Ocheesee Pond

OCHEESEE POND is 2,225-acre lake is located south of U.S. Hwy. 90 at Grand Ridge and Sneads. Ocheesee has dark tannic water with approximately 90% of its surface area covered by cypress trees. There is access to the lake by taking SR 69 south of Grand Ridge for 1.0 mile then left on CR 69A for 5.9 miles and travel left on Shady Grove Rd. to the ramp.

Unfortunately, water levels in the lake remain extremely low. Access at both boat ramps is limited to small jon boats or canoes. The upper sections of the pond with the exception of the main pool were dry or extremely shallow as of August 2001. Anglers should exercise caution navigating in the pond due to the many stumps and snags, which may be more prevalent during present drought conditions.

Ocheesee pond fish populations in the pond are feeling the effects of the extended drought. In the past, this pond has produced some very large bluegill. Try fishing around stumps and snags in 3 to 5 ft or deep holes in the main section of the lake. Best baits include grass shrimp, crickets, wigglers, or various colors of 1/16 to 1/8 oz. beetle spins. Redear sunfish (shellcracker) can also be found in these areas using worms. Largemouth bass fishing should also be fair throughout the fall. Try fishing early morning and late afternoon along weed lines and cypress trees. Best baits include spinner baits, crank baits, dark plastic worms, or live shiners.

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