The Top 30 Fishing Lakes in Georgia Ranked

Fishing in Georgia isn’t just a weekend hobby — it’s a way people connect with family, friends, and nature. With so many lakes across the state, it can be tough to know where to start or which ones are worth your time. That’s why we decided to put together this list of the top 30 fishing lakes in Georgia. I’ve done my fair share of fishing here, but I didn’t want to rely only on my own experience. I reached out to other local anglers to get their thoughts and tips.

We also ran a poll on our social media pages to hear from even more voices. The result is a mix of well-known spots and a few that locals swear by, all ranked and shared so you can plan your next fishing trip with confidence. Whether you’re after bass, catfish, crappie, or something else, this list has a little something for everyone. We wanted it to reflect real opinions, not just what you read in the brochures. Keep reading, and you’ll see which lakes made the cut and why they’re loved by Georgia’s fishing community.

30. Tallulah Falls Lake

Tallulah Falls Lake is a small mountain reservoir in northeast Georgia, covering just 63 acres, but it offers a unique fishing experience. Anglers come here for largemouth bass, bluegill, yellow perch, and the occasional trout. The lake sits below Tallulah Falls, surrounded by steep slopes and wooded banks, giving it a quiet, natural feel. It’s a great spot for small boats, canoes, or kayaks since the water is calm and easy to navigate. Spring is a good time for bass, while bluegill and perch keep things lively during the warmer months. Access is limited to a single public boat ramp, and the shoreline is fairly rugged, so most fishing happens from the water. Even though it’s much smaller than other Georgia lakes, Tallulah Falls Lake draws anglers who enjoy a laid-back pace, mountain scenery, and the chance to fish in a tucked-away spot that’s often overlooked.

29. Lake Acworth

Lake Acworth, located in northwest Georgia near the city of Acworth, covers about 260 acres and is a peaceful spot for local anglers. This small lake is known for its largemouth bass, crappie, catfish, and bream. Because it’s a no-gas-motor lake, the waters stay calm, which makes it a great place for small boats, kayaks, or even bank fishing. The lake features a mix of shallow spots, docks, and brushy areas where fish like to hide. Spring is a strong season for bass, while crappie and catfish provide action through much of the year. There’s public access with a boat ramp and fishing piers, making it simple to plan a short fishing trip or spend a full day outdoors. While it’s smaller than many other Georgia lakes, Lake Acworth gives anglers a solid chance at a good catch without needing to travel far or deal with heavy boat traffic.

28. Yahoola Creek Reservoir

Yahoola Creek Reservoir, located just outside Dahlonega, Georgia, offers a peaceful spot for local anglers. It’s a smaller lake, but you can find largemouth bass, crappie, catfish, and bream here. The reservoir has a mix of shallow edges, deeper holes, and plenty of submerged brush, giving fish lots of places to hold. Spring is a great time for bass fishing, while catfish and crappie keep things active through summer and fall. Only electric motors are allowed, which helps keep the lake quiet and calm, something many anglers appreciate. There’s a public boat ramp and good bank access, so you don’t need a big setup to enjoy a solid day of fishing. Yahoola Creek Reservoir may not be the biggest lake in the state, but it offers steady action and a laid-back setting for anyone wanting a relaxing day casting a line close to the mountains.

27. Lake Kedron

Lake Kedron, a 235-acre reservoir in Peachtree City, Georgia, is a popular spot for fishing enthusiasts. Known for largemouth bass, black crappie, bluegill, and catfish, it offers diverse catches. Anglers can fish from the bank, docks, or boats with electric motors, as gas-powered boats are prohibited. A valid Georgia fishing license is required for those 16 and older. The lake’s clear waters and serene environment make it ideal for a relaxing day of fishing. Open from dawn to dusk, it also features picnic areas and trails, perfect for a family outing.

26. Lake Eufaula (Walter F. George Lake)

Lake Eufaula, also called Walter F. George Lake, stretches along the Georgia-Alabama border and covers about 45,000 acres. It’s a well-known fishing spot, especially famous for largemouth bass, crappie, catfish, and bream. Anglers love the variety here — from shallow backwaters and grassy flats to deep channels and old river ledges. Spring is a prime time for bass fishing, while crappie and catfish keep things interesting throughout the year. The lake has plenty of public boat ramps, marinas, and bank access points, making it easy for anglers to plan a trip. Because of its size, there’s plenty of space to spread out, whether you’re fishing from a boat or casting from shore. Lake Eufaula is often called the “Bass Fishing Capital of the World,” and it draws anglers from across the region. Whether you’re here for a weekend tournament or a laid-back day on the water, it’s a solid choice.

