Fishing Chatuge Lake

AKA: Chatuge Reservoir, Lake Chatuge

Popular Fish Species
Chatuge Lake Fishing Video
Available Fish Species
Amenities
Today's Weather & Forecast
Boat Launch Ramps
Fishing Boat Rentals
Marinas
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Chatuge Lake, GA

Popular Fish Species Chatuge Lake, GA

Chatuge Lake Popular Fish - Spotted Bass

Spotted Bass Fishing

Chatuge Lake is considered one of the best spotted bass lakes in the south by an array of bass enthusiasts and tournament groups. Spotted bass are often found in small groups, on steep banks, around rocky or sandy shorelines, points and ledges. Smallmouth bass and largemouth bass also reside here in decent numbers. Spots often prefer hanging out in slightly deeper water than largemouths. Here at Chatuge Lake, they are a favorite of many local anglers, as they are plentiful and put up a good tussle when hooked. Fishing for spotted bass can be good anytime you can locate them. Their diet consists mainly of crayfish and insects, but they also eat small baitfish, small sunfish and small bluegill. Most of the time, spots prefer to stage on steep rocky or gravel banks, and may move up and down the water column throughout the day. When shallow, use topwater or shallow crankbaits around rip rap. When they are deep, use drop-shot worms and jigs. Throughout winter, spend your time on deeper structure with small worms, jigs and spoons.

Chatuge Lake Popular Fish - Hybrid Striped Bass

Hybrid Striped Bass Fishing

Hybrid striped bass, also known as wipers, are a favorite of many locals and fishing guides at Chatuge Lake. As a result of good fishery management by the Georgia Wildlife Resources Division, they are plentiful and grow to bragging size. As a hybrid of striped bass and white bass, they have great potential for spawning massive numbers and growing to large sizes. Fishing for hybrid stripers is a matter of locating schools of bait, and schools of hybrid striped bass are likely to be in the area. Mornings, during Fall, hybrids can be caught on topwater or shallow running lures, as they are feeding on baitfish at the surface. When they move deeper, fish finders improve your odds of locating both bait and schools of wipers. Live bait, spoons and jigs are very very effective here, and these hungry fish can be caught year round.

Walleye Fishing

Thanks to prior-years stocking and other efforts by the Georgia Wildlife Resources Division, a healthy population of walleye are thriving in the waters of Chatuge Lake this year. May and June tend to be the best time for weekend anglers to catch them. During this time they tend to move shallower and closer to shore. Other times of the year they are more likely to roam around in deeper water. As always, stay around schools of baitfish. They are eager to feed throughout the lake, but tend to concentrate around structure on points, flats and ledges off the river channels. A proven method for catching walleye here is trolling with spinners tipped with live bait, or trolling with long-billed, deep diving crankbaits. However casting live bait, jigs, worms and spoons also works well at times.

Fish species to fish for...

Guide to fishing for largemouth bass, smallmouth bass, spotted bass, channel catfish, black crappie, bluegill, redbreast sunfish, white bass and hybrid striped bass at Chatuge Lake in Georgia.

Chatuge Lake Fishing Video

Popular for having three kinds of bass, Chatuge Lake is an ideal destination for avid bass anglers. In addition to bass there are plenty of crappie, catfish, bluegill, white bass, hybrid stripers and sunfish. Covering 7,480 surface acres with over 130 miles of shoreline, there is plenty of water for anglers fishing from the bank or a boat.

Nestled in the breathtaking Appalachian Mountains, Chatuge Lake is a renowned fishing destination in Georgia. Anglers are drawn to its pristine waters, abundant fish populations, and stunning natural surroundings. The lake offers a diverse range of popular fish species, making it an ideal spot for anglers of all skill levels.

Bass fishing is a major highlight of Chatuge Lake. The lake is home to both largemouth and spotted bass, providing anglers with plenty of opportunities to test their skills. With its clear waters and numerous submerged structures, such as fallen trees and rock formations, the lake offers excellent bass habitat. Anglers can employ a variety of techniques, including casting crankbaits, flipping jigs, or fishing with plastic worms, to entice the bass. Spring and fall are typically the best seasons to target bass, as they are more active during these times.

