fishing Archives

Ice Fishing Guide: Gear and Equipment

Posted on January 27, 2023January 26, 2023 Lacey Spear

Fish on ice next to hole with fishing line in it during an ice fishing endeavor. — Photo Courtesy of Modern Farmer

It’s no surprise that Northern residents and visitors flock to their frozen lakes to go ice fishing. A beginner-friendly sport, ice fishing makes for a fun family outing. Plus, it’s true that fish caught from frozen lakes taste better due to the lack of algae.

In previous Lake Homes Lifestyle articles, we detailed top ice fishing tips for beginners and discussed the best lakes in the United States for ice fishing. So now you know the basics and where to go to try out your new skills. But what items do you need to get started? Well, unlike standard fishing, ice fishing requires more than a rod, reel, and bait. You won’t have much luck casting your line into frozen water without the appropriate tools to cut through the ice. But no need to worry—our ice fishing guide will give you everything you need to get started.

Ice Auger

Man drilling a hole into the ice with an auger and pictured in front of a gorgeous sunset. — Photo Courtesy of North Dakota Tourism

If you want to get into ice fishing, buying an auger is the first step. Since the ice thickness can range from a couple to a dozen inches, you want to make sure you can access the water and fish underneath. You’ll also have to decide which auger to buy. A motorized auger is on the pricier side, but it will save you a lot of time and energy compared to a hand auger—especially if you want to drill multiple holes. The size auger you buy also depends on the fish species you want to catch. For example, panfish usually require a 4.5-6 inch auger, whereas walleye would need a 6-8 inch hole.

Rod and Reel or Tip-Ups

A tip-ups---a device used to catch fish in ice fishing---over the hole with a sunset in the background. — Photo Courtesy of Beaver Dam Ice Fishing on Facebook

After you drill your hole, you have two primary options for reeling in fresh walleye, perch, panfish, pike, and other popular ice fishing species. On the one hand, you could go for the more traditional choice and use a rod and reel. If so, keep in mind that you won’t need the same length you would for warmer fishing endeavors, as you will simply drop the line down into the hole rather than casting it. Most anglers report that their ideal choice is a 28″ medium power rod with a size 20 spinning reel. They pair this with a six-pound fluorocarbon ice line.

However, on the other hand, if you want to give yourself the advantage of being in two places at once, you should go with a tip-up. This device allows you to set bait for multiple species at the same time. Plus, you can step away from the fishing hole for a moment and not worry about missing out on the action. The flag will notify you when your bait has attracted your prize catch!

Jigs and Spikes

A panfish with a jig in its mouth positioned on the ice next to a fishing hole. — Photo Courtesy of In-Fisherman

Now onto what seals the deal and gets the fish on your plate—the bait. The perfect ice fishing bait combination starts with a few Tungsten jigs and a couple dozen Spikes (also referred to as Maggots). You can use a Clinch Knot with your Fluorocarbon line to secure the bait. Around 2-3 Spikes hooked through the middle or the tail will set you up for success. Also—even though the process may seem gross—gently pinching the Spikes to expose some of their insides will strengthen their smell and get you more bites. For more jig types and an ice fishing guide, check out this kit.

Bucket and Shelter

Now you’ve drilled your hole and set up your bait, and you’re waiting to get a bite from that trophy fish. Sometimes, the bite comes immediately, and other times, you have to wait a while. Either way, you want to be comfortable in the meantime. That’s why a bucket and some form of shelter—usually a tent—are integral to creating an ideal ice fishing environment. Without them, it would be hard to stay out on the ice for hours. Plus, since many ice fishing trips often turn into a sort of tailgating experience, you want to make sure you’ll have somewhere to relax.

Sled and Tarp Straps

A sled with tarp straps on top of a frozen lake with trees and a sunset in the background. — Photo Courtesy of Take Me Fishing

If you already have a large recreational sled, you can easily use it for your ice fishing ventures. However, if you have yet to purchase a sled, you will have the most success with a 4-5 ft. long sled ranging 2-3 ft. wide and one ft. deep. This size sled will easily navigate the ice and also provide plenty of room for your equipment. Additionally, you will want to purchase tarp straps to secure your items. We recommend rubber straps, so your fishing hooks won’t get stuck in them.

