Fishing Carmichel Lake in Fulton County, Georgia

• Overview

  Carmichel Lake is a Fulton County water, in Georgia. The surface lies 778 feet up. At about 68 acres, a day is enough to walk the shoreline properly. It is a smooth basin, with the interest below the waterline rather than along it. Few waters listed in Fulton County are bigger. Chattahoochee Hills lies 3.3 miles from the water. South Fulton is the closest city, 5 miles away. A county line runs close by, so local bylaws can differ within a short drive.

• Where to Fish on Carmichel Lake

  Depth is not on record here, which means reading the ground instead. The arms fish better than the open middle whenever the water is up. Levels move with the draw rather than the rain on water like this. Fish reported in the area, according to open records, include blackbanded darter, blue catfish and bluegill. That is what has been logged nearby, not a stocking list, so check local rules before you plan around any one species. Take Carmichel Lake a stretch at a time.

• Seasonal Patterns

  Between January at about 42°F and July at about 78°F, the water has a wide range to work through. Temperatures stay workable through the cold season. The cooler months are the comfortable ones to be out. March through May is the strongest run, with October and November a second stretch. Keep it in mind when planning a trip to Carmichel Lake.

• Tackle & Baits

  No access rule appears in what we hold. Mapping is blank for access, so scout the approach before committing the car. A small crankbait along the drop and a worm in the thick stuff cover the bass. Read any posted signs at the access point rather than assuming. Some ground is open by custom rather than by right, so tread carefully. Should this one be busy, Basket Creek Lake is 2.2 miles off. For Carmichel Lake in particular, ask before you travel.