Tag: lake living

Ten Signs You’ve Spent Time at Smith Mountain Lake

Posted on Staff

Tree line and open sky over Smith Mountain Lake

Smith Mountain Lake, known locally as “SML,” is the largest lake contained entirely in the state of Virginia.

With beautiful waters and more than 500 miles of shoreline, the lake is more widely known as “The Jewel of the Blue Ridge Mountains.”

Smith Mountain Lake is host to just 17,000 visitors each year, a fraction of other large Virginia lakes, but if you’ve visited, chances are you’ve been there more than once!

Here are ten signs you’ve spent some serious time there.

You know you’ve spent time at Smith Mountain Lake…

…If you’ve watched the sun set over the mountains from the shoreline.

Most vacationers have to choose between a view of the lake and a view of the mountains. Not here!

You can sit back at the shoreline, or on your boat, and watch the sunset’s reflections on the clear waters as it dips down behind the stunning Blue Ridge Mountains.

 

…If you’ve had a cheeseburger in paradise at Portside Grill & Bar.

For a laid back meal right on the water’s edge, head over to the Portside Grill & Bar.

The staff there will make any visitor feel right at home, and the hot wings are to die for. Especially on a sunny summer day, this local attraction is popular for a reason!

 

…If you haven’t gotten lost (but wish you could) at SML State Park.

Smith Mountain Lake State Park contains more than 1,200 acres of wildlife.

More than just water activities, the park offers miles of hiking trails, primitive camping, a visitors’ center and picnicking locations. Families can also enjoy a wide range of kids’ activities and a children’s playground.

 

…If you’ve visited the Smith Mountain Dam, and can’t decide if those tubes look like caterpillars or slinkys.

Smith Mountain Dam coils and mountain sideSmith Mountain Dam was completed in 1963, damming the Roanoke River to create what is now Smith Mountain Lake.

The dam itself stands 235 feet tall, 816 feet long, and 30 feet thick at the base.

Water flows down to the turbines through the dam’s distinctive, 26-foot-wide tubes. The turbines have a combined capacity of 560 megawatts (that’s more than 750,000 horsepower!).

Visitors can tour the dam at the Smith Mountain Visitor’s Center.

…If you’ve dipped your toes in the cleanest body of water on the East Coast.

Smith Mountain Lake is known for its clean water, as any visitor can attest.

The three counties surrounding the lake all work to preserve the natural beauty and wildlife of Smith Mountain Lake. As a result, the lake is a pristine haven for fishing, boating, swimming and wakeboarding, with excellent visibility.

…If you’ve taken your boat to the car wash before putting it in the water.

Much of the lake’s cleanliness is because it has remained free of most regional invasive species, such as zebra mussels.

Boaters visiting from other bodies of water are encouraged to give their boat a wash at one of the off-water car washes near the lake (but well away from the shoreline.)

This will remove any unwanted hitchhikers.

…If you’ve reeled in half a dozen kinds of fish in a single day.

One of Smith Mountain Lake’s biggest draws lies just below the surface of the lake.

On any given day, anglers can pull in black bass, striped bass, catfish, perch, crappie, sunfish and carp. Multiple Bassmaster events have been held at Smith Mountain Lake, including the Bassmaster Elite Series’ Blue Ridge Brawl, televised by ESPN.

…If “going out on a Dare” means something entirely different to you!

Built in 1989, the Virginia Dare is a 19th Century replica side wheeler paddle boat that is 63 feet long, 20 feet wide and 26.6 feet tall!rear view of Virginia Dare river boat

The Virginia Dare takes guests on two-hour tours across Smith Mountain Lake, complete with fine dining for lunch and dinner.

Visit www.vadarecruises.com to find out more about this unique attraction.

…If you’ve had to tell your kids they can’t take an alpaca home.

The Smith Mountain Lake Farm is a bona fide alpaca ranch! The farm offers tours and petting zoo days, where your kids can meet real live alpacas.

These furry friends are much more friendly than llamas, and the farm has special events for kids with games, tours, a gift shop and more!

Visit their website at www.smithmountainlakefarm.com.

…If you’ve spent a day on the lake AND a day golfing – in the same day.

The lake has five golf courses situated around it, three of which are actually situated on the waterfront.

