CULLMAN – It’s a question we are asked almost weekly: “Can I fish in Duck River Reservoir yet?”
According to Cullman Economic Development Agency Special Projects Coordinator Susan Eller, the Duck River Reservoir project coordinator and someone who has been involved since the project’s nascent stages, there is no date set for when the reservoir will be ready for fishermen.
“I know it looks very inviting and beautiful,” Eller said, “but the reservoir is not complete and the dam is still being worked on.”
The reservoir’s permitted uses have not been finalized yet because, due to work still being done on the dam, “it hasn’t been a priority,” she said.
“It [the reservoir] wasn’t supposed to be filled up until November, so even though it looks great, it isn’t ready yet,” Eller explained.
The reservoir has not been officially named yet, but Eller said that the name “Noble” will be used in some way in the naming of the dam.
“The property was the Nobles’ property, and using their name in some form or fashion was in the agreement. I kind of like that, ‘Noble Dam,’ it sounds very respectable you know?”
The walking trails around the unnamed reservoir are now open from County Road 1650 to 1659, and the public pier is open as well.
“Please be patient with us,” Eller said. “We’re working as fast and as furiously as possible.
Check out the reservoir project’s Facebook page at http://qrne.ws/duckriver, where all updates of openings and closings at the site are posted.
According to a statement on that page right now, “Due to ongoing construction, the lake is still closed to the public. No boating, fishing, swimming, kayaking, paddle boards, etc. until further notice. Remember, the lake was not supposed to even be full yet. We are working as fast as we can!!
Please continue to enjoy the hiking/biking trails (if you can stand the heat! remember to drink lots of water and stay hydrated!!). The ONLY section of the trail open is at Co. Rd. 1651 NORTH AND ENDS AT Co. Rd. 1669.”
