The R.L. Harris Reservoir, better and more affectionately known as Lake Wedowee, is a prime destination for local anglers and fishing enthusiasts. Continue reading to learn more about your next favorite fishing spot in Alabama.
About Lake Wedowee
Located in Randolph County, Lake Wedowee was constructed in 1983 to provide hydropower in the area. Among all the hydropower lakes in Alabama, Lake Wedowee is the youngest.
The basin spans a total of 24 miles with about 271 miles of shoreline, while the whole reservoir covers approximately 10,660 acres. The water that fills Lake Wedowee flows from the Tallapoosa and Little Tallapoosa rivers, which converge a short distance away from the dam.
Today, Lake Wedowee is not only a hydropower generator− it is also a popular outdoor attraction in Randolph County. Many people visit the reservoir to go swimming, hiking, camping, and picnicking with friends and family.
Bass fishing in Lake Wedowee
There is without a doubt that bass fishing is one of the most popular activities in Lake Wedowee, especially during summer. The dam is host to a very healthy bass population, which includes largemouth bass, striped bass, and spotted bass.
Here are a couple of things to take note of before you go bass fishing in Lake Wedowee:
- Don’t forget the size limitations. Anglers are not allowed to fish largemouth bass that are between 13 to 16 inches. You can, however, harvest all sizes of spotted bass.
- Fish plumpness is low in Lake Wedowee. When you fish in the reservoir, don’t expect to harvest heavy largemouth bass. According to samples taken from the lake, largemouth bass from here tend to be leaner as a result of Lake Wedowee’s low fertility.
- Rocky points are your go-to spots. Numerous fishermen that frequent Lake Wedowee have reported that these rocky areas are some of the best places to target bass.
Wedowee Creek is exceptionally fertile waters, home to some of the lake’s better largemouth populations. Carolina-rigged soft plastics, as well as crankbaits, are highly recommended lures.
- May is the best month to go bass fishing. If you want to catch some big bass in Lake Wedowee, May is the best time of the year for that endeavor. Aside from the large numbers of bass you can harvest, you can also enjoy the solitude of fishing, as there aren’t a lot of crowds in Lake Wedowee during this time.
- Spotted bass is the dominant species here. If ever you’re wondering why you’re catching more spotted bass than other bass species, it’s simply because it is the predominate species in Lake Wedowee. One advantage is that you don’t have to worry about slot limits− you can harvest any size you like.
Other fish species in Lake Wedowee
Aside from bass, you can also harvest bluegill, shellcracker, crappie, yellow perch, and catfish, among other species, in Lake Wedowee. It truly is an angler’s paradise.
One of the best ways to experience Lake Wedowee is to purchase a second home in the area. Wedowee Lake and Lands Realty, LLC can assist you there. Contact the team today at 1-256-357-9600 to get started.