25. Reed Bingham Lake

Reed Bingham Lake, located in south Georgia near Adel, covers around 375 acres and is part of Reed Bingham State Park. It’s a popular spot for anglers looking for largemouth bass, crappie, catfish, and bream. The lake has a good mix of shallow coves, weed beds, and open water, making it a nice spot for different fishing styles. Spring and fall are great times for bass, while crappie and catfish offer steady action through much of the year. There’s a public boat ramp, plus plenty of bank access, which makes it easy for both boaters and shore anglers to enjoy a day out. Even though it’s not a huge lake, the fishing here stays reliable, and the peaceful park surroundings add to the experience. For folks looking for an easygoing trip with solid chances of landing fish, Reed Bingham Lake is a dependable, enjoyable option.

24. Lake Yonah

Lake Yonah, sitting along the Georgia-South Carolina border, is a smaller mountain lake covering about 325 acres. Even though it’s small, it offers plenty of solid fishing for largemouth bass, spotted bass, catfish, bream, and even walleye. The lake’s steep banks, rocky points, and clear water make it a good spot for anglers who like to mix up their fishing techniques. Spring is usually best for bass, while catfish and walleye stay active across different seasons. Access can be a bit limited compared to larger lakes, but there is a public boat ramp available, and small boats are often the best way to fish here. Because there’s little development along the shoreline, the area feels quiet and removed from busy city life. For anglers looking for a relaxed fishing trip in a mountain setting, Lake Yonah offers a simple, no-fuss place to spend time on the water.

23. Lake Tugalo

Lake Tugalo, tucked up near the Georgia-South Carolina line, covers about 597 acres and offers a peaceful, natural setting for fishing. Anglers come here for largemouth bass, spotted bass, walleye, catfish, and bream. The lake’s rugged shoreline, steep banks, and clear mountain water give fish plenty of places to hide. Because there’s no development along the shore and only small boats are allowed, the lake stays quiet and uncrowded, which many anglers really like. Spring is a good time for bass, while walleye fishing heats up during late winter and early spring. Public boat access is available, but keep in mind the roads can be a little rough, so plan ahead. Even with its smaller size, Lake Tugalo offers steady action and a more laid-back pace compared to bigger, busier lakes. It’s a solid pick for those who want a calm day of fishing surrounded by nature.

22. Lake Varner

Lake Varner, sitting just outside Covington, Georgia, covers about 850 acres and has earned a reputation as a great bass fishing spot. Largemouth bass are the big draw here, but you’ll also find crappie, catfish, and bream. The lake has plenty of standing timber, brush piles, and shallow coves, making it a solid place to fish throughout the year. Spring and fall are especially good for bass, while crappie fishing stays steady in cooler months. One unique thing about Lake Varner is that it’s a drinking water reservoir, so only electric motors are allowed. That keeps the lake quiet and calm, which many anglers enjoy. There’s a public boat ramp and plenty of shoreline access, so whether you’re in a small boat or casting from land, it’s easy to spend a few good hours here. Local anglers like Lake Varner for its reliable fishing and easygoing pace.

21. High Falls Lake

High Falls Lake, located in central Georgia, covers around 650 acres and is a favorite spot for bass anglers. It’s especially well-known for producing quality largemouth bass, though you can also find crappie, catfish, and bream here. The lake has a mix of shallow waters, submerged stumps, and grassy areas, which give fish plenty of good cover. Spring is a popular time for bass fishing, but crappie action is strong during the cooler months. High Falls State Park provides easy access with boat ramps, fishing docks, and bank spots, making it simple to plan either a short afternoon trip or a full day on the water. Because of its size, High Falls Lake is easier to navigate than some of Georgia’s bigger reservoirs, which makes it a good pick for small boat owners or anyone looking for a straightforward fishing trip. It’s a reliable, no-fuss lake for solid fishing.

