Fishing At Richard B Russell Lake

AKA: Lake Russell

What to fish for...

Guide to fishing for largemouth bass, spotted bass, redeye bass, channel catfish, flathead catfish, black crappie, white crappie, walleye, rainbow trout, bluegill, pumpkinseed sunfish, redbreast sunfish, redear sunfish, warmouth, white bass, white perch, yellow perch, hybrid striped bass and chain pickerel at Richard B Russell Lake in South Carolina.

Considered a recreation paradise, Richard B Russell Lake offers outdoor enthusiasts a vast array of options. Camping, boating and fishing are all popular at this 26,650-acre reservoir located on the northwest SC border with GA at Calhoun Falls, SC. All types of water sports and on-shore activities are centered around Lake Russell's 540 miles of shoreline.

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

The purpose of this page is to deliver an overview of this lake, the fishing options, and area amenities. Our goal is to provide info to first time visitors, as well as beginner and novice anglers. We gathered details from personal experience, numerous trusted websites that each offer select bits of information, and videos of fishing activity on the lake. These websites include the South Carolina Department of Natural Resources, marinas at the lake, campgrounds, boat rental agencies and others. By consolidating this information to one page it allows visitors to see the entire picture, all in one place.

Lake Video

Richard B Russell Lake, nestled in the scenic landscape of South Carolina, is a hidden gem for fishing enthusiasts. Spanning over 26,000 acres, this expansive reservoir offers excellent fishing opportunities for anglers of all skill levels. The lake is home to a diverse range of fish species, including largemouth bass, striped bass, crappie, catfish, and bream, making it a prime destination for those seeking a variety of catches.

Fishing on Richard B Russell Lake is a year-round activity, with each season bringing its own unique angling experiences. Anglers can explore the lake's coves, points, and submerged structures to find their preferred fishing spots. Whether you choose to fish from the shoreline, a boat, or a kayak, the lake provides ample opportunities to reel in trophy-sized catches and enjoy the thrill of the chase. The tranquil atmosphere of Richard B Russell Lake adds to the overall fishing experience, allowing anglers to immerse themselves in the beauty of the surroundings.

In conclusion, Richard B Russell Lake in South Carolina is a paradise for fishing, boating, and camping enthusiasts. With its diverse fish species, expansive water surface, and camping facilities, it offers a complete outdoor experience. Whether you're casting your line, cruising on a boat, or spending a night under the stars, Richard B Russell Lake promises endless opportunities for relaxation, adventure, and a deep connection with the beauty of nature.

Calhoun Falls State Park, and other areas around the lake have boat launch facilities, access for shoreline fishing, campgrounds, RV spaces and picnic areas. But the primary draw here is the excellent fishing, especially fishing for big striped bass. Lake Russell supports both warm-water species and cold-water species of fish, including bass, catfish, crappie, trout, sunfish, perch and stripers. The undeveloped, natural shoreline allows anglers to fish the brush, rocks and standing timber that bass and other species like to use as cover. Canoes, kayaks and fishing from the bank are all popular here.

Primary fish species residing in Richard B Russell Lake

Click images for fishing tips and details about each species.

Richard B Russell Lake Amenities

Marina: YES
Boat Rental: NO
Boat Launch Ramp: YES
Campgrounds: YES
RV Hookups: YES
Lodging: NEARBY
Convenience Store: YES
Bait & Tackle: NEARBY
Restaurant: YES

Today's Weather & Forecast

Apart from its exceptional fishing prospects, Richard B Russell Lake is also a popular destination for boating enthusiasts. With its expansive surface area and calm waters, the lake offers plenty of room for boaters to explore and indulge in water-based activities. Whether it's a leisurely cruise, water skiing, or pontoon adventures with family and friends, the lake provides a picturesque setting for boating enjoyment. The lake's boat ramps and marinas ensure convenient access for boaters, making it easy to embark on a day of aquatic adventures.

Public Boat Launch Ramps & Landings

Allen Creek Boat Launch Ramp
Located in the northwest section of the lake, east side, off Red Fox Drive, this is a two-lane, concrete ramp with a dock and paved parking.

Blue Hole Boat Launch Ramp
Located in the southeast section of the lake, off Blue Hole Road, this is a one-lane, concrete ramp with a dock and paved parking.

Ckp Shop Boat Launch Ramp
Located mid lake, east side, off Ckp Shop Road, this is a two-lane, concrete ramp with a dock and paved parking.

Craft McGee Road Boat Launch Ramp
Located in the northwest section of the lake, east side, off Craft McGee Road, this is a two-lane, concrete ramp with a dock and paved parking.

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

Harpers Ferry Boat Launch Ramp
Located in the northwest section of the lake, off Harpers Ferry Road, this is a three-lane, concrete ramp with a dock and paved parking.

Highway 184 Boat Launch Ramp
Located in the northeast section of the lake, east side, at the east end of the Highway 184 Bridge, this is a three-lane, concrete ramp with a dock and paved parking.

Jim Rampey Recreation Area Boat Launch Ramp
Located in the northeast section of the lake, west side, at the west end of the 81 Road Bridge, this is a two-lane, concrete ramp with a dock and paved parking.

Lake Russell Road Boat Launch Ramp
Located in the southeast section of the lake, off Lake Russell Road, this is a two-lane, concrete ramp with paved parking.

Manor Boat Launch Ramp
Located in the southeast section of the lake, off Manor Road, this is a two-lane, concrete ramp with paved parking.

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

Sawmill Road Boat Launch Ramp
Located mid lake, east side, off Sawmill Road, this is a two-lane, concrete ramp with paved parking.

Click here for a South Carolina Fishing License.

For those looking to spend more time in nature, Richard B Russell Lake offers camping facilities in its nearby parks and campgrounds. Campers can enjoy the tranquility of the outdoors, waking up to stunning lake views and taking advantage of the recreational opportunities available. Whether you prefer tent camping or RV camping, there are designated camping areas with amenities such as picnic tables, fire pits, and restrooms. Camping near Richard B Russell Lake provides an immersive experience, allowing visitors to fully appreciate the serenity and natural beauty of the area.