The stocked trout often disperse upstream and downstream from the

stocking points, so fishermen should certainly not confine angling to

immediate stocking sites. Occasionally, trophy-size trout are caught in the
immediate tailwater and downstream in the headwaters of Lake Russell.
The Hartwell tailwater can be reached by taking SC 29 out of the
Anderson area. Fishing supplies and motels are available in nearby
Anderson, and an excellent campground is located near the dam at Sadlers
Creek State Park. Additional information can be obtained by visiting
www.sas.usace.army.mil/lakes/hartwell/.

LEXINGTON COUNTY
Lake Murray Tailwater (Lower Saluda River)

Michael Foster

The Lake Murray tailwater is a 10-mile-long section of river located east

of Columbia in Lexington County at the center of the state. This tailwater
is stocked with rainbow and brown trout from December through midFebruary, with the initial stocking being conducted by helicopter. The higher
gradient shoal
areas provide the
popular troutfishing spots.
The majority of
trout caught in
the tailwater have
been stocked
during recent
months; however,
large holdover
trout are not
uncommon.
Stocked trout
grow rapidly in
the Lower Saluda and trophy trout are occasionally taken. Considerable
caution is required when fishing these waters because of severe water
fluctuations. Public access to the river is very limited. Two boat launching
ramps are located off Bush River Road and Corley Mill Road about two
miles below the dam. A canoe launch is also located at Hope Ferry off Bush
River Road on Garden Valley Lane.
Fishing supplies, lodging and campgrounds are available at many marinas
located along Lake Murray. For a map of Lake Murray or information on
generation schedules, contact the S.C. Electric and Gas Company offices, c/o
Land Department or Lake Murray Management, P.O. Box 764, Columbia,
SC, 29218, call (803)217-8399, or visit www.sceg.com.

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