20. Blue Ridge Lake

Blue Ridge Lake, tucked into the north Georgia mountains, covers about 3,300 acres and offers a unique mix of fishing options. Anglers come here mainly for smallmouth bass, largemouth bass, spotted bass, walleye, and trout — a rare mix compared to many other Georgia lakes. The cool, deep water and rocky shorelines make it a great spot for those who enjoy fishing in clear, mountain-fed lakes. Spring and fall are strong seasons for bass, while trout and walleye keep things interesting year-round. Blue Ridge Lake has several public boat ramps, as well as spots for bank fishing, making it easy to plan a trip whether you’re in a boat or on foot. While the lake can draw visitors during the warmer months, it’s still a favorite for anglers looking for solid fishing surrounded by mountain views. It’s a great spot for both experienced fishers and casual weekend anglers.

19. Lake Juliette

Lake Juliette, sitting in central Georgia, covers about 3,600 acres and is known for its clear, clean water. This lake is a favorite among anglers looking for largemouth bass, striped bass, crappie, catfish, and bream. What makes Juliette stand out is that only smaller boats with limited horsepower are allowed, which keeps the water calm and less crowded compared to bigger lakes. The lake has plenty of coves, submerged timber, and drop-offs where fish like to gather. Bass fishing tends to heat up in spring and fall, while crappie action stays steady through the cooler months. There are public boat ramps and good access points for bank fishing, so you don’t need fancy gear to enjoy a day here. Anglers appreciate the peaceful feel and reliable bite at Lake Juliette, making it a solid choice for anyone wanting a laid-back fishing trip without a lot of boat traffic.

18. Lake Tobesofkee

Lake Tobesofkee, located just west of Macon, covers about 1,750 acres and is a handy spot for local anglers. It’s best known for largemouth bass, crappie, catfish, and bream. The lake has a mix of shallow coves, points, and open water, offering a variety of spots to fish depending on the season. Spring is a good time for bass, while crappie fishing picks up in the cooler months. Even though it’s smaller than some of Georgia’s other fishing lakes, Tobesofkee offers steady action and is easy to access, with multiple public boat ramps and bank fishing areas. Because it’s so close to town, it’s a popular choice for people looking for a quick fishing trip without a long drive. While the lake can get busy with boaters, the fishing stays consistent year-round, making it a solid pick for both casual anglers and those looking for a fun, low-stress outing.

17. Lake Chatuge

Lake Chatuge sits up in the north Georgia mountains, stretching across the Georgia-North Carolina line. It covers around 7,000 acres and offers a wide range of fishing options. Anglers head here for spotted bass, largemouth bass, crappie, and catfish. The clear water, rocky points, and long stretches of shoreline create plenty of good fishing spots. Spring is great for bass, while hybrids and crappie give solid action throughout much of the year. The lake has several public boat ramps, marinas, and shoreline access, making it easy to plan anything from a quick morning trip to a weekend on the water. One thing folks appreciate about Lake Chatuge is how it offers good fishing without feeling too crowded, even during busy seasons. Whether you’re casting from a boat or the shore, it’s a steady, reliable spot for anglers who want a mix of mountain views and fishing action.

16. Lake Russell

Lake Russell sits on the border of Georgia and South Carolina, covering about 26,650 acres. It’s a favorite for anglers who want a less developed, more natural setting. You’ll find largemouth bass, spotted bass, crappie, catfish, and striped bass here, with plenty of deep water, rocky points, and submerged timber to fish around. One thing that makes Lake Russell stand out is how little shoreline development there is — that means fewer docks and less boat traffic, which many anglers appreciate. Spring and fall are great times for bass fishing, while summer brings solid catfish action. There are several public boat ramps and access points, making it easy to get out on the water. Whether you’re fishing from a boat or casting from the bank, Lake Russell offers a calm, steady fishing experience. It’s a good choice for anyone looking for a laid-back trip with strong chances of landing fish.

15. Lake Seed

Lake Seed is a small but special spot in northeast Georgia, covering only about 240 acres. Even though it’s one of the smaller lakes in the state, it offers some solid fishing opportunities. Anglers come here for largemouth bass, spotted bass, bluegill, and chain pickerel. The lake has a quiet, laid-back atmosphere, with calm coves, rocky edges, and wooded banks that provide good fishing spots. Many folks like fishing from small boats or kayaks since the size of the lake makes it easy to cover a lot of ground in a short time. Spring is a great season for bass, while summer brings steady bluegill and pickerel action. There’s a public boat ramp and plenty of shoreline access, so you don’t need a lot of fancy gear to enjoy a day here. Lake Seed is a nice choice for anyone looking for a relaxed, reliable fishing trip without big crowds.

