Decatur County, established by the Georgia Legislature in 1823 and named after Commodore Stephen Decatur, a naval hero during the War of 1812, is known for its wide rivers and deep agricultural traditions. The current location of Bainbridge was a Native American town previously called Pucknawhitla. It was renamed Burgess Town when a trader named James Burgess opened a trading post here in 1778.
From 1817 to 1824, it was known as Fort Hughes before it became a federal garrison. Fort Hughes was given the name Bainbridge in honor of Commodore William Bainbridge, the commander of "Old Ironsides" during the War of 1812 when the Seminoles were routed in battle in late 1824. In 1826, the land was bought for a county seat, and the city itself was formed in 1829.
Today, Bainbridge is known for its relaxed environment and thriving community. Due to the wide variety of fish caught here, it is a haven for any angler.
Georgia is a refuge for anglers, particularly the city of Bainbridge, with its gorgeous and historically significant water bodies teeming with fish. The Georgia State Legislature declared Bainbridge the "Bass Capital of Georgia” in 2008. Located in the state’s southwest corner with access to the Flint River and Lake Seminole, Bainbridge is a fantastic fishing location for anglers, especially those who love bass and fly fishing.
The enormous body of water known as Lake Seminole is formed where the Flint River, Chattahoochee River, and Apalachicola River converge. The magnificent lake, which borders Florida, Georgia, and Alabama, is 37,500 acres in size. Because the Seminole Native Americans had inhabited the region hundreds of years ago, their name was adopted.
In Flint River alone, anglers will have a great time catching shoal bass. Additional local fish species, such as largemouth bass, catfish, redbreast sunfish, and striped bass, are available to anglers. Meanwhile, in Lake Seminole, anglers can catch black crappie, striped bass, chain pickerel, and bluegill.
Other nearby fishing destinations include the Alapaha River and Black Lake.
On the banks of the Flint River sits Cheney Griffin Park, a well-liked spot for photographers. The train bridge is a popular backdrop among locals and tourists, particularly around dusk when the sun reflects.
On the banks of the lovely Flint River, the Bainbridge Riverview Campground is situated in the Earle May Boat Basin Recreation Area. There are ten lovely, shaded spots accessible for tent and RV camping. While staying at the campground, take advantage of the many other attractions in the area!