Fishing Forecast: Looking Reel Good!
Cooler mornings and a few hours on the water sound pretty good by late September. From Lake Lanier bass to North Georgia trout, fall gives anglers plenty of reasons to grab a rod and disappear for a while.
The best part is figuring out where to go. The Georgia Department of Natural Resources fishing forecasts cover 31 lakes and 18 rivers, with annual guidance compiled by fisheries biologists. Anglers can dig into species, techniques, access points, hot spots, maps, fish attractors and other useful details for waters including Lake Lanier, Lake Allatoona, the Chattahoochee and the Toccoa.
Pick Your Water
Lake Lanier offers an easy place to start. Don Carter State Park sits on the lake’s northern end, where anglers can fish from shore or head onto the water. The park has four paddling trails ranging from about one to three miles, opening access to bass, bluegill, catfish, crappie and more. Kayak rentals are available, which conveniently removes the need to explain why there’s suddenly a kayak strapped to the family car.
Those leaning toward trout can head north or explore the Chattahoochee. Alpharetta Outfitters specializes in fly fishing and offers equipment, instruction and guided float and wade trips on the river, plus private-water trips in North Georgia. Beginners can get help with casting and rigging instead of spending the morning untangling something that vaguely resembles a fly line.
Stock the Tackle Box
Near Lanier, Hammond’s Fishing Center in Cumming has been a full-service bait and tackle shop since 1986, carrying live bait and fishing equipment close to the lake.
Farther north, Lake Nottely Outdoor Center in Blairsville stocks live bait and gear from Shimano, Penn, Rapala, Berkley and other brands for anglers heading toward Nottely and surrounding waters.
Closer to Jackson Lake, Roots Outdoors in Flovilla carries fishing gear from brands including Strike King and Abu Garcia.
Before choosing your fishing hole, check Georgia DNR’s angler resources for current regulations, licenses and places to fish. Then pack the tackle box, set the alarm early and enjoy one of those fall mornings when sitting quietly beside the water feels like a perfectly respectable plan.
Fishing for specialty gear? Stock up at https://gbj.com/specialty-merchandise-retailers.
