South Carolina boasts a collection of stunning lakes that offer breathtaking scenery and abundant recreational opportunities. These lakes are a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, particularly those seeking excellent fishing experiences. From the largest reservoirs to the hidden mountain gems, South Carolina lakes cater to a variety of interests.
When it comes to the best fishing lakes in South Carolina, Lake Marion stands out as the largest lake in South Carolina. Spanning a vast area, it provides ample opportunities for anglers to reel in prized catches such as bass and catfish. Additionally, lakes like Lake Murray, Lake Hartwell, and Lake Keowee are renowned for their diverse fish populations, making them ideal destinations for fishing enthusiasts seeking a memorable angling experience.
South Carolina is also home to some of the biggest lakes in the region. Lake Marion takes the spotlight as the largest lake in the state, covering a significant expanse of water. Its vast size provides an array of recreational options, including boating, water sports, and camping, ensuring there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Other notable large lakes in South Carolina include Lake Hartwell, Lake Thurmond (Clarks Hill Lake), and Lake Murray, each offering ample space and opportunities for outdoor activities.
Overall, South Carolina lakes offer a blend of natural beauty and recreational possibilities. From the breathtaking mountain vistas surrounding Lake Jocassee to the vibrant waters of Lake Wylie, these lakes provide an escape from the everyday hustle and bustle. Whether you’re an avid angler seeking the best fishing lakes in South Carolina or simply looking for a serene lakeside retreat, South Carolina lakes offer a slice of outdoor paradise.
Exploring the Natural Splendor: South Carolina Lakes
1. Lake Marion
Lake Marion, which can be found in the middle of the state, is the largest lake in South Carolina. The Santee Dam on the Santee River is responsible for creating this lake, which has a surface area of about 110.000 acres and was named after the dam. The lake provides fantastic prospects for fishing, especially for largemouth bass, striped bass, and catfish. Along with its picturesque beachfront, it also gives opportunities for recreational activities such as canoeing, water skiing, and camping.
2. Lake Murray
Lake Murray is a well-liked destination for leisure activities and occupies close to 50,000 acres. It is located close to Columbia. The Dreher Shoals Dam located on the Saluda River is responsible for its creation. The lake is famous for the fishing it offers, particularly for largemouth bass and striped bass. In addition to providing chances for boating, swimming, sailing, and camping, it plays host to fishing tournaments. The fireworks display that takes place every year on the Fourth of July at Lake Murray is renowned.
3. Lake Hartwell
Lake Hartwell is a big reservoir that spans roughly 56,000 acres and may be found straddling the state line between South Carolina and Georgia. The Hartwell Dam on the Savannah River is responsible for its creation. Anglers come from all over the region to fish in this lake because of its diversified fish population, which includes bass, catfish, and crappie, among other fish species. On Lake Hartwell, some of the most well-liked things to do are go boating, water skiing, swimming, and camping at one of the lake’s many campgrounds.
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4. Lake Keowee
Lake Keowee is a scenic reservoir that spans around 18,500 acres and is located in the upstate region of South Carolina. The Keowee Dam, located on the Keowee River, was responsible for its creation. The lake is well-known for having waters that are both clean and deep, and it is frequently used for activities such as fishing, boating, and water sports. Anglers have the opportunity to catch a variety of fish species, including bream, bass, and trout. Swimming, camping, and hiking are just a few of the activities that may be enjoyed in the natural surroundings that surround Lake Keowee.
5. Lake Jocassee
Lake Jocassee is a picturesque mountain lake that spans roughly 7,500 acres and is located in the far northwest region of the state of South Carolina. The Jocassee Dam on the Whitewater River is responsible for its formation. The lake is famous for having waters that are completely transparent and are bordered by verdant forests and waterfalls. Angling enthusiasts have the opportunity to catch trout, bass, and kokanee salmon. Boating, kayaking, paddle boarding, swimming, and camping are some of the most popular recreational activities that can be enjoyed on Lake Jocassee.
6. Lake Wylie
Lake Wylie is approximately 13,400 acres in size and is located on the border between the states of South Carolina and North Carolina. The Catawba Dam, located on the Catawba River, was responsible for its creation. Fishing fans go to the lake since it is home to a wide range of fish species, including catfish, crappie, and bass, making it a popular location. On Lake Wylie, some of the most popular activities include camping, waterskiing, sailing, and boating. The lake’s proximity to Charlotte, North Carolina, makes it an ideal location for recreation for people who live in both North Carolina and South Carolina.
7. Lake Moultrie
Lake Moultrie is a sizable reservoir that extends across around 60,000 acres and may be found in the Lowcountry region. The Pinopolis Dam on the Cooper River is responsible for its formation. The lake is well-known for the exceptional fishing opportunities it provides, notably for striped bass, crappie, and catfish. On Lake Moultrie, tourists have access to a number of public access sites as well as marinas, making it possible for them to participate in activities such as camping, water sports, and boating.
8. Lake Greenwood
Lake Greenwood is a reservoir that stretches across approximately 11,400 acres and can be found in the western section of the state. On the Saluda River, the Buzzard’s Roost Dam is responsible for its formation. The lake has a variety of fish species, including largemouth bass, crappie, catfish, and bream, which provide good fishing opportunities. On Lake Greenwood, some of the most well-liked pastimes are waterskiing, sailing, and boating. Along the shoreline of the lake are a number of public parks, campgrounds, and marinas that are open to the public.
9. Lake Wateree
Lake Wateree is a reservoir that spans roughly 13,700 acres and may be found in the middle of South Carolina. The Wateree Dam, located on the Wateree River, was responsible for its creation. Anglers come to the lake throughout the year because of its diversified fish population, which includes striped bass, crappie, catfish, and bass. Other species include catfish and crappie. On Lake Wateree, some of the most popular things to do include going boating, participating in water sports, and camping. Additionally, the lake’s natural surroundings offer the chance to go hiking and see wildlife.
10. Lake Thurmond (Clarks Hill Lake)
Lake Thurmond, often referred to as Clarks Hill Lake, is a sizable reservoir that spans approximately 71,000 acres and straddles the state line between South Carolina and Georgia. The J. Strom Thurmond Dam located on the Savannah River is responsible for its formation. The lake is well-known for its fishing, and it is home to many different kinds of fish, including striped bass, crappie, catfish, and bass. Recreational activities such as water skiing, boating, and camping are among the most popular things to do on Lake Thurmond. Because of its enormous size and breathtaking natural beauty, the lake is a popular destination for people who enjoy being outside.