Metal Cleats and Safety Picks

Red and brown metal cleats made for walking on frozen lakes. — Photo Courtesy of New York Times

The last components of the ice fishing guide, metal cleats and safety picks will keep you safe while on the ice. Metal cleats prevent you from slipping and increase your overall mobility. However, if you do fall, safety picks will keep you secure. Wrapped around the shoulders, these corded picks enhance your ability to climb out on the water and get back on the ice.

Now you have everything you need for your winter ice fishing adventures. So now, get the whole family together and get ready to have some freezing good times!

How to Fish in New Water

Posted on April 12, 2022April 8, 2022 Camille Smith

Photo courtesy of Freshwater Vacation Rentals

If you’re a lake homeowner and angler, chances are, you know your lake very well. You know exactly what time to wake up to get on the water, you know what times the fish are biting, and you know what sloughs to try for good luck. However, when you’re exploring a new lake for the first time, you might feel uncertain. How do you know where to start? Whether it’s a large or small lake, the same rules tend to apply for fishing in new water.

Do Your Research Beforehand

Before you arrive, learn as much about the lake as you can! The internet is a wealth of knowledge with maps of topography, online resources, and blog posts. Additionally, there are plenty of videos (like this one for Lake of the Ozarks) of anglers who are familiar with your lake area. Locally, you can also gather intel from your neighborhood bait shop or other community lake resources.

Assess the Season and Temperature

Without knowing a new lake, you can rely on the general rules of seasonality and temperature, which play a huge role in the location of fish — no matter the lake! It’s important to consider both factors, as they intersect with one another. In winter, fish seek out the warmest waters available. Due to lake stratification, the warmest spot on cold days is at the bottom of the water. However, if there’s a spike in temperature, they’ll swim toward the center of the lake. In spring and summertime, it’s best not to fish in deep water when instead, fish will be spawning in shallower areas.

Pay Attention to Environmental Micro-Changes

The best anglers know that these rules about seasonality are simply guiding principles, rather than infallible truths. It’s just as important to keep a keen eye on the micro-changes in the environment — the day-to-day differences on the lake. For instance, if you’re in a heatwave but there’s a sudden cloudy day, fish will take the opportunity to feed, which in turn, is an excellent opportunity for you to fish. Micro-changes also include adjustments in water level. For instance, when water levels rise, fish gravitate closer to the shallow shoreline waters.

Know Your Type of Bait Fish

On any lake, an essential part of fishing is knowing what bait to use. On an unfamiliar lake, the best way to gauge this is by observing the baitfish that your target is already chasing after. Have you noticed a group of minnows around the dock? Or white suckers swarming in one particular slough? These observations clue you into what your target fish is after, and you can choose similar bait that will lure them in.

Take a Bird’s Eye View

When fishing in new water, many anglers make the common mistake of stopping at one intriguing area of the lake. They see a slough they like, turn off the motor, and stay there. However, there are many benefits to surveying a larger portion of the lake first! This tactic will help you understand the lake on a holistic level, learn the ideal hiding spots for fish, and ultimately improve your ability to quickly understand and fish on a new lake.

We hope these tips help you reel in more fish, as you explore your next lake area!

Helpful Guide to House Hunting at Watauga Lake

Posted on February 8, 2021February 4, 2021 Camille Smith

When you’re house hunting in a specific lake area, there’s a lot to consider before making a down payment. One of these factors is the area itself. Since many people purchase lake houses in a different state, it’s likely you won’t be completely familiar with the location. As such, it’s a good idea to visit, check out the scenery, and explore local restaurants. Essentially, you’re test-driving life as a resident.

If you’re house hunting at Watauga Lake specifically, we have some advice for you. Located just east of Elizabethton, Tennessee, this reservoir was created by the Tennessee Valley Authority after the Watauga Dam’s installment in 1948. With abundant water recreation and the beautiful nearby Cherokee National Forest, there’s a lot to discover here. Check out our recommendations for your house hunting trip at Watauga Lake.

Stay at an Airbnb

One of the best ways to house hunt is to spend time in the lake area. An easy way to do this is by renting a cabin near the Watauga Lake listing you’re interested in buying. On Airbnb, hosts offer rental opportunities for guests to stay at their home. More personalized than a hotel, this popular booking platform allows you to see the surrounding area like the locals do.

