An impoundment of the Tennessee River, Guntersville Lake is known for its diverse fishery and abundance of aquatic vegetation. The lake is full of hydrilla, milfoil, and coontail grass, which provide
game fish with an abundance of habitat. In combination with the vegetation, the lake is full of submerged stump fields that were left after the forest was cut before flooding occurred. Guntersville Lake is a premier angling destination. Due to its robust and diverse fishery, numerous tournaments are held on the lake. There is a tournament almost every weekend, from local clubs to national tournaments. The lake has an extensive
buoy system that all boaters should familiarize themselves with.
Lake Guntersville is approximately 69,000 acres in size with an average depth of 15 feet and a maximum depth of 45 feet. From Guntersville Dam to Nickajack Dam, the lake measures 76 miles. A Tennessee Valley Authority(TVA) impoundment of the Tennessee River, the Sequatchie River is the main tributary, followed by Town Creek and numerous smaller creeks. The deeper
portions of the lake generally consist of sand, gravel, and mud. the steep ledges of old stream channels consist of limestone. Most of the shoreline has a sand and gravel bottom. Heavy siltation has
occurred in some creeks such as Mud Creek, North Sauty Creek, and South Sauty Creek. Annual winter draw-downs lower the water level about 2 feet. The TVA manages the entire 949 miles of shoreline which occupies a narrow valley between steep sloping, forested ridges. Approximately 15% of the shoreline is developed, mainly with residential housing and very limited commercial development.
Guntersville Lake has very fertile water with frequent algae blooms. The TVA considers the lake to be "turbid" with visible depths of 3 to 5 feet. Relatively shallow water and a strong river current prevent the development of a thermocline. the lake has significant grass coverage throughout its length. Hydrilla and milfoil are also abundant. Deep weedlines are found from 10 to 18 feet. Prior to impoundment, all trees were removed but large fields of stumps remain, particularly in Browns Creek, Roseberry Creek, Mud Creek, North Sauty Creek, and South Sauty Creek. There are also several
rip rapped causeways.
Boat ramps and private marinas dot Guntersville Lake's perimeter. Fishing, boating, camping, hunting, hiking, and eagle watching are popular sports in the area. Eagle watching centers are located in the Guntersville State Park and the Guntersville Dam during the winter months, though some bald eagles stay all year.
Lake Guntersville State Park is situated within the pine studded woodlands and is adjacent to the reservoir shoreline with 321 improved campsites blending with the serenity of nature. Ranging from the primitive to the modern(complete with utilities) the campsites vary to suit nearly every taste. Various campground conveniences include: utility connections, tables, grills, heated bathhouses, hot showers, a country store, and play areas. Buck's Pocket State Park and Cathedral Caverns State Park are also nearby.
The Alabama Mountain Lakes region is a natural selection for fun! Enjoy some of America's finest sports - fishing and camping. Experience the breathtaking natural beauty that offers endless
opportunities for adventure and relaxation. For the sightseer, there's history and inspiration at every turn. Imagine your hand on the pump at the famous Helen Keller home, strolling through the amazing Ave Maria Grotto, or walking through Cathedral Caverns which was once inhabited by Native Americans.
If searching for bargains is your passion and the thrill of discovering a one-of-a-kind treasure makes your heart race, come on a shopping adventure like no other on this earth to Unclaimed Baggage! Located in Scottsboro, this company buys unclaimed baggage and cargo by the truckloads! Unclaimed Baggage has more than 7,000 new and pre-owned items daily such as: designer clothes,
jewelry, electronics, cameras, sporting goods, and more - all stocked in easy to prowl departments. Catch the fever! You can even explore their website where they showcase a sampling of products to entice you! Make sure you take the time to visit the Unclaimed Baggage Center located at 509 West Willow Street in Scottsboro. Call 256-259-1525 if you need any additional information.
If you like hiking, the Wall of Jerico located north on AL Hwy 79 from Scottsboro is a must! For more places to see and more things to do, please use our
contact page to get in touch with Sam or Becky.
