STOKES COUNTY -- More than half a million people visited Hanging Rock State Park last year, but park officials say it isn't just the views that can take your breath away.
"People that already know about the park may not know about how great the fishing is. It's not really known far and wide as a fishing destination, but now it's becoming that," said Robin Riddlebarger, Hanging Rock State Park superintendent.
The State Wildlife Resources Commission is trying to boost that knowledge. The agency entered Hanging Rock and four other state parks into a national sweepstakes sponsored by Recreational Boating and Fishing Foundation. Fishing has always been offered at the park but since last year, the commission stocked the lake with 2,400 rainbow trout.
"We put the fish in and they aren't necessarily reproducing, but we want anglers to catch them and bring them home anyways so it doesn't matter to us if the fish aren't reproducing," said Russell Wong, NC Wildlife Resources Commission fishery biologist.
Park officials had some hesitation when the Wildlife Commission wanted to put a non-native fish into the lake but ultimately supported the decision since it's a man-made lake.
"These fish are not expected to live and reproduce and continue living in this water for generations but it was to provide an opportunity for fishing, to get some new fishermen in and different type of fishermen to the lake," said Riddlebarger.
State officials say part of Hanging Rock's lure for anglers is it's eclectic offering
"Fish for people to go after like the bass, bluegill and catfish and crappie," said Wong.
Catching a fish or a view, it can all be done at Hanging Rock State Park.
People have until March 27th to vote for their favorite state park.
To vote for “America’s Top Family Fishing and Boating Spot” visit here.