Alligator Lake Fishing Spot

• Elevation: 96'
• Last Modified By: vinny60 on 09/07/09 11:41 AM
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Alligator Lake is the largest lake in Columbia County, located in the county seat, Lake City. Several sinkholes are located in the north and south basins of the lake which provide direct connection to the aquifer. One of these sinkholes has been responsible for frequently draining the northern lake basin. This results from increased hydraulic pressure upon sinkhole sediments as groundwater levels subside during periods of drought. During these events, the southern areas of the lake retain water, as a shallow connection exists between north and south basins. Columbia County’s Alligator Lake Park opened in April 2002. The entrance to the park can be found off of Old Country Club road in Lake City. A small boat launch on the north marsh central drainage canal and walking access or boatless fishing will provide unique angling opportunities. Note: Alligator Lake is a Fish Management Area (license is required to fish in north and south lake basins and north and south marshes). Alligator Lake is a shallow, fertile lake with extensive areas of fringing marshes and cypress swamps. One of its most unusual features is the presence of active sinkholes in the lake bottom, which unplug during droughts and drain most of the lake.

Alligator Lake