14. Carters Lake

Carters Lake, tucked in the northwest Georgia mountains, covers about 3,200 acres and is known for its deep, clear water. It’s one of the deepest lakes in the state, which makes it a good spot for targeting striped bass, spotted bass, walleye, and catfish. Anglers like the challenge here because the fish often hang out deep, especially during the warmer months. There are rocky shorelines, steep drop-offs, and underwater structures that offer great fishing spots. Spring and fall are prime times for bass, while striped bass are active through much of the year. Carters Lake has several public boat ramps, campgrounds, and access points, so you can plan anything from a quick fishing trip to a weekend on the water. The lake’s mountain surroundings create a peaceful backdrop, and even though it’s a bit off the beaten path, many anglers see it as a solid place for quality fishing.

13. Lake Blackshear

Lake Blackshear sits in south-central Georgia and stretches across about 8,700 acres. It’s well-known among local anglers for its largemouth bass, crappie, bluegill, and catfish. The lake has a mix of shallow flats, cypress trees, and deep channels, offering a good range of fishing spots. Spring and early summer are great for bass and crappie, while catfish action picks up in the warmer months. Lake Blackshear’s cypress-filled backwaters are a unique feature, giving anglers a chance to fish in a setting you won’t find at many other Georgia lakes. Public boat ramps, marinas, and parks make it easy to access, whether you’re heading out for a day on the water or just fishing from shore. Even though the lake gets busy with boaters and families, it remains a reliable spot for solid fishing. It’s a favorite among locals who enjoy both the challenge and the variety of fish here.

12. Lake Rabun

Lake Rabun, tucked in the north Georgia mountains, covers about 835 acres and is known for its scenic setting and good fishing. Anglers here often go after largemouth bass, spotted bass, walleye, bluegill, and yellow perch. The long, narrow shape of the lake creates plenty of coves, points, and drop-offs, giving fish plenty of spots to gather. Spring is a great time for bass, while summer and fall bring strong walleye fishing. Lake Rabun is smaller and quieter compared to many larger lakes, but that’s part of its charm for those looking for a laid-back fishing experience. Public access points and a couple of boat ramps make it fairly easy to get on the water, whether you’re in a fishing boat or just casting from shore. For anglers who enjoy mountain views and a peaceful pace, Lake Rabun offers a solid place to spend a day with a rod and reel.

11. Lake Burton

Lake Burton sits in the north Georgia mountains and covers about 2,775 acres, making it one of the smaller but well-loved fishing lakes in the state. It’s especially known for its spotted bass, but anglers also target largemouth bass, trout, bluegill, and walleye here. The clear, deep water and rocky shorelines create some great fishing spots, especially around points, docks, and submerged brush. Trout fishing is a unique feature at Lake Burton, setting it apart from many other Georgia lakes. Spring and fall tend to be the best seasons for bass, while trout fishing stays solid throughout much of the year. There are several public boat ramps and access points, and even though the lake is popular, it doesn’t usually feel overcrowded. Surrounded by mountain views, Lake Burton offers a peaceful setting for a solid day of fishing, whether you’re an experienced angler or just looking for a relaxed trip.

10. Lake Nottely

Lake Nottely sits up in the north Georgia mountains near Blairsville and covers about 4,180 acres. It’s a smaller lake compared to some others in the state, but it’s packed with fishing opportunities. Anglers come here mainly for spotted bass, largemouth bass, striped bass, and crappie. The lake has a good mix of deep channels, rocky banks, and hidden coves, offering plenty of places for fish to hang out. Spring and early summer are popular for bass, while the cooler months bring strong crappie action. There are several public boat ramps and places for bank fishing, making access pretty easy. Even though it’s less crowded than bigger lakes, the fishing here holds up well, drawing both locals and visitors. The mountain views and quieter setting give the whole experience a laid-back feel, making Lake Nottely a great spot for anyone looking for a reliable day of fishing.

