GB's Lake in Smyrna: The Best Place to Fish in Cobb County, Georgia
If you've been searching for lakes to fish in Cobb County, Georgia, let me save you some time. GB's Lake in Smyrna is the spot, and I'm not just saying that because I've filmed there. This stocked pay lake has quietly become the premier fishing pay lake in Georgia, and it's sitting right here in our backyard.
Whether you're a lifelong angler or you haven't touched a rod in 20 years, GB's makes it easy. You pull up, pay your fee, and you're fishing within minutes. No boat required, no Georgia fishing license needed for the lake, and no guesswork about whether there are actually fish in the water. There are. A lot of them.
What Is GB's Lake?
GB's Lake is a stocked pay lake located at 400 Hurt Road SW in Smyrna, Georgia, just minutes from Atlanta. Unlike public lakes where you're hoping the fish showed up that day, GB's is stocked regularly with multiple species, which means beginners actually catch fish and experienced anglers get real action.
The lake is currently managed by Dontre Weaver, a former professional catfisherman who has turned GB's into the premier fishing pay lake in the state. That professional touch shows up everywhere, from how well the lake is stocked to the quality of the on-site tackle shop.
What Fish Are in GB's Lake?
This is where GB's separates itself from every other fishing spot in Cobb County. The lake holds:
Largemouth bass - the main draw for a lot of regulars
Channel catfish - managed by a former pro cat fisherman, so you know they take this seriously
Crappie - a favorite for anyone chasing a fish fry
Bream - perfect for kids and beginners
Trout - not something you find at most metro Atlanta lakes (seasonal)
Carp - catch and release only (seasonal)
Very few lakes near Atlanta offer this kind of variety in one spot. You can show up planning to throw for bass and end up on a catfish bite instead or CARP!!!
How Much Does It Cost to Fish at GB's Lake?
Adults pay $10 per day to fish. That's it. Compare that to the cost of a boat, gas, and a day trip to Lake Allatoona or Lake Lanier, and GB's is one of the most affordable fishing experiences in metro Atlanta.
If you want to get out on the water, GB's also allows kayaks and small boats for a $5 launch fee. Non-gas boats only, so bring your kayak, jon boat, or canoe.
Can You Keep the Fish You Catch?
Yes. GB's Lake is catch and keep or catch and release, your choice. There are keep limits depending on the species, so check the current limits when you pay:
Bass, trout, bream, crappie and catfish all have keep limits
All carp must be released, no exceptions
If you're planning a fish fry, this is one of the few places in Cobb County where you can reliably catch dinner.
The Tackle Shop at GB's
Forget stopping at a big box store on the way. GB's has a full service tackle shop on site that stocks:
The latest bass fishing gear, including soft plastics and chatterbaits
Live and frozen baits
Snacks and drinks
They even offer rod repairs, which is almost unheard of at a lake. Show up with nothing but a rod and $20 and you're set for the day. Show up with a broken rod and they might still get you fishing.
Tournaments and Events
GB's occasionally hosts fishing tournaments on the lake. If you've ever wanted to test yourself in a tournament setting without trailering a bass boat to a big reservoir, this is the most accessible way to do it in Cobb County. Follow GB's Lake on social media to catch announcements.
One of the Most Welcoming Spots in Georgia
Everyone is welcome at GB's. On any given day you'll see families, kids, seasoned anglers, and first-timers from every background sharing the bank. It's one of the most welcoming fishing spots I've been to in Georgia, and that comes straight from the top with how Dontre and the staff run the place.
Tips for Your First Trip to GB's Lake
Go early. Mornings are best for bites and for grabbing a good spot on the bank.
Ask the shop what's biting. The staff knows the lake better than anyone. Buy your bait there and ask what's working.
Bring a chair and a cooler. You'll want to stay a while, and if you're keeping fish you'll need somewhere to put them.
Bring the kids. The bream fishing is steady enough to keep young anglers hooked, literally.
Check the keep limits when you pay. Limits vary by species and can change.
Be different. GB’s lake is a highly pressured lake. Fish where nobody else will, try techniques and lures no one else is using!
GB's Lake Details at a Glance
Location: 400 Hurt Road SW, Smyrna, GA 30082
Daily fishing fee: $10 per adult
Boat launch: $5 (kayaks and small non-gas boats)
Species: Bass, channel catfish, crappie, bream, trout, carp
Keep or release: Both allowed, limits by species, all carp released
Tackle shop: Full service, live and frozen bait, rod repairs
License needed: No Georgia fishing license required
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a fishing license at GB's Lake? No. GB's is a private pay lake, so no Georgia fishing license is required. Your $10 daily fee covers you.
Is GB's Lake good for beginners? Absolutely. The lake is stocked regularly, the tackle shop staff will point you in the right direction, and the bream and catfish bite is forgiving for new anglers. I hadn't fished in over 20 years when I first went and still caught three fish.
Can I bring my own boat? Yes, kayaks and small non-gas boats are welcome for a $5 launch fee.
Is GB's Lake family friendly? Very. It's one of the best places in Cobb County to take kids fishing, and there's a horse stable right next door.
Where is GB's Lake located? 400 Hurt Road SW in Smyrna, Georgia, in Cobb County, a short drive from Atlanta, Marietta, and Mableton.
Looking for more places to fish and explore in Georgia? Follow me on TikTok at @jamarexploresgeorgia and check out the rest of the blog for guides to the best outdoor spots in the state.