Lewis-Smith Lake is the great hidden gem of Alabama waterways.  It's waters are among the nation's cleanest and clearest, and without equal for raw, natural beauty.  Whether you enjoy watching a bald eagle stalk its prey from the peak of a tall pine, or matching wits with the next world-record spotted bass, or maybe just ripping down it's glassy green surface on a wave runner, you'll find the lake home you've longed for when you come to live on beautiful Smith Lake. 

Smith Lake was created in 1961 with construction of the largest earth dam in the United States.  The 300-foot high structure on the Sipsey Fork of the 

Black Warrior River created over 21,000 surface acres of water held within 500 miles of shoreline.  Depths plumb over 250 feet, making it one of the deepest lakes in the state.

The lake is famous for producing world-record spotted bass and holds the current state record.  A successful stocking program for striped bass is ongoing since the 1980's and it's not uncommon for a fisherman to test his skill and tackle against a 30-plus pound monster.  Largemouth bass draw pros and amateurs alike to the lake for the lure of a tournament prize or just some mighty fine eating from the frying pan.

If panfish are your game, you won't be disappointed.  Smith Lake boasts white and black crappie and the gamut of bluegill and bream.  Catfish pulled from the lake's crystal waters are unparalleled for clean delicious flavor - not to mention the fact they can grow to over 50 lbs.  Rainbow trout are taken with fly or spinning tackle in the tailrace below the dam thanks to a popular stocking plan.                                          

All told, over 70 species of fish call Lewis Smith Lake home: carp, shad, long-nose and spotted gar, drum ... and just maybe something no one has found yet in those deep, clear waters.

Smith Lake provides an astounding display of scenery.  White and Pink Mountain laurel decorate the bluffs in spring while gnarled, short-needle pines cling tenaciously to exposed rock strata carved over centuries by the river which lies far below, tamed but not quiet stilled.  Falls splash from fern-carpeted ledges and tall pines, oaks, hickories and poplars form a backdrop for it all. The whites, pinks and lavanders of spring foliage are matched only by the gold, crimsons and oranges of fall and all becomes spectacular when the emerald green surface changes to reflect a bright blue autumn sky.

The Lake's western side emanates from the 180,000-acre Bankhead National Forrest.  Campers and hikers take advantage of three recreational areas there at Corinth, Clear Creek and Houston.  The Sipsey Fork of the Black Warrior River meanders through Bankhead and is designated Alabama's only "Wild and Scenic River."

For more information on Smith Lake Developments, Homes or Lots, call 205-275-4005 or email billyrparson@aol.com.