Bankhead Lake, reservoir along the Black Warrior River that begins in Walker County in the state of Alabama
Bankhead Lake is a large reservoir on the Black Warrior River in Alabama, extending across multiple counties with numerous marinas and fishing facilities along its shoreline. The water is managed by a lock and dam system that regulates flow and allows boats to navigate smoothly through the channel.
The original dam system was built in 1915 to enable river navigation and support cargo movement between Mobile and Birmingham. When the aged structure became unsafe, a new and larger dam was completed in 1975, improving stability and safety for surrounding communities.
The lake is a place where locals come to relax and enjoy time in nature. Families regularly visit for fishing, boating, and picnicking, with weekend activity concentrated along the shoreline and marinas.
Check current water levels and weather conditions before visiting, as the dam can release water suddenly during heavy rainfall. Always wear life jackets when boating and maintain a safe distance from the spillway gates, especially during spring and winter months when water levels change rapidly.
In 2013 an angler caught a world-record striped bass weighing nearly 70 pounds in the upper portion of the reservoir. The fish was 22 years old, demonstrating that the lake provides conditions for fish to reach exceptional size and age.
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