If you plan on spending the day golfing, be sure to plan ahead – two of the five golf courses at Smith Mountain Lake are private golf clubs.

 

Whatever your tastes, odds are if you’ve visited Smith Mountain Lake once, you’ll be back again before long!

Looking to make your stay a little longer? Take a look at homes for sale on Smith Mountain Lake, or contact one of the Lake Homes Realty agents who specialize in this beautiful location.

 

5 Ways Lakes Make the World a Better Place

Posted on Staff

We all love the pristine beauty and endless fun that our favorite lake brings, but have you ever stopped to consider what it was intended to be used for in the first place?

Most significantly sized in the US are man-made, and while recreation is one reason some are created, it’s definitely not the most common.

Here are 5 reasons lakes are beneficial for everyone:

Drinking Water

Many lakes are created to maintain a supply of drinking water for the local population.

Couple Drinking Water

One big example? Lake Lanier, which provides drinking water for nearly 3 million people in the metro Atlanta area. Built by the U.S. Army Corp. of Engineers in the 1950s, Lake Lanier encompasses approximately 38,000 acres in Northern Georgia.

Other examples include Lake Lanier’s sister reservoir, Lake Allatoona, and Lake Rhodiss in North Carolina.

Flood Control

Flood control is almost always a factor in creating man-made lakes, particularly those on river systems with multiple dams.

These reservoirs can hold in or release extra water depending on the needs of the downstream environment.

Such lakes that factor in downstream flood control include Lake Texoma in Texas and Oklahoma and Logan Martin Lake in Alabama.

These water bodies protect countless communities along their shores from devastating floods caused by area rivers and streams.

Hydroelectricity

Almost all dams on major rivers and lakes are now outfitted with turbines that produce hydroelectricity.

As water is released and flows through the dam, it spins these turbines, generating “green” energy.

While it is a growing, important, clean source of energy, hydroelectricity only generates about 7 percent of the country’s total energy production.

Lakes with hydroelectricity plants include Lake Oconee in Georgia, Lake Hamilton in Arkansas and Lake Murray in South Carolina.

Natural Coolant

Some lakes are created to keep nuclear power plants cool.

Like hydroelectricity, nuclear power is also a much cleaner energy source than coal or natural gas burning facilities.

Such reservoirs include Lake Anna in Virginia and Lake Keowee in South Carolina.

Efficient and clean energy — it’s a win/win.

Recreation

While recreation may not be the primary reason many lakes were created, it is what draws most people to the area.

At first glance, recreational activities may not seem as important as accessible drinking water, flood control or hydroelectricity, but they play a major part in driving tourism in the area, which brings in significant revenue to help boost local economies.

Not only are these bodies of water wonderful places to live, they also provide many unseen benefits to everyone in the region.

What is your favorite lake and how does it impact your community? Comment below and let us know!

 

Strategies for Using Compost

Posted on Staff

hands holding potting soilNo matter if a compost pile is hot and quick or cool and slow, when it is finished it is a completely new material.

The volume of the original pile will have been reduced due to biochemical breakdown and the water respiration will be approximately 30-50 percent of what it was during the process.

The finished product however, will offer you numerous benefits for different reasons:

Nutrient Rich Soil

Using compost in a garden will improve the quality of the soil, this is why compost is often referred to as a soil conditioner.

Compost will also improve the structure and the texture of the soil which will enable it to better retain the nutrients, moisture and the air that your plants need to grow.

Soil Structure

Mixing the compost into your soil will dramatically improve its structure. The structure of the soil refers to how the inorganic particles combines with the decaying organic particles.

The inorganic particles include silt, sand and clay. Soil that has good structure will be crumbly, drain well and will retain its moisture. You will find that it is very easy to till and turn over for planting.

Water Retention

Sandy soil does not have much water and it is difficult for it to retain nutrients. Soil that has a lot of sand in its composition will feel loose and coarse. Also, it will not hold its shape when you squeeze it in your hand.

Water and soil nutrients will pass through it very quickly since there isn’t anything to hold it together. Using compost will help the soil to bind with the particles and increase nutrients and moisture retention.

Additional Air

Clay soil will feel heavier and be more dense. The particles are smaller and are bound together tightly. When this soil is wet, the clay in it will be sticky and, when squeezed, will hold together.