9. Lake Sinclair

Lake Sinclair, located in central Georgia near Milledgeville, covers around 15,330 acres and has long been a favorite among local anglers. It’s well-known for largemouth bass, crappie, and catfish. The lake’s warm waters, thanks to a nearby power plant, keep fish active through most of the year, which makes for consistent fishing. Anglers like the mix of docks, bridges, coves, and open water that offer plenty of good spots to cast a line. Bass fishing tends to peak in spring and fall, while crappie fishing stays strong in the cooler months. Public boat ramps, marinas, and bank access points are easy to find, making it simple to plan both short outings and longer trips. While Lake Sinclair sees a fair share of boat traffic, many anglers return for the steady action and wide range of fishing opportunities. It’s a great spot for both experienced and casual fishers.

8. West Point Lake

West Point Lake stretches along the Georgia-Alabama line and covers about 25,900 acres, making it a popular fishing destination in west Georgia. Anglers come here for largemouth bass, spotted bass, crappie, catfish, and hybrids. The lake’s waters are full of old creek channels, humps, and submerged timber, offering great structure for fish to gather. Spring and fall are prime times for bass, while crappie fishing heats up in the cooler months. There are plenty of boat ramps, fishing piers, and bank access points, so you’ve got options whether you’re boating or sticking to shore. While the lake draws in its fair share of boaters and campers, it’s still known as a reliable spot for solid fishing. Many locals appreciate how the lake’s size lets them spread out and avoid the crowds. Whether you’re after a weekend trip or just a few peaceful hours casting a line, West Point Lake delivers.

7. Lake Jackson

Lake Jackson, one of Georgia’s oldest reservoirs, covers about 4,750 acres and is well-known among local anglers. It’s a go-to place for largemouth bass, spotted bass, crappie, catfish, and bream. The lake’s layout is packed with coves, points, and docks, giving fishers plenty of different spots to try their luck. Many folks enjoy targeting bass around rocky banks and submerged wood, especially during spring and fall. While it’s smaller than some of Georgia’s other lakes, Lake Jackson offers steady fishing and a more laid-back feel, which locals appreciate. Several public boat ramps and marinas make it easy to launch, and there are spots along the shore if you prefer casting from land. Even with its smaller size, the fishing stays active throughout the year. Whether you’re heading out for a quick morning or planning a longer trip, Lake Jackson offers a solid, dependable fishing experience.

6. Lake Allatoona

Lake Allatoona sits just north of Atlanta and offers about 12,000 acres of water, making it a favorite local fishing spot. It’s packed with spotted bass, largemouth bass, crappie, hybrid striped bass, and catfish, giving anglers plenty to aim for. The lake has a mix of rocky banks, submerged timber, and deep channels, which means you can fish in a lot of different ways depending on the season. Public boat ramps and marinas are easy to find, and there are also spots for bank fishing if you’d rather stay on shore. Even though the lake can get busy with boaters and families enjoying the water, fishing stays solid throughout the year. Many local anglers appreciate how close Lake Allatoona is to the city, making it perfect for a quick fishing trip without a long drive. Whether you’re after bass or crappie, it’s a lake that offers reliable action.

5. Lake Lanier

Lake Lanier is one of Georgia’s most popular lakes, pulling in anglers from all over. It stretches across roughly 38,000 acres and is especially known for its spotted bass, but you’ll also find largemouth bass, striped bass, catfish, and crappie here. The lake’s deep, clear water and rocky points make it a favorite for people who like to fish using a variety of techniques, whether that’s trolling, jigging, or casting near the banks. With dozens of marinas, public boat ramps, and shoreline access, it’s easy to plan a quick trip or a full weekend on the water. What makes Lake Lanier stand out is its mix of fishing and recreation — you’ll see anglers sharing the lake with boaters, swimmers, and kayakers. Even with all the activity, the fishing here stays strong year-round, giving both casual and experienced anglers plenty of chances to land something worth bragging about.

4. Clarks Hill Lake

Clarks Hill Lake, also called Lake Thurmond, stretches along the Georgia-South Carolina border and offers a massive 71,000 acres of water for fishing. It’s one of the largest lakes in the Southeast and is especially popular for striped bass, largemouth bass, crappie, and catfish. The lake has plenty of coves, points, and deep channels, giving anglers a lot of options depending on the season and water level. Its size means there’s plenty of space to spread out, whether you’re on a boat or casting from shore. You’ll find lots of public access areas, boat ramps, and fishing piers, making it easy to plan your day. Many anglers like Clarks Hill because it’s consistent — you have a good shot at landing quality fish year-round. With its wide range of fishing spots and solid reputation, it’s a go-to destination for both locals and visitors who want a solid day on the water.

