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Alabama · Fishing
Fruithurst sits in the rolling hills of Cleburne County, and the fishing around town is built around quiet lake fishing rather than big river runs.
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Fruithurst sits in the rolling hills of Cleburne County, and the fishing around town is built around quiet lake fishing rather than big river runs. The three lakes in the area — Terrapin Creek Lake Number 22, Coleman Lake Recreation Area, and Sweetwater Lake — each offer a different experience, but all lean toward the kind of relaxed, bank-or-boat freshwater fishing that suits anglers who want a low-key day on the water without a long drive to a major reservoir. Coleman Lake is part of a developed recreation area, which means easier access, parking, and facilities. Terrapin Creek Lake Number 22 and Sweetwater Lake are smaller and more secluded, better suited to anglers who don't mind a simpler setup in exchange for fewer crowds. Expect warm-water species typical of Alabama piedmont lakes — bass, bream, and catfish are the most likely targets in this part of the state. None of the lakes in this scope are designated gold-medal or wild-trout waters, so this is warm-water fishing country through and through. Spring and fall are the most productive seasons, though summer mornings before the heat sets in can also fish well. If you're planning a trip specifically to Fruithurst, these three lakes give you enough variety to fill a full weekend without repeating yourself.
Yes, Alabama requires a valid state fishing license for anyone 16 and older. You can purchase one online through the Alabama Department of Conservation and Natural Resources or at local bait and tackle shops. Coleman Lake Recreation Area may also have its own day-use or access fee separate from your state license, so check ahead before you go.
These are warm-water lakes in the Alabama piedmont, so largemouth bass, bluegill, redear sunfish, and channel catfish are the most realistic targets. None of the lakes listed are designated trout waters, so don't plan a trip around cold-water species.
Coleman Lake Recreation Area
~6 min drive
A worthwhile stop near AL.
High Rock Lake
~15 min drive
A worthwhile stop near AL.
Choccolocco Creek Wildlife Management Area
~40 min drive
Hard
Weiss Lake
~55 min drive
Easy
Coosa River Below Logan Martin Dam
~1h 16m drive
Moderate
Sweetwater Lake
~6 min drive
A worthwhile stop near AL.
Terrapin Creek Lake Number 22
~11 min drive
A worthwhile stop near AL.
Teague Lake
~32 min drive
A worthwhile stop near GA.
Morgan Lake
~36 min drive
A worthwhile stop near AL.
Lake Olympia
~37 min drive
A worthwhile stop near GA.
Camp Shepherd Lake
~46 min drive
A worthwhile stop near GA.
Lake Chinnabee Recreation Area
~55 min drive
A worthwhile stop near AL.
Coleman Lake Recreation Area is the most accessible of the three, with developed facilities that make it easier for families and beginners. Terrapin Creek Lake Number 22 and Sweetwater Lake are smaller and less developed, which suits experienced anglers looking for solitude but may be less convenient if you're bringing kids or a lot of gear.
Early morning is consistently the most productive window, especially in summer when midday heat pushes fish into deeper, cooler water. In spring and fall, you can fish effectively through mid-morning and again in the late afternoon. Midday fishing in July and August is generally slow.
A medium-action spinning rod in the 6- to 7-foot range covers most situations across these lakes. For bass, soft plastics and small crankbaits work well; for bream and sunfish, a simple bobber-and-worm setup is hard to beat. If you plan to catfish, bring a heavier rod and some cut bait or chicken liver. A small kayak or canoe opens up more of the water at Sweetwater Lake and Terrapin Creek Lake Number 22, where boat ramp infrastructure may be limited.
