What to Expect at Lake Nottely

Lake Nottely is a 3,400-acre reservoir in the Blue Ridge Mountains of Union County, Georgia, about 90 minutes north of Atlanta. The lake holds smallmouth bass, walleye, largemouth bass, and crappie, with smallmouth and walleye being the primary draws for serious anglers. The water is clear and relatively deep — the lake reaches 160 feet at its deepest point — which makes it distinct from many Georgia reservoirs and creates conditions that walleye and smallmouth prefer.

The lake sits at roughly 1,750 feet elevation and is surrounded by national forest land, so the shoreline stays undeveloped and rocky. This means fewer docks and marinas than you'll find at lakes closer to Atlanta, but also clearer water and more consistent fish populations. Access is straightforward: there are two public boat ramps, and the lake is open year-round, though water temperature and fish behavior shift significantly between seasons.

Key Takeaways

  • Lake Nottely holds walleye and smallmouth bass as its primary species, with clear water and rocky structure that favor both.
  • Two public boat ramps provide access: Nottely Dam Recreation Area on the south end and Vogel State Park on the north end.
  • Spring (March through May) and fall (September through November) are the most productive seasons for both smallmouth and walleye.
  • Georgia fishing license is required; check current regulations for species-specific limits and seasonal restrictions before you fish.
  • The lake sits in the mountains at 1,750 feet elevation with no major development, so expect colder water and a longer winter than lowland Georgia lakes.

Seasons and What Fish Are Biting

Spring (March through May) is when walleye move shallow to spawn and smallmouth become aggressive after winter. Water temperature climbs from the low 50s to the high 60s, and both species feed heavily. Walleye bite best at dawn and dusk, especially around rocky points and drop-offs. Smallmouth respond to crankbaits and soft plastics along the same structure. This is the most reliable season for consistent action.

Summer (June through August) slows considerably. Walleye retreat to deeper water and the thermocline, making them harder to reach without electronics and deep-diving techniques. Smallmouth scatter into deeper structure and suspend in the water column during the heat of the day. Early morning and late evening produce better results than midday. Crappie fishing can be good in summer if you target deeper brush and submerged timber.

Fall (September through November) brings a second strong bite. Water cools from the 70s back into the 50s, walleye move back to shallower structure, and smallmouth feed aggressively before winter. This season rivals spring for consistency. By November, water temperatures drop into the 40s and fishing slows, though winter does not shut down the lake entirely.

Winter (December through February) is the slowest season. Water temperature hovers in the 40s, and fish metabolism drops. Walleye and smallmouth are still present but less active. Some anglers target them with live bait or slow presentations near deep structure, but you should expect fewer bites and longer waits between fish.

Access Points and Boat Ramps

Nottely Dam Recreation Area sits on the south end of the lake near the dam and offers a concrete boat ramp, parking, and picnic facilities. This is the primary public access point and is maintained by the U.S. Forest Service. The ramp is suitable for most trailer boats, and there is a day-use fee (amount varies; check with the Forest Service before you go). This location gives you quick access to the lower lake and the dam structure, which holds fish year-round.

Vogel State Park is on the north end of the lake and offers a second public ramp, parking, and camping if you want to stay overnight. The park charges a day-use fee separate from any camping fee. This ramp is useful if you want to fish the upper lake and the northern arms, which tend to be shallower and have more vegetation than the main lake body.

There are no marinas with rental boats or fuel on the lake itself. The nearest services are in Blairsville, about 15 miles south, where you can find gas stations and restaurants. Plan accordingly if you're bringing your own boat — fuel up before you arrive at the lake.

Tackle and Techniques for Smallmouth and Walleye

For smallmouth bass, focus on rocky points, drop-offs, and the transition zones between shallow and deep water. Crankbaits that dive 8 to 15 feet work well in spring and fall. Soft plastics — 4-inch tubes and creature baits — are effective year-round when worked slowly along bottom structure. Jigs tipped with live crawfish or minnows produce consistently, especially in fall and winter. Smallmouth at Nottely respond well to natural colors: browns, blacks, and greens.

