Largemouth, spotted and shoal bass are all
present. As the most abundant, expect average largemouth catches
of 1 to 1 1/3 pounds. Spots should average 7-12 inches and just
under 1/2 pound. Expect occasional catches of shoal bass in the
tailwaters below Goat Rock Dam.
Technique
Good bait for bass are plastic worms,
crankbaits and spinners.
Target
For largemouth and spotted bass, target
boat docks and fishing piers, but do not overlook rocky points,
small coves and stumpy areas. In general, search for spots in
deeper water than largemouth.
Catfish
Prospect
Channel catfish are in good supply and
above average in condition.
Technique
Stink and cut baits, and night crawlers are
effective.
Target
For catfish, fish bait on or near the
bottom in the river channel. Also, try fishing holes off docks
where structure can be found.
Bream
Prospect
Fishing for bluegill and redear sunfish is
most popular at Lake Oliver. Expect good bluegill fishing from
April through May, with the average catch at 4-6 inches and 1/4
to 1/3 pound. Redear sunfish are larger, with some averaging
closer to ½ pound.
Technique
Live worms work best. Crickets also are
effective.
Target
Target the backs of protected coves and
sloughs for the best bream spots. Brush piles and structure also
hold bream especially around the shoreline.
Crappie
Prospect
Crappie anglers should do well with most
catches averaging 1/3 to 3/4 pound. Dedicated anglers can expect
the occasional lunker size catch.
Technique
Various jigs are preferred, but minnows
also are effective.
Target
Favorite spots: the mouth of Standing Boy
Creek and under Standing Boy Creek Bridge; the boat dock at Green
Island Marina.
Other
Species
Prospect
Striped bass have been stocked and 12 inch
plus fish should be available.
Technique
Fishing with live shad is the most
effective way of catching linesides. Jigs and spoons also can be
effective. The observant angler can often locate schools of
feeding stripers by watching for seagulls diving into the water
for baitfish.
Target
In the spring, try fishing for stripers in
the tailrace of Goat Rock Dam. During the rest of the year
stripers are usually found throughout the lake.
Additional
Information
Additional fishing information
can be obtained from the newly renovated City Marina at
706-653-4634. New docks and a bait and tackle store are now
available.
Georgia Power has improved access to the Oliver tailrace area on
the North Highland impoundment. Access to the new addition is
located just off the Columbus River Walk trailhead next to Oliver
Dam and City Marina.
Generating schedules and lake level information is available by
calling Georgia Power at 706-317-6000.
Good: 
Fair: 
