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After an evaluation of its current fishery by the Wildlife and Freshwater Fisheries (WFF) Division of the Alabama Department of Conservation and Natural Resources (ADCNR), Escambia County Public Fishing Lake in Wing, Alabama, will be drained and restocked with various sport fish species, including largemouth bass.
The lake was closed in the fall of 2022 due to the resignation of the former lake manager. Escambia County Public Fishing Lake will remain closed until the fish grow to a catchable size, which should take about two years. When the lake reopens, anglers can expect to experience a new lake effect leading to a better fishing experience. A reopening date will be announced when available.
Once known for its trophy largemouth bass, the number and size caught by anglers at Escambia County Public Fishing Lake has been decreasing for several years. This is primarily due to the overabundance of small bass in the lake that depleted the bream population – a common issue for small impoundments that are heavily fished.
As ADCNR’s State Public Fishing Lakes age, regular maintenance and renovations are necessary to repair infrastructure and improve fishing quality. When the Escambia County lake is drained, WFF staff will also inspect its underdrain, drain tower and spillway for any necessary repairs and maintenance. Constructed in the 1980s, the lake has provided almost 40 years of fishing. This renovation will ensure future generations have access to quality fishing in Escambia County and the surrounding areas.
Anglers looking for an alternative to Escambia County lake during the restocking are encouraged to visit the state-owned public fishing lakes in Coffee, Dale, Geneva, Monroe and Pike counties. For more information, visit www.outdooralabama.com/where-fish-alabama/alabama-public-fishing-lakes-pfls or call the WFF Fisheries Section at (334) 242-3471.
ADCNR promotes wise stewardship, management and enjoyment of Alabama’s natural resources through four divisions: Marine Resources, State Lands, State Parks, and Wildlife and Freshwater Fisheries. Learn more at www.outdooralabama.com.