At Watauga Lake, this Airbnb listing is hosted by Deborah Short Taylor, a Lake Homes Realty agent. Equipped with a full kitchen, dining space, and multiple bedrooms, there’s no better place to relax while enjoying stunning views of the Appalachian Trail. For your next stay, you can browse other Airbnb listings on Watauga Lake as well.

Explore Local Restaurants

Another excellent house-hunting venture is to explore local restaurants. Food is one of the best ways to become familiar with the local culture. When indoor dining comes back after the pandemic, it’ll also be a chance to chat with locals.

In Elizabethton, just 45 minutes from Watauga Lake, check out Rico’s Pizza and Subs for casual dining, Mayflower for seafood, and Jiggy Ray’s for pizza and nightlife. Another nearby town is Butler, Tennessee, located a short 20-minute drive from the lake. For seafood dining with beautiful views, book a reservation at Captain’s Table. Then, explore Shirley’s for a home-cooked meal or Butler Trading Post for a relaxing dining experience with subs, specialty pizzas, and other delicious items.

Take a Hiking Trip

Photo courtesy of Smoky Mountain National Park.

Most of Watauga Lake’s shoreline lies within the Cherokee National Forest. Because the U.S. department of agriculture protects the forest, it cannot be developed. As such, the hiking opportunities are abundant, as are recreation centers such as Backbone Rock. While house hunting, it’s a great idea to check out the natural scenery.

Outside the national forest, one of the most popular trails in the area is the Great Hike to Laurel Falls. This 80-foot waterfall earned its name from the plethora of mountain laurel shrubs in the Smoky Mountains. Of course, one of the most famous trail sites is the nearby Appalachian. The best part about this trail is that you can tailor your route to your skill level. For example, the path by Osborne Farm is an easy 1.5 level walk. If you’re a more intense hiker, you can traverse over 1800 miles through the woods.

If you’d rather bike than hike, the Virginia Creeper Trail is a perfect destination. This gorgeous trail takes you through farmland, forests, streams, and Christmas tree farms.

Check out the Fishing Scene

If you’re an avid angler, you’ll want to check out the fishing scene while house hunting. Lucky for those on Watauga Lake, there’s plenty of fishing. For instance, Blue Hole Falls in Elizabethton is a swimming and fishing hole with nearby picnic areas. Located in Elizabethton as well, Sycamore Shoals State Historic Park doubles as a picnic and fishing site. It’s also the site of several important historical events from the 1700s. While you’re on the water, you can check out the other popular water sports. In non-pandemic times, Watauga Kayak offers guided white-water rafting and kayak tours for you and your family.

We wish you the best with your house-hunting trip to Watauga Lake!

Largest Record-Breaking Fish By Species

Posted on January 18, 2021February 4, 2021 Camille Smith

Of all lake activities, fishing is inarguably one of the most popular. It’s a staple of lake living. Whether you prefer catch and release or catching-for-dinner, it’s always exciting to reel in a big one. Maybe you’ve even dreamed of landing a world record. As in many aspects of life, catching a big fish is about luck in addition to skill. Today, we’re looking back at some of the luckiest anglers out there who currently hold the titles for catching record-breaking fish. Who knows? Maybe you could top one of their catches.

Smallmouth Bass

*Angler:* David Hayes
*Weight:* 11 pounds, 15 ounces
*Location:* Dale Hollow Reservoir, Tennessee
*Date:* July 1955
Photo Credit – Sporting Classics Daily

Usually found in pristine streams with a fairly heavy water flow, smallmouth bass are a particularly sought-after fish. They’re known for being aggressive fish who fight back, which makes them thrilling for fishers. This lucky angler, David Hayes, was well-renowned for his ability to catch bass and walleye in deep waters. So much so that other anglers shadowed him to learn his craft. On one fishing trip on the Dale Hollow Reservoir that was initially uneventful, Hayes spent a few minutes wrestling with a massive smallmouth and landed the world record. There was subsequent controversy over the catch, including claims that dock hands at Cedar Hill Resort added weight to the fish, fabricating the truth. Thankfully for Hayes, this claim was later debunked, and he restored his world record.

