Fishing Fun: 7 Georgia State Parks to Reel in the Big One

Sandy Allen

01 Dec 2024 — 3 min read

Photo: High Falls State Park (Facebook)

Whether you enjoy freshwater or saltwater fishing, Georgia’s diverse landscape offers a variety of opportunities for fishing enthusiasts. Featuring many lakes, rivers and streams filled with fish, all you need is a fishing rod, reel and line. And maybe a fishing boat, but there’s always shore and pier fishing.

Whether you're a seasoned angler or a family looking for a weekend getaway, the Peach State’s parks provide some of the best fishing spots in the Southeast to visit from private boat lift rentals or marinas.

1. Crooked River State Park

Photo: Crooked River State Park (Facebook)

Located along the ICW on the southern Georgia coast, Crooked River State Park is a haven for saltwater anglers. The tidal river system offers excellent fishing for red drum, flounder and speckled trout. The park also provides boat ramps, fishing piers and ample shoreline access. Don’t miss the stunning marsh views while casting your line.

Water: Saltwater
Key Species: Red drum, flounder, speckled trout
Fishing Type: Boat, pier, shore

2. Hard Labor Creek State Park

Photo: Hard Labor Creek State Park (Facebook)

This quiet retreat in north-central Georgia is ideal for freshwater fishing. Lake Rutledge, Hard Labor Creek State Park’s centerpiece, offers a serene fishing experience with abundant largemouth bass, crappie and bluegill. Canoe and kayak rentals make it easy to explore different areas of the lake.

Water: Freshwater
Key Species: Largemouth bass, crappie, bluegill
Fishing Type: Canoe, shore

3. High Falls State Park

Famous for its waterfall, High Falls State Park also features a 650-acre lake that’s perfect for fishing. Anglers flock here for bass fishing, but you’ll also find abundant catfish and bream. The park has boat ramps and a bait shop, making it convenient for both beginners and experienced anglers to visit from private boat slip rentals or marinas.

Water: Freshwater
Key Species: Largemouth bass, catfish, bream
Fishing Type: Boat, shore

4. Fort Yargo State Park

Located near Winder, between Athens and Atlanta, Fort Yargo State Park offers excellent fishing on its 260-acre lake. The lake is known for its healthy populations of bass, crappie and bluegill. Fishing from the shore, dock, or a rented kayak ensures a peaceful and productive day on the water.

Water: Freshwater
Key Species: Bass, crappie, bluegill
Fishing Type: Shore, dock, kayak

5. George L. Smith State Park

Photo: George L. Smith State Park (Facebook)

A hidden gem in southeast Georgia, George L. Smith State Park is known for its cypress trees and reflective waters. The 412-acre mill pond provides superb fishing opportunities for bass, crappie and catfish. The park’s unique scenery makes it one of the most picturesque fishing spots in the state to check out from marinas or a private boat dock for rent.

Water: Freshwater
Key Species: Bass, crappie, catfish
Fishing Type: Boat, shore

6. Reed Bingham State Park

Photo: Reed Bingham State Park (Facebook)

Situated in southern Georgia, Reed Bingham State Park’s 375-acre lake is a great spot for catching bass, crappie and catfish. The park also offers fishing docks and boat rentals, making it accessible for families and solo anglers. Its surrounding wildlife, including gators and waterfowl, adds to the charm of fishing adventures.

Water: Freshwater
Key Species: Bass, catfish, crappie
Fishing Type: Boat, dock shore

7. Tugaloo State Park

Situated on Lake Hartwell, Tugaloo State Park is perfect for anglers targeting large freshwater species. Lake Hartwell is renowned for its largemouth bass, striped bass and catfish. The park offers boat ramps and ample shoreline fishing. It’s a popular destination for fishing tournaments.

Water: Freshwater
Key Species: Striped bass, catfish, largemouth bass
Fishing Type: Boat, shore