Greer Lake in Newton County: How and When to Fish It

• Overview

  The Newton County end of Georgia holds Greer Lake. The bank is 774 feet above sea level. It covers about 19 acres, so this is small water you can walk round in under an hour. For supplies, Social Circle is 4.6 miles out. Athens sits 34 miles out, and it is the nearest city worth the name. Rules can differ a short way off, since the county line is near.

• Where to Fish on Greer Lake

  Depth here is unknown, so count the lead down before committing. The old creek line under the surface is the feature worth finding. Inflow corners move water, and moving water gathers fish. Documented catches and surveys in the area cover blackbanded darter, chain pickerel, margined madtom, snail bullhead and striped jumprock. Local agencies hold the definitive list for this water. Greer Lake fishes better once you know its edges.

• Seasonal Patterns

  Average temperature peaks around 79°F in July and bottoms out near 43°F in January. The season runs year-round, with the peak either side of summer. Shade and hour of day matter more than month. November and March are the quiet, comfortable months to be out. Plan any trip to Greer Lake around it.

• Tackle & Baits

  Nothing in our records says who may fish here. The closest car park is half a mile away, so pack accordingly. A wire trace and a big bright lure handle the pike; deep water asks for a heavier spoon. Parking is often the real limit rather than the bank itself. Keep proof of licence with you rather than in the car. Wallace Lake at 3.4 miles is the sensible second choice. Where Greer Lake is concerned, a local answer beats a written one.