White Sturgeon

*Angler:* Joey Pallotta
*Weight:* 468 pounds
*Location:* San Pablo Bay, San Francisco
*Date:* July 1983
Photo credit – FineFishing.com

Joey Pallotta’s white sturgeon is the biggest fish ever caught with a rod and reel. On the day it was hooked, Pallotta cast a live grass shrimp into the water, and within a few minutes, he had a massive white sturgeon on the end of his rod. He fought against the fish for a whopping five hours and recruited a friend’s assistance in his struggle. Eventually, the pair brought it to shore. Partially explaining its large size, the fish was estimated to be 100 years old.

Walleye

*Angler:* Mabry Harper
*Weight:* 25 pounds
*Location:* Old Hickory Lake, Tennessee
*Date:* August 1960
Photo credit – Wawang Lake Resort

On the day that Mabry Harper caught this record-breaking fish, he was about to eat it for dinner. However, upon noticing its large size, Harper’s wife (seen in photo) pushed him to bring it to Tennessee officials to be weighed. Although adult walleyes weigh 24 pounds on average, Harper’s catch of the day was just a pound heavier, at 25 pounds. That night, he finally got to eat the fish for dinner.

Pike

*Angler:* Lothar Louis
*Weight:* 55 pounds
*Location:* Lake Grefeern, Germany
*Date*: October 1986
Photo credit – Game & Fish

When he began his fishing trip that day, Lothar Louis didn’t set out to catch pike. The plan was to catch carp and roach, but the trip took a surprising turn when a massive pike took his bait. The fish was so heavy that Louis had to put his hands inside the gill covers to catch it. In a subsequent interview, he said he was so excited that he didn’t feel the pain of the pike’s sharp teeth. It was all worth it for this record-breaking fish.

Crappie

*Angler:* Lionel “Jam” Ferguson
*Weight:* 5 pounds, 7 ounces
*Location:* Loudon County, Tennessee
*Date:* May 2018
Photo credit – Tennessean.com

This fish is one of the more recent world record-breakers, just two years ago. In 2018, Lionel “Jam” Ferguson caught a large crappie on a small private pond in Loudon County. After being weighed by a Tennessee wildlife officer, it is now the International Game Fish Association (IGFA) all-tackle record and the Tennessee state record. But this isn’t his first record. Earlier that year, Ferguson caught a crappie that was indeed a record for the species. However, since no officials were on site to weigh it, he couldn’t register the fish at the time. Thankfully this time, he reported an even larger fish!

Brook Trout

J.W. Cook’s record-breaking fish is the second oldest record in the IGFA books. Several pounds heavier than the runner-up brook trout, this prize winner — more than 100 years old — will be challenging to top. If you’re in Ontario, be sure to check out Cook’s bamboo rod at the Thunder Bay Historical Museum.

Channel Catfish

*Angler:* W. Whaley
*Weight:* 58 pounds
*Location:* Santee-Cooper Reservoir
*Date:* July 1964
Photo credit – In-Fisherman

W. Whaley’s record-breaker is more than 50 years old, which is surprising given that channel catfish are quite common. It seems likely that someone would have broken the record by now. However, Whaley must have been very lucky on that July day. To date, not even the runner-up fish have come within 10 pounds of his record.

Best Practices for Catch and Release Fishing

Posted on September 18, 2020January 13, 2021 Camille Smith

Photo courtesy of the National Park Service.

Fish and wildlife experts disagree on the ethics of catch and release fishing. According to PETA (People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals), it’s cruel. Their opinion is backed by the research of scientists like James Rose, who told the New York Times that fish do feel a little pain.

However, proponents of catch and release fishing assert its conservation benefits. According to the National Parks Service, it allows more native fish to remain in the water and reproduce in the ecosystem. Some lakes such as Deerfield Lake and Westcolang Lake only allow catch and release fishing for this reason. Whatever your stance on this controversy, if you decide to try it, it’s important to do it properly to decrease fish mortality risk.

We talked with Greg Gerlich, assistant regional director for the fish and aquatic conservation program in the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service to learn best practices. Based on his expertise and research as a fish biologist, he feels that “done properly, catch and release can be a way to enjoy fishing, particularly for people who don’t want to harvest the fish. It’s also very rewarding.”

So, before grabbing your fishing rod, consider these best practices for catch and release fishing.

