Fontana Lake

The 29-mile long, 11,700-acre Tennessee Valley Authority (TVA) lake has more than 240 miles of shoreline. And its deep, cold waters provide the ideal habitat for a variety of fish. In fact, record size muskie and walleye have been pulled from its depths. And many believe it’s one of the best smallmouth bass fishing lakes in the country, including the Fisherman’s Bass Tournament Circuit, which held its annual Hall of Fame Classic at Fontana in Fall 2001.

Fontana Lake is unique in many ways. Unlike most lakes in the area, shoreline development has been kept to a minimum. More than 90 percent of the land around the lake is owned by either the National Park Service or the US Forest Service. Maps of the Lake are available at local fishing stores.

Fontana Lake provides a number of recreational diversions including fishing, boating and water skiing. And the scenery from the lake is unmatched. Those fortunate enough to go boating on Fontana Lake have a unique perspective of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. At places the view is unobstructed from the lake level to the top of towering Clingmans Dome, the Park's highest peak.

There are a number of private boat docks and marinas where boats can be rented.

Public Boat Ramps — If you're towing your own boat, TVA has several public access areas; two are close to Bryson City. The Old 288 ramp is west of town; turn off Everett Street next to the Family Dollar Store and continue several miles staying next to the Tuckasegee River. The Lemons Branch ramp is west of town; follow Highway 74, then turn North on Highway 28; look for the Tsali Recreation Area on your right and follow signs to boat launch.