemouth bass fishery. Work the banks with spinner baits or flip a jig and pig into those tight places where big bass love to hide.
Catfish are plentiful, with snail bullheads and white catfish being most common. Like redbreast sunfish, catfish are most concentrated where there is a combination of swift water and heavy cover. Snail bullheads are numerous throughout the river, but white catfish abundance increases as you get closer to the estuary. Most of the large catfish are channel catfish. Try using cut bait or live minnows in the outside bends of the river to catch these large fish.
It is believed that the flathead catfish has not been released into the Ogeechee River. This is good. Flathead catfish have some fine qualities as a sportfish, but they are not native to the coastal river drainages of Georgia. An illegal introduction of flathead catfish into the Ogeechee would be devastating to the fish populations. Anglers need to be aware of the consequences of an illegal introduction of flathead catfish. Once introduced, flathead catfish are impossible to completely remove. The redbreast sunfish and bullhead populations are most impacted. It is very important that flatheads not be introduced into the Ogeechee River. If you have any information about anyone moving flathead catfish, please call the TIP number 1800-241-4113, 24 hours/day, 7days/week.
Oostanaula River The Oostanaula River originates at the confluence of the Conasauga and Coosawattee Rivers northeast of Calhoun. The river winds southward approximately 49 miles to Rome where it merges with the Etowah River to form the Coosa River. The river can be accessed from four boat ramps. A map of boat ramp locations can be obtained from either the WRD office in Calhoun (706-624-1161) or Summerville (706-857-3394). This is definitely a small boat river and care should be taken when navigating the river, especially in summer when water levels are low. The Oostanaula is once again home to a sportfish species that disappeared from the river nearly 40 years ago. One thousand one hundred and thirty (1,130) lake sturgeon were re-introduced to the Oostanaula River in December 2002. Pollution and overfishing are believed to have eliminated most of these archaic fishes from the river system. Thankfully since then, water conditions have improved in the river. Through yearly stocking it is hoped the species will

reclaim much of its historic inhabitance within the river. 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 can once again support some harvest. Anglers accidentally catching a lake sturgeon should immediately release the fish unharmed. Fish hooked deep will often survive if anglers will cut the line near the hook and release the fish with the hook. If you catch a sturgeon, please contact either WRD office listed above to report the location from which the sturgeon was caught. Such "sightings" help biologists assess the survival of these magnificent fish.
Anglers will likely be most successful in the pursuit of catfish on the Oostanaula. Channels, blues, and flatheads inhabit the murky recesses of the river year-round. Anglers will likely find the largest individuals in deep pools, undercut banks, and in log jams. Blue and channel cats occur in similar numbers, with blues averaging 1 lb and channels nearing lb Larger blue cats in the 5-8 lbs range are somewhat common, with individuals over 10 lbs being considerably less common. Flatheads are present, yet in much lower numbers than either blues or channels. Live bait are a must for those looking to boat flatheads with regularity.
The muddy waters of the Oostanaula provide only poor to fair black bass fishing. Nearly 80% of the black bass population is made up of spotted bass averaging 7-8 inches long. The less common largemouth has an average length of 12 inches and weighs in at just over a pound. Largemouth are more common in the lower reaches of the river while spots, despite being found throughout, are most numerous in the 4-mile stretch above and below Hwy 140. Target these fish in debris jams and around overhanging vegetation and fallen trees. Small numbers of redeye bass are resident to the river section between Hwy 225 and Hwy 156. However, redeye anglers will have greater success targeting these natives in the tributaries feeding the Oostanaula.
The Oostanaula provides bream anglers with low to moderate numbers of bluegill, and still fewer numbers of redbreast, redear (shellcrackers) sunfish, and crappie. The bluegill angler will typically find fish averaging 5 inches, with "gills" over 7 inches being rare. Target bream in slow water areas around creek mouths and the slack-waters behind debris jams.
Stripers will move into the lower Oostanaula during the spring spawning run. Bucktails and shad imitations can be effective patterns for the spring striper angler. Be sure to use stout fishing gear to prevent these behemoths from breaking you off around the log jams and tree canopies they frequent. After the spawn, stripers disperse downstream to Lake Weiss and other thermal refuges in the Coosa River system. Small stripers may be caught in the Oostanaula during the summer, but the premier fishing will be in the spring months. The WRD is currently conducting a striped bass tagging study in the Oostanaula River. Anglers catching tagged stripers are encouraged to call the phone number on the tag to report the location of capture.
In the spring, small numbers of white bass will move into the Oostanaula to spawn. Success during this time can be sporadic for the inexperienced. White bass anglers should instead consider fishing downstream in the Coosa River. Larger numbers of white

