Premier Bass Fishing Experience
Year-round on Lake Hartwell, there are always several dynamic ways to pattern and catch fish, but dialing into the right pattern is key to consistently putting bass in the boat. Understanding seasonal shifts and recognizing the subtle changes in fish behavior—whether it’s deep structure, creek channels, or shallower spawning flats—is what separates good days from great ones on Hartwell. From winter ledges to spring flats and summer brush piles, reading the lake and adjusting your approach is essential to staying on top of the bite
During the spawn, mid-March to late April, bass are aggressive and predictable as they guard their beds in shallow, clear waters. This is prime time for sight fishing, where a well-placed soft plastic, like a creature bait or worm, can provoke big strikes. Patience and precision are key, as each fish reacts differently. Handle them with care, release them quickly, and enjoy the thrill of landing trophy bass during this rewarding season.
During the prespawn on Lake Hartwell, bass feed heavily on shad and crawfish as they prepare for the spawn. This is an excellent time to target both numbers and trophy-sized spotted and largemouth bass. The late winter offshore bite offers a perfect opportunity to refine your skills and gain a deeper understanding of seasonal fish behavior, making it one of the most productive and educational times of the year.
Postspawn and herring spawn mark the beginning of my favorite time of year on Lake Hartwell. This is when fish transition from the spawning phase and start feeding heavily as they make their way to their summertime habitats. During this period, the fishing action picks up, with the opportunity to catch good numbers of fish, including some impressive sizes. Topwater techniques also come into play, adding an exciting element to the experience and making it one of the most productive and enjoyable times to fish on the lake.
Summertime
During this time on Lake Hartwell, it’s run-and-gun season at its finest. The topwater bite is hot all day, and the thrill of chasing big spots and largemouth as they hammer herring on the surface is unmatched. This is hands-down the most electrifying bite of the year, with days where you can pull in 30 to 40 fish—all on topwater. The explosive strikes, the numbers, the size… it's what we live for as anglers. When Hartwell lights up like this, every cast feels like it could bring the fish of a lifetime.
Lake Hartwell
Meet the Guide
Cole Wilson
2025 marks 12 incredible years of fishing on Lake Hartwell, and every season brings new lessons about this special place. Hartwell is home to some of North Georgia’s finest spotted bass and largemouth fishing, and it only seems to get better with time. To consistently catch fish here, understanding their daily patterns and behaviors is key. If you’re ready to dive deeper into the art of patterning and catching Hartwell’s bass, while enjoying great conversations and a few laughs, let Spot Chaser Guide Service take you on your next fishing adventure. Let’s make memories on the water!"