Georgia is an angler’s paradise, boasting some of the best freshwater and saltwater fishing opportunities in the South. From trout streams in the Blue Ridge Mountains to bass lakes near Atlanta, this guide covers everything you need to plan the ultimate fishing trip in the Peach State. Get ready to reel in bucket-list catches on this fishing adventure.
Helen, Georgia
Nestled in the Blue Ridge Mountains, the Bavarian-inspired town of Helen offers scenic trout fishing opportunities amidst charming village surroundings.
Overview:
Helen is situated along the Chattahoochee River and other pristine trout streams flowing from the mountains. In addition to natural beauty and trout fishing, the town provides an array of accommodations, restaurants, and attractions for a well-rounded experience.
Where to Fish:
- Chattahoochee River – Flowing right through town, fish for brown and rainbow trout. Access via Rivertown park.
- Smith Creek – Delayed harvest trout stream. Hike 1 mile to reach the best spots.
- Unicoi Outfitters – Guided fly-fishing trips to secret spots outside town.
Where to Stay:
- Helendorf River Inn – Charming riverfront inn and cabins right on the ‘Hooch.
- Alpine Helen Hotel – Boutique hotel in the village center. Outdoor heated pool.
- Stonebridge Lodge – Spacious creek-side cabins in the woods yet close to town.
Where to Buy Supplies:
- Unicoi Outfitters – Full-service fly shop and guide service in town. Local experts.
- Orvis – High-end gear and flies in the Helen Village Shops.
- Nacoochee Bait & Tackle – Local bait shop with live worms, crickets, and all the gear.
Where to Eat:
- Troll Tavern – Upscale pub fare and Bavarian brews with an outdoor deck.
- Nacoochee Village Tavern – German fare, fresh trout, and live music.
- Old Bavarian Grill – Authentic German cuisine in a cozy, creek-side setting.
Travel Tips:
- A Georgia fishing license is required. Get one online or locally at bait shops.
- Most waters are public, but ask permission to access streams through private property.
- Tube down the ‘Hooch for a relaxing break from fishing.
Helen Itinerary 1:
- Morning – Arrive and check into Helendorf River Inn or preferred lodging. Grab breakfast at the Café on Main Street.
- Afternoon – Fish for trout on the Chattahoochee River. Focus on areas around Riverpark.
- Evening – Dinner at Troll Tavern. Enjoy their trout dishes after a day on the water.
Helen Itinerary 2:
- Morning – Book a guided trip through Unicoi Outfitters to secret fishing holes only locals know.
- Afternoon – Follow the fishing guide to streams and lakes outside town for a specialized experience.
- Evening – Dinner at Nacoochee Village Tavern. Listen to live music.
Lake Lanier, Georgia
Just north of Atlanta, Lake Lanier is renowned for its excellent spotted and largemouth bass fishing, as well as crappie, catfish, and striper.
Overview:
This 38,000-acre lake offers a pristine shoreline, secluded coves, and endless fishing opportunities. The scenic foothills setting provides a variety of lodging and dining options in towns like Gainesville and Cumming.
Where to Fish:
- Look for bass hiding near boat docks, standing timber, and rocky points.
- Drift open water and use electronics to find deep crappie near brush piles.
- Troll the mouth of Four Mile Creek for stripers.
- Try night fishing under lights at dusk for exciting catfish action.
Where to Stay:
- Lake Lanier Islands – Lakeside resort with waterfront hotel rooms, villas, and campgrounds.
- Van Pugh North – House rentals with boat slips and lake access.
- Holiday Marina & Resort – Cabins, condos, and campsites next to the marina.
Where to Buy Supplies:
- Big Fish Bait & Tackle – Offering live bait, tackle, rods, reels, and fishing intel.
- Hall’s Boat House – Stocked tackle shop plus boat rentals and repairs.
- GON Fishing & Hunting – Huge selection of gear and knowledgeable staff.
Where to Eat:
- Longstreet Cafe – Lake views and New South cuisine in a renovated home.
- Port of Indecision – Lively sports bar with burgers, wings, and weekly specials.
- Southern Biscuit House – Local favorite for hearty southern breakfasts before an early fishing start.
Travel Tips:
- Book a guide to learn the best spots and patterns on this vast lake.
- Be prepared for summer crowds on holidays and weekends.
- Purchase a lake use permit if launching your own boat.
Lake Lanier Itinerary 1:
- Morning – Arrive at Lake Lanier and check into Holiday Marina & Resort lodging.
- Afternoon – Explore the shoreline for fishing spots. Look for coves with standing timber.
- Evening – Dinner at Longstreet Cafe overlooking the lake.
Lake Lanier Itinerary 2:
- Morning – Book a half-day trip with Lake Lanier Fishing Charters to tap into expert guidance.
