R.E. "Bob" Woodruff Lake, body of water
R.E. "Bob" Woodruff Lake is a large reservoir along the Alabama River in central Alabama, stretching between Montgomery and Selma. The water mostly follows the natural river channel and is held back by the Robert F. Henry Dam, with the lake covering about 12,500 acres (5,100 hectares) and reaching depths of 25 feet (7.6 meters) at its deepest point.
The lake was created by building the Robert F. Henry Dam to hold back the Alabama River, forming a large water storage area. Since its completion in 1975, the lake has supported river navigation, generated electricity for thousands of homes, and helped control flooding during heavy rains in spring and winter.
Locals often refer to the area by its original name, the Alabama River, since the water follows the natural river flow through the land. Fishing and boating are woven into the daily life of the community, with families and groups gathering at the water year-round.
Many boat ramps are located at different spots around the lake, including Crommelin Landing, Fort Toulouse, Benton, and Holy Ground Battlefield Park. The area offers campgrounds run by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers with options ranging from full-service facilities to basic tent camping, and spring and fall offer the most comfortable weather for visiting.
The lake is known for its excellent bass fishing, especially when the dam gates release water and create currents that draw Alabama bass to feed in the main channel. At the same time, quiet backwaters fill with largemouth bass, making the lake a dynamic fishing destination that changes based on water flow.
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