Fishing Lake Jocassee
AKA: Jocassee Reservoir
Popular Fish Species Lake Jocassee, SC
Largemouth Bass
Fishing in Lake Jocassee for largemouth bass can run hot and cold at times. The lake is not known for it's quantity, but the quality makes up for it. Lately the fishing has been better than usual. Big bass are thriving in Lake Jocassee due to excellent fisheries management and plenty of cover for both baitfish and bass. When the bite is good, bass are typically shallow and aggressive. If you find them shallow and they are not tempted to bite, slow down and use smaller, lighter baits. Fishing for largemouth bass is good virtually any time they are shallow - in spring, mornings in summer, and during warm Fall afternoons. Use shallow crankbaits around rip rap. Around grass use worms, jigs, topwater and spinnerbaits. In deeper water, big worms, jigs and spoons are three good weapons. In winter, spend your time fishing Lake Jocassee on deeper structure where the bass spend much of their time. Smallmouth bass and spotted bass also reside here in good numbers.
Rainbow Trout
Fishing for big rainbow trout in Lake Jocassee is some of the best in the southeast part of the country. Best time of the year is November through June. Catching rainbow trout here requires to identify their preferred depth for the day, using electronics and fish finders. Follow lake drop-offs and channel edges looking for the fish to be suspended at some depth above the structure. Spoons, spinners and crankbaits that mimic their preferred prey, trolled at appropriate depths are a favorite technique. Additionally, floating or sinking flies, such as nymphs, streamers, or dry flies, are popular choices for fly anglers targeting rainbow trout anytime they move shallow. Trolling with lures or flies behind a boat, casting near shoreline structures, or still fishing with bait can all yield success. Adjusting lure size, color, and retrieve speed can enhance chances of enticing these colorful and spirited fish.
Brown Trout
Currently, fishing for brown trout in Lake Jocassee is delivering some nice catches. The lake is notorious for excellent rainbow trout fishing so the browns don't get that much attention. Those that seek them out are often rewarded with nice catches. These hearty fighters migrate around the lake in search of baitfish and comfortable water temperatures, preferably in the 50 to 62 degree range. In spring brown trout, along with the baitfish, move to the shallows which warms first. As the days get warmer in summer they move deeper, again following schools of bait. As Fall and Winter arrive, browns tend to stay in deeper water. When these trout move deep, it is typically in the 20- to 45-foot range. Nightcrawlers are always a good bait for brown trout. In-line spinners, bait-colored crankbaits and small spoons are good options as well. Experiment with depth and retrieve speed.
Fish species to fish for...
Guide to fishing for largemouth bass, smallmouth bass, spotted bass, redeye bass, channel catfish, flathead catfish, black crappie, white crappie, rainbow trout, brown trout, bluegill, pumpkinseed sunfish, redbreast sunfish, redear sunfish, warmouth, white bass, yellow perch, hybrid striped bass and chain pickerel at Lake Jocassee in South Carolina.
One of the few trout lakes in SC, Lake Jocassee offers fishing for both cold-water and warm-water fish species. Trout, hybrid stripers, bass, crappie, catfish, pickerel, sunfish and white bass all thrive in this 7,500-acre reservoir. This scenic lake is located on the northwest border of the state with NC, at Jocassee, SC.
Nestled in the scenic foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains, Lake Jocassee is a hidden gem for fishing enthusiasts in South Carolina. This pristine mountain lake spans over 7,500 acres and offers exceptional fishing opportunities. Anglers can expect to encounter a variety of fish species in its crystal-clear waters, including smallmouth and largemouth bass, trout (rainbow, brown, and brook), walleye, and crappie.
Fishing on Lake Jocassee is a unique experience due to the lake's deep and cold waters. Anglers can explore the depths of the lake, target submerged structures, and cast their lines in search of trophy-sized catches. The lake's abundant fish population and untouched natural beauty make it an angler's paradise. Whether you prefer trolling, fly fishing, or casting from a boat or kayak, Lake Jocassee offers a range of fishing opportunities to suit different techniques and preferences.
Lake Jocassee in South Carolina is a true gem for fishing, boating, and camping enthusiasts. Its clear waters, diverse fish species, and stunning mountain backdrop create an unforgettable experience for outdoor enthusiasts. Whether you're angling for bass, exploring the lake on a boat, or camping beneath the stars, Lake Jocassee offers a serene and picturesque escape that will leave you with cherished memories of your time spent in this natural wonderland.
Fishing from a boat is the ideal way to fish the 75 miles of rocky shoreline. There are three public boat launch ramps for launching your pontoon, pleasure or fishing boat. Kayaks, canoes, pontoons and ski boats are available for rent at nearby Jocassee Outdoor Center, an off-the-water marina, which serves Lake Jocassee and Lake Keowee. Lodging and campgrounds with RV spaces are available at the lake.
Primary fish species residing in Lake Jocassee
Click images for fishing tips and details about each species.
Lake Jocassee Amenities
Marina: YES (Off-water)
Boat Rental: YES
Boat Launch Ramp: YES
Campgrounds: YES
RV Hookups: YES
Lodging: YES
Convenience Store: NEARBY
Bait & Tackle: NEARBY
Restaurant: NO
Today's Weather & Forecast
Beyond fishing, Lake Jocassee is also a popular destination for boating enthusiasts. Boaters can explore the lake's stunning shoreline, navigate its winding coves, and soak in the breathtaking mountain views. With its calm and deep waters, Lake Jocassee is ideal for leisurely boat rides, water skiing, and tubing. Boaters can access the lake through multiple boat ramps and marinas, ensuring convenient entry points for a day of water-based adventures.
Fishing Boat Rentals
Eclectic Sun Boat Rentals
Rentals: Kayaks, canoes and pontoon boats
864 944-1191
Public Boat Launch Ramps & Landings
Devil's Fork Road Boat Launch Ramp
Located in the southwest section of the lake, off Devil's Fork Road, this is a three-lane, concrete ramp with paved parking.
Lake Jocassee Devils Point #1 Boat Ramp
Located in the southwest section of the lake, off Lake Jocassee Road, this is a two-lane, concrete ramp with a dock and paved parking.
Fishing Guides On Lake Jocassee
Blue Ridge Guide Service - rainbow trout, brown trout
Jocassee Charters - trout
If you offer fishing guide services on this lake, please contact us for a free listing, to be posted here.
Lake Jocassee Fishing Video
Fishing License
Click here for a South Carolina Fishing License.
For those seeking to spend more time amidst the natural beauty of Lake Jocassee, camping options are available in the surrounding area. Devil's Fork State Park, located on the lake's shore, offers both tent and RV camping facilities. Campers can enjoy the tranquility of the outdoors, surrounded by towering trees and the peaceful sounds of nature. Hiking trails, picnic areas, and swimming spots add to the allure of camping near Lake Jocassee, providing additional recreational opportunities.
Campgrounds & RV Parks Nearby
Devils Fork State Park Campground - 864 944-2639
Jocassee RV Park - 864 380-5367
Under The Oaks RV Park Campground - 864 710-1407
Lake Jocassee SC Map - Fishing & Camping Areas
Contact Information
Lake Jocassee
Devils Fork State Park
161 Holcombe Cir
Salem, SC 29676
864 944-2639
Fishing lakes in each state.
Lake Jocassee in South Carolina.
SOUTH CAROLINA
Information about fishing lakes in SC
Go fishing at Lake Jocassee to catch trout, hybrid stripers, bass, crappie, catfish, pickerel, sunfish and white bass in the northwest corner of South Carolina.
