About Lake Whelchel
Lake Whelchel is located in Cherokee County near the town of Gaffney. It is the primary water source for the town of Gaffney. The lake impounds Cherokee Creek and another unnamed creek. Additional water is sometimes pumped into the lake from nearby Broad River to supplement the water supply. There is one boat ramp and a picnic area along with restrooms.
Specifications
- Size: 150 Acres
Regulations
(More rules and regualtions are posted at the lake )
- A South Carolina Fishing License is required
- No swiming or wading allowed.
- A sign at the boat ramps shows rules and regulations.
- Boating permits are $ 25.00
- Picnic Shelter Rental – $ 100 deposit with $ 75 refunded after picnic shelter is cleaned properly. Reservations are taken at the Main Office.
For more information check out Gaffney Board of Public Works online.
Location
I-85 Exit # 95 – Directions can be found with this Google Map of Lake Whelcel
Lake Whelchel fishing & boating guide
Lake Whelchel is the city lake of Gaffney, a tidy 178-acre reservoir in Cherokee County owned by the Gaffney Board of Public Works as a water supply and recreation lake. Just a few minutes from town, it is the go-to spot for local anglers and an easy, uncrowded place to put a small boat in the water.
The fishing leans on largemouth bass, black crappie and bluegill, and there is a public boat ramp with picnic facilities on the shore. Boating runs on a permit — an annual fee for Cherokee County residents — with a 40-horsepower limit that keeps the lake calm. A South Carolina fishing license is required.
Nearby lakes
- Lake Thicketty — a managed state lake in the same county
- Lake Bowen — a larger lake just west in Spartanburg County
Fish Species
- Bass
- Bream
- Crappie
- Catfish
Lake Whelchel FAQ
How big is Lake Whelchel?
About 178 acres, the city water-supply lake of Gaffney in Cherokee County.
What fish are in Lake Whelchel?
Largemouth bass, black crappie and bluegill, with a public boat ramp and picnic area.
Do you need a permit to boat on Lake Whelchel?
Yes — a boating permit (an annual fee for Cherokee County residents) is required, with a 40-horsepower limit.
I’m from Taylors and I have a 150 on my boat is there a regulation for motors I am trying to fish this lake
Thanks
Can’t put boat in unless you live I Cherokee county
I live in NC. Can I put my fishing kayak on the lake and fish?
Is there a fee?
Hey there fellow North Carolinian!
I see you’re interested in taking your fishing kayak out on the lake and enjoying some quality fishing time. Great choice! I’m here to help you with all the information you need to make that happen at Lake Whelchel in Cherokee County.
First things first, the answer to your question is a resounding YES! You absolutely can put your fishing kayak on Lake Whelchel and fish to your heart’s content. It’s a beautiful spot for spending a day on the water, and I’m sure you’ll have a fantastic time.
Now, let’s talk about fees. Good news for you, there is no fee for launching your kayak at Lake Whelchel! That’s right, you can simply bring your gear, launch your kayak, and get started on your fishing adventure without having to worry about any additional costs. However, do keep in mind that you’ll need to have the appropriate North Carolina fishing license before you head out. Depending on your age and residency status, the cost of the license may vary, but it’s essential for ensuring that you can fish legally and responsibly.
While I’ve got your attention, let me share a couple more helpful tips for making the most of your day at Lake Whelchel:
1. Know the rules: While there’s no fee for launching your kayak at the lake, it’s still important to follow all posted rules and regulations. This includes adhering to any size or bag limits for fish species and practicing safe boating practices.
2. Be prepared: Make sure you have all the necessary gear for a successful day on the water. This includes life jackets for everyone on board, a whistle or other sound-producing device, and a proper anchor if you plan to stop and fish in one spot for an extended period.
3. Keep an eye on the weather: North Carolina weather can be unpredictable at times, so be sure to check the forecast before you head out. If conditions look unfavorable, it might be best to postpone your trip for another day.
4. Protect yourself from the sun: A day of fishing can quickly turn into a sunburn if you’re not careful. Bring sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat to keep yourself protected from harmful UV rays.
5. Practice catch and release: If you don’t plan on keeping the fish you catch, be sure to practice proper catch-and-release techniques. This helps maintain a healthy fish population in the lake and ensures that future generations can enjoy fishing at Lake Whelchel as well.
I hope this information helps you have an amazing day fishing on Lake Whelchel! Tight lines and happy paddling!
I would love to go kayak fishing at Lake Whelchel. I live in Kings Mountain N.C. So what do I need to fish there just a S.C. fishing license.