As of November 14, 2024, Lake Lanier in Georgia is offering some exciting fishing opportunities despite the transitional weather. Here’s what you need to know for a successful day on the lake.
### Lake Conditions
Lake Lanier is currently 2.1 feet below full pool, with water temperatures in the 70s and clarity varying across the lake due to the annual turnover. This turnover, where cooler surface water sinks and pushes deeper water to the surface, can sometimes make fishing challenging, but the bass and stripers are still active.
### Weather and Sunrise/Sunset
Today, expect mild temperatures with highs in the mid-70s and lows in the mid-50s. Sunrise is at around 6:54 AM, and sunset will be at approximately 5:14 PM. The weather is mostly clear, making it an ideal day for fishing.
### Fish Activity
Bass fishing on Lake Lanier is fair to good. The top water bite is still active, with surface activity scattered across the lake. Look for windy areas with humps and long points where lures like the Lip Thrasin Riser, Ima Skimmer, swimbaits, and Spot Chokers have been effective. For deeper fishing, the dropshot technique around brush and ledges in the 25- to 35-foot range using Lanier Baits Sweet Rosey or Blue Lily colored worms has been productive. The shakey head bite around docks and blowdowns in the 15-foot range is also yielding results.
Striper fishing is also promising, with these fish seeking oxygen-rich areas. Focus on contours that create movement such as ditches, humps, and feeder creeks where they intersect with the channel. Down lines, flat lines, and planer boards with bluebacks, threads, and minnows are the most effective methods. Dollar bill size gizzards can also provide some excitement.
### Hot Spots
One of the hot spots for bass is around the rocky points and humps, especially those with wood cover. For stripers, head to the upper creeks and rivers where they are moving in search of baitfish. The areas around submerged islands and underwater humps are also prime locations.
### Bait and Lures
For bass, top water lures like the Lip Thrasin Riser and Ima Skimmer are working well. For deeper fishing, use dropshot rigs with Lanier Baits Sweet Rosey or Blue Lily colored worms. Shakey heads around docks and blowdowns are also effective.
For stripers, bluebacks, threads, and minnows on down lines, flat lines, and planer boards are the go-to choices. Gizzards, especially dollar bill size ones, can also attract these fish.
Overall, it's a great time to be out on Lake Lanier, with plenty of fish to catch and beautiful weather to enjoy. Just remember to check your electronics frequently to locate the fish and to wear your life jacket for safety.