When you mix in the compost, it will bind the clay into bigger particles that will offer more air space. This will offer your plants more air and better drainage.

Nutrients for Plants

Using compost adds nutrients to the soil. It contains many different basic nutrients that plants needs in order to grow.

In addition to the three main nutrients, which are nitrogen, potassiu, and phosphorous, there are other micro-nutrients that are found in the compost. These micro-nutrients include copper, zinc, iron and manganese.

Fertilizer

Compost is made using different ingredients.

Some end up decaying more quickly than others. Because of this, nutrients are released over a period of time. Compost is deemed a slow releasing type of fertilizer.

If everything decayed at the same rate, the resulting material would not be as useful. Putting the compost in your garden will offer you bigger vegetables, faster growing plants and amazing soil.

There are many people use compost out of convenience. It is something that can be made at home and is natural.

This is a better choice over store-bought fertilizer, which can contain high levels of chemicals.

 

Fort Loudoun Lake

Posted on Staff

Located in East Tennessee on the upper Tennessee River, Fort Loudoun Lake stretches across 14,600 acres.

The lake takes its name from the nearby site of a British fort built in 1756, which was named for Scotsman John Campbell, the fourth Earl of Loudoun, who served as commander of British Forces in North America at the time.

Lake Fort Loudoun possesses strong ties to its rich history extending back to the French and Indian War, when its namesake fort was one of the few British outposts west of the Appalachian Mountains.

Today, the lake is a major recreation destination for East Tennessee residents and out-of-state visitors but for you…Fort Loudoun is simply home.

Your social life is merely a boat ride away

The best part about living on Fort Loudoun? You don’t bother with pulling the car around because inding the social hub of the lake is, instead, only a short boat-ride away.

Prater’s Flat, the “party cove,” is THE place to be on a sunny weekend. You and hundreds of other boaters gather, tie up and enjoy the best of what lake life has to offer.

After the sun sets, you love that you can get to most restaurants by boat. Restaurants like Calhoun’s, Willie’s and Lakeside Tavern, for a more upscale night out, are a few of your favorites.

Two Words: Tennessee. Volunteers.

Because of Fort Loudoun’s proximity to Knoxville, you know you are in the best position to cheer on the best team in the SEC.

Neyland Stadium, one of only two college football venues accessible by boat, makes “Vol’s Navy” one of your, and all of college football’s, most beloved traditions.

Inspired by Volunteers broadcaster George Mooney, Vol’s Navy is a fleet of some 200 vessels of all sizes whose passengers watch the game from monster TVs on their tricked-out boats. Game Day is made even more special on the water with family and friends.

At Fort Loudoun, boats rule the world

Fort Loudon Lake is a particularly boat-centric lake. Throughout the year, festivals and fishing tournaments are accessed and enjoyed on boats.

Friends and families gather to cheer on competitors in the Dragon boat races, and locals love supporting the Concord Sailing Club, based out of Knoxville.

And on holidays? Nothing’s better than gathering friends and family for Rockin’ The Docks, an elaborate fireworks display, on the Fourth of July, Memorial Day and Labor Day.

The event, held in Lenior City Park, is also well attended by boat just off the shoreline.

The entire Southeast is at your disposal

One of the greatest things about Fort Loudoun would have to be its convenient location in East Tennessee.

Just west of Knoxville, Fort Loudoun Lake is a straight shot to major cities like Atlanta, Nashville and Charlotte.

Favorite band playing in Atlanta? No problem. The lake is only a couple hours away from civilization, and the best part is that you always get to come home to the peaceful waters of Fort Loudoun Lake.

Most beautiful sunsets in the southeast

Known for its picturesque views, it’s no surprise that Fort Loudoun Lake is home to some of the most exquisite sunsets in the region.yellow and orange sun setting over the lake with reeds in foreground

While you’re waiting for the sun to set, you like to keep an eye out for bald eagle and osprey sightings.

With a perfect location, rich culture and undeniable beauty, Fort Loudoun Lake is an excellent choice for a weekend retreat or a permanent residence. At 535 listings and counting, there is sure to be something for everyone here.

Fort Loudoun homes range anywhere from $100,000 to $5,000,000. For more information, visit lakehomes.com and find your dream lake home today!

