Countless fishing and outdoor adventures await you in Lake Hartwell Country. Encompassing the surrounding area of Lake Hartwell including the counties of Anderson, Oconee, and Pickens, the fun never stops in the foothills of southern Appalachia!
Lake Hartwell
On the South Carolina/Georgia border sits a man-made reservoir with some of the best bass fishing in the world. Comprising over 56,000 acres, and one of the largest recreation lakes in the Southeast, Lake Hartwell is an angler’s paradise. Expect to reel in some striped and hybrid bass, largemouth bass, spotted bass, crappie, bream, and catfish as you relax on the water. One of sportfishing’s most iconic events, The Bassmaster Classic, has been held at this lake four times. Often referred to as the “Super Bowl” of fishing, this electrifying event is testament to the sensational fishing opportunities Lake Hartwell has to offer!
For your boating and fishing needs, Lake Hartwell State Park boasts two boat ramps, a courtesy dock, and a 140-foot fishing pier. Camping in the park is easy as well! Take a load off in one of two camper cabins, at one of the 115 paved campsites along the shore, or at one of the 13 walk-in tent sites. Shoot some hoops at the basketball court or take a hike through the surrounding wilderness on a beginner-friendly nature trail. Sadlers Creek State Park, sitting on a 395-acre peninsula, also offers boat ramps, campsites, hiking trails, and a lakeside pavilion!
Chattooga and Chauga Rivers
Nourished by springs and rainfall, the Chattooga river descends from the Appalachians of North Carolina down to the South Carolina/Georgia state line in Oconee County. Offering some of the best whitewater boating and trout fishing in the region, you can expect to find rainbow, brooke, and brown trout, as well as redeye bass, and redbreast. Fly fishing is also popular on the Chauga River of Oconee County, which offers cold water runs, riffles, pools and flat water. Both rivers are well stocked by the Walhalla State Fish Hatchery.
Not quite confident enough to fish these rivers? Chattooga River Fly Shop offers fishing guide services and classes, as well as all the gear needed for a variety of river conditions. If you’re looking to float down the river, Chattooga Whitewater Shop is the place to visit. The shop provides shuttle services, boat rentals, gear, and area information. Whether you are fishing, floating, or both, the rivers in Oconee County are a true adventure oasis.
Après Fish
If you can’t get enough of Lake Hartwell Country, there are plenty of hiking trails, waterfalls, rivers, lakes, and sweeping mountain views to discover. Check out Stumphouse Park where you can explore the historic Stumphouse Tunnel, take in views of Issaqueena Falls, or shred the trails at Stumphouse Mountain Bike Park.
Need a breather from all your fishing and outdoor adventures? Breweries in Anderson City, near Lake Hartwell, like Carolina Bauernhaus and Silos Brewing Co, offer a welcoming environment with local brew on tap. If you are near the rivers, Keowee Brewing Co. is there to fill your cup! From Anderson to the city of Walhalla, plenty of shops and restaurants are available to keep you fueled and stocked for your next Lake Hartwell Country adventure!
Fish Tips!
Striped bass are prominent in the area in the winter months/off-season, as they are getting ready to spawn. This is a great time to bring the little ones out on the lake and teach them how to fish!
