Discover Georgia's Ochlockonee River

Discover Georgia's Ochlockonee River - This river may not be as familiar to anglers as other major rivers in south GA, but it is worthy of a visit. Stay and Play in GA!

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Best Fishing Bets for 2009

Redbreast sunfish, largemouth bass, Suwannee bass and catfish

Ochlockonee River Fishing Tips

Bream - The Ochlockonee is a slow moving, black water stream that offers good fishing for redbreast sunfish. Though lacking in abundance, redear sunfish, black crappie, spotted sunfish and warmouth also are available.

Technique -Live bait is recommended: crickets and worms during early spring. Switch to artificial lures like beetle spins and popping bugs as spring progresses and water temperatures rise.

Target - Target redbreast in the lower portions of the river, from Hwy 93 to Hadley's Ferry Road.

Largemouth Bass - Population is fair.

Technique - The usual arsenal of tackle will work, including spinnerbaits, plastic worms and small crankbaits. Be sure to fish these in slower moving stretches of the river.

Target - Target the backwater areas near Thomasville and the section of the river upstream from Hwy 93.

Suwannee Bass - Smaller than its largemouth cousin, Suwannee bass are a unique member of the sunfish family and only are found in a few streams in south Georgia and north Florida. The overall population is relatively small.

Technique - Small crankbaits, spinner baits and soft plastics are recommended.

Target - Concentrate in swifter water, but look to brushpiles and blow downs along the deeper banks and pools as summer progresses and the river recedes. The stretch of river that borders River Creek WMA offers excellent fishing and lends itself well to the increasingly popular sport of kayak fishing.

Catfish - The river is home to channel, white and bullhead catfish. Fish the river during the warmer months for numerous catfish catches.

Technique - Any favorite catfish bait fished on a simple bottom rig should be effective.

Target - Deeper bends and backwaters of the river.

Additional Info

Check the river gauge near Thomasville before heading out. If the gauge height is much above 7 feet then it is difficult to effectively fish because the water is well into the floodplain. If the gauge height is below 2 1/2 feet, plan to drag your boat over logs and other obstructions. View the USGS river gauge information.

Contact Info

Wildlife Resources Division, Albany Fisheries office - Phone: 229-430-4256

Be An Ethical Angler

Ethical anglers fish responsibly and consider the rights of others. They portray a positive image and help protect and conserve our natural resources. Be an ethical angler; the future of fishing depends on it.

Ethical Anglers:

Know and obey the fishing regulations

Report viloations and pollution

Keep only the fish they can use and release all the others properly so they will survive

Pass on the tradition by taking a child fishing

Don't transfer fish or plant species between bodies of water - Non-native species can adversely affect existing populations.

Appreciate the environment by not littering, dispose of fishing line properly and leave a place cleaner where they found it

Show coutesy to other, lend a helping hand whenever possible and always ask permission before fishing on private property

Trip Checklist

Each person on board must have a readily accessible U.S. Coast Guard (USCG) approved type I, II, II or V (hybrid) Personal Flotation Device (life jacket) in good condition with no rips or tears. Type V devices are acceptable only when worn and surely fastened. Each vessel, except for Class A vessels, canoes, and kayaks must be equipped with at least one type IV (throwable) device. Also, any child under age 10 who is on board a boat must wear an appropriately sized USCG approved life jacket at all times while the boat is moving, whether it be drifting, sailing, or mechanical power.

Boats with enclosed areas that may trap gas or vapors are required to be equipped with a USGC approved fire extinquisher.

Make sure your boat registration and fishing license are current. Carry your licnese and registration card with you.

Check your boat trailer lights, navigation lights and fuel before beginning your trip.

Carry a first aid kit, insect repellent sunscreen, extra clothing, rain gear, and plenty of food and drinking water.

Be aware of and abide by all fishing regulations. A copy of current fishing and boating regulations can be obtained from any DNR office and many sotres that sell bait and tackel. Have a float plan. Always tell someone where you are going and when you expect to return.

Follow these guidelines for a safe and fun recreation experience.