Lake Catoma is a part of the Eightmile Creek Watershed, along with four other impoundments: Lake George, Eva Road Lake, Sportsman Lake, and Carl Budweg Dams. The Lake Catoma Dam was constructed in 1966, designed by the City of Cullman Utilities Board to supply raw and drinking water to Cullman County and it also provides water to the neighboring Winston and Morgan Counties.
Lake Catoma is primarily used as a water supply, it also provides opportunities for a number of recreational activities – swimming, boating and fishing for largemouth bass and crappie.
- Surface area (mi)
- 1.35
- Max depth (ft)
- 14.01
- Elevation (ft)
- 748.03
- Shoreline length (mi)
- 24.61
Ideal for
- Family friendly:
- Pet friendly:
- Romantic getaways:
Popular activities
- Kayaking
- Canoeing
- Fishing
- Hiking
- Freshwater Fishing
Islands
In the heart of Alabama lies a surprising tapestry of nature, where emerald waters cradle uninhabited islands, captivating the adventurous spirit. These hidden jewels within Catoma Lake whisper tales of the region’s history, with sightings of ancient Native American artifacts along their shores. Though modest in size, they invite visitors to explore their captivating landscapes, featuring well-trodden hiking trails that lead to panoramic lookouts. Each island serves as a serene escape for fishing enthusiasts, family picnics, and photographs framed by dazzling sunsets. Historic remnants dot the islands, echoing a time when they were integral to local navigation. Anglers can cast their lines from rocky outcrops, while nature enthusiasts can traverse winding trails, revealing flora and fauna rarely seen in urban life. Catoma’s islands remain a tranquil oasis, promising a blend of adventure and leisure far from the ordinary.
Nearby amenities
Explore the variety of amenities available around Catoma Lake, perfect for both day trips and extended stays. Enjoy boating and water access with a public boat ramp and dock, where you can launch your crafts easily. For those looking to rent, Catoma Marina offers pontoon, jet ski, and fishing boat rentals, catering to diverse water activity preferences.
When it comes to supplies, local spots like the Quick Stop convenience store and the Outdoor Connection provide fishing gear, snacks, and essentials. Dining options include the scenic lakeside eatery, Catoma Kitchen, offering delightful meals with idyllic views.
For overnight stays, consider the Catoma campground, which features tent sites and RV hookups. Outdoor enthusiasts will appreciate the nearby hiking and mountain biking trails, perfect for exploration. Enjoy facilities such as restrooms, showers, and picnic areas equipped with BBQ grills for a comfortable visit, making it an ideal destination to relax and unwind.
Frequently Asked Questions
Ready to dive into what Catoma has to offer? Let’s tackle some of the burning questions you might have as you plan your visit!
-
No, swimming is not allowed in Lake Catoma. The lake is a drinking water supply, and the city ordinance prohibits swimming, wading, or water skiing to protect the water quality.
-
Lake Catoma is a popular destination for anglers and outdoor enthusiasts because it offers excellent fishing opportunities for various species, including bass, crappie, and catfish. The lake has a 9″ size limit on crappie and allows only motors less than 10hp, which helps maintain low angling pressure and healthy fish populations.
-
For black bass in Catoma Lake, Alabama, the daily creel limit is typically 10, with no more than 5 of these being smallmouth bass. However, specific size limits can vary; for example, at Lake Jackson, a similar regulation applies with a creel limit of five black bass greater than 12 inches, but Catoma Lake itself follows general state regulations.
For other species like crappie, catfish, and bream, the creel limits are not specifically mentioned for Catoma Lake, but they follow the general state freshwater fishing regulations.
-
There is no public beach at Catoma. Catoma is mentioned in the context of other locations like St. Joseph Peninsula State Park and Dauphin Island, but it does not have its own public beach. Catoma Park in Montgomery, Alabama, is a different entity and does not feature a beach.
-
Towns near Catoma, Alabama, for shopping and dining include Montgomery, Prattville, and Millbrook. These towns are within a reasonable driving distance and offer various shopping centers and dining options. Montgomery, for example, has several malls and a vibrant downtown area with restaurants and shops.