Stick to Active Fishing

As opposed to passive fishing (e.g., nets, longlines, and traps), active fishing involves intentionally watching your contraption (e.g., fishing hooks and seining). With active methods, fish are less likely to swallow the bait and stay on the hook for too long. This is safer because when anglers are consciously paying attention to their bait, it’s easier to bring in a fish quickly and release it.

Gerlich adds, “Another key point is that you don’t want to overplay the fish and fight to exhaustion. It’s also important to make sure your line is sufficient weight and quality to bring in fish quickly.” Essentially, active fishing helps with speed and reaction time. The faster you can reel in the fish, the faster you can release it.

Limit the Fish’s Time Out of Water

To reduce the fish’s stress and ensure survival, minimize its time out of water. This shorter interval involves thinking ahead of time. Get your line, tackle, and bait in order, pre-plan your photograph, and make sure your hands are wet to reduce the loss of the fish’s protective mucus. Then, lift the fish efficiently for a quick photo and immediately release it into the water.

A few tools can help enable a quicker release. According to the National Parks Service, artificial lures are the best choice for catch and release fishing because the hooks are easier to remove. Barbless hooks are much easier to remove. Plus, according to one Florida study on snappers and groupers, there’s no difference in catch rates between barbed and barbless hooks. Overall, stay mindful of handling the fish as little as possible.

Keep the Species in Mind

The impact of catch and release fishing differs depending on your lake’s biodiversity. Gerlich warns, “You don’t want to practice on species in water that is pushing their psychological tolerance.” One example is trout fishing. According to Gerlich, water above 70 degrees negatively impacts trout, especially if they’re stressed. Avoid trout fishing in these warm waters.

Similar precautions apply to fish that reside in deep water. A deep-water fish has limited time to acclimate to each water stratification level when you’re reeling them in. According to South Carolina Coastal Resources, this is called “barotrauma,” referring to a body part or organ’s injury due to sudden changes in barometric pressure. Snapper and grouper are most commonly affected by barotrauma. To remedy this, use descending devices to return fish to their homes at lower depths.

Do Your Research

If you aren’t sure what precautions to take for the fish in your lake, educate yourself. If you’re on a private lake, talk to the homeowners association and connect with other anglers. If you’re on public waters, contact the state’s fish and wildlife management agency and your local fisheries.

Especially if you’ve just bought a lake home and you’re new to the area, it’s important to inquire about best catch and release practices in your area. Gerlich adds that sporting stores and fly fishing shops are excellent resources for anglers too. “It’s their business to know what fish are out there,” he says of guides at fly fishing stores.

Are you an avid angler at your lake house? What other catch and release fishing practices have you adopted?

4 Fun Facts about Maine Lakes

Posted on August 16, 2020March 15, 2022 Camille Smith

For some, a dream lake house means countless boats on the water, a thriving city nearby, and a sense that there’s always something going on. But others prefer a secluded, quiet slice of paradise. If you’d choose the latter, a home on one of the Maine lakes might be perfect. As the least populated state in the country, you’re likely to have more outdoor space to yourself. Bordered by the Appalachian Mountains and the Atlantic Ocean, the state is surrounded by majestic nature, and its lakes are no exception. Check out these fun facts about four Maine lakes!

Henry David Thoreau Loved Moosehead Lake

Henry David Thoreau, the famous American poet, philosopher, and essayist in the 1800s, was famous for his pastoral lifestyle. His book, Walden, describes the simple joys of existing in nature. On one of his many outdoor journeys, he visited Moosehead Lake, where he climbed the state’s highest peak, Mt. Katahdin. In his book, The Maine Woods, he fondly refers to Moosehead Lake’s nature as “uninterrupted” and a “gleaming silver platter at the end of a table.”

Although he wrote these words over 100 years ago, he isn’t wrong today. According to the New York Times, an average of 4 people per square mile live in Piscataquis County, where you will find Moosehead Lake. The landscape is scattered with tall spruces, firs, and pines. Wildlife like moose and bald eagles inhabit these spaces. If you’re looking to live on a peaceful, rustic lake, endorsed by Henry David Thoreau himself, Moosehead Lake is the one to check out.

Damariscotta Lake is Home to a Rare Alewives Run

Photo courtesy of The Lincoln County News.

