Johnson Lake in Douglas County: How and When to Fish It

• Overview

  The Douglas County entry here is Johnson Lake, in Georgia. The water sits 1,001 feet up. This is a pocket water of some 6 acres, and every part of it is reachable from the bank. Douglasville sits 7 miles from here and is the nearest stop. South Fulton sits 8.7 miles out, and it is the nearest city worth the name. Two sets of local rules meet not far from this water.

• Where to Fish on Johnson Lake

  Our records carry no depth, so judge it from the bank. The arms fish better than the open middle whenever the water is up. Standing timber shows when the level drops, and fish sit against it. Nearby survey and observation records mention snail bullhead, redbreast sunfish, eastern blackbanded darter and striped jumprock. That is what has been logged nearby, not a stocking list, so check local rules before you plan around any one species. Johnson Lake responds to conditions more than to tactics.

• Seasonal Patterns

  July runs about 78°F on average, January about 42°F. Summer heat is the limit here, not winter cold. 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. Johnson Lake fishes to that pattern most years.

• Tackle & Baits

  Access is not recorded for this water. You will be walking about half a mile from the nearest car park. For the catfish, fish bottom baits into the deeper holes and let them sit. Some banks are open only from a marked point. Signs go up and come down, so check on the day. Spring Hill Lake at 1.7 miles is the sensible second choice. Nothing on Johnson Lake should be assumed from this page alone.