Fishing
Looking to cast a fly and land a big trout? Here in Clay County you’ll find secluded streams, cold rushing creeks, 7200 acre crystal clear Lake Chatuge, and some of the best opportunities for sport fishing to be found anywhere in the eastern US.
In Lake Chatuge, bass is predominant, including spotted bass, small and large-mouth bass, and hybrid striped bass, along with crappie, sunfish, and channel catfish. The Hiwassee River and Fires Creek are great places for trout fishing and are stocked annually.
Anglers can enjoy fishing from their boats or the shore, including fishing docks at the area campgrounds. There are several marinas which provide watercraft of all types. Click Recreation for a list of related businesses. Three public boat ramps are on the North Carolina side of Lake Chatuge: Jackrabbit Mountain Campground, off Hwy 175; Gibson Cove Campground, off Myers Chapel Road; and Ledford Chapel Wildlife Access Ramp, off of Hwy 64.
Below you’ll find links for fishing regulations and permit requirements for both North Carolina and Georgia (Lake Chatuge is in both). Because the lake is located in both North Carolina and Georgia, fishing regulations for both states come into play. Check fishing regulations for specific rules regarding this reservoir before wetting a line.
For information on fishing in North Carolina click here
Fishing Licenses in NC: 888-248-6831
Click here for permits and licenses in NC
For information on fishing and permits in Georgia click here