A Visitors Guide to Nottely Lake
Looking for a hidden gem to enjoy a fantastic day on the water during your North Georgia getaway? Nottely Lake is located only a few minutes outside Blue Ridge, GA. It is a wonderful location for boating, fishing, hiking, and of course, luxury cabin rentals to call home after a long day of adventuring.
Whether you are planning to bring your own boating equipment, are looking to rent boats or charter a trip, or simply wish to relax on a sandy beach, Nottely Lake is sure to please.
Just a short drive from your Blue Ridge cabin rental, here’s how you can make the most out of your visit to Nottely Lake.
About Nottely Lake
Nottely Lake is just a couple of hours north of Atlanta and a few minutes drive from our Blue Ridge cabin rentals. This 4,180-acre lake has 108 miles of shoreline and is popular for outdoor recreation.
Nottely Lake is a favorite for those interested in fishing, hiking, and watersports. There are numerous public boat launches and a marina where you can rent pontoon boats, kayaks, and canoes. Only a short drive from your rental cabin, a day at Nottely Lake is sure to entertain.
Activities at Nottely Lake
Photo by Sonny Wolf
Hiking
Enjoy great views of Nottely Lake when you hike the Nottely Reservoir Trail. This 2.5 mile takes you along the waterfront before winding through the lush woods to return to your starting point. Considered an easy route, this trail is suitable for children, and leashed dogs are welcome.Mountain bikers are also welcome to use the Nottely Reservoir Trail, a fun, beginner-friendly track. However, remember to be cautious of hikers and dogs, as this is a popular trail.
Fishing
Nottely Lake is considered a fantastic location for fishing in North Georgia and a must-visit for any anglers vacationing.Many people choose to fish at Nottely Lake to catch exceptionally large striped bass, but largemouth bass, spotted bass, hybrid bass, crappie, bream, catfish, and carp are among the possible catches here. It is possible to bring your own boat and equipment, rent a fishing boat, or book a fishing charter.
Remember that anyone over the age of 16 is required to have a valid fishing license in the state of Georgia. You can obtain your license online or in person with the Georgia Department of Natural Resources.
Boating
Head out for a day of exhilarating water sports or pure relaxation when you take a boat on Nottely Lake! Whether you are interested in water skiing, wakeboarding, tubing, fishing, or simply popping a cold one and relaxing in the sunshine, Nottely Lake is a wonderful location for boating.There are numerous marinas on the lake where you can rent pontoons or fishing boats for half a day, a full day, or multiple days. Each marina will have different rules and requirements, so check with each to find the perfect rental.
Paddling
Enjoy a quiet day exploring the beautiful lake when you go for a paddle in a kayak, canoe, or SUP board. You are welcome to bring your own, or you can rent them from the marina. Paddling on Nottely Lake is a great way to spend the day and provides opportunities for spotting wildlife that might be afraid of a motorized boat.Birdwatching
The North Georgia region is fantastic for birdwatching, and Nottely Lake is no exception. As you hike along the shoreline, you can find a wide variety of birds.Some possible spots include the eastern bluebird, red-bellied woodpecker, great blue heron, and snowy egret. Take a boat out on the lake, and you may have the amazing experience of seeing a majestic bald eagle fly overhead or enjoy seeing wood ducks swimming along beside you.
Swimming
If you would rather stay closer to shore, Poteete Creek Beach is located at that Poteete Creek Campground on the shores of Nottely Lake and is a gorgeous white-sand beach perfect for swimming or sunbathing. This public, county-maintained beach also has a picnic area, public restrooms, and a public boat launch.Boat Rentals
Photo by Robert Linder
If you don’t have your own boat or would prefer not to bring them with you on your vacation, there are a few places on Nottely Lake where you can rent boats and equipment.Each company has different rules and offers, so carefully check with each outfitter to determine the best fit for your excursion. Check the list below for some of the companies offering rentals for use on Nottely Lake.
Nottely Marina
The Nottely Marina offers a variety of boat rentals, including pontoons, fishing boats, canoes, kayaks, and paddle boards. With motorized boats, you have the option of a 2, 4, 6, 8, or 24-hour rental. If you have a longer trip planned, you can also opt for the multi-day or weekly rental.Canoes, kayaks, and paddleboards can be rented hourly, or choose a full-day or multi-day rental for a discount. All gear, including life jackets, is included in your rental.
Tubing or skiing is not allowed with your rental. Certain dates require an 8-hour rental minimum, so check with the operator if you are traveling during a holiday.
Pets are welcome with a $25 fee, and all boat drivers must be at least 18 years of age. Fuel is not included.
Nottely Boat Club and Marina
The Nottely Boat Club and Marina is another great option for boat rentals at Nottely Lake. They have two types of pontoon boats available: a 22-foot “tritoon,” rated for up to 12 people and suitable for tubing, and a 16-foot pontoon, which is rated for up to 7 people, but is not suitable for tubing.You can rent the boat for half a day, a full day, or multiple days. Tube rentals are also available with certain boats. Note that all boat drivers must be at least 25 years old, and pets are not allowed. Fuel is not included.
Invert Sports
Invert Sports is a great choice if you are interested in getting your adrenaline pumping with exciting water sports on Nottely Lake. As one of the largest boat rental companies in the country, Invert Sports offers a huge variety of boats suitable for water skiing, tubing, wakeboarding, fishing, or simply sightseeing.They also offer jet skis and water toys such as trampolines, tubes, flyboards, and SUP boards. Their website shows the rates for each vessel, and you can contact Invert Sports to secure your rental.
Fishing Charters
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Photo by Brady Rogers
If fishing is on your agenda for your North Georgia cabin getaway, consider booking a fishing charter and Nottely Lake. With experienced guides and all the equipment necessary, a charter provides the best chance of getting your dream catch.