Of the Maine lakes, this one is slightly lesser-known, and you may see fewer boats on the water. But despite its isolation, Damariscotta Lake is not one to skip. The lake’s remarkably clear waters allow you to see 10 feet below the surface. This clarity is an especially useful feature for witnessing the famous annual Alewives Run.

Alewives, members of the herring family, are seawater fish that travel to freshwater to spawn each year. Although the alewife population has thrived in the past, they have significantly decreased in Maine over the last 200 years. Most recently, the Damariscotta Mills fish ladder has revived this population. This year alone, the ladder has helped 1,069,488 alewives into Damariscotta Lake. You can witness their migration annually over Memorial Day weekend. As part of the annual Alewife Festival, the Damariscotta Mills community hosts a 5K run, a cookout, and a chance to watch the fish.

Alewives, members of the herring family, are seawater fish that travel to freshwater to spawn each year. Although the alewife population has thrived in the past, they have significantly decreased in Maine over the last 200 years. The Damariscotta Mills fish ladder has revived this population. This year alone, the ladder has helped 1,069,488 alewives into Damariscotta Lake. You can witness their migration annually over Memorial Day weekend. As part of the annual Alewife Festival, the Damariscotta Mills community hosts a 5K run, a cookout, and a chance to watch the fish.

Sebago Lake is the Deepest in New England

Just northwest of Portland is Sebago Lake, which is the deepest lake in New England. Its depth of 316 feet is enough to hold the Statue of Liberty, plus the base. It contains almost a trillion gallons of clear water that provides the Greater Portland Area’s water supply. As well, it’s the second largest lake in Maine at 28,771 acres. The lake’s depths make it very popular for fishing lake trout. Sebago Lake’s underwater islands and coves also make it home to multiple other fish breeds like largemouth bass, smallmouth bass, and crappie. If you’re choosing one of the Maine lakes for fishing, look no further.

The First Registered Maine Guide is from Rangeley Lake

Cornelia “Fly Rod” Crosby – Boothbay Register.

If you’re seeking outdoor sports on the Maine lakes, you may have heard of the Rangeley Lake Resort. It’s a prime destination for travelers who ski and snowboard in winter and fish and kayak in summer. Today, it’s a revered travel destination. But at one point in time, Rangeley Lake wasn’t on the map.

In the 1850s, the presence of 12-pound brook trout in the lake brought a slough of anglers to Rangeley Lake. Over the following decades, the region brought on local guides. One of them was Cornelia Crosby, also known as “Fly Rod Crosby.” She gave up a steady job in baking to fish Lake Rangeley, caught hundreds of fish per day, and wrote popular journal articles about her sport. She later became the first registered Maine guide — a prestigious feat, especially for a woman in the 1800s. You can find her namesake trail by the lake, the Fly Rod Crosby Trail.

Learn more about lake living on Maine lakes at Lakehomes.com!

A Spotlight on Lake Whitney and White Bluff Resort

Posted on July 2, 2020June 29, 2020 Camille Smith

During the pandemic, demand for lake houses has increased as more people want their own socially distant slice of paradise. On Lake Whitney, White Bluff Resort embodies this peaceful atmosphere that people are seeking. This spacious gated community with 3,500 acres and 62 miles of road is outside the Dallas/Fort-Worth area. To learn more about White Bluff, we talked with Lake Homes Realty real estate agent Emily Morris and her marketing manager Tish Robinson. They shared with us what makes this lake and community special.

Setting on Lake Whitney

Though few homes on the market are located directly on Lake Whitney, White Bluff Resort has unique access to this impressive lake. Spanning 223 miles of shoreline, Lake Whitney was built on the Brazos River in the 1940s in response to floods in the early 1900s. Emily Morris adds that a major distinction of Lake Whitney is its beauty. She comments, “Lake Whitney has huge limestone bluffs that keep the waters crystal clear.” Many visitors frequently cliff dive from these bluffs. Other popular activities include boating, scuba diving, and water skiing. Fishing is major activity, as Lake Whitney is known as the “striper capital of Texas.” Another benefit of this lake is that it’s not overpopulated. Tish Robinson explains, “Compared to all the other lakes in North Texas, Lake Whitney is uncrowded. It’s a secret, in a way.” Because it’s relatively unknown, visitors and residents can avoid boat traffic and competition for the best fishing spots. She adds, “There are great nooks and crannies for getting off your boat to swim.” Given all these plusses, it’s unsurprising that Lake Whitney is a top 20 real estate market for Lake Homes.

