Doctor Pattons Lower Lake near Oneonta: Fishing Spots, Seasons and Access

• Overview

  Set in Blount County, Doctor Pattons Lower Lake is an Alabama water. Height above sea level is 820 feet. This is a pocket water of some 15 acres, and every part of it is reachable from the bank. It sits higher than most water we list in Alabama. Oneonta at 1.6 miles is the nearest place to stop. The big place round here is Birmingham, 34 miles distant. There is no boundary nearby to worry about.

• Where to Fish on Doctor Pattons Lower Lake

  Nothing we hold settles how deep this runs. Rip-rap along the wall holds fish that the open bank never does. The arms fish better than the open middle whenever the water is up. Documented catches and surveys in the area cover bluegill, redbreast sunfish, warrior bass, largemouth bass and redspot darter. Records show what people reported, not what is stocked. Doctor Pattons Lower Lake responds to conditions more than to tactics.

• Seasonal Patterns

  The warmest month averages 78°F, the coldest about 40°F. Fish stay active all year, but they move with the heat. Late winter and spring fish steadiest here. February into May fishes hardest as the water warms. Plan any trip to Doctor Pattons Lower Lake around it. Spring warms the shallows first, so start there.

• Tackle & Baits

  Public data does not answer the access question here. Parking sits half a mile out, which makes for a walk with tackle. Mapping records toilets within half a mile. A small crankbait along the drop and a worm in the thick stuff cover the bass. Gates get locked out of season on water like this. Some ground is open by custom rather than by right, so tread carefully. If the gate is shut, Doctor Pattons Upper Lake at 0.2 miles is the nearest alternative. Check the position on Doctor Pattons Lower Lake before loading the car.