Plan your perfect getaway at Clarks Hill Lake! Experience water sports, wildlife viewing, and scenic trails for a memorable outdoor escape.

Things To Do 

Things To Do In Clarks Hill Lake

Ready to fish in South Carolina? Secure your fishing license quickly and easily. Start your angling adventure with a valid license in hand.

Fishing License

Get Your Valid South Carolina Fishing License 

Chase wall hanger stripers on Lake Russell. 6 hour trophy trips targeting 20+ lb fish with expert guide.

Trophy Lake Hunt

Lake Russell Trophy Trips

Book your group striped bass charter on Clarks Hill Lake. Up to 6 per boat, expert guides included.

Big Striper Fun

Premium Clarks Hill Striper Trips for Big Groups

Book your Lake Thurmond striped bass fishing charter today. 6-hour guided trips for 1-6 anglers.

Striper Spree

Expert Guided Striper Fishing on Clarks Hill Lake

Join our 8-hour beginner combo charter targeting striped bass and crappie on Clarks Hill Lake.

Lake Combo Trip

Top-Rated Clarks Hill Lake Combo Fishing Trip

Join our renowned 6-hour crappie charter on Clarks Hill Lake. All gear included, 1-6 anglers welcome. Book today!

Crappie Catch

Best Crappie Fishing on Clarks Hill Lake

Book your 8-hour combo charter targeting stripers and crappie on Clarks Hill Lake. All gear included.

Clarks Angling

Pro Angler Combo: Clarks Hill Bass & Crappie

Striped bass on Clarks Hill<ul><li>Offers 6-hour and big group striped bass charters on Clarks Hill Lake, with trips for 1 to 6 anglers per boat.</li><li>Reviews describe striper trips with strong catches, including a day that produced 27 good quality fish.</li></ul>Crappie and combo trips<ul><li>Runs a 6-hour crappie charter on Clarks Hill Lake for anglers of all skill levels.</li><li>Offers 8-hour combo charters targeting both striped bass and crappie, in beginner and professional anglers versions.</li></ul>Trophy and catfish trips<ul><li>Runs 6-hour striper trips on Lake Russell aimed at fish over 20 pounds.</li><li>Offers a 6-hour catfish charter targeting blues, channels and flats.</li></ul>Light and heavy tackle<ul><li>Profile lists both HeavyTackle and LightTackle as fishing techniques offered.</li></ul>

Learn more about Bradd Sasser a Book Your Next Clarks Hill Lake Fishing Charters in William Sasser Guide Service

Bradd Sasser - William Sasser Guide Service

Clarks Hill Recreation Area - McCormick, SC

Making the Most of Summer Days

Unwind and Enjoy the Peaceful Moment

Always a blast with Mr. Jimmy and Chris on the boat!


Large catch of striped bass and yellow bass displayed on table after successful fishing trip in Appling GA

Striped bass limits with the crew

Cooler filled with fresh caught white bass and striped bass from Appling GA fishing trip

Strong striped bass action continues

Another great Masters week in the books now time to take a break and go watch the final round tomorrow!


Large catch of white bass and striped bass displayed on cleaning table in Appling GA

Masters week wrapped up with a striped bass limit

Wrapping Up Another Strong Week

Nice mess of fish this morning with the Williford guys!


Morning Limits with the Williford Crew”

Striped Bass

Consistent Striper Bite on Clarks Hill Lake Keeps Rods Bending

Striped bass fishing on Clarks Hill Lake is heating up, with solid action for anglers targeting early morning and late evening bites. The best success has been coming around first light, especially near the dam and lower lake channels, where schools of stripers are pushing baitfish to the surface. Topwater plugs, live herring, and swimbaits have been the go-to choices, with plenty of surface explosions adding excitement to each cast.

Mid-morning, the bite tends to slow down, but deeper trolling or downlines with live bait have been productive around 30 to 50 feet. Anglers using electronics to locate suspended fish are having consistent success. The action has been steady, with fish ranging from 5 to 15 pounds and the occasional trophy pushing higher.

