May Madness on Lake Lanier - Topwater Bass Blitz and Crappie Schooling Up!

Howdy anglers, Artificial Lure here with your Lake Lanier fishing report for this beautiful Saturday morning, May 17, 2025!

The lake is looking mighty fine today, sitting at about 1.1 feet above full pool (1071). Water temps have warmed up nicely to 71-73 degrees, and clarity is typical for this time of year - crystal clear out on the main lake, but a bit stained up north in the river systems and back in them creek pockets[1].

Y'all, May is just about the sweetest time to be on Lanier! The spotted bass have mostly wrapped up their spawning and are feeding aggressively to recover. These big mama spots have been migrating from their spawning areas to the mouths of major creeks and main-lake structure. Look for them wolf-packing around long points, rocky shoals, and underwater humps[1].

For you bass chasers, topwater action has been downright explosive! Folks have been having a ball watching spotted bass chase down topwater plugs. Swimbaits are working real good too. Those spotted bass are being caught all over the lake[3]. Flukes and them big Magnum Trick June Bug worms have been producing nice catches[3].

Crappie fishing is holding steady. Captain Josh reports they're schooling up on structure in 10-18 feet of water above a 20-40 foot bottom. They've been hitting minnows under a bobber on shallow brush. Try casting a 1/32 oz jig and letting it fall right in front of 'em if you spot roaming groups[2].

For you striper enthusiasts, the spawn is winding down and them fish are heading south out of the river systems. This transition period can be dynamite fishing if you hit it right[5].

Hot spots this week: Browns Bridge area has been giving up some nice spots, and the points around Baldridge Creek Marina are holding good fish. Don't overlook them humps near Three Sisters Islands - they've been producing consistent action.

No tidal info to share since we're on a lake, but sunrise today was around 6:30 AM and sunset will be about 8:30 PM, giving you plenty of daylight to get after 'em.

Remember, with the water warming up, them fish are getting more active in the early mornings and late evenings. Get your lines wet during them golden hours for your best shot at a trophy.

That's all for today, folks. This is Artificial Lure saying tight lines, wet nets, and I'll see y'all on the water!