Q: We are relocating to Atlanta (Piedmont Park – Midtown area). I’ve heard there is a place to fish and that yoga is offered there. Can you provide us with the particulars?
A: Lake Clara Meer is the place to fish and yoga is offered at the park as well.
“There was a very small lake made out of a spring in 1887. Eight years later in 1895 for the Cotton States and International Exposition it was enlarged to what it is today and known as Lake Clara Meer,” according to Director of Marketing, Communications and PR for Piedmont Park Conservancy Amy Han Dietrich.
According to their website, the lake is about 11.5 acres, located in the southeast part of the park and stocked with large-mouth bass, crappie, bream and catfish by the Department of Natural Resources. A valid State of Georgia fishing license is needed to fish in Piedmont Park.
“We see people there fishing daily, whether it be individuals or families,” said Han Dietrich.
Lake Clara Meer has three fishing piers, a dock, bridge and gazebo. On the outskirts of the lake are both paved and unpaved walkways around the perimeter.
Fishing hours align with the park hours of 6 a.m.-11 p.m. There is lighting closer to the bridge, gazebo areas and dock, said Han Dietrich.
“Swimming is no longer permitted in the lake, as well as any type of boating and dogs. Of course ducks are everywhere.”
While you can no longer take a dip in the lake, the aquatic center offers the opportunity to swim and is adjacent to Lake Clara Meer. Han Dietrich noted that lap swimming has been added this year between the hours of 6-9 a.m. and “has been a huge hit.”
For the history buffs, according to avidatlanta.blogspot.com, the lake is named for John Fritz’s beloved daughter Clara. Fritz owned a meat market in downtown Atlanta and a cattle ranch on the southern edge of present day Piedmont Park, where his cattle grazed.
“The Piedmont Park Conservancy hosts the yoga classes and our long-time partner is Dancing Dogs Atlanta,” said Han Dietrich. “We average 125-175 in the warmer months.
“Yoga classes started back in 2016 and are now offered once a month – every fourth Monday at 7 p.m. They are free and held at the Promenade area. In the event of inclement weather, the class is held in Magnolia Hall.
Piedmont Park, 400 Park Drive, NE, Atlanta (404-875-7275).
For more information, visit piedmontpark.org
New to the city or simply have a question about this place we call home? Email your request to atlactualfact@gmail.com
About the Author