Windier days have helped concentrate the bait, creating more defined feeding zones near long points, submerged humps, and the mouths of major creeks. While some boats are finding fish in open water, those willing to move around and stay mobile are finding the most consistent action.

Overall, Clarks Hill Lake continues to offer strong striped bass opportunities. Whether you're chasing them on artificials or soaking live bait, the current conditions are ideal for putting a bend in your rod and bringing some heavy hitters to the boat.

Clarks Hill Lake Fishing Report – May 24, 2024

Current Conditions:

Weather: Clear skies with a mild breeze
Temperature: 75°F in the morning, rising to 85°F by afternoon
Water Temperature: 72°F
What's Biting:

Striper: Active and biting well in the early morning hours. Look for them near the dam and in deeper waters around submerged structures.
Crappie: Consistently biting throughout the day. They are being found around brush piles and underwater ledges.
Largemouth Bass: Moderate activity, mostly near shallow waters with cover. Late afternoon has seen increased bites.
Catfish: Steady bites in the evening. Best spots are near creek channels and the lake's coves.
Tips from Captain Bradd Sasser:

Striper Fishing: Use live bait and troll slowly near the dam. Early morning is the best time to catch these fighters.
Crappie Fishing: Minnows and small jigs are working well. Target areas with underwater structures.
Largemouth Bass Fishing: Try using crankbaits and soft plastics around shallow cover. Late afternoon has been particularly productive.
Catfish Fishing: Chicken liver and cut bait are proving effective. Focus on deeper channels and coves during the evening.

Clarks  Hill Fishing Report

J. Strom Thurmond Reservoir - Lincoln, GA

Clark Hill Lake Fishing Report 

Had a great time with the guys. Had a lot of Striped Bass. Fun day at Clark Lake Hill.  Contact us to book your Clark Hill Lake Fishing Trip and let's have a fun Bass Fishing. 

Striped Bass Fishing | Thurmond Lake Fishing Report

It’s been some darn good fishing recently!


3 big fish caught in Appling during fishing trip

5 striped bass and yellow bass fish caught in Appling

5 yellow bass and wiper fish caught in GA

Five striped bass and yellow bass caught in GA

3 striped bass caught while fishing in Appling

Are you ready to embark on a fishing adventure like no other? Look no further than William Sasser Guide Service in Lake Thurmond, also known as Clarks Hill Lake, a pristine reservoir teeming with fish just waiting for your bait. Whether you're a seasoned angler or a first-timer looking for a memorable day on the water, William Sasser Fishing Charters, LLC is your gateway to an unforgettable fishing experience in this beautiful Georgia destination. At William Sasser Fishing Charters, LLC, we've built our reputation on one simple principle: 100% customer satisfaction. Our commitment to ensuring you have the best time on the water is unwavering. With over 30 years of experience, our captain, Bradd, is a third-generation Sasser who possesses an unmatched knowledge of Clarks Hill Lake. He's not just a guide; he's a passionate angler who grew up creating cherished memories on these waters. Step aboard our top-of-the-line 24 ft sun tracker Tritoon, powered by a 2022 Mercury 200 engine. This vessel offers a spacious and comfortable environment for up to six people, ensuring you have ample room to enjoy your fishing adventure. With a maximum cruising speed of 40 mph, you'll get to your fishing spot quickly, maximizing your time on the water. At William Sasser Fishing Charters, LLC, we believe in making your fishing trip hassle-free and enjoyable. That's why we provide all the fishing essentials, including rods, reels, and tackle. Just bring along your fishing license, some snacks, drinks, and weather-appropriate clothing, and we'll take care of the rest. Our fishing charters are not limited to any one group. Whether you're planning a corporate event, a family outing, or any special occasion, we can tailor your fishing trip to meet your unique needs. We take pride in creating a personalized experience that ensures everyone on board has a fantastic time. With over four decades of experience fishing on Clarks Hill Lake, Captain Bradd knows these waters like the back of his hand. His expertise ensures that you'll be taken to the perfect spots where you're guaranteed to reel in plenty of fish. Your safety, enjoyment, and success are his top priorities. Don't miss the opportunity to experience the thrill of fishing on Georgia's Freshwater Coast. Charter a fishing trip with William Sasser Fishing Charters, LLC, and let us turn your fishing dreams into reality. Book and get ready for an amazing trip!

