Every year, as fall rolls around, I get this itch to be outside as much as possible. The air gets a little crisper, the scenery turns all shades of orange and red, and it feels like nature just pulls you in. It’s prime time for fishing, too, which makes it the perfect excuse for a weekend adventure. I’ve been fishing for a while now—somewhere between the level of “I know my way around a lake” and “no, I’m not entering any tournaments.” So, this fall, I decided to find some prime spots for a mix of serious fishing and equally serious camping.
What I wanted was simple: places in the Southeastern states where I could catch some solid fish, and then kick back around a campfire with friends, swapping stories under the stars. And after a lot of research (and daydreaming), I found a few places that check all the boxes. So if you’re itching for some fall fishing in the Southeast and love spending nights under the stars, I’ve got you covered! These spots offer top-notch fishing for serious catches, plus the perfect outdoor vibes for a weekend with friends. So, pack your rods and reels, bring some s’mores, and let’s dive into some of the best fishing and camping spots in the Southeast for fall!
Let’s dive into the best spots where you can cast your line and then kick back around a campfire.
1. Lake Guntersville, Alabama
Lake Guntersville is known for its bass – we’re talking trophy-sized largemouths. And fall is the season when they start bulking up, giving you a great chance to reel in the big ones. This 69,000-acre lake also has crappie, bluegill, and catfish for variety, and with a bit of patience, you’ll come home with a solid catch.
Camping at Guntersville:
The Lake Guntersville State Park has a beautiful campground with all the facilities you’d need. Whether you’re into tent camping or want a cabin with more comfort, they’ve got it. And you can’t beat the views. Surrounded by hills, the campground offers that perfect mix of adventure and peace.
Pro Tip:
Hit the deeper channels for bass in the fall, especially near submerged vegetation.
2. Okefenokee Swamp, Georgia
The Okefenokee Swamp isn’t your everyday fishing spot. This 438,000-acre swamp and wilderness area is unique, offering anglers the chance to catch warmouth, pickerel, and catfish. Fall brings cooler weather, and the fish are still active, giving you a prime time to fish this mystical swamp.
Camping at Okefenokee:
Camping at Stephen C. Foster State Park is a must. You’ll be close to the fishing areas, and it’s a fantastic spot to witness the swamp’s wildlife. Alligators, birds, and possibly even the eerie calls of local frogs set the stage for a memorable night around the campfire.
Pro Tip:
A canoe or kayak is perfect here. Paddle through cypress-lined channels, fish, and enjoy the thrill of the swamp. Just remember to keep your eyes peeled for gators!
3. Cherokee Lake, Tennessee
Cherokee Lake is a hidden gem in Tennessee, especially if you’re after striped bass and smallmouth bass. Fall brings cooler temps that push the fish into shallower waters, so it’s prime time for casting out and getting serious bites. The lake is surrounded by hills, giving you a backdrop that’ll make every cast feel epic.
Camping at Cherokee Lake:
Cherokee Dam Campground has both primitive sites and full RV hookups, so you can rough it or bring a bit of comfort. Plus, the lake views from the campground are top-notch, and you’re a stone’s throw from the shore.
Pro Tip:
Smallmouth bass are plentiful around rocky points and ledges – the perfect places to drop your line in fall.
4. Lake Jocassee, South Carolina
Lake Jocassee is famous for its crystal-clear water, and it’s also home to some incredible trout fishing. In fact, it’s one of the few places in the Southeast where you can catch trophy-sized rainbow and brown trout. The fall season brings cooler weather, and trout are at their peak, making it an ideal time to hit the lake.
Camping at Lake Jocassee:
Devils Fork State Park is the go-to camping spot here, with campsites right along the water. It’s a popular destination, so book early if you want a good spot. The setting is pristine, with forested hills all around, giving you a great place to recharge between fishing trips.
Pro Tip:
Cast your line deep – the cold-water trout like to hang out in the lake’s deeper, cooler sections. Try using jigs or live bait for the best results.
5. Apalachicola River, Florida
The Apalachicola River offers a wild, rustic experience and fantastic fishing. From largemouth bass to bream and catfish, the river’s diverse ecosystem keeps anglers coming back. The river is calm in the fall, making it a peaceful and productive fishing spot. Plus, the surrounding forests give you that classic fall camping feel.
Camping at Apalachicola:
Tate’s Hell State Forest has primitive campsites scattered along the river. You’ll be close to the water, surrounded by lush greenery and the sounds of wildlife. It’s a bit more rugged, but that just adds to the experience.
Pro Tip:
Fish near drop-offs or slower-moving water for the best catches, especially as cooler fall weather drives the fish out of the faster currents.
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These spots each offer something unique, whether you’re looking for a weekend filled with bass, trout, or catfish, or just a great place to relax by the fire with friends. Get ready to cast your line, set up camp, and enjoy the best that fall has to offer in the Southeast!
Watch this video for some Fall fishing tips.
