Lake Tuscaloosa is a reservoir located just a short drive north of Tuscaloosa and Northport near the Black Warrior River impoundment of William Bacon Oliver Lake. The City of Tuscaloosa impounded the North River -- a Black Warrior River tributary -- to create a water supply; therefore, initial concentration wasn't on creating a fish habitat. The water is very clear, offering clarity up to ten feet and up to 20 feet near the dam.

Fishing

Although the Alabama Wildlife and Freshwater Fisheries Division stocked Lake Tuscaloosa in the 1970s, they stopped when they determined that production was limited. Still, anglers can find spotted and largemouth bass, bluegill, redear sunfish, white crappie, various catfish species, drum, buffalo, and carp.

Anglers enjoy the tailwater area, and can take advantage of public boat ramps located on the lake as well as lake access provided by several marinas.

  Search Lake Tuscaloosa Resources
     Coordinates:
33.2651N -87.5067W
Map It:
Lake Type:
Reservoir
Surface Area:
5,885 acres
Maximum Depth:
80 ft
Elevation:
223 ft
Normal Water Clarity:
10+ ft
Major City:
Tuscaloosa
Airport:
Birmingham

Boaters can find six public access boat launches at Lake Tuscaloosa. Those launches are located at Rock Quarry Park, Sharpes Landing Access, Tierce Patton Marina, Smith Dry Dock and Marina, Binion Creek Access, and Bob's Campground and Marina. Smith's Marina is the only full-service marina on the lake.

• Alabama Saltwater Recreational Fishing License
• Alabama Freshwater Fishing License Information
• Alabama Fishing and Hunting Licenses Online
• Alabama Daily Creel, Possession, and Size Limits on Game Fish
• Alabama Fish Consumption Advisories
• Lake Lurleen State Park
• Alabama Department of Conservation and Natural Resources