Lake Information for West Point Lake

Excellent facilities, close proximity to Atlanta and a special regulation on largemouth bass contribute to the popularity of this reservoir. The 14-inch minimum size limit on largemouth bass and an abundant spotted bass population combine to consistently produce quality bass angling.

Good spawning success in the last several years has resulted in a substantial increase in spotted bass numbers and they now comprise around 50 - 60 percent of the total black bass population. However, the two species seem to have reached equilibrium in the last couple of years. Most spotted bass are presently in the 6 - 12 inch range. Remember that there is no size limit on spotted bass on this lake and with the recent increase in abundance, anglers are encouraged to remove spotted bass from West Point.

The abundance and average size of crappie continue to indicate a healthy and stable population and 2008 should be no exception. About 20 percent of the population is between 9-12 inches and over 20 percent are in the 8-9 inch range. Average weight will be just less than 1/3 lb. The best crappie action is usually found by trolling jigs in the traditional spring hot spots in the upper portions of Beech, Whitewater, Wehadkee and Stroud creeks. Crappies are also found around bridges.

Over the years, West Point has maintained an excellent reputation for hybrid fishing because of a combination of high stocking rates and lake characteristics that produce good survival and growth. Total hybrid numbers will be good in 2008, and the typical fish will weigh 1½ lbs. Hybrids are found in abundance below the shoals in Franklin in the spring and scattered along the main river and tributary channels throughout much of the year.
Gulf-race striped bass were last stocked into West Point Lake in 2004. A few larger striped bass in the 20 lbs. range have been caught in the past years. Because of the limited natural reproduction, total striped bass numbers have declined in recent years. These numbers should increase greatly with the revitalization of the striper-stocking program. Many 12-inch+ stripers are being caught and sizes should only increase as the smaller fish grow. The white bass population has declined slightly due to the relatively weak classes produced in the last several years. Over 25 percent of the population is currently in the preferred 12-15 inch range and exceptional fishing can be found during the spring in the upper reaches of the Chattahoochee River arm in Franklin.
West Point is probably the best channel catfish lake in middle Georgia with many 15-24 inch quality-sized fish. As on most large reservoirs, bream are overpopulated and few reach catchable size. Average length for bluegill is about 4 to 6 inches and the less abundant redear (shellcracker) average 7-8 inches.