EPSG:4269

Always a blast with Mr. Jimmy and Chris on the boat!

Another great Masters week in the books now time to take a break and go watch the final round tomorrow!

Charter a Fishing trip to Georgia's Freshwater Coast

Book your unforgettable fishing adventure with William Sasser Guide Service today and experience the thrill of Clarks Hill Lake like never before. Don't miss out on the catch of a lifetime – reserve your spot now and let's reel in some memories together!

With more than 40 years of experience on Clarks Hill Lake, William Sasser Fishing Charters, LLC has built a reputation for delivering safe, enjoyable, and memorable fishing trips. Our professional guide brings unmatched local knowledge to every charter, making each trip an opportunity to reel in impressive catches while learning the patterns of striped bass and other gamefish. Whether it’s your first time on the water or you're a seasoned angler, we’re here to provide a fun, relaxed, and rewarding experience. Every charter is customized to fit your group’s needs—perfect for families, friends, corporate groups, or anyone looking to enjoy a day on Georgia’s most scenic freshwater lake. We focus on creating experiences that are comfortable, successful, and filled with great memories. Browse our photo gallery to see real moments from past trips—smiling faces, big fish, and the kind of fishing stories worth telling. At William Sasser Fishing Charters, your next great day on Clarks Hill Lake is just a trip away.

Give the gift of adventure with a William Sasser Guide Service gift card, perfect for those seeking thrilling fishing experiences on Georgia's beautiful lakes.

Purchase A William Sasser Guide Service  Gift Card today!

Easily change trip dates, times, or trip type by contacting William Sasser Guide Service from your receipt or right from our website! We look forward to fishing with you

Purchase an E-Gift card and your loved one will apply that unique confirmation code to the booking at checkout from&nbsp;https://williamsasserfishing.com

William Sasser Guide Service The Ultimate Fishing Charter Experience from Clarks Hill Lake

With over 30 years of hands-on experience fishing the waters of Clarks Hill Lake, Captain Bradd Sasser brings a lifetime of local knowledge to every trip. As a third-generation guide, Bradd grew up learning the rhythms of the lake and the art of live bait fishing from an early age. His deep-rooted connection to Clarks Hill is more than professional—it’s personal. Raised in a family that spent countless hours fishing these waters, Bradd's passion is grounded in decades of tradition and genuine love for the sport. Bradd’s father, Captain William Sasser, laid the foundation for the family’s guiding legacy. A U.S. Coast Guard licensed captain with First Aid and CPR training, William has over 50 years of experience fishing Clarks Hill Lake, along with time spent guiding in the Salt Marshes and offshore waters. His knowledge, professionalism, and steady leadership shaped the approach Bradd brings to each outing—calm, confident, and focused on providing a rewarding experience for every angler. Specializing in targeting striped bass and crappie, Captain Bradd's skillset reflects his commitment to the species that define Clarks Hill Lake’s sportfishing scene. His understanding of seasonal patterns, bait behavior, and lake structure allows him to consistently put clients on fish. But beyond technique, what sets Bradd apart is his approachable demeanor and genuine enthusiasm for helping others learn and enjoy time on the water. Whether you’re new to fishing or have decades of experience yourself, you’ll feel right at home with Captain Bradd at the helm. <h2>Boat Details</h2>Captain Bradd runs trips on a 24-foot Sun Tracker Tritoon powered by a 2022 Mercury 200 engine. The boat is designed for both comfort and performance, offering a smooth ride and plenty of room for up to six guests. With a top speed of 40 mph, it gets you to the fishing grounds quickly and efficiently, so there’s more time spent casting lines and reeling in fish. The Tritoon’s spacious layout makes it ideal for families, friends, and small groups looking to enjoy a relaxed and productive day on the water. CONTACT: Phone Number: (706) 267-4313Email: bsasser22@att.net

