Fishing at Laurel Hill Lake, Lawrence County, Tennessee

• Overview

  Look for Laurel Hill Lake in Lawrence County, Tennessee. The surface lies 892 feet up. At some 292 acres it is far too large to cover on foot in a day. The edge covers about 5.2 miles, enough to hold several distinct areas. It is the biggest water on our Lawrence County list. The closest town, Waynesboro, is 13 miles distant. The nearest city of size is Huntsville, 68 miles away. Rules can differ a short way off, since the county line is near.

• Where to Fish on Laurel Hill Lake

  Depth here is unknown, so count the lead down before committing. Built water gives depth close in, which suits a bank angler. Draw-down through summer strips the margins, so follow the water out. Lawrence County records list bluegill, rainbow darter, blackfin darter, green sunfish and blackside snubnose darter among the fish reported. The county figures include rivers and lakes alike. The near bank of Laurel Hill Lake is often the one people ignore.

• Seasonal Patterns

  The warm month here averages 77°F; the cold one sits at 37°F. Winter here means light layers, not lost months. The first and last hours carry the summer; the middle is slow. Late winter often fishes better here than midsummer does. Laurel Hill Lake runs to that rhythm year in and year out.

• Tackle & Baits

  Public data does not answer the access question here. A campsite lies half a mile away for anyone staying over. Bluegill and other panfish take small jigs or worms under a float near any cover. Parking space is the usual limit rather than the bank itself. Check whether bait restrictions apply before you buy any. For a change of water, VFW Lake is 3.5 miles distant. For Laurel Hill Lake in particular, ask before you travel.