I am planning a fishing excursion with my fishing partner to visit some southeast lakes. We plan to fish Chicamauga, then Guntersville, then on the way back toward home, either Norman or High Rock. My home lake is Smith Mountain Lake, VA. We have taken some other trips but usually with other boaters familiar to the areas. I'm hoping you fine folks can help me out with some good places to stay near each Lake preferably closest to an easy accessible launch ramp, or a launch spot near some great fishing sections of each lake. We will have GPS on the water. The trip will last about one week and we are breaking up travel by hitting these spots. The time will be late march. So what I am asking are

Hotels/ motels boat friendly,

Good boat launch locations and any fees.,

Lake specific Seasonal tactics- this will help us travel a little lighter so not to bring more tackle than necessary.

If anyone is willing to give idea of best sections of lake it would be appreciated, we will only fish here most likely one time ever, and if all goes well we will try to make trips to other great fisheries. Kind of a fishing bucket list.

When you plan on taking this trip?  That would likely help to narrow it down.  I used to live and work right at Lake Norman and it can really depend on the time of year as to where you fish/stay and how much $ that might run you.  Also with the seasonal tactics piece it will certainly help to get some more relevant responses.

The trip will be the end of March. Or early April

The biggest bass I've caught on Lake Norman was only about 4.75 lbs, but caught on a white strike king buzzbait right in front of the biggest dock of about 12 docks.  There are TONS of docks on Lake Norman so if you like that sytle of fishing you're in good shape.  Also plenty of other types of fishing, thousands of coves.  Around that time frame there's a few baits i'd be stuck on    1. Texas Rig Worm pumpkin or watermelon  2. lipless crank (shad colors)  3.  buzzbait - white  4.  spinnerbait - white with silver blades

as far as where to stay, you're cheaper options will be around Mooresville, NC (exit 36 on I77) lots of options, lots of food, etc.  As far as the safety of the boat that can be questionable on that exit.  If you go more towards Huntersville (exit 25 on I77) it may cost a bit more, but i lived there for years and felt as safe there as anywhere i've ever been.  also the big boat ramp (blythe landing) is on that exit so would be very convenient to access

 

Good luck and hope you get plenty of info on here before heading out. 

The Hampton Inn in Guntersville is boater and fisherman friendly.  Their parking lot has electrical hook-ups for boats, and there are several ramps near-by.

Thank you Buzz, and Mike. This place is full of lots of info. I appreciate your help. I will look into these places and let you all know how we do. All replies are welcome.