Boating On Bankhead Lake In Alabama

Free Public Boating & Watersport Activities

Bankhead Lake, situated on the Black Warrior River in north-central Alabama, is a scenic reservoir surrounded by natural beauty. Close to the city of Birmingham, this captivating lake offers a range of nearby attractions, including the stunning Oak Mountain State Park with its hiking trails and diverse wildlife.

Boating enthusiasts find their haven at Bankhead Lake, where the tranquil waters beckon for nautical exploration. The lake is equipped with boat launch ramps that facilitate easy access, making it convenient for boaters to embark on aquatic adventures. Popular water sports such as kayaking and paddleboarding thrive here, offering serene experiences for those who prefer a slower pace.

The lake's proximity to Birmingham ensures convenient access to urban amenities, dining, and cultural experiences. The boating season, usually from spring to early autumn, sees the lake come alive with activity as boaters take advantage of the favorable weather and inviting waters.

Fishing is also a highlight of Bankhead Lake, drawing anglers in pursuit of bass, catfish, and crappie. Its diverse fish population promises rewarding angling experiences. For those interested in extending their stay, camping facilities near the lake's shores provide a chance to immerse in the natural beauty of the area. Whether it's boating, water sports, fishing, or camping, Bankhead Lake offers a diverse and enriching experience for all who visit.

Boating, camping and fishing.

With over 9,000 surface acres on which to play, Bankhead Lake provides plenty of room for boating, sightseeing water skiing and fishing. Located just 20 miles west of Birmingham, AL, this impoundment is easy to access. Five public facility use areas and fourteen user fee areas are available for entering these waters to fish from the bank and launch small watercraft like canoes and kayaks. Numerous boat launch ramps provide access for pleasure boats, pontoons and fishing boats. There are over 400 miles of shoreline, mostly brushy banks with scattered boat docks - all providing cover for baitfish and feeding fish. Multiple, annual stockings of rainbow trout keep a healthy supply available for trout fishing. The lake has quality stripers and hybrid striped bass which roam deep in summer and winter, migrating up river and shallower in Spring and fall. Offering a broad range of fish species to pursue, the lake supports healthy populations of crappie, bass, catfish, bluegill and sunfish creating pleasant choices for anglers.

Area Amenities

Marina: YES
Boat Rental: YES
Boat Launch Ramp: YES
Campgrounds: YES
RV Hookups: YES
Lodging: NEARBY
Convenience Store: NEARBY
Bait & Tackle: NEARBY
Restaurant: NEARBY

Camping

Burchfield Branch Park Campground - 205 497-9828

Clevenger's Marina Park & Rec Campground - 205 491-6684

Deerlick Creek Public Use Area Campground - 205 759-1591

Bankhead Lake Map

Fishing

Fish species found in Bankhead Lake include largemouth bass, spotted bass, channel catfish, flathead catfish, black crappie, white crappie, rainbow trout, bluegill, redear sunfish, striped bass and hybrid stripers.

Largemouth bass Spotted bass Channel catfish Flathead catfish Black crappie White crappie Rainbow trout Bluegill Redear Sunfish Striped bass Hybrid Striped Bass