04-27-2001, 02:27 PM
LAKE LANIER AND CHATTAHOOCHEE RIVER FISHING REPORT<br>by Bill Vanderford<br><br> Surface temperatures at Lake Lanier have finally risen to nearly 70 degrees, and the fishing is fantastic! Less water release at the dam and some rain has raised the lake level to around 9 feet below normal pool, and it is rising slowly.<br> Spawning activity for many species in the lake is in “full swing”. Having so many different fish in the shallower parts of the lake at the same time is resulting in great catches for those with the proper information!<br> Though some stripers have gone up the rivers to spawn, most of these big predators are going through this process on points and humps all over the lake. Flat-lined live baits are working good, but many of the stripers are already hitting big topwater lures.This exciting topwater action will continue, and even become better into the month of June, especially early in the day.<br> Most spotted bass are in the middle of their spawning cycle in 5 to 15 feet of water along red clay banks. Those of us “in the know” are catching 20 to 50 of these 1 to 4 pound bass every day with the magical 1/8th ounce Swirleybird. This action will continue until the surface temperature at Lanier surpasses 80 degrees.<br> Crappie fishing above Clarks Bridge and in most of the other creeks around the lake continues to be excellent this year. Most of these fish are being caught on live minnows, but many are also being taken on smaller plastic or hair jigs.<br> Trout fishing in the Chattahoochee River below the dam is great for both rainbow and browns. The new “Chattahoochee Special” spinner is still the hottest lure for trout all over the river this year.<br>Bill Vanderford has won numerous awards for his writing and photography, and has been inducted into the Freshwater Fishing Hall of Fame as a Legendary Guide. He can be reached at 770-962-1241 or at his web site: www.fishinglanier.com<br><br><br>Living to Fish and Fishing to Live<br>Bill Vanderford<br>www.fishinglanier.com<br>770-962-1241