Meet Captain Bradd Sasser of William Sasser Guide Service 

Common Questions What types of fishing trips does William Sasser Guide Service offer at Clarks Hill Lake?William Sasser Guide Service offers a variety of fishing trips tailored to your interests, including bass, crappie, and catfish trips. Whether you’re looking for a half-day adventure, a full-day excursion, or a weekend trip, our guides customize each outing to match skill level and fishing preferences. How much does a fishing charter with William Sasser Guide Service cost?Pricing for William Sasser Guide Service varies depending on the trip length and number of anglers. Half-day trips typically start at [insert price], while full-day trips range from [insert price]. Group and family packages are available for larger parties. Contact us directly for a detailed quote. What is included in a fishing charter at Clarks Hill Lake?Each fishing charter includes a professional guide, all necessary fishing equipment, tackle, and bait. We also provide local knowledge of the best fishing spots on Clarks Hill Lake to maximize your catch. Boats, safety gear, and expert guidance are all part of the package. What should I bring on my Clarks Hill Lake fishing trip?We recommend bringing sunscreen, a hat, polarized sunglasses, snacks, drinks, and a camera to capture your catches. While we provide rods, reels, tackle, and bait, personal items like rain gear or a cooler for your catch can make your trip more comfortable. When is the best time to go fishing at Clarks Hill Lake?The best fishing seasons at Clarks Hill Lake are spring and fall when fish are most active. Early mornings and late afternoons tend to yield the best results, especially during the warmer months. Seasonal patterns may affect bass, crappie, and catfish activity. Can beginners join a fishing charter with William Sasser Guide Service?Absolutely! Our guides are experienced in teaching anglers of all skill levels. Whether it’s your first time fishing or you’re an experienced angler, we provide instruction, tips, and hands-on guidance to make the trip enjoyable and productive. Are fishing licenses required for trips at Clarks Hill Lake?Yes, all anglers must have a valid Georgia fishing license. If you don’t already have one, licenses can be purchased online or at local retailers. Our guides can provide guidance on the regulations to ensure your trip is fully compliant. How do I book a fishing charter with William Sasser Guide Service?Booking is easy! You can call or email us directly to schedule your preferred date and trip type. Early reservations are recommended, especially during peak fishing season, to secure your spot with our expert guides. Can I bring my family or kids on a Clarks Hill Lake fishing trip?Yes, our charters are family-friendly and designed to accommodate anglers of all ages. We provide guidance and equipment suited for younger anglers, making it a great way to introduce kids to fishing in a safe and fun environment. What happens if the weather changes during my fishing charter?Safety is our top priority. If severe weather occurs, we may reschedule your trip or adjust the itinerary to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience. Light rain usually does not cancel trips, as our boats are equipped to handle mild conditions.

About Clarks Hill Lake

Crappie and Striped Bass Fishing!

Air fee

Bait Fee

Divemaster Fee

Mate's Fee

Nitrox fee

Service Fee

State Taxes

Trimix fee

Spend six early-morning hours working Lake Thurmond’s most productive points, humps, and submerged timber with veteran striper guides. Launching right around 6:00 AM, you'll join your guide in tracking schools on electronics, setting live bait rigs, and running downriggers to target fast-striking Striped Bass at peak feeding depth. With all rods, reels, specialized tackle, and fresh bait fully provided, your group gets dedicated hands-on instruction to set firm hooks, haul in hard-pulling fish, and work toward a full limit before returning to dock.

William Sasser Guide Service

6.00hour

Early-Morning Lake Thurmond Live-Bait Striper Run

Bait's fee

Mate's fee

Gather your entire crew for a coordinated six-hour striper hunt across the expansive waters of Clarks Hill Lake. Designed to host larger family gatherings or corporate teams across dedicated boats, this outing puts everyone in on the action as captains maneuver over productive open-water humps and river channels. Guests will manage downrigger setups, handle live bait spreads, and take turns bringing heavy fish to the net. With complete gear and step-by-step coaching included, your group enjoys an energetic, shared fishing adventure on the water.

