Tucked away on Hurt Road in Smyrna, GB’s Lake has been part of the community for generations. Established in 1955, the family-owned fishing destination includes an 18-acre lake and a one-acre pond, regularly stocked with bass, bluegill, catfish, trout and crappie.
But for manager/operator Dontre’ Weaver, GB’s Lake is about more than what someone might reel in. It is about creating a clean, safe and welcoming place where people of all ages can slow down, learn something new and enjoy time outside.
“GB’s Lake has always been centered on fostering a welcoming and family-oriented environment,” Weaver says. “We want this to be a place where people can learn, relax, build skills, enjoy time together or experience the joy of catching their first fish.”
That family-friendly spirit is a big part of what makes GB’s Lake special. With peaceful views and plenty of open space, the property can accommodate a quiet afternoon of fishing, a larger family outing, a picnic, a cookout or simply a few hours away from screens and schedules.
For parents looking for something simple and outdoorsy to do on the weekend, fishing offers a chance to make memories without overcomplicating the day.
Weaver says introducing children and families to fishing is one of the most meaningful parts of what they do.
“Most children are thrilled at the sight of a large fish,” he says. “We encourage parents to take their children fishing because it is a fun and safe way to introduce them to a lifelong skill.”
For some visitors, GB’s Lake is already part of their own childhood story. Weaver says people often stop by and share memories of catching their very first fish there when they were six or eight years old.
Those stories are part of what motivates the GB’s Lake team to preserve the tradition of fishing while also welcoming a new generation of families. Recently, the team had a booth at the Smyrna Spring Festival, giving more local residents a chance to learn about the lake and what it offers.
“We enjoy participating in community events and festivals because it gives us a chance to introduce GB’s Lake to the public,” Weaver says. “Many families are looking for weekend outdoor activities, and fishing is a great option.”
One of the features that makes the experience easier for guests is the bait and tackle shop located at the entrance. Visitors are greeted by friendly staff and can find bait, tackle, snacks, drinks and ice on-site. The team can also help with bait and tackle recommendations, rod and reel setup, and pole rentals for those who do not have their own equipment.
That convenience helps take some of the intimidation out of fishing, especially for newer visitors.
GB’s Lake is also growing its fishing community through its ProStaff team, led by Weaver and captained by Arnold “Sniper” Galvis and Chavo “The Bassinator” Britt. The team currently includes 12 members and continues to expand, with members bringing knowledge of different fish species, techniques and the lake itself. Some have been fishing at GB’s Lake since the late 1970s.
For Weaver and the GB’s Lake team, the hope is simple: keep the tradition alive, make fishing approachable and give families a place to enjoy being together.
GB’s Lake is open Friday, Saturday, Sunday and Monday from 9 a.m. to 7:30 p.m. Admission is $10 per person, per day, and children ages 0–9 enter free. No fishing license is required. A $5 GB’s trout stamp, purchased on-site, is required to keep trout.
GB’s Lake
400 Hurt Rd SW
Smyrna, GA 30082
(470) 606-2928
Instagram: @gbslake
Facebook: GB’s Lake