3. Lake Seminole

Lake Seminole sits in the southwest corner of Georgia, right near the Florida line. It’s a well-known spot for bass fishing, especially largemouth and hybrid striped bass. The lake covers about 37,500 acres, with tons of grassy areas, timber, and stump fields that make great hiding spots for fish. Anglers also come here for crappie and catfish, so there’s plenty of variety. What’s cool about Lake Seminole is how the Flint and Chattahoochee rivers come together here, creating strong currents and deep channels. That mix makes it an interesting place to fish, whether you’re out in a boat or working the banks. There are plenty of public access points, boat ramps, and campgrounds, so you can plan anything from a short trip to a full weekend. Lake Seminole has a reputation for being challenging but rewarding, making it a favorite for anglers looking for a bit of adventure.

2. Lake Oconee

Lake Oconee, sitting right in central Georgia, is a top spot for folks who love freshwater fishing. It covers around 19,000 acres and has plenty of coves, creeks, and open stretches where anglers can target bass, crappie, catfish, and bream. The lake is known for producing good-sized largemouth bass, making it popular among both weekend fishers and tournament anglers. You’ll find plenty of boat ramps and marinas, so getting on the water is pretty easy. There are also bank fishing spots and docks for those who like to stay on land. What makes Lake Oconee stand out is how the water stays fairly warm, thanks to the nearby power plant, which helps keep the fish active year-round. With its mix of deep and shallow water, this lake offers something for all kinds of fishing styles. It’s a reliable place for a solid day out on the water.

1. Lake Hartwell

Lake Hartwell stretches across the Georgia-South Carolina border and offers one of the largest freshwater fishing spots in the Southeast. Known for its striped bass, largemouth bass, crappie, and catfish, it’s a favorite for anglers looking for variety and size. With around 56,000 acres of water and hundreds of miles of shoreline, there’s plenty of space to spread out whether you’re in a boat or casting from the bank. The lake has both shallow coves and deep, open water, making it good for different fishing techniques. Seasonal fishing tournaments draw both locals and visitors, adding some friendly competition. Surrounding parks provide boat ramps, picnic areas, and campgrounds, making it easy to spend a full weekend here. The setting mixes natural beauty with wide, open water, creating an experience that’s peaceful without feeling isolated. For anyone serious about fishing in Georgia, Lake Hartwell is a spot worth visiting.

More Info + FAQ: The Top 30 Fishing Lakes in Georgia

Before you pack up your gear and head out, here’s a little extra info that might help answer a few common questions.

Do I need a fishing license for these lakes?
Yes. In Georgia, anyone 16 or older needs a valid fishing license to fish in public waters, including most of these lakes. You can easily get one online through the Georgia Department of Natural Resources website or at local outdoor shops.

What’s the best time of year to fish in Georgia?
Spring and fall are often the sweet spots because the water temperatures are great for bass, crappie, and catfish. But honestly, plenty of folks fish year-round — just be sure to adjust your tactics for the season.

Are these lakes good for beginners?
Absolutely. Many of these lakes have public access points, boat ramps, and even fishing piers. Lakes like Lake Lanier, Lake Oconee, and West Point Lake are especially popular because they offer a mix of easy bank fishing and wide-open water for boats.

Can I fish from the shore, or do I need a boat?
You don’t need a boat to enjoy fishing at most of these spots. Several lakes have great bank access, public parks, and docks. That said, a boat can help you reach less-pressured areas, especially on the larger lakes.

What types of fish can I catch?
Georgia’s lakes are packed with largemouth bass, spotted bass, crappie, catfish, striped bass, bluegill, and more. Each lake has its own vibe, but you’re likely to find a good mix of species no matter where you go.

Are there any local rules I should know about?
Definitely check the local regulations for each lake. Some have specific size or catch limits, and certain areas might be off-limits at different times of the year. The Georgia Fishing Regulations booklet is a solid resource to keep handy.