LivewellGeorgia · Lake
Lake Oconee
Is the fish you caught here safe to eat? Below is every consumption advisory on file for Lake Oconee, by species and size, in plain English — plus what's legal to keep.
1 species with advisories · contaminants: Mercury
Georgia also has statewide guidance
Georgia publishes rules that apply to lakes across the state — 1 recommendation covering 1 species — in addition to anything listed for Lake Oconee below.
Strictest statewide rule: All Other Species — For women who may become pregnant, pregnant or breastfeeding women, and children under 15: limit to one meal per week due to elevated Mercury.
What's safe to eat from Lake Oconee
Largemouth Bass
| Size | Who | Guidance |
|---|---|---|
| 12–16" | General population | Limit to one meal per week due to elevated Mercury. |
Source: official advisory· updated 2026-09-22
Is it legal to keep?
These are Georgia's statewide limits — a water-specific rule may override them. Always verify the current regulations before keeping a fish.
| Species | Size | Daily limit | Open season | Keep season |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Largemouth Bass | — | 10 | Year-round | Same as open |
| Black Crappie | — | 30 | Year-round | Same as open |
| Channel Catfish | — | — | Year-round | Same as open |
| Bluegill | — | 50 | Year-round | Same as open |
| Striped Bass | — | 15 | Year-round | Same as open |
Official rules: Georgia — Georgia DNR WRD