Spartanburg’s Duncan Park Lake Opens for Public Fishing and Kayaking After Decades

In a historical event, the 14-acre, creek-fed Duncan Park Lake in Spartanburg will allow catch-and-release fishing and non-motorized boating starting August 1. It’s the first time this has been permitted since the 1950s.

This development opens an exciting new avenue for outdoor enthusiasts, who now have the opportunity to reel in largemouth bass that throng the lake or paddle through its serene beauty.

Easy Access Through an App

Adding to the convenience, the city authorities have facilitated kayak rentals through a user-friendly app. Priced at $14.99 for an hour, $19.99 for two hours, and $39.99 for six hours, these kayaks that are not yet prepared for fishing offer a unique recreational avenue. However, visitors can bring their private non-motorized boats.

The Journey of Revival

The refurbishment of Duncan Park Lake for public use can be credited to Spartanburg PAL (Play. Advocate. Live well). They expressed excitement about the significant development.

“Several years ago, while surveying trail use numbers, we noticed Duncan Park wasn’t attracting as many users as other trails in the Daniel Morgan system. To draw people over to Duncan Park, we needed it to be a grand destination,” said Laura Ringo, Executive Director of PAL.

This led to the submission of a proposal for technical assistance for park development, which was successfully granted in June 2021. The subsequent year saw extensive collaboration with the city of Spartanburg, and the National Park Service, resulting in the conceptualization and implementation of a plan for Duncan Park’s rejuvenation.

Setting the Pace

Before green-lighting the public use of the lake, extensive analyses were conducted, including water testing, to ensure safety. Swimming has been prohibited due to the lake’s stillness, but engaging activities like fishing and kayaking have gained permission.

The discovery of largemouth bass overpopulation and fewer numbers of bluegill acted as catalysts for the Department of Natural Resources (DNR) stocking the lake with redear and plans to infuse more sunfish.

Duncan Park Lake’s Fishing Future

At present, the lake will follow a ‘catch and release’ fishing protocol. However, this might change based on the initial usage, feedback from local communities, and the reassessment of the situation.

By stocking the lake with additional bluegill sunfish and considering options for possible future harvests, authorities aim to establish Duncan Park Lake as a thriving fishing destination in Spartanburg.

A New Dawn

The reopening of Duncan Park Lake for fishing and boating after nearly 70 years signifies a proud moment for the authorities, residents, and outdoor enthusiasts alike.

As the city of Spartanburg aims to achieve balanced ecosystem dynamics in the lake, it also looks forward to vibrant and active community participation in the coming years.