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W Kerr Scott Reservoir

Boat Ramps
5
Access Points
9
Species
16

W. Kerr Scott Reservoir is a 1,475-acre lake located in Wilkes County, North Carolina, offering 55 miles of picturesque shoreline. Built by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers in 1960 and completed in 1962, the reservoir was originally called Wilkesboro Dam and Reservoir Project before being renamed in 1963 to honor a former governor and U.S. Senator. This mountain reservoir is primarily fed by the Yadkin River and several creeks, maintaining remarkably clear water throughout most of the year. W. Kerr Scott is one of the few lakes in North Carolina that hosts populations of all three black bass species, making it a unique destination for anglers seeking diverse fishing opportunities.

Fishing spots, boat ramps & amenities

Learn how to get on W Kerr Scott Reservoir. Uncover great fishing access points, boat ramps, and all the facilities you need for an unforgettable day on the water. Some locations shown may border or include private property. Always check property boundaries and applicable regulations before visiting. onWater's Public & Private Land layer can help you plan your access with confidence.

Smitheys Creek Public Use Area

Smitheys Creek Public Use Area

Access Point
Kerr Scott Reservoir Access Trail

Kerr Scott Reservoir Access Trail

Access Point
Boomer Park

Boomer Park

Access Point
Lewis Fork Access

Lewis Fork Access

Access Point

Know where you can legally fish on W Kerr Scott Reservoir

See public and private land boundaries along the water, turn on private parcels with owner details to know where permission is required, and find land-trust parcels that offer permitted fishing access.

North Carolina licenses and regulations

North Carolina Boating Regulations

When using any type of watercraft to access a body of water, it is important to follow all federal, state, and local rules and regulations. These rules and regulations include boat permitting and licensing, invasive species inspections and stamps, life jacket and PFD rules, motor size and horsepower restrictions, noise limitations, restrictions on personal watercraft, and many more. Visit the web link below for the most current rules and regulations for this body of water.

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North Carolina Fishing License

Youth under age 16 are exempt from the requirements of any fishing license and trout privilege license.

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North Carolina Fishing Regulations

This river has a variety of species and regulations, including potential floating and/or watercraft restrictions. Because this river is specially managed for species, seasons, angling methods, and watercraft, it is strongly encouraged you check all federal, state, and local regulations before fishing. Visit any of the links below, inquire locally, or contact a local fly shop to learn current regulations and restrictions.

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North Carolina Stream Access Laws

If a boater can float the water, it is navigable and can be used for recreation. Navigable waters are in the public trust, including streambeds. If the navigable water is tidal, public use extends to all waters that cover an average high tide.

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Take W Kerr Scott Reservoir with you

The onWater Fish app keeps this water's access points, species and conditions in your pocket, with the tools you use once you're there.

  • Use the map without signal

    Download the map around W Kerr Scott Reservoir to use it offline when coverage drops.

  • Log your catches here

    Keep a private fishing journal for W Kerr Scott Reservoir to find where and when fish are biting for you.

  • HD depth charts from Garmin

    Find drop offs, ledges, channels, points and shallow flats with Garmin depth charts in the app.

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Water and weather conditions (10 day forecast)

See the best times to fish W Kerr Scott Reservoir and check the forecast before you go.

YADKIN RIVER BL W KERR SCOTT DAM NEAR BUCK, NC

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