DeLoach Lake in Clay County: How and When to Fish It

• Overview

  In Georgia, DeLoach Lake belongs to Clay County. This is dry hill ground. About 15 acres of surface, which puts the far bank inside easy sight. Start from Fort Gaines, 9 miles down the road. Beyond it, Edison at 10 miles and Blakely at 12 miles. Within a short drive: Mckemie Lake roughly 0.9 miles, Fendley Lake (2.4 miles), Faines Lake roughly 4.2 miles, Hodges Lake (5.6 miles) and Lake Kolomoki roughly 6.2 miles. The county line runs close by, so rules can change within a short drive.

• Where to Fish on DeLoach Lake

  Without a survey to go on, judge depth from how the bank falls away. Built water gives depth close in, which suits a bank angler. 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, brown darter and redbreast sunfish. Records come from public data, not from a stocking programme. On DeLoach Lake that means starting tight and working out.

• Seasonal Patterns

  The year swings from about 48°F in January to roughly 81°F in July. Fishing runs all year, with summer the awkward season. The cooler months are the comfortable ones to be out. The cooler months are the comfortable ones to fish here. Keep it in mind when planning a trip to DeLoach Lake.

• Tackle & Baits

  Access is not recorded for this water. Access points are not mapped for this water, which suits people who like quiet. Catfish want bait on the bottom: cut bait or worms, a simple running rig, and patience after dark. Take the rules with you rather than trusting memory. Check whether bait restrictions apply before you buy any. Mckemie Lake sits 0.9 miles off and takes the overflow. For DeLoach Lake in particular, ask before you travel.