Load up the rods and reels, stock up the tackle box, grab your favorite fishing buddy, and dip your hooks into a river (or a lake) of fishing fun with these reely nice fishing spots in Dublin-Laurens!
Reely Nice Fishing Spots
River Bend Wildlife Management Area
Experience a fishing trip that brings you closer to nature when you visit River Bend Wildlife Management Area at 1945 Highway 199 in East Dublin GA. Explore two tracts full of beautiful flora, active fauna, and secluded spots perfect for a quiet day of fishing and camping. Cast off the bank of Pugh’s Creek or don a life jacket and set off into Troup’s Spring Lake from a paved boat ramp. Catch a cooler full of bass, bream, and other game fish.
Hugh M. Gillis Public Fishing Area
For an outdoor experience fit for anglers of all ages, pack up the family and head to Hugh Gillis Public Fishing Area off US-80 in East Dublin GA! Open year round, this PFA includes a boat ramp, canoe access, a fishing pier, nature trails, picnic sites, primitive campsites, and restrooms. Spot fish species like the largemouth bass, bluegill, channel catfish, crappie, and redear sunfish. Hugh Gillis PFA also hosts hunts for deer and turkey during which trails and camping areas are closed, so make sure to check hunting dates before planning a family trip!
Beaverdam Wildlife Management Area
For the rugged outdoorsmen looking for the ultimate primitive camping and fishing destination, journey to Beaverdam Wildlife Management Area. Hike around the WMA to fish in one of the many lakes and streams or hit the northeast corner to find a convenient boat ramp to launch into the Oconee River. Here, you’ll find redbreast sunfish, channel catfish, and largemouth bass. Fish YOUR way: hook and line, trotline, jug, or bow fishing! To visit Beaverdam, take US 441 north 4.5 miles; turn right on Old Toomsboro Road, go 7.5 miles to WMA sign; turn right on Oconee Church Road, and turn at WMA sign.
Free Fishing Day
Georgia hosts two Free Fishing Days every year in honor of National Fishing and Boating Week, and there’s also a Free Fishing Day for National Hunting and Fishing Day! Head to Hugh M. Gillis PFA for National Hunting and Fishing Day event on Saturday, September 28th from 8 AM to 12 PM. Kids fish in the pavilion pond and try out the archery station. Bring along your own fishing gear, but archery gear will be provided. No licenses are needed for Georgia residents to fish in Public Fishing Areas, Wildlife Management Areas, and other public waters in the state. It’s a perfect chance to share the joy of fishing with someone new!
For more information on Georgia Fishing Regulations, CLICK HERE or pick up a copy at the Dublin Visitors Center!
Need help getting a fishing license? Stop at the Visitors Center right off I-16 at Exit 51, and we will help set you up for your next Dublin GA fishing excursion.