Clarks Hill Multi-Boat Group Striper Expedition

Launch at 6:00 AM on Clarks Hill Lake for six hours of focused crappie fishing around deep brush piles, timber, and bridge pilings. Alongside your guide, you'll use sonar to locate active panfish, drop light-tackle live bait rigs, and vertical-jig minnows directly over submerged cover. With all rods, ultra-light tackle, bait, and tailored instruction provided, anglers of any experience level can master subtle bite detection, fill the livewell with slab Crappie, and work toward a full limit before heading back.

Crappie

Hands-On Clarks Hill Lake Morning Crappie Drift

Spend eight full hours on Clarks Hill Lake learning two distinct freshwater fishing techniques with hands-on, patient instruction. Starting at 6:00 AM, your guide walks you through setting up downriggers and reading sonar as you manage live herring spreads along open river channels for hard-striking Striped Bass. Later in the day, you'll switch to light spinning gear to practice vertical jigging and subtle bite detection over submerged brush piles for slab Crappie. Designed explicitly for newcomers, kids, and families, this full-day experience supplies all gear, bait, and step-by-step coaching to build real angling confidence and bring home a solid multi-species catch.

8.00hour

Beginner Clarks Hill Striper & Crappie Multi-Species Clinic

Air Fee

Nitrox Fee

Trimix Fee

Spend eight full hours executing high-level multi-species strategies across Clarks Hill Lake alongside seasoned professional guides. Launching at 6:00 AM, you'll actively work live electronics to pinpoint deep schools, fine-tune downrigger depths, and manage live herring spreads for heavy Striped Bass along main river channels. Once the morning bite turns, you'll shift to technical panfish tactics—dialing in ultra-light tackle control, feeling subtle takes, and precision-jigging submerged timber and deep brush piles for slab Crappie. With all specialized gear, custom tackle, live bait, and expert tactical instruction provided, this full-day masterclass gives seasoned anglers the tools to maximize their catch and master lake structure.

Pro-Level Clarks Hill Striper & Crappie Masterclass

Divemaster's Fee

Spend six hours targeting a triple-threat of Blue, Channel, and Flathead Catfish across deep ledges, timber-lined channels, and fertile flats. Launching at 7:00 AM, you'll join your guide in rigging bottom rods, baiting heavy circle hooks with fresh cut and live bait, and positioning lines along prime underwater feeding zones. Designed for anglers of all skill levels, this trip gives your group step-by-step instruction to detect heavy takes, manage stout tackle, and wrestle hard-fighting catfish up to the boat for an action-packed day on the water.

Blue Catfish

Channel Catfish

Flathead Catfish

Hands-On Lake Catfish Pursuit for Blues, Channels, and Flatheads

Spend six hours pursuing true trophy Striped Bass exceeding 20 pounds on the deep, timber-lined waters of Lake Russell. Launching at 7:00 AM, you'll join your guide in reading forward-facing sonar to track massive, solitary predators along submerged creek channels and river bends. You'll actively handle heavy tackle—slow-trolling large live gizzard shad, running planner boards, and setting deep downrigger lines directly into monster striper holding zones. With all heavy-duty rods, custom terminal tackle, live bait, and expert tactical coaching provided, anglers get a focused, thrilling opportunity to hook, fight, and land a career-defining wall-hanger.

Lake Russell Trophy Striper Hunt 

Best Boat

Great For Novices

Great For Top Anglers

Great Guide

Good with Kids

Best Spots

Guide

Fresh caught fish displayed on table after successful fishing trip

Multiple freshwater fish laid out on camouflage tarp after successful fishing trip

Fresh caught striped bass and other fish displayed on camouflage tarp in residential driveway

Meet your Guide Bradd Sasser

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Articles by Bradd Sasser

Things To Do In Clarks Hill Lake

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