Blewett Falls Lake, body of water
Blewett Falls Lake is a reservoir in south-central North Carolina that spans between Wadesboro and Rockingham, covering about 2560 acres. The lake holds roughly 34 miles of shoreline when full and supports populations of catfish, crappie, bass, walleye, and stripers.
The lake was created in 1912 when Blewett Falls Dam was completed on the Pee Dee River. The concrete and earth structure, about 77 feet (23 meters) tall and over 4100 feet (1250 meters) long, was built to generate electricity, control floods, and supply drinking water.
The lake became a focal point for the region after the dam's construction in 1912, shaping how people spend their leisure time here. Fishing for catfish at night is a local tradition that reflects how deeply connected the community is to this body of water.
Two free boat ramps are available: one near the dam on Boat Landing Road and another on Highway 109 near Wadesboro, both with paved parking. Fishing is possible from shore or small boats, with night fishing for catfish being popular, and nearby campsites offering lodging options for overnight stays.
The Blewett Falls Tailrace Fishing Area below the dam is a specialized spot where fish come to spawn, including American shad. The fishing platform in this area was closed for construction work with reopening expected in June 2025.
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