Discover Georgia's Ogeechee River

Discover Georgia's Ogeechee River (upstream of U.S. Hwy. 17) - Dams do not regulate the Ogeechee. The
river rises and falls according to the amount of rainfall in its watershed, creating a unique fishing opportunity. This natural fluctuation in river level plays an important role in fish growth, reproductive success and
ultimately fishing a river bottom of primarily sand and silt. Stay and Play in GA!

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Best Fishing Bets for 2009

Redbreast sunfish, largemouth bass, black crappie and catfish

Oconee River Fishing Tips

Bream - The Ogeechee River contains one of the best redbreast sunfish fisheries in the state. Redbreast reproduction has been adequate in the past few years, but the growth of these fish has been poor due to the drought and low river levels. Until river levels return to normal, expect catches of large redbreast to be less than optimal. In addition to redbreast sunfish, other bream species present include bluegill, redear sunfish and spotted sunfish.

Technique - Crickets and worms fished under a bobber are effective live bait techniques. For artificial lures, consider small beetle spins, rooster tails, and popping bugs.

Target - Redbreasts are plentiful in backwaters and slower moving sections of the main channel.

Crappie - Scattered pockets of black crappie provide exciting cold-weather fishing.

Technique - Small minnows are the most popular live bait. Small artificial jigs (screw tail or feathered) also can be effective.

Target - From Hwy 204 upstream as far as Jenkins County. Fish tend to be concentrated around submerged trees and brush around the mouths of oxbows.

Largemouth Bass - The Ogeechee has a healthy largemouth population. The fishing is best during the springtime, particularly in April, as water temperatures rise.

Technique - Spinner baits along banks; flipping jigs and worms into tight cover along banks.

Target - One of the better areas is the railroad trestle upstream of the boat ramp on Highway 56 in Midville where largemouths up to 6 pounds commonly are caught.

Catfish - White catfish, channel catfish and bullheads are plentiful.

Technique - Typical catfish bait (i.e. worms, cut-bait, etc.) fished near the bottom of the river in relatively deep holes produce good results.

Target - Catfish are generally concentrated where there is a combination of swift water and heavy cover. White catfish abundance increases closer to the estuary.

Additional Info

Flathead catfish are non-native to the Ogeeche River and an illegal introduction of the species would be devastating to native fish populations. Report any information regarding the illegal introduction of flatheads into the river by calling the TIP line at 1-800-241-4113, 24 hoursa day, 7 days a week.

Contact Info

Wildlife Resources Division, Richmond Hill Fisheries office - Phone: 912-727-2112

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.