The lake is over 19,000 acres in size and has 374 miles of shoreline, so finding the right fishing spots can be a challenge. We've put together some info to help you do so. Keep reading to find out the best Lake Oconee fishing spots today.

Types of Fishing

There are many kinds of fish throughout Lake Oconee. Some of the most popular ones include bass, crappie, and catfish. Bass fishing includes "linesides," or striped, white, or hybrid bass.

The best time of year for crappie fishing is March and April when they are spawning. However, you can still manage to catch them during late winter and into early summer.

You will find channel, blue, flathead, and white bullhead catfish in Lake Oconee. They spawn later than other species when the water is a bit warmer.

Lake Oconee Fishing Spots

The best Lake Oconee fishing hot spots depend on the type you are doing. For bass, target deep bridges, such as Parks Mill Road, Lake Oconee Parkway, or the Sparta Highway bridge.

Also, try steep embankments or rocky areas found throughout the lake. Deep diving spinner baits, crank baits, and finesse jigs are always solid options.

Drop shots, jig head worms, and rooster tails are also good bass lures, especially when targeting white or hybrid bass. Both species tend to school in the middle third of the lake throughout the summer. They then move to the lower end during the winter months.

For crappie, search for standing heavy timber or brush. Sugar Creek and the upper ends of the major lake arms are especially promising areas. Target deeper waters in cold weather and move towards shallower water as the weather warms

For catfish angling, try early morning, late evening, or at night. They are bottom feeders, so sink lines with worms, liver, live minors, or stink bait in calmer waters in channels throughout the lake.

Bait Shops, Marinas, and Boat Launch

There are about a dozen marinas around Lake Oconee. Several have good bait and tackle shops and can offe some advice about spending time on the water. Blue Springs is one on the north end of the lake, just off I-20.

Sugar Creek Marina is located off Parks Mill Road, on the westernmost finger of the lake. There is also a public boat launch located across the bridge.

Lakeside Bait and Tackle on the south end of the lake is a solid option. It is located across the bridge from Sunset Marina. There is also a boat ramp near Highway 16/Sparta Highway.

Learn More About Lake Oconee Fishing

We hope you found this Lake Oconee fishing guide helpful. If so, be sure to check out some of our other posts on things to do in the area.

Jennifer Vaughan and her real estate team serve Lake Oconee and the surrounding areas. We pride ourselves on providing unique opportunities and experiences to clients. Reach out to us today to schedule a free consultation.