When the Pike County Lake closed for repairs in 2012, it’s future was an uncertain as the likelihood of catching a state-record fish in the murky waters of the lake.

First opened in 1951, the once popular lake had been neglected, the dam and property deteriorating due to lack of upkeep and lack of funds. Patrons were few and far between, and no one would have been surprised if the lake were shuttered permanently.

But in 2013, officials with the City of Troy and the Alabama Division of Wildlife and Freshwater Fisheries began a partnership that lead to a complete renovation of the lake, including much-needed repairs to the dam and shoreline, construction of a new conference center and recreation area and the re-stocking of the lake with bass and bream.

Since it reopened July 1, 2016, more than 7,000 have visited the lake to fish, attend a conference or simply relax and enjoy the pastoral setting. Moreover, the recreational facility that once simply drained county resources generated more than $71,000 in revenue, proving that a recreational lake in Pike County can be a viable investment of tax dollars and resources.

The partnership between city and state leaders that resulted in the rehabilitation of the lake is an excellent model of cooperation. By approaching the project with a “what can we do to make this happen” mindset, pooling resources and embracing a spirit of cooperation, city and state officials were able to create a recreational facility that will benefit Pike Countians for decades to come.

Was the renovation costly? Yes. But, as anyone who has dropped a line, paddled a boat or rocked in a chair on the dock will tell you, the result is well worth the investment of tax dollars to renovate, restore and run the Pike County Lake.

And if you’re not among those 7,000-plus visitors who enjoyed the lake this past year, why are you waiting? The lake is open six days a week year-round. It is closed on Wednesdays and some holidays. In addition to a $3.75 fishing permit, residents ages 16-64 need to have a valid fishing license. Both permits and licenses are available at the concession stand and bait shop.

Jon boats, trolling motors, batteries, paddles, vests and more are available for rental on-site.

For more information, call 334-674-2480 or visit www.troyrecreation.org/lake.html.