Guide To The Best Fishing Spots For Catfish In Georgia

All about fishing for flathead, blue, white and channel catfish in GA.

They're everywhere...they're everywhere. Virtually all waters in GA have catfish. Private ponds, creeks, rivers, small lakes and every major lake in the state has a population of catfish.

Georgia is a fantastic destination for catfish fishing, with several species that attract anglers from near and far. Channel catfish are one of the most popular species sought after by catfish enthusiasts. These bottom-dwelling fish can be found in lakes, reservoirs, and rivers throughout the state. Channel catfish are known for their strong fight and can grow to impressive sizes, providing an exciting challenge for anglers of all skill levels.

Flathead catfish, also known as yellow catfish, are highly sought after for their large size and elusive nature. They prefer deep, slow-moving waters such as reservoirs and larger rivers. Flathead catfish are known for their voracious appetite and can reach impressive weights, making them a prized catch for dedicated anglers.

Blue catfish are another prominent species in Georgia's catfish fishing scene. These powerful fish can be found in large rivers and reservoirs. Blue catfish are known for their size and strength, making them a favorite among trophy hunters. Catching a massive blue catfish is a memorable experience that tests an angler's skills and equipment.

White catfish, although less common than other catfish species in Georgia, can still be found in certain lakes and rivers. They prefer slow-moving or still waters and are typically smaller in size compared to their counterparts. White catfish provide an enjoyable angling experience for anglers targeting a variety of species.

Catfish can be caught year-round in Georgia, but they tend to be most active during the warmer months. Spring and summer are particularly productive seasons for catfish fishing, as the water temperatures rise and the fish become more active. Whether you're targeting channel catfish, flathead catfish, blue catfish, or white catfish, Georgia's diverse waterways offer ample opportunities for catfish anglers to have an exciting and rewarding fishing experience.

Catfish Fishing Lakes in Georgia

For quality stringers the major lakes like Carters Lake, Chatuge Lake, Clarks Hill Lake, George W. Andrews Lake, Goat Rock Lake, Lake Allatoona, Lake Burton, Lake Blackshear, Lake Chehaw, Lake Eufaula, Lake Harding, Lake Hartwell, Lake Jackson, Lake Lanier, Lake Nottely, Lake Oconee, Lake Oliver, Lake Seminole, Lake Sinclair, Lake Tobesofkee, Richard B Russell Lake and West Point Lake are a good bet.

Click the images and links above for species details.

What's the best bait for catfish in Georgia?

Choose from the top 5 all-time catfish baits and try them on local waters. Appealing to the keen sense of smell and taste could turn a so-so day into a memorable event.

Georgia State Record Catfish

The state record channel catfish was caught from the Altamaha River.

The state record flathead catfish came from the Altamaha River.

The state record blue catfish came out of the Altamaha River.

The state record white catfish came out of the Savannah River.

Jody Day, proudly shows off this 25-pound catfish he caught from Jackson Lake in Georgia. He used bait fish to entice this danay lunker.

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There are many species of catfish and even more ways to catch them. Adults range in size from less than a pound to hundreds of pounds. Catfish are found in all types of water including ponds, streams, lakes and rivers throughout Georgia. There are even species which spend a limited amount of time on dry land. Big giant catfish put up a very noble fight once hooked.

Most catfish are considered bottom feeders to one extent or another. They will generally eat anything that can get in their mouth. Their strongest sense is smell which they use to locate potential food sources. Capitalizing on this sense is the primary weapon in your search for these creatures. Aggressive catfish have been caught on most types of fast moving bass lures so don't under estimate their ability to catch live bait.

Additional catfishing information resources.

Catfish Conservation Group

U.S. Catfish Anglers Tournaments

Planet Catfish

Catfish Fishing Video

Information for states with catfish.