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bass can be found there during the spawn in the area at or below the Rome Lock and Dam. Boats can be launched from the Lock and Dam Park or downstream at the Old River Road boat ramp off state Hwy 20 west of Rome. These concentrated spawn-run fish can be caught using small jigs and crankbaits.
Smallmouth buffalo, freshwater drum, carp, and suckers dominate the relatively slow moving waters. Drum average 12 inches in length with larger "bull" drum exceeding 20 inches. Those wishing to catch drum should target the swifter waters and shoals using live crayfish, cut mussels, shrimp, or small jigs fished along the bottom.
Satilla River The Satilla River is one of the premier redbreast sunfish rivers in the Southeast and is your best bet for catching a redbreast sunfish weighing over one pound. Drought conditions over the last few years have resulted in decreased abundance and size of redbreast. Early winter rains have caused the river to swell into its floodplain for the first time in several years. If these high water levels continue throughout the winter and early spring, anglers should catch larger numbers of harvestable sized redbreast in 2003 than in the previous two years. Fair numbers of quality fish (8 inches or larger) should be available. However, lower than average numbers and sizes will be caught if low water conditions return and persist into spring. If you are looking for a cure for your "cabin fever," a few redbreast can be caught in March by fishing worms or crickets on the bottom. For anglers who prefer to wait for peak fishing, April and May are typically the best months. Fishing usually peaks when the water warms and recedes well within the banks (usually about 4-5 feet at the Waycross river level gauge). The best method is fishing with crickets and worms under bobbers or on the bottom with splitshot weights. As water temperature increases into the 70s, anglers often switch to artificial lures such as small beetle spins and roostertail spinners. Fly fishing can be very effective after the water warms. Try popping bugs on a fly rod to lure some true "rooster reds." Although other bream species, such as bluegill and spotted sunfish (stumpknockers), receive less attention than redbreast, they are plentiful. These populations have also suffered from the drought conditions and would benefit from high water conditions. Oxbow lakes and beaver ponds off the main river channel are prime locations for catching a good mess of panfish. Oxbow lakes in the lower sections of the river around the Burnt Fort area provide some of the better bluegill fishing. Crickets and worms are productive baits. When conditions are too cold for good catches of bream, largemouth bass, and catfish, try fishing for crappie. Crappies are present throughout the river. Fishing woody cover in slack water away from the main channel is your best bet. Live minnows and small artificial jigs are top producers for crappie. While not known for its bass population, the Satilla usually contains sufficient numbers of largemouth bass to provide an enjoyable outing. As with other fish species, largemouth bass numbers have suffered from the low water conditions present over the last several years. Anglers will have to fish a little harder to set the hook on a Satilla largemouth in 2003. Largemouth bass fishing

peaks in late-winter and early-spring when river levels are too high for successful bream fishing. Although the bass population is down slightly this year, anglers should catch decent numbers of fish in the 12-17 inch range. Typical bass lures work, but it is hard to beat a shallow-diving minnow plug in the spring of the year.
Catfish fishing should remain very good this coming year. The river supports healthy populations of snail, yellow, and brown bullheads and channel catfish. Use worms, chicken livers, cut bait, or your own secret bait fished on the bottom in deeper holes (usually on outside bends in the river).
Flathead catfish do not appear to have affected the redbreast sunfish population in the prime redbreast habitat of the upper river because their numbers remain low. A WRD flathead catfish removal program on the Satilla has the goal of keeping the flathead catfish population from gaining dominance as has occurred in other southern rivers. Please harvest all flathead catfish you catch from the Satilla River. Do not release any. They are very good to eat.
It is illegal to move fish from one lake or stream to another. Moving fish can cause unexpected and irreversible changes to the fish populations. If you have information about anyone moving flathead catfish please call 1-800-241-4113 (24 hours/day, 7days/week).
A Guide to Fishing the Satilla River is available. It contains a map, access sites, and helpful fishing tips. Call a Fisheries office for a free copy.
Savannah River Stream flow in the Savannah River below the New Savannah Bluff Lock & Dam is largely controlled by releases from Clarks Hill (Strom Thurmond) Dam. Hydropower needs dictate water release schedules which often result in moderate weekly river level fluctuations during the summer fishing season. Angler success for many species is impacted by rising and falling river levels which limits the number of days when flow is conducive to successful fishing. Fishing is usually best when river levels drop within 5-6 feet on the USGS flow gauge at Clyo. Check local forecasts for river stage information. Many anglers find that numerous oxbow lakes along the river provide excellent fishing opportunities. River oxbows created by USCOE channel modifications in the late 1950s and early 1960s are recognized as shared waters under the agreement between Georgia and South Carolina. State boundaries did not change as a result of these channel modifications, but run down the middle of these old oxbows. Anglers should refer to USGS topographic maps and carefully identify these man-made oxbows. Some of the old natural oxbow lakes exist totally within the boundaries of South Carolina and are not covered by the fishing license agreement. Redbreast sunfish, bluegill, channel catfish and black crappie are the species most harvested in freshwater. The Savannah also contains a fair number of large redbreast, redear sunfish and bluegill. The majority of these fish are located around heavy structure in the form of river flow diverter pilings. Big redear sunfish often feed on