- Afternoon – Follow the fishing guide to the best spots for current conditions.
- Evening – Cookout and campfire at your lakefront rental.
Okefenokee Swamp, Georgia
Escape to the remote Okefenokee Swamp near the FL border for a true wilderness fishing adventure.
Overview:
The vast swamp provides an untamed experience and opportunities to catch massive largemouth bass, bream, catfish, and crappie in its tea-colored waters. Explore by boat or canoe.
Where to Fish:
- The canal runs alongside the swamp with bank access for fishing.
- Pole small boats into cypress swamps and prairie lakes.
- Use topwater plugs early and late for explosive strikes.
- Target lily pad fields for big bass.
Where to Stay:
- Okefenokee Swamp Park – Cabins, camping, and activities on the swamp’s edge.
- Stephen C. Foster State Park – Campsites and cottages inside the refuge.
- Okefenokee Pastimes – Cabin rentals near the southwest entrance.
Where to Buy Supplies:
- Okefenokee Adventures – Bait, tackle, supplies, and guided trips.
- Waycross Walmart – Fishing gear, camping equipment, snacks, etc.
- Tremblay’s Honey Stand – Local honey and swamp gifts near the east side.
Where to Eat:
- Okefenokee Restaurant – Hearty southern cooking like gator, frog legs, and catfish.
- Gary Lee’s Grocery – Old country store with fried chicken, burgers, and supplies.
- Henry’s BBQ – Local BBQ joint with smoked meats and southern sides.
Travel Tips:
- Use extreme caution boating in the swamp and follow marked trails.
- Prepare for remote conditions with spare fuel, water, headlamps, etc.
- Pack bug spray – the swarms of mosquitos and gnats can be brutal.
Okefenokee Swamp Itinerary 1:
- Morning – Arrive and check into Okefenokee Swamp Park lodging.
- Afternoon – Launch from Suwanee Canal and pole into the prairie lakes region. Fish for bass.
- Evening – Dinner at Okefenokee Restaurant. Try gator or frog legs.
Okefenokee Swamp Itinerary 2:
- Morning – Launch boats near Billys Lake. Fish the lily pad fields for big bass.
- Afternoon – Work the shoreline cover and cypress knees for more bass action.
- Evening – Dinner at Henry’s BBQ before leaving the swamp.
Georgia Coast
Round out your Georgia fishing adventure with world-class inshore and offshore saltwater fishing along the coast.
Overview:
The 100 miles of coastline deliver tasty inshore species as well as mammoth tuna, mahi-mahi, and sharks offshore, reached via charter. Surf fishing is also productive from the beaches.
Where to Fish:
- Inshore for mighty red drum and sea trout around salt marsh grass.
- Offshore reefs and ledges hold king mackerel, grouper, snapper, and more.
- Surf fish for whiting, pompano, sharks, and other species along the beaches.
- Jekyll Island Pier is a top-shore fishing spot.
Where to Stay:
- The King and Prince – Historic oceanfront resort on St. Simons Island.
- Ballastone Inn – Charming Tybee Island Inn near the pier and beaches.
- Villas By The Sea – Spacious villa rentals on Jekyll Island.
Where to Buy Supplies:
- Half Hitch Tackle – Saltwater fishing gear and trips in historic St. Marys.
- Up The Creek Xtreme – Kayak rentals, bait, tackle for DIY marsh trips.
- B & J Marina – Supplies, boat rentals on St. Simons Island.
Where to Eat:
- Southern Soul BBQ – Smoked meats, shrimp, grits, and live music.
- The Shrimp Factory – Fresh local shrimp, oysters, and Low country recipes.
- Palm Coast Restaurant – Fine coastal cuisine using fresh seafood.
Travel Tips:
- Book offshore trips in advance – spring through fall peak season.
- A GA saltwater license is needed unless on a charter.
- Walk-on ferry access is available to Cumberland and Jekyll Island.
Georgia Coast Itinerary 1:
- Morning – Arrive at The King and Prince resort on St. Simons Island.
- Afternoon – Explore the beaches and pier at Jekyll Island State Park. Fish off the pier if open.
- Evening – Dinner at Palm Coast Restaurant with fresh coastal cuisine.
Georgia Coast Itinerary 2:
- Morning – Fish the marshes near Brunswick with Up The Creek Xtreme kayak charters.
- Afternoon – Kayak through the salt marsh, catching trout and redfish with a guide.
- Evening – Dinner at The Shrimp Factory, enjoying fresh local shrimp.
Conclusion
From mountain streams to coastal waters, Georgia offers amazing diversity and bounty for anglers. Follow this guide covering prime spots, local tips, and lodging to plan your next unforgettable fishing adventure in the Peach State, sure to produce tales worth retelling for years to come.
