Vaughn Lake in Bartow County: How and When to Fish It

• Overview

  Vaughn Lake lies within the bounds of Bartow County, Georgia. Elevation runs to 1,030 feet. Around 33 acres of surface means several distinct areas to work. On our Bartow County list it sits near the top for size. Cartersville is the closest place, 7 miles off. Sandy Springs is the closest city, 28 miles away. The county edge is within a short distance of the bank.

• Where to Fish on Vaughn Lake

  There is no recorded depth, so work from what you can see. The old creek line under the surface is the feature worth finding. Look for where the old bank line still shows under the surface. Documented catches and surveys in the area cover spotted bass, gizzard shad, bluegill, channel catfish and black crappie. Records come from public data, not from a stocking programme. On Vaughn Lake the obvious spot is not always the productive one.

• Seasonal Patterns

  Long-run averages give July about 78°F and January about 40°F. The season runs year-round, with the peak either side of summer. Late winter and spring fish steadiest here. February into May fishes hardest as the water warms. Plan around that when you fish Vaughn Lake. The first warm week of the year changes everything here.

• Tackle & Baits

  Nothing we hold confirms whether access is permitted. There is no mapped parking or launch close by, which usually means walking in. A small crankbait along the drop and a worm in the thick stuff cover the bass. Where the road in crosses private land, ask first. Signs go up and come down, so check on the day. Upper Aubrey Lake, 3.3 miles away, makes the obvious fallback. Check the current arrangement for Vaughn Lake.