For many, the lure of the lake is seen in tandem with a day of relaxing fishing. Lake Hartwell is a prime fishing location all year round, making it a popular destination for fishers in the southeast.
However, before you cast your line, it is important to make sure you are obeying state law and fishing guidelines. Here is what you need to know about fishing Lake Hartwell.
Guidelines for Lake Hartwell fishing
Like almost every other lake, Lake Hartwell has guidelines and regulations surrounding the amount and type of fish you can take out of the water. These regulations help protect marine life and ensure the lake can remain a fishing destination for years to come.
As the lake crosses the boundaries of both Georgia and South Carolina, the states have agreed to the same laws to govern Lake Hartwell.
Fishing at Lake Hartwell can be done on the shore banks, off piers or by boat on lake waters. All boats must be titled and registered and boat operators must have a valid drivers license or other photo id.
Whenever you’re at the shore banks, keep an eye out for blue-green algae which can be toxic. Read more about toxic algae and how to spot it.
Do you need a fishing license at Lake Hartwell?
Yes, almost every person who is fishing in Lake Hartwell is required to have a fishing license. There are a few exceptions to this rule.
For example, youth under the age of 16 are not required to have a fishing permit. Fishers are required to carry the permit on them at all times while fishing and to abide by license regulations.
Fishers can carry either Georgia or South Carolina fishing permit anywhere on the lake waters. To obtain a Lake Hartwell fishing license, locate an agent and apply in person or get one online with the Georgia Department of Natural Resources or the South Carolina Department of Natural Resources.
Note: if you plan to fish at Lake Hartwell and sell the fish you catch, you will need to apply for a special commercial fisher’s permit. Additionally, those who wish to catch trout, even for personal consumption, will need a trout fishing license.
How to Get a Discounted Fishing License
There are several ways to get a discounted fishing license.
Residents of Georgia or South Carolina can purchase a resident license on an annual basis for a discounted rate. Both states also offer discounted fishing licenses to senior citizens age 65 or older, as well as a discounted disability fishing license.
Additionally, fishers at Lake Hartwell can take advantage of several permit-free days each state hosts throughout the year. On these days, no license is required to fish.
Lastly, if you have an interest in both fishing and hunting, you can purchase a discounted sportsman’s license that allows you to hold both licenses at an affordable rate.
How many fish can I catch at Lake Hartwell?
The permit for fishing in Lake Hartwell will allow fishers to have a certain number of species that meet minimum size requirements. To measure the fish, you must measure the total length of the fish from nose to tail tip.
The maximum amount of total fish any person is can have at one time is 50. If you find yourself in that situation, you must stop fishing and consume or release the fish you have.
Regulations for the amount and type of fish can change from season to season, so it is important to familiarize yourself with current fishing laws.
What kind of fish are in Lake Hartwell?
Lake Hartwell is most known for its epic bass fishing, but there are many types of fish in the lake.
Some of the Lake Hartwell fish species include:
- Catfish
- Striped Bass
- Spotted Bass
- Crappie
- Bluegill
- Sunfish
- Large Mouth Bass
- Small Mouth Bass
- Walleye
- Rainbow trout
- Yellow and White Perch
- White Bass
- Flathead Catfish
- And so many more!
There are many fishing guides who are happy to take you out for a lesson on how to fish Lake Hartwell. Remember, fishing in Lake Hartwell is one of the most popular activities on the lake. And while you’re out there, respect the wildlife and nature around and enjoy the bounty of beautiful Lake Hartwell.
Have you been out fishing on Lake Hartwell?
Share your experience in the comments below!
The article wasn’t too bad in a general. The thing that turned me off was the pictures of people with fish that you would be hard pressed to catch from Lake Hartwell. I’ve fished the lake for 39 years and have caught exactly three rainbow trout. I’ve never even heard of anyone catching a small mouth bass and most people wouldn’t even know what a walleye was if they were to catch one.
LOL. You’re not wrong, but it is meant to be a general article and those fish do exist in Lake Hartwell. I admit that it’s hard to find good pictures that I have permission to share, so sometimes I use stock images when I don’t have enough of my own. Care to share some of yours? 🙂
Thank you for the article. I was looking for general information on fishing at Lake Hartwell since I just purchased a home on the lake. Your article provided the information I needed. I can learn a lot from Cary too😊.
I have found nearly 100% of these sites fail to show ” where ” to catch < species ) via directions/GPS coordinates, especially for bank fishing
That info is well guarded by fishermen not to mention that fish don’t stay in one place. Best thing is to go out with a fishing guide, see where they go/what they do. Also/or you can start going out and trying different areas to see what works best for you. Most of all, have fun!
Idk I never imagined that there would be a fish in lake hartwell that would swim up to the edge of our boat head atop the water like it was taking a look at us and then dive down with it’s body taking several seconds to follow it’s head. This I seen with my own eyes and as I did the immediate need to call my daughters and demand they never ever set one foot back in this lake as long as I’m alive. I am not one to dramatizes any situation I assure you. I am as serious as the day is long. Idk what this thing was it was every bit of 31/2 to 4 ft. Had a body that was as big around as an acre size woman’s thigh. It’s head was big as it body almost and short like walleye maybe he’ll idk.it freaked me out I’m glad my husband was sit there with me or else no one would believe me. I don’t believe it myself. Are there really fish in our lake that huge. And so bold as to just swim right on up to the edge of our boat and take a look at ya. Really. !!! I love fishing it’s my passion I love it . Fish every day. Never ever seen anything like it. Please tell me what it is. And if it’s dangerous.
ha ha ha probably a catfish or a stripper
I am from Western NY and relatively new to South Carolina, but have an interest in fishing for walleye. I hear Lake Hartwell actually stocks them. Is this true, and when and where are the most popular times and locations to fish for them? I’d appreciate any useful information that I can get. THANX!!
i love going fishing all years round