Boating At Chatuge Lake In Georgia

Free Public Boating & Watersport Activities

Chatuge Lake, nestled in the picturesque mountains of North Georgia, is a stunning reservoir that captivates visitors with its natural beauty. Situated near the town of Hiawassee, this serene lake serves as a popular destination for locals and tourists seeking a peaceful retreat in nature. The lake's location offers breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains, adding to its allure as a sought-after destination.

Surrounding Chatuge Lake are several nearby attractions that cater to various interests. The nearby Brasstown Bald, the highest point in Georgia, offers hiking trails and panoramic views of the region's stunning landscapes. Visitors can also explore the charming town of Hiawassee, which hosts various cultural events, festivals, and local shops and restaurants.

Boating is a major draw for visitors to Chatuge Lake, and the lake boasts several marinas that cater to boating enthusiasts. These marinas offer a range of services and amenities, ensuring a pleasant and convenient boating experience for both boat owners and visitors. Water sports such as water skiing, tubing, and paddleboarding are popular activities on the lake, providing opportunities for adventure and fun on the water.

To facilitate easy access to the lake, Chatuge Lake provides nice boat launch ramps scattered along its shoreline. These ramps make it convenient for boat owners to access the lake and launch their vessels for a day of exploration or water-based enjoyment. Additionally, for those without their own boats, the lake offers rental boats, allowing visitors to rent boats by the hour or the day and experience the thrill of boating without the need for ownership.

The lake's proximity to several nearby cities further enhances its appeal. Hiawassee, with its welcoming atmosphere and local attractions, provides a charming retreat for those seeking a taste of mountain life. Additionally, the city of Helen, known for its Bavarian-inspired architecture and festivals, is also within reasonable reach from the lake.

The boating season at Chatuge Lake typically extends from spring to late fall, providing ample time for boaters and water sports enthusiasts to indulge in their favorite activities. As the weather warms up, the lake becomes a hub for outdoor fun, attracting families, friends, and solo adventurers seeking memorable experiences on the water.

Fishing is another beloved activity at Chatuge Lake, drawing anglers with its well-stocked waters. The lake is teeming with various fish species, including bass, trout, catfish, and more, making it a favored destination for fishing enthusiasts of all levels.

There are nearby campgrounds in the surrounding area that offer picturesque spots for camping enthusiasts. These campgrounds provide an opportunity to connect with nature, enjoy the tranquil ambiance, and create cherished memories amidst the lake's stunning surroundings.

Chatuge Lake stands as a captivating destination in Georgia, offering a blend of boating, water sports, fishing, nearby attractions, and camping opportunities for visitors seeking relaxation and outdoor adventures. Its scenic beauty and recreational offerings make it a cherished getaway for individuals and families looking to escape into the serenity of nature's embrace.

Boating, camping and fishing.

Nestled in the northeast corner of Georgia, at Hiawassee, Lake Chatuge provides a 7,480 acre boating playground. Camping, lodging and other amenities are conveniently located around the lake, and boat rentals are available at marinas for pleasure boats, canoes and kayaks. Some day-use areas provide over a mile of shoreline for fishing from the bank. Popular for having three kinds of bass, Chatuge Lake is an ideal destination for avid bass anglers. In addition to bass there are plenty of crappie, catfish, bluegill, white bass, hybrid stripers and sunfish. With over 130 miles of shoreline, there is plenty of water for anglers fishing from the bank or a boat. Rocky banks, some with stumps and laydowns offer cover to bass. There are also many boat docks which often create ideal hangouts for baitfish, bass, crappie and sunfish. Seek out ledges and submerged humps around the lake for structure fishing. Those located near deeper creek channels often produce fish fairly consistently. Because the lake is located in both Georgia and North Carolina, fishing regulations for both states come into play. Check fishing regulations for specific rules regarding this reservoir, before wetting a line.

Chatuge Lake Amenities

Marina: YES
Boat Rental: YES
Boat Launch Ramp: YES
Campgrounds: YES
RV Hookups: YES
Lodging: YES
Convenience Store: YES
Bait & Tackle: YES
Restaurant: YES

Camping

Chatuge Woods Campground - 706 994-1533

Long Ridge Campground - 762 500-2055

River Bend Campground - 706 896-1415

Mountain View Campground - 706 970-2112

Hickorynut Cove Campground - 706 896-5341

Chatuge Lake Map

Fishing

Fish species found in Chatuge Lake include largemouth bass, smallmouth bass, spotted bass, channel catfish, black crappie, bluegill, redbreast sunfish, white bass and hybrid striped bass.

Largemouth bass Smallmouth bass Spotted bass Channel catfish Black crappie Bluegill Redbreast Sunfish White Bass Hybrid Striped Bass