About Smith Lake

The Lake

Lewis Smith Lake — known simply as Smith Lake — is one of the clearest and deepest lakes in the southeastern United States. Created in 1961 when Alabama Power completed the Lewis Smith Dam on the Sipsey Fork of the Black Warrior River, the lake was named for longtime Alabama Power president Lewis M. Smith.

The dam itself is an impressive engineering feat: 2,200 feet long and 300 feet tall, making it one of the largest earth- and rock-filled dams in the eastern United States. Construction began in November 1957, and the $29 million project was formally dedicated on May 23, 1961.

Today the lake is treasured for its remarkably clear water, steep wooded bluffs, and quiet coves. Unlike many reservoirs in the region, Smith Lake has very little commercial development along its shoreline, giving it a peaceful, natural feel that keeps visitors coming back year after year.

Water Quality & Swimming

Smith Lake is consistently rated as one of the cleanest lakes in Alabama, and its deep, clear water is one of the first things guests notice. Visibility is excellent, especially on the main channel and deeper forks, and the water takes on a striking blue-green hue on sunny days.

The lake is wonderful for swimming throughout the summer months. Surface water temperatures typically range from the upper 60s to the low-to-mid 80s°F during swimming season (late May through September). Because the lake is so deep, water below the surface stays noticeably cooler — a refreshing surprise on hot Alabama afternoons.

A few tips to keep in mind: water levels tend to be highest in spring and early summer following the rainy season, which is also when water quality is at its peak. As with any natural body of water, it's a good idea to avoid swimming during or shortly after heavy rainfall.

Wildlife & Nature

The wooded hills and protected coves around Smith Lake are home to a wonderful variety of wildlife. Keep your eyes open during your stay — you may be surprised by what you see.

Birds: Bald eagles nest along Smith Lake's shoreline and can occasionally be spotted soaring over the water or perched in tall pines near the shore. You'll also see osprey diving for fish, great blue herons wading in the shallows, and Canada geese cruising the coves. Songbirds fill the trees around the property in the mornings.

On the water: Turtles are a common sight sunning themselves on rocks and fallen logs, and you may spot the occasional river otter swimming near the dock at dawn or dusk.

On shore: White-tailed deer are frequently seen in the yard and along the wooded hillsides, especially in the early morning and evening hours. The surrounding Bankhead National Forest provides expansive habitat for deer, wild turkey, and other wildlife.

Lake Facts

Fishing

Smith Lake is a destination fishery, drawing anglers from across the Southeast. The deep, clear water supports a diverse and healthy fish population.

Spotted bass are the bread and butter of Smith Lake fishing. They thrive in the clear, rocky water and are plentiful throughout the lake. Largemouth bass and smallmouth bass are also present, especially in the creek arms and around cover.

Striped bass are the trophy catch on Smith Lake. Fish in the 30–40+ pound range are caught here, and the lake record exceeds 50 pounds. Stripers are most commonly found in deeper water on the main channel.

Crappie — both black and white — provide excellent fishing, particularly in spring. Black crappie tend to run larger, with fish commonly reaching 12–18 inches.

Other species include channel catfish, bluegill, redear sunfish, and white bass.

An Alabama fishing license is required for anyone age 16 and older. Licenses can be purchased online at Outdoor Alabama or at local retailers in the area.