Carters Project offers fishermen diverse opportunities in terms of locations to fish and fish species. In addition to Carters Lake, anglers can fish the reregulation pool or the Coosawattee River.
Carters Lake is approximately 11 miles long with 3200 surface acres and 62 miles of shoreline. Shoreline fishing locations are limited due to steep shoreline terrain. Boat ramps are located at Damsite, Doll Mountain, Woodring Branch, Ridgeway and the Reregulation Pool. Deep clear water and a rocky shoreline characterize Carters Lake.
A smaller reregulation pool or lower lake (approximately 1000 acres) is located below Carters Lake. The lower lake can be accessed from a boat ramp near the Carters Powerhouse off Old Hwy 411. Reregulation pool conditions (water depth and surface acres) fluctuate based on powerhouse water discharge. Fishing on the lower lake is peaceful with few PWC's and pleasure boats on the shallow waters. Limited shoreline fishing opportunities also exist on the lower lake.
Swift water fishing in the Coosawattee River can be found below the reregulation dam. Two concrete fishing decks have been constructed along the river accessible from Old Hwy 411. Visitors to the north reregulation area can reserve a large group picnic shelter or use individual picnic tables. The south side fishing location has a hiking trail, handicapped accessible ramp and picnic tables. Bathrooms are found in both riverside fishing areas.
An active fish stocking program by the Georgia Department of Natural Resources along with native fish found in the lake provide diversity for anglers. Fish species include bass (largemouth, smallmouth, hybrid, stripped, spotted) crappie, walleye, bream and catfish.
For a detailed fishing forecast at Carters Lake click on the
carters lake fishing information web site. Check out the lake map showing the
fish attractor GPS locations.