Brushy Fork Lake, body of water
Brushy Fork Lake is a reservoir in Pendleton County, West Virginia, holding about 18 acres of water in a forested setting. The basin is maintained by a dam built in the early 1980s and is surrounded by hills and woodland, with water fed primarily by the South Branch South Fork Potomac River.
The reservoir was built in the early 1980s to control water flow in the region and prevent flooding. Its creation transformed the landscape and quickly made the location popular with anglers and people seeking outdoor recreation.
The lake takes its name from Brushy Fork, a stream that shapes the local landscape. Visitors can observe how local people use this place: fishing, picnicking, and taking breaks from daily routines, which shows how important this quiet spot has become to the community.
The lake is most easily reached by car and offers straightforward access to the shoreline for fishing and paddling. Visitors should bring warm clothing, especially in cooler months, as the area can be exposed and windy.
The lake is home to several fish species, including catfish and bass in surprisingly large sizes, which draws anglers seeking record catches. Many visitors do not realize the surrounding area is part of the George Washington National Forest, which keeps the place especially protected.
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