Neel Lake, Georgia: Fishing Spots and Seasons

• Overview

  Neel Lake belongs to Bartow County, Georgia. It lies 919 feet above sea level. At 9 acres it is the sort of place you fish for an evening rather than a day. The closest town, Rydal, is 2.5 miles distant. For a city, Sandy Springs is 32 miles off. A county line runs close by, so local bylaws can differ within a short drive. In wet weather the last stretch of track is the awkward part.

• Where to Fish on Neel Lake

  Depth is unknown to us, and the shoreline is the better guide. The old creek line under the surface is the feature worth finding. Standing timber shows when the level drops, and fish sit against it. Fish reported in the area, according to open records, include mobile logperch, cherokee darter, coosa darter and rainbow trout. The records cover the area rather than this water alone. The shape of Neel Lake rewards a slow walk along one bank.

• Seasonal Patterns

  Seasonal averages run from 40°F in January up to 77°F in July. Winter is the comfortable season here rather than the difficult one. March through May is the strongest run, with autumn a second stretch. The hot months push the fishing to dawn and dusk. On Neel Lake that shapes the whole year.

• Tackle & Baits

  Nothing on record says whether the bank is open or closed. No built facilities appear in mapping around this water. Trout here take small spinners, spoons and, where fly water allows, a nymph or dry. Read any posted signs at the access point rather than assuming. Some stretches are reserved and marked as such on the ground. Sugar Hill Pond at 1.7 miles is the sensible second choice. Check the position on Neel Lake before loading the car.