DAVIDSON COUNTY, N.C. —There’s a lake in our state that many long-time residents may have not even heard of.
Situated between Thomasville and Lexington, Lake Thom-A-Lex gets its name from the two cities, which also use it for drinking water.
“Since 1956, the lake has been here,” said Davidson County Parks and Rec Director Thomas Marshburn. “It's been here a long time, but people don't know it exists unless you're a local."
"Lake Thom-A-Lex is a 650 acre lake, which is strictly fishing, kayaking and canoeing,” said lake warden Chris Tapler. “There's no swimming allowed."
The lake is best known for its hybrid bass, which is a big draw for fishermen.
"It's good fishing,” said Griffin Kiger, who frequently fishes there. “Hybrid bass come up there at the dam early in the morning. You can catch all the hybrid bass you want. They'll come up in schools of an acre."
"They bite good, and they're a strong little wrestler to get in,” Tapler said.
A new feature for folks to enjoy at the lake's park is coming up in September when park officials are set to open about two miles of walking trails.
Davidson County Parks and Rec has recently added several other new features, including a playground, kayak rentals and a boating dock.
"We have three fishing piers, and four shelters that people can rent for birthday parties and group parties,” Tapler said.
Park leaders say the lake is one of the area's best kept secrets, and that's part of its appeal.
"The seclusion,” Marshburn said. “It's not really overwhelmed with people. There's a lot of opportunities for people to get into the coves and fish. It's just a wonderful secluded lake."
The park and playground are free. It's $4 to put a boat in and $2 to fish. Kayak rentals are $15 for four hours.