Weiss Lake is located in Cherokee County Alabama.Weiss Lake, pronounced "Wice," is billed as the "Crappie Capital of the World" and is a major destination for anglers from all over the country who want to wet a line in search of Southeastern species of game fish.
Accommodations range from camping to resorts in Cherokee County, Ala.
- Compiled by staff writer Ben Benton, bbenton@timesfreepress.com or 423-757-6569
BEST THING TO DO:
Outdoor activities and scenic beauty offers lots to do
• Fish, boat or just relax.
• Weiss Lake is the beginning point on the Alabama Scenic River Trail.
Source: Cherokee County Chamber of Commerce
BEST-KEPT SECRET:
Set a hook, reel in some fun
• The largemouth bass fishery has been a best-kept secret for several years.
• Data collected from tournament anglers and state fisheries personnel show that Weiss Lake is one of the state's better bass fishing sites.
Source: Cherokee County Chamber of Commerce
EVENTS:
Water sports and fishing fun
• The Tennessee River 600 is a personal watercraft cruising event set for late July.
• Fishing tournaments are scheduled throughout the season.
Source: Cherokee County Chamber of Commerce and the TennesseeRiver600.com website
BEST PLACE TO EAT AND WHY:
Good eats on the way
• Mountain Parkway Grill just off state Highway 68 in Sand Rock, Ala., is a clean and unique, well-kept secret.
• Try the steak with sweet potato fries.
Source: Mountain Parkway Grill website
Right on the border
• Population: Cherokee County, Ala., 25,989
• Major activities: Fishing, camping, boating
• Number of miles from Chattanooga: 85
• Landmarks or geographical features: Weiss Lake covers 30,200 acres on the Alabama-Georgia border.
• Date created: Weiss Lake was created by the Weiss Dam built between 1958 and 1961 as an Alabama Power Co. impoundment.
• Most famous residents: Cherokee Chief Pathkiller's grave is near Weiss Lake on the Centre, Ala., side in the Garrett Cemetery. Chief Pathkiller led the Cherokee in the Creek War of 1813 and 1814.
• Odd/unique traditions: The biggest celebration in the county is Liberty Day, hosted by the town of Cedar Bluff, centrally located on the lake.
• Unique characteristics: Weiss Lake is home to Yellow Creek Falls, a hidden jewel tucked away on the lake's west side where people can reach large rock formations and waterfalls by boat.
Sources: Cherokee County Chamber of Commerce and Encyclopedia of Alabama websites.