McKenzie, Tenn.—Finally! Local fishermen can look forward to the reopening of Carroll Lake in McKenzie next spring.
Carroll Lake has been closed for six years since the flood gates were heavily damaged and the lake was emptied. The lake has been dormant for that time as the flood gates were repaired and the lengthy process of rebuilding, restocking and refilling began.
Tennessee Wildlife Resource Agency Regional Fisheries Manager Tim Broadbent announced the lake is scheduled to reopen in the spring of 2020.
Broadbent told WENK/WTPR earlier that the lengthy process was necessary so that restocking efforts could take hold. He said several species of fish have been stocked in the lake, including large mouth bass, catfish, bluegill and redear sunfish. The TWRA also has introduced walleye into the lake.
The lengthy process has given the fish the chance to reach a sustainable population.
The bait shop that was located at the lake for many years has been torn down due to asbestos found there and Broadbent said TWRA is again looking for a vendor to run that business.
New piers have been constructed at the lake.
For many years, Steve McCadams held his “Casting for a Cure” tournament at Carroll Lake and since it was closed, he has been holding the tourney at the lake at the city of McKenzie park.
Photo by Shannon McFarlin.