Coles Lake, Georgia: Fishing Spots and Seasons

• Overview

  Clarke County, Georgia, is where Coles Lake sits. It sits at 712 feet above sea level. Small at around 3 acres: two anglers spread out cover most of it. Most waters listed here for Clarke County are larger. Bogart at 3 miles is the nearest place to stop. The big place round here is Athens, 6.2 miles distant. A county line runs close by, so local bylaws can differ within a short drive.

• Where to Fish on Coles Lake

  Depth here is unknown, so count the lead down before committing. Held water runs deepest at the wall and shallows back to the inflow. Levels move with the draw rather than the rain on water like this. Nearby survey and observation records mention turquoise darter, striped jumprock, black crappie and bluegill. Local agencies hold the definitive list for this water. Take Coles Lake a stretch at a time.

• Seasonal Patterns

  The warmest month averages 79°F, the coldest about 42°F. The hard part of the year is the heat, not the cold. Late winter and spring fish steadiest here. April and May are the settled weeks, with October close behind. Anyone fishing Coles Lake regularly works to that calendar. Spring warms the shallows first, so start there.

• Tackle & Baits

  We hold no note on access for this one. The car has to stay 0.9 miles away, which shapes how much tackle you bring. For the panfish, a small hook, a float and a piece of worm outfish everything fancy. Local rules can differ across the county line, so check where you stand. Fishing rules and camping rules are set separately here. If the gate is shut, Welbrook Lake at 3.7 miles is the nearest alternative. Treat access at Coles Lake as something to verify.