 

Trotline Fishing: Fill Your Freezer

Posted on Glenn S. Phillips

A trotline is a long rope or cord, used for fishing, which features with multiple hooks that dangle from it.

These lines require little attention or effort to maintain.

The wonderful thing about a trotline is that you are fishing without standing there for hours on end.

trout on trotline

You can put the line out and then in the morning go back to it for your fish.

As you take the fish off the line, you can replace the bait and throw it right back in the water!

Setting up Your Line

First, bait the hooks with the bait of your choosing. Live bait, such as worms, shrimp and minnows, usually work well.

After baiting each hook, simply attach one end to a tree limb or something similar on one side of the lake.

Next, extend the rope out to its full length, and tie to opposite end to a second anchor. Be sure the line is submerged in the water and not sitting at the surface.

Caution and Local Laws

Make sure to always clearly mark your trotline, as it can be dangerous to others who are swimming or fishing in the area.

You can mark these lines by attaching such things as plastic jugs to the anchor points to call attention to where you line extends to and from.

Many states have laws in place limiting how long a trotline can be out, how it has to be marked, and a limit to the number of hooks that can be used.

Check with your local game and wildlife ranger for more information.

Making a Trotline

The easiest way to get a trotline is to buy a pre-made one, like this one from Bass Pro Shop.

You can also create one out of rope, cord, and fishing hooks, dangling a hook from the rope every three to five feet or so. You can find easy, step-by-step instructions here.

Why a Trotline?

Trotlines are fantastic for catching a large number of fish in a relatively short period of time, particularly catfish.

These edible fish are perfect for throwing a big get together at the lake, such as a fish fry!

Or you can always filet and then freeze the fish, which can keep for up to six months and is an excellent source of protein.

 

How Living on a Lake Can Reduce Your Stress

Posted on Glenn S. Phillips

Research has shown bodies of water, including lakes, seas and oceans and rivers, can have significant positive impacts on one’s physical, mental and spiritual well-being.

These “blue spaces” as the article calls them, can reduce stress levels and increase feelings of happiness.

People who live close to lakes often experience a variety of these benefits including the following:

Privacy

Unlike noisy, overpopulated, and polluted cities, lakeside properties are generally more secluded and properly maintained to promote remoteness and privacy.

This is a great advantage for people who prefer to keep to themselves or are looking for a nice place to which they can retreat after a long day at work.

This privacy also often means homes are away from noisy highways and nosey neighbors.

Relax

SunsetWaking up and seeing a magnificent view is sure to please any home owner, but nothing quite parallels the breathtaking view of a sunrise over the lake.

The sound of water flowing or lapping against the shoreline is soothing, and is commonly used in mental health clinics and on sound machines for aiding sleep.

Unwind in the evening with a peaceful, colorful sunset and the tranquil sounds of crickets singing and fish rolling on the water.

Fun & Entertainment

Lake FunThe lake practically screams excitement.

With so many activities to choose from, from boating and fishing, to swimming and skiing, the lake is the perfect spot for some summertime fun.

Having guests over for entertaining is better at the lake too!

Many lake homes have giant decks, pools, or docks designed to accommodate large parties and are great for holiday celebrations and cookouts.

Health & Fitness

In addition to benefits mentioned above, living on the lake also gives you the opportunity to focus on your fitness.

By living on the lake you will most likely have easy access to activities such as canoeing, paddle boarding, biking, swimming, or hiking, which are all fun but also great cardiovascular workouts.

Lake living comes with many built-in benefits that can positively impact your mental and physical health and is a great way to reduce your stress levels. For more ways the lake can benefit you, check out our article about the healing affects of water therapy!

Lake Home Parties – Tips for Creating an Unforgettable Experience

Posted on Staff

A fun lake home party is not stressful when you organize, plan and prepare properly. Parties at the lake can create unforgettable memories for family and friend when you plan appropriately.

Prior to Party Prep

group of men and women in bathing suits dancing

Pick a party theme that correlates with the special occasion or time of year. Set a date and time for your guests.

To ensure optimal attendance send out a ‘Save the Date’ message via text, Facebook, and/or email as soon as the date is set.

If you are having a birthday party pick an age appropriate theme that the guests of honor chooses.

If you are having a party for another occasion, do your best to pick a fun, colorful theme that correlates well with the dreamy lifestyle of lake home living.

