Striped Bass

Targeting striped bass near Rest Haven, Georgia means heading to Lake Lanier, a renowned striper fishery. Lanier offers a unique, freshwater environment for these hard-fighting fish. Winter and early spring are generally considered the best times to chase stripers here, as they congregate in the southern end of the lake and around the dam. Trolling live shad or herring is a popular and effective technique. During the warmer months, stripers tend to move deeper, requiring downriggers or lead core line to reach them. A key piece of local knowledge: Watch for bird activity, as this often indicates schools of stripers feeding on baitfish below. Public access is readily available via numerous boat ramps around the lake, but arrive early to avoid long lines. The striper population in Lanier is sustained through stocking programs, ensuring a robust fishery for years to come.