For walleye, live bait is often the most reliable approach. Shiners or crawfish fished on a simple rig near rocky structure and drop-offs work in spring and fall. If you prefer lures, small crankbaits (2 to 3 inches) and jigs in natural colors produce results. Walleye are most active at low-light times — dawn, dusk, and overcast days — so plan your fishing schedule around those windows. In summer, you may need to fish deeper structure or use electronics to locate suspended fish.

Both species respond to live bait, so if you're not confident with lures, bring shiners or crawfish from a local bait shop. The clear water at Nottely means fish can see your presentation clearly, so use lighter line (6- to 8-pound test for walleye, 8- to 10-pound for smallmouth) and natural colors.

Regulations and Licensing

You must have a valid Georgia fishing license to fish Lake Nottely. Licenses are available online through the Georgia Department of Natural Resources website, at sporting goods stores, and at some convenience stores. A 3-day license is available if you don't want to commit to a full year.

Bag limits and size restrictions vary by species and change periodically. As of the most recent regulations, smallmouth bass typically have a 12-inch minimum size with a 5-fish daily limit, and walleye have a 15-inch minimum with a 5-fish daily limit. Largemouth bass and crappie have their own limits. Check the current Georgia fishing regulations before you fish — regulations are updated annually and sometimes mid-year, so do not rely on information from previous seasons.

The lake is open year-round for fishing, but some areas may have seasonal closures or restrictions. Confirm current rules with the Georgia DNR or the U.S. Forest Service before your trip.

Getting There and What to Bring

Lake Nottely is located in Union County, about 90 minutes north of Atlanta via US-19 and GA-60. From Atlanta, take I-75 north to I-575, then follow US-19 north toward Dahlonega and continue to Blairsville. From Blairsville, follow signs to Nottely Dam Recreation Area or Vogel State Park. The drive is straightforward but involves mountain roads, so allow extra time if you're unfamiliar with the area.

Bring a boat if you have one — shore fishing is limited because most of the shoreline is rocky and steep. If you don't have a boat, check whether local outfitters in Blairsville offer rentals (availability varies). Bring your Georgia fishing license, current regulations, and a map or GPS. The lake sits at elevation, so weather can change quickly; bring layers and rain gear even if the forecast looks clear. Water is cold year-round, so wear a life jacket and bring a change of clothes if you're in a small boat.

Nearby Fishing and Lodging

Lake Winfield Scott, about 20 minutes south, is a smaller mountain lake that holds trout and smallmouth. If Nottely is crowded or you want to fish multiple lakes in one trip, Winfield Scott offers a different experience and is worth a day trip.

Vogel State Park, which has the northern boat ramp, offers camping with hookups and cabins if you want to stay overnight. Blairsville has motels and restaurants within 15 miles of the lake. The area is popular with tourists, especially in fall, so book lodging in advance if you're visiting September through November.

Frequently Asked Questions

What's the best time of year to fish Lake Nottely?

Spring (March through May) and fall (September through November) are most productive. Water temperatures are moderate, fish feed actively, and both smallmouth and walleye are in shallower, more accessible structure. Summer and winter are slower, though some anglers still catch fish during those seasons.

Do I need a boat to fish Lake Nottely?

A boat is strongly recommended because most of the shoreline is rocky and steep, making shore fishing difficult. If you don't have your own boat, contact local outfitters in Blairsville to ask about rentals, though availability is not may provide.

Can I keep walleye and smallmouth I catch?

Yes, both species have bag limits and size minimums under Georgia law. Check the current regulations before you fish — limits change annually. As of recent rules, smallmouth have a 12-inch minimum and 5-fish daily limit, and walleye have a 15-inch minimum and 5-fish daily limit, but confirm current rules with the Georgia DNR.

Is Lake Nottely good for beginners?

Nottely is better suited to anglers with some experience because the clear water and deep structure require more precise presentations than many beginner-friendly lakes. If you're new to fishing, consider hiring a local guide for a day to learn the lake and techniques specific to walleye and smallmouth.

What should I do if the weather turns bad on the water?

Head to the nearest boat ramp immediately. Mountain weather can change rapidly, and the lake is large enough that rough water can develop quickly. Both Nottely Dam and Vogel State Park have ramps close to most fishing areas, so you're never far from shelter.