Catfish are another popular species found in Chatuge Lake. Channel catfish are commonly targeted by anglers. These bottom-dwelling fish can be caught using a variety of baits, such as live or cut bait, stink baits, or chicken liver. Catfish are known for their strong fight, making them a favorite among anglers seeking an exciting fishing experience. Late spring and summer are typically the most productive seasons for catfish fishing.

Crappie are plentiful in Chatuge Lake and provide anglers with exciting opportunities. Both black crappie and white crappie can be found in the lake's submerged structures, such as brush piles and fallen trees. Anglers often target crappie using small jigs or live minnows. Spring and fall are considered the prime seasons for crappie fishing, as the fish move into shallower waters to spawn.

Sunfish, including bluegill and redear sunfish, are abundant in Chatuge Lake and offer a fun and accessible fishing experience, especially for novice anglers and families. Sunfish can be caught using simple tackle and a variety of baits, such as worms or small jigs. They are most active during the warmer months and can often be found near shoreline vegetation or submerged structures.

White bass and hybrid striped bass are also popular gamefish in Chatuge Lake. These fish provide anglers with exciting fights and are known for their aggressive feeding habits. They can be caught using a variety of lures, such as spoons or crankbaits, and are most active during spring and fall when they move into shallower waters to feed.

Chatuge Lake in Georgia is a prime fishing destination that offers a diverse range of popular fish species, including bass, catfish, crappie, sunfish, white bass, and hybrid striped bass. With its scenic beauty, abundant fish populations, and opportunities for boating and camping, Chatuge Lake is a must-visit spot for any angler looking for an unforgettable fishing experience in Georgia.

Lake Chatuge is situated in the northeast corner of Georgia, at Hiawassee, GA. Camping, fishing, lodging and other amenities are conveniently located around the lake to make an outing here, a pleasant experience. Boat rentals are available at marinas for pleasure boats, canoes and kayaks. Some day-use areas provide over a mile of shoreline for fishing from the bank. Rocky banks, some with stumps and laydowns offer cover to bass. There are also many boat docks which often create ideal hangouts for baitfish, bass, crappie and sunfish. Seek out ledges and submerged humps around the lake for structure fishing. Those located near deeper creek channels often produce fish fairly consistently. Because the lake is located in both Georgia and North Carolina, fishing regulations for both states come into play. Check fishing regulations for specific rules regarding this reservoir, before wetting a line.

Primary fish species residing in Chatuge Lake

Click images for fishing tips and details about each species.

Chatuge Lake Amenities

Marina: YES
Boat Rental: YES
Boat Launch Ramp: YES
Campgrounds: YES
RV Hookups: YES
Lodging: YES
Convenience Store: YES
Bait & Tackle: YES
Restaurant: YES

Today's Weather & Forecast

In addition to excellent fishing opportunities, Chatuge Lake offers a range of recreational activities. Boating is a popular pastime on the lake, with public boat ramps providing easy access. Anglers can explore the lake's scenic coves and fishing spots by boat. Camping facilities are also available near the lake, allowing anglers to extend their fishing trips and enjoy the natural beauty of the area.

Fishing Boat Rentals

Boundary Waters Resort & Marina
Rentals: Fishing boats and pontoon boats
706 896-2530

Chatuge Cove Marina
Rentals: Pontoon boats
828 389-6155

Public Boat Launch Ramps & Landings

Lake Chatuge Recreation Area Boat Launch Ramp
Located mid lake, west side, off Lake Chatuge Campground Road, this is a two-lane, concrete ramp with paved parking.

Mayor's Park Boat Launch Ramp
Located in the southeast section of the lake, off I-76, this is a three-lane, concrete ramp with a dock and paved parking.

Music Hall Road Boat Launch Ramp
Located mid lake, on the south side of the lake, off Music Hall Road, this is a two-lane, concrete ramp with a dock and paved parking.

Marinas

Boundary Waters Resort & Marina
107 Boundary Waters Drive
Hiawassee, GA 30546
706 896-2530

Chatuge Cove Marina
2397 NC-175
Hayesville, NC 28904
828 389-6155

Lake Chatuge Marina
1290 US 76
Hiawassee, GA 30546
706 896-2835