Fishing At Carters Lake

AKA: Carters Reservoir

What to fish for...

Guide to fishing for largemouth bass, spotted bass, flathead catfish, blue catfish, black crappie, white crappie, walleye, rainbow trout, bluegill, green sunfish, redbreast sunfish, redear sunfish, rock bass, spotted sunfish, warmouth and striped bass at Carters Lake in Georgia.

Camping is quite popular at Carters Lake, a 3,200-acre reservoir located in the northwest corner of the state, 5 miles west of Ellijay. Boating and fishing however, are the main draw. Monster striped bass play second fiddle to the well-known, excellent spotted bass fishing here.

Available Fish Species
Amenities
Today's Weather & Forecast
Rental Boats
Marinas
Boat Launch Ramps
Campgrounds & RV Parks
Map
Lake Video
Contact Info

Nestled amidst the picturesque North Georgia mountains, Carters Lake is a premier fishing destination known for its pristine waters and diverse fish populations. Anglers flock to this scenic reservoir throughout the year to pursue a wide variety of popular fish species.

Bass fishing is a major draw at Carters Lake, with largemouth and spotted bass being the primary targets for anglers. The lake's deep, clear waters provide excellent habitat for these predatory fish. Anglers can employ a range of techniques, including casting lures, flipping jigs, or fishing with live bait, to entice the bass. Spring and fall are typically the best seasons to fish for bass, as the fish become more active and aggressive.

Catfish are also abundant in Carters Lake, providing anglers with exciting opportunities to catch these bottom-dwelling species. Blue catfish and flathead catfish can be found throughout the lake, and anglers often target them using cut bait, live bait, or stink baits. Catfish are most active during the warmer months, with summer evenings being particularly productive.

Crappie fishing is another popular pursuit on Carters Lake. Black crappie and white crappie can be found in the lake's submerged structure, such as brush piles and fallen trees. Anglers often use jigs or live minnows to entice crappie to bite. The spring and fall seasons are prime times to target crappie, as they move into shallower waters for spawning.

Walleye and trout are highly sought-after gamefish in Carters Lake. Walleye fishing is particularly productive during the cooler months, and anglers often employ trolling or casting techniques near rocky points and ledges. Trout, including rainbow trout, are stocked in nearby rivers and streams, offering anglers the chance to experience both lake and river fishing.

Yellow perch, sunfish, white bass, and striped bass are other popular species found in Carters Lake. These panfish and gamefish provide additional angling opportunities, particularly for those seeking a variety of fishing experiences. They can be caught using simple tackle and a range of baits, including live worms, crickets, or small jigs.

Carters Lake offers ample opportunities for boating and camping as well. Anglers can explore the lake's vast expanse by boat, searching for their favorite fishing spots. Public boat ramps provide convenient access for boaters. Additionally, camping facilities are available nearby, allowing anglers to extend their fishing trips and enjoy the natural beauty of the area.

Carters Lake in Georgia offers a diverse range of fish species and a picturesque setting for anglers to enjoy their favorite pastime. Whether you're targeting bass, catfish, crappie, walleye, trout, yellow perch, sunfish, white bass, or striped bass, the lake provides a rewarding fishing experience. With its scenic beauty, abundant fish populations, and recreational amenities, Carters Lake is a must-visit destination for any angler in Georgia.

Largemouth, walleye, catfish, crappie and sunfish also populate these waters and are regularly caught in good numbers. Anglers and boaters alike will enjoy cruising the 62 miles of shoreline. Rental boats, a marina, bait, fishing tackle, sundries, restaurants and lodging are all close at hand. There are more than a half dozen boat ramps to choose from.

Primary fish species residing in Carters Lake

Click images for fishing tips and details about each species.

Carters 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: NEARBY

Today's Weather & Forecast

Fishing Boat Rentals

Carters Lake Marina & Resort
Rentals: Pontoon boats
706 276-4891

Public Boat Launch Ramps & Landings

Carters Lake Boat Launch Ramp
Located in the southwest section of the lake, off Cove Road, this is a three-lane, concrete ramp with a dock and paved parking.

Carters Lake Boat Launch Ramp
Located in the southeast section of the lake, off Cove Road, this is a three-lane, concrete ramp with a dock and paved parking.

Carters Lake Boat Launch Ramp
Located mid lake, on the north side of the lake, at the Woodring Campground, this is a two-lane, concrete ramp with a dock and paved parking.

Doll Mountain Boat Launch Ramp
Located in the southeast corner of the lake, off Carters Landing Way, this is a two-lane, concrete ramp with a dock and paved parking.

Ridgeway Boat Launch Ramp
Located in the northeast section of the lake, north side, off Ridgeway Road, this is a two-lane, concrete ramp with a dock and paved parking.