Founded in 1921, the Athens Fish & Game Club was established as a private retreat where members and their families could enjoy the outdoors and appreciate the natural beauty of God’s creation. Located just outside Athens, Texas, the club was formed by a group of local citizens seeking a private and peaceful fishing spot—one where they could find rest, fellowship, and recreation after work or on weekends.
Designed as a members-only sport fishing and outdoor recreational sports club, its mission has always been to foster community, education, and the responsible stewardship of the land and waters entrusted to them.
Shortly after its founding, the club adopted by-laws, elected officers, and set a membership cap of 70—a limit that remains in place today. In its early years, a dam and concrete spillway were built on Flat Creek, forming the club’s lake. Though details of the land acquisition and construction remain somewhat unclear, records indicate the 247-acre property, along with the dam and spillway, was developed for approximately $7,000—an impressive achievement for the time.
On January 6, 1922, the Athens Fish and Game Club was officially chartered as a Non- Profit Corporation by the Texas Secretary of State. The lake, originally spanning over 100 acres, was expanded to approximately 115 to 120 acres after spillway modifications in 1992.
Nestled within approximately 250 acres of pristine timber, the club’s setting is among the most picturesque in Texas—a place where the hand of God’s creation is evident in the towering trees, the spring-fed waters, and the abundant wildlife. Surrounded by the scenic landscape of Northeast Texas, the club has remained a sanctuary not only for anglers and outdoor enthusiasts but for those who seek a deeper connection to nature and the peace it provides.
For over a century, it has served as more than just a fishing haven—it has been a cherished retreat where generations of families have come together to enjoy the blessings of God's great outdoors.