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sandbars in 2-4 feet of water. Try fishing small screw-tail jigs in these areas.
The majority of catfish are white catfish. Most catfish that are over five lbs are channel catfish. Catfish spend most of their time in deep swift-flowing water along the last third of an outside bend. Catfish are more active at night and will often move out of these daytime hiding places into shallower water to feed. Try fishing these outside bend areas during the day with live bait and when darkness approaches, fish on shallow bars and flats where bait fish congregate.
The striped bass population declined drastically in the mid1980s due to the operation of a tide gate and diversion canal in the Back River where the majority of striped bass spawned. Concerned officials in Georgia and South Carolina closed the season for harvest of striped bass and hybrid striped bass downstream of New Savannah Bluff Lock and Dam to protect the remaining brood stock. Georgia DNR also initiated a supplemental stocking program, and currently stocks 40,000 (8-10 inch) striped bass each year into the lower Savannah River. These stockings have been highly successful and the number of striped bass in the river has increased substantially in recent years. However, it is important for anglers to realize that most of the stripers that they catch were stocked and that recruitment of naturally-reproduced striped bass remains low. Striped bass take four to five years to become sexually mature and about 8 years to reach 25-30 lbs. Although the potential for egg production is improving, it remains low when compared to historical levels. As long as egg production remains low, it is important that the striped bass harvest moratorium remain in force. DNR will consider re-opening the fishery to harvest when it is determined that the contribution from natural reproduction exceeds that from the annual stockings.
St. Marys River As with most of the other southeastern rivers, if high water levels return and persist through the winter and early spring, fishing will improve in 2003. Without the presence of high water over the winter and spring months fishing success will be similar to 2002. The St. Marys River has one of the better redbreast sunfish populations in southeast Georgia. Redbreast are not as numerous as in the Satilla River; however, the chances of catching fish 6 inches or larger are excellent. Fishing methods used on the Satilla River also work well on the St. Marys. Crickets and worms are good baits. Small lures, such as beetle-spins, work well when the water warms. The St. Marys River also supports a healthy bluegill population. Catching bluegill weighing lb or larger should be fairly common. The better bream fishing can be found in the lower half of the river, from the Trader's Hill Recreational Area downstream. Using worms or crickets around cover in the creeks and oxbows of the lower river are your best bets for catching a stringer of bluegill. The St. Marys River is considered to be a trophy bass river by some anglers. Although bass are not as plentiful as in other rivers, anglers frequently land wall-hangers. The better bass fishing can be found in the Kings Ferry area of the lower river. Try casting spinner baits and pitching jigs or worms around heavy cover in current

breaks or backwater areas. The St. Marys River is one of the few coastal plain rivers
in southeast Georgia that has not been colonized by flathead catfish. Anglers are urged not to release this, or any other fish, into the St. Marys River unless it was caught there. Moving fish from one water body to another is illegal, and can have profound harmful effects on native fish populations.
Suwannee River The 33-mile portion of the Suwannee River in Georgia offers a unique fishing experience. The dark "tea stained" waters contain several different species than most anglers are used to pursuing. Chain pickerel, warmouth, flier, and bullheads (catfish) are the main components of the catch. Due to the highly acidic waters (pH values less than 4.5) the river offers little in the way of bass, bluegill, redbreast sunfish, or channel catfish fishing. Fish populations in this portion of the Suwannee have shown drastic declines in abundance due to the drought conditions. Unless river levels improve, anglers may have a tough time filling the frying pan. Shallow running crankbaits like the Rapala Minnow or Rooster Tail are particularly effective on chain pickerel (jackfish). Jointed, colorful lures with their increased action also work well. Warmouth fishing should peak in late April and May. They are distributed throughout the river with a slight increase in number as you travel downstream to Fargo. Live crawfish are the favorite bait among anglers who target warmouth. Flier can be caught year round in the upper reaches near the Okefenokee Swamp. Anglers targeting flier should concentrate their efforts in sloughs and backwater areas. The "yellow sallie" is the favorite artificial bait among flier anglers. Bullheads can be caught using worms, chicken livers, dead shrimp, and crickets off the bottom in deep water along the bank edges.
Publications available from the Fisheries Management. Section:
2003 Georgia Reservoirs Fishing Prospects Trout Streams of Georgia (map)
Introduction to Georgia Trout Fishing Small Lakes Open to Public Fishing Guidelines for Eating Fish from Georgia Waters Guide to Accessible Outdoor Activities 2003-2004 Sport Fishing Regulations
Useful Web Sites:
* to determine stream flow conditions at USGS gauges http://ga.waterdata.usgs.gov/nwis/rt
* to locate a boat ramp in Georgia www.gofishgeorgia.com
* for a map of the Chattahoochee River below Buford Dam www.nps.gov/chat

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