Lake Home Party

three kids catching air on a tube being pulled behind a boatSome parties require games and expensive rental equipment for guests entertainment.

A great lake home party will allow guests to enjoy swimming, boating, skiing, floating, paddling, sunning and any other sports the hosts already own equipment for.

Decoration Preparation

At lake home parties the main goals are spending time together and making memories while soaking in the sun and enjoying aquatic sports.

Keep decorations simple ~ the lake is picturesque enough. Take advantage of the view and let your lake home create the dream party.

Allow the scenery to naturally relax your guests and promote lake life conversations on the wonders of the lake.

Food Preparation

Unless you plan to spend your time maintaining food and refreshment areas be sure to prepare foods that take little to no attention after preparation.

toddler drinking from a water bottle One easy idea is a crock pot full of hot dogs. Simply add water, heat the dogs then turn the slow cooker to the keep warm setting when they are hot. Keep a cooler nearby with condiments for the dogs.

Single serving bags of chips and other easy single serving snacks will not consume your time during the party.

Have a few coolers with a variety of can drinks and make sure there is plenty of bottled water.

Be sure to have paper plates, napkins, plastic utensils and trash cans in a few places to decrease clean up time later.

On the Eve of the Party

Make sure to have everything you need so that you can start preparing for your guest arrival. If you have decorations, start hanging them the night before.

If you are making specialty drinks or foods make them the night before the party so you do not feel rushed the day of.

Do everything you can the night before so that you can spend time being a host to your guests rather than their cook or waitress.

Lake Home Parties Safety

To be sure everyone stays safe while having fun always have enough life vest and other required safety equipment. Lake Homes Realty has numerous safety articles you can read for more information on keeping your guests safe.

And if there’s a chance the party might last through the night, check out our “Lake Home Guests – Invite the Family for Extended Stays and Be Prepared” story for more advice!

Relax, have fun and take a lot of pictures to remember your lake home party fun!

 

Recreational Boating – Tips for Buying a Used Boat

Posted on Staff

Recreational boating for family fun, fishing and relaxing is popular among lake home owners.

You can save money buying a boat if you consider a purchasing a previously owned one. In deciding which type of boat is best for your family there are a few things you should consider:

Decide What Type of Recreational Boating You Prefer

Will you stick to recreational boating at the lake or also on rivers and the ocean?

Will you be using your boat for hunting, fishing, skiing, cruising or racing?

The recreational activities you prefer should impact your decision on the type of boat you purchase.

rear view of a white boat in the water with man and woman aboard

Research your options prior to purchase and check out average prices of your preferred style.

Some other questions to ask yourself are:

  • Do you want a hardtop, canvas top or no top at all?
  • Do you want an inboard engine or an outboard one?
  • Would you like an aluminum hull or fiberglass hull?

Call About the Used Boat

Once you actually find the boat you are interested in and know reasonable prices, you should reach out to the seller or the dealer. Ask questions about the boats and show interest but do not admit you are ready to purchase a boat.

Make sure to write your questions down before calling them so you can write down each answer you receive.

Some things you will want to know are:

  • The year and the make of the engine and boat hull.
  • How many owners the boat has had.
  • If the boat has been in fresh or salt water, and the last time it was used.

If the person seems very persistent in selling the boat or in a hurry it is possible the boat may have some issues. Request an appointment to take a test drive prior to purchase.

 

man, woman and child riding in a boat, woman at the wheel

Make an Appointment to Test Drive Boats

You will always want to see the boat and drive it prior to purchasing the boat. Most boat sellers will meet you at the water so you can take a test run.

If they do not have time for you or you do not feel comfortable buying the boat without a test run, walk away.

Inspect the Boat

When you test drive the boat make sure check that there are no cracks in the hull. Look for any parts that look new, as well as signs of neglect. Do not be afraid to ask questions about oddities you notice.

It is always better to get more detail and a full observation than to purchase a recreational boat that does not fit your needs or run properly.

 

Also be sure to brush up on your boating jargon before you buy too!

 

Fun Wildlife Family Activity at Your Lake – Can You Find These Animals?

Posted on Staff

Time spent on the lake provides priceless entertainment and education for those searching for fun wildlife near the water. For an engaging