Every Boat Ramp on W. Kerr Scott Lake

About W. Kerr Scott Lake

W. Kerr Scott Lake is a 1,475-acre U.S. Army Corps of Engineers reservoir on the Yadkin River in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains near Wilkesboro, North Carolina. With 53 miles of wooded shoreline and a maximum depth of 80 feet, this scenic foothills lake provides excellent fishing and recreation opportunities in an area known for its natural beauty, craft breweries, and proximity to the Blue Ridge Parkway.

The lake supports a solid fishery featuring largemouth bass, crappie, catfish, bluegill, and walleye. Largemouth bass fishing is productive around fallen timber, rocky banks, and submerged structure, particularly in the upper Yadkin River arm. Crappie anglers find success around brush piles and standing timber, with spring offering the best action. The walleye population adds a unique dimension to the fishery, with fish stocked by the NC Wildlife Resources Commission providing exciting catches for anglers targeting deeper structure.

The Corps of Engineers maintains several recreation areas around the lake with boat ramps, campgrounds, picnic shelters, and a swim beach. The 25-mile Overmountain Victory National Historic Trail passes near the lake, and the charming downtown areas of Wilkesboro and North Wilkesboro offer dining, shopping, and cultural attractions. The annual MerleFest music festival, held nearby each April, draws thousands of visitors to the area.

Nearest towns: Wilkesboro, North Wilkesboro