Amazing Amenities

Located right on the shores of Lake Whitney, White Bluff Resort has only gotten better since its opening 26 years ago. In recent years, it has undergone several changes that benefit its residents. One of the Property Owners Association’s most exciting additions is the complete renovation of White Bluff’s two 18-hole, professionally maintained, championship golf courses. Rated four stars by Golf Digest, the courses were designed by PGA tour winner Bruce Leitzke. If you aren’t a golfer, you can try your hand at tennis or pickleball.

Besides sports, White Bluff Resort residents appreciate a host of other amenities like a club and restaurant, Mulligan’s Grill. Although the property is adjacent to Lake Whitney, there’s no shortage of water activities within the community. White Bluff has four pools, two catch-and release-interior lakes, and streams that run through the property at different locations. Other attractions include two RV parks, a playground, several picnic pavilions, and a chapel. White Bluff’s non-denominational chapel is well-attended by residents and is a hub for both social and charitable organizations. Soon, residents can look forward to the marina’s refurbishment and bigger tournaments on the golf course.

Affordable Properties

Individuals own most of the 6,000 lots available at White Bluff Resort. Many homeowners also own two or three additional lots. Emily adds, “We have many vacant lots available, and some buyers never intend to build, but they want to use the amenities.” If you’re interested in buying a home on White Bluff, there’s a wide range of home prices (between $200,000 and $1 million). The minimum size home is 1,700 square feet. Even at this home size, you have access to all amenities. If you’re a horse lover, you can look for a home in the equestrian area. “It’s a very affordable lake to live on compared to most North Texas places,” Tish comments, “You don’t have to be wealthy to live here.” If you’re not ready to buy, you can still check out the property by renting a log cabin or condo.

A Peaceful Community

Although buyers enjoy the guarded entrance and the countless activities, Emily says that they appreciate the people most of all. White Bluff’s initial residents were mostly retirees, but over the last five years, an intergenerational community has developed as young families moved in. This mixed-age group participates in a myriad of organized activities. From motorcycle groups to quilting clubs, there’s no shortage of ways to get involved. Although the community is tight-knit, it isn’t a noisy environment.

On the contrary, White Bluff is also known for its tranquility. Many community members enjoy watching the abundance of wildlife, and residents are often posting pictures of various birds. Lively, yet peaceful, White Bluff is truly the best of both worlds.

Emily Morris recognizes the property’s special qualities on a personal level, as she is a resident in the equestrian area. “I feel that real estate is my calling,” she says, “I am personally in my 4th home in White Bluff in 21 years.”

If you’re looking for both a lake home and a vibrant community, White Bluff Resort on Lake Whitney might be a perfect fit. Learn more about Lake Whitney HERE.

Lake Activities: What Should You Do Today?

Posted on June 12, 2020August 14, 2020 Camille Smith

From reading on the dock to water skiing, an endless amount of activities are at your fingertips when you own a lake home. Especially as summer is approaching, your options grow exponentially. With countless possibilities, choosing a lake activity can be overwhelming. To simplify the process, we’ve created this decision flowchart. Start at the top, answer each question, and discover what exciting feat you’re in for today!

Download Flowchart

Indoor Activities

If your result was in a turquoise box, get ready for a cozy, laid back day indoors. Greet the day with a slow yoga flow on your screened porch. By afternoon, maybe you’ll scour the pantry for ingredients to start a new recipe. Baking projects like homemade bread are more popular than ever, so now is the perfect time to get creative in the kitchen. Even if you’re in short supply of cookbooks at your lake house, popular apps like New York Times Cooking and Yummly have hundreds of recipes.

Similarly, there’s no shortage of DIY projects at your disposal. Examine each room of your lake home and ask yourself what’s missing. Maybe a cute chalkboard, decor made of driftwood, or an outdoor fire pit. You can create any of these pieces on your own, so why not get started today? If you’re not feeling creative and need to use the day to recharge, try one of The Atlantic’s recommended quarantine reads for the summer. Or sink into the sofa watching a lake-themed movie.

Outdoor Activities

If your result settled on a lime green box, you’re spending the day outdoors! The lake waters are getting warmer these days, so why not take advantage? Whether you’re practicing competitive swimming strokes, water skiing, or canoeing with a fishing rod in hand, enjoying the water in your backyard never gets old. If you’d prefer more green space than blue today, try exploring one of the hiking trails near your property. If you own a mountain bike, grab your helmet and start pedaling. Otherwise, bring a walking stick and go at your own pace. While you’re there, count how many different species of birds you can spot. Check out this bird identification guide to brush up on your ornithology skills. While most of these are solo activities, if you’re feeling social, you can turn the day into a small social gathering — once quarantine ends, of course. Your backyard is the perfect setting for a summer picnic. Bring a set of speakers, a blanket, and enjoy the view with your crew.

The Day’s What You Make It

We hope this flowchart helps you determine what activity you’d most enjoy at your lake house today. However, this decision-making tool is certainly not prescriptive. Ultimately, your perfect day at the lake is whatever you want it to be. Whether you decide to squeeze in every activity on this list, pick just one, or none at all, what’s most important is that you enjoy your lake retreat on this summer day. From our lake home to yours — have fun!

How to Practice Social Distancing at the Lake

Posted on April 23, 2020August 14, 2020 Camille Smith

There’s no sugar coating it — social distancing is a bummer. Since the COVID-19 outbreak, public life has been paused. Video calls have replaced all face-to-face interactions except for those who share our homes. Of course, such isolation can lead to feelings of loneliness. However, scientists recommend that to improve mental health in these times, spending time in nature is beneficial. In fact, rather than turning first to medication, some doctors are beginning to prescribe depressed patients with gardening projects.

For those of us with lake homes, we’re well aware of the benefits of time spent in nature. It’s simply good for the soul. In these times, where social distancing is crucial, being on a lake makes it easier than ever to comply with these guidelines without sacrificing enjoyment. Below are several ways that you can enjoy your lake house while keeping your physical distance from others.

Walking Down Country Roads

Since stay-at-home orders have been passed around the country, many of us turn to daily walks as our remedy for cabin fever. When you’re living on a lake, these walks are much more scenic. While urban and suburban areas have concrete sidewalks for these excursions, many lake areas sit comfortably off country roads. They’re easier on your feet and showcase more greenery. Even better, you’re less likely to run into other people to dodge on your walk.

Going Boating

Although social events have been postponed, no one said we have to keep a six-foot distance from fish, ducks, and birds. You can still enjoy proximity to wildlife while obeying state guidelines. Now is the perfect time to spend time on the water. While it may not be warm enough to swim, you can still grab your fishing gear and try to reel in the big one. Whether you own a motorboat, canoe, or kayak, this is an excellent opportunity to spend time in both green and blue spaces at once.

Finding a Hiking Trail

In most lake areas, you can find local hiking trails to enjoy some exercise and time outdoors. Although many are closed due to COVID-19, several trails remain open and have limited their capacity for visitors. To locate accessible greenways and nearby trails in your area, check out TrailLink.com and put on your hiking boots. If you have a furry friend, you may also want to check out BringFido.com for information on dog-friendly hiking paths.

Watching the Sunset from the Boat Dock

If you have a boat dock, you already have a front-row seat to a beautiful, socially distant show. Without the glare of lights and intrusion of tall buildings, the sunset is much more visible from the lakefront. So when the clock starts inching towards 7:00 pm, grab a glass of your favorite beverage, prop your feet up, and enjoy the view. If you want to practice mindfulness while you’re there, consider bringing a yoga mat to your boat dock and going through a peaceful vinyasa flow as you watch the sky turn orange.

Reading on Your Patio

Photo courtesy of Suitcase of Happiness.

In these tough times, there’s a reason that book sales — particularly children’s books, adult fiction, and thrillers — have increased. In addition to having more time to read, people are looking for exciting stories to engage with while social distancing. If you live on a lake, you can read from the comfort of an outdoor sofa on your screened-in porch. With the sunlight streaming in, you may get so comfortable that you drift into a nap.

Whatever your preferred pastime, we hope you find some ways to enjoy life on the lake — even while social distancing!