Barnes Lake Fishing near Chattahoochee Hills, Georgia

• Overview

  Barnes Lake is set in Fulton County, Georgia. Elevation runs to 820 feet. At 10 acres it is the sort of place you fish for an evening rather than a day. 1.9 miles away sits Chattahoochee Hills, the nearest town. The big place round here is South Fulton, 7.5 miles distant. Also on the doorstep: Storey Lake out at 1.6 miles, Sanders Lake 1.8 miles away, Rico Lake out at 2.3 miles, Starr Pond 3.2 miles away and Sewells Lake out at 3.3 miles. Two sets of local rules meet not far from this water.

• Where to Fish on Barnes Lake

  Depth is unmeasured here, so let the shoreline guide you. Points where the flooded channel swings in are the reliable ones. Built water gives depth close in, which suits a bank angler. Public wildlife records from this area list blackbanded darter, bluegill and redbreast sunfish. Records show what people reported, not what is stocked. Anyone new to Barnes Lake should walk it once before setting up.

• Seasonal Patterns

  Long-term averages put July at about 78°F and January near 42°F. Warm months push fish deep; cool months bring them back. March through May is the strongest run, with autumn a second stretch. March through May is the strongest run, with October and November a second stretch. Barnes Lake runs to that rhythm year in and year out.

• Tackle & Baits

  Nothing we hold confirms whether access is permitted. No car park, ramp or path is recorded within easy reach of the shore. For the catfish, fish bottom baits into the deeper holes and let them sit. State or provincial rules still apply whatever the bank status. Keep proof of licence with you rather than in the car. The nearest alternative is Storey Lake, 1.6 miles out. Nothing here settles the position at Barnes Lake for certain.