Duncan Park Lake Officially Open for Boating, Fishing, Kayaking

Stepping into the spotlight again after many long years since the 1950s, Duncan Park Lake in the city of Spartanburg, South Carolina is officially open for public use from Thursday, August 1. The pleasantly surprised and eager citizens are already flocking the docks, with fishing enthusiasts lining the shore a day prior to the official opening.

Not Just For Fishing

But it’s not only limited to fishing. Duncan Park Lake brings activities like kayaking and boating under its ambit as well. Offering enriching opportunities for both seasoned professionals like Will Rhyne, a sophomore physical education major at Lander University and a member of the college’s fishing team, and novices eager to try their hand at boating or fishing.

In the midst of catching moon eye spotted bass, Will expressed his elation, saying, “Honestly, I’m just happy to be out here. I’m happy to be in the outdoors. It’s not really about catching fish today as much as just being out here in a new place.”

Long-Awaited Revival

This revival spawns from the collaboration between the city, the Friends of Duncan Park, the National Park Service, and the PAL. After working hard for three years on a revisioning plan for the park and lake, these combined efforts finally bore fruit.

The PAL Executive Director, Laura Ringo, highlighted the team’s accomplishments including the upgrading of the existing trails last year, and the implementation of the lake and access to it. She also thanked the Longleaf Fund for the provision of the dock.

Plans for Flora and Fauna

The Department of Natural Resources jumped in this initiative and has already stocked the lake with 1,700 sunfish. They plan on adding more aquatic life to the lake in the Fall, with an additional 7,000 sunfish and bluegills.

Right now, only catch-and-release fishing is allowed at the lake with a requirement of a South Carolina fishing license for everyone aged 16 and up. Any child can accompany a licensed adult. Moreover, boating is allowed as well. Non-motorized vessels are allowed to sail on the serene waters of the lake.

New Features and Regulations

In addition, an ADA-accessible dock with a self-serve kiosk has been installed. The kiosk supports credit cards and offers kayak rentals at different rates based on the duration of usage. The rate for an hour is $14.99, two hours rents for $19.99, and an entire day, enabling usage for six straight hours, costs $39.99.

To ensure safety and maintain the tranquility of the lake, swimming remains prohibited. It is also requested that those who wish to boat or kayak use the new dock as it offers the safest and least intrusive manner of entering the lake.

The park authorities also sensitize visitors to use the designated parking areas, and not block driveways or obstruct roads. Laura Ringo wishes to make this journey a win for everyone and commented, “We expect to learn a lot over the next month, figure out what’s working well, where we need to make adjustments. We want this to be a win for everyone, including the neighborhood, so we’ll all learn and grow together.”