📍 Columbus, Georgia, Georgia

GoatRock Lake

Fishing at Goat Rock Lake, Georgia

7Species
Lake / reservoirWater type
YesKid friendly
Columbus, GeorgiaNearby town

Overview

Goat Rock Lake, a 940-acre reservoir on the Chattahoochee River in Harris County, Georgia, was created by the Goat Rock Dam and Generating Plant in 1912. This riverine lake serves primarily for hydroelectric generation, resulting in limited recreational facilities. Access is restricted to the Goat Rock Marina on the Georgia side, which offers boat launches, fishing access, and a picnic area. The lake's water quality has been monitored by the Georgia Department of Natural Resources, with recent data indicating a worsening trend in water clarity and chlorophyll-a levels.

Fish species

Discover what swims here. Tap a species to explore its Species Quest guide.

Swipe to explore 7 species
Largemouth Bass

Largemouth Bass
Channel Catfish

Channel Catfish
Redear Sunfish

Redear Sunfish
Black Crappie

Black Crappie
Spotted Bass

Spotted Bass
Shoal Bass

Shoal Bass
Bluegill

Bluegill

Know your water

940 acresSurface area
60 ftMaximum depth
Water clarity has been worsening over the past decade.Water clarityRead full details

Water clarity has been worsening over the past decade.

The lake's bottom composition is not specified in the available sources.Bottom compositionRead full details

The lake's bottom composition is not specified in the available sources.

The lake is known for its quiet environment, offering a peaceful fishing experience.Fishing pressureRead full details

The lake is known for its quiet environment, offering a peaceful fishing experience.

Where to fish

Promising areas

Specific fishing hotspots are not detailed in the available sources.

Habitat & structure

Goat Rock Lake features riverine sections, shoreline cover, and dam-influenced conditions, providing diverse habitats for various fish species.

Getting on the water

Goat Rock Marina provides the most accessible fishing opportunities.

Did you know?

✦ The name 'Goat Rock' originates from the construction of the Goat Rock Dam in 1912, where workers reportedly saw goats jumping onto rocks in the river.

✦ Goat Rock Lake is a 940-acre reservoir on the Chattahoochee River, situated directly south of Bartlett's Ferry Dam (Lake Harding) and north of Lake Oliver.

✦ The lake is primarily used for hydroelectric generation by Georgia Power, with limited recreational activities and access.

Location & map

Open in Google Maps ↗

Best time to fish

Fishing tips & conditions

Access, regulations & planning

Regulations and access can change. Verify current rules before fishing.

Public access & launching
Rules and restrictions

Records & notable catches

FAQs

What species can I fish for at Goat Rock Lake?

Anglers can fish for species including largemouth bass, spotted bass, bream, catfish, and striped bass.

Where can I launch my boat at Goat Rock Lake?

Boats can be launched at the Goat Rock Marina, which provides boat launches and fishing access.

Are there any fishing tournaments held at Goat Rock Lake?

There is no information available about fishing tournaments being held at Goat Rock Lake.

What are the fishing regulations at Goat Rock Lake?

Fishing regulations at Goat Rock Lake follow Georgia statewide rules. Specific lake regulations may apply, so it's important to consult the official Georgia fishing regulations before fishing.

Is fishing allowed year-round at Goat Rock Lake?

Yes, fishing is permitted year-round at Goat Rock Lake.

Is a fishing license required to fish at Goat Rock Lake?

Yes, anglers need a current Georgia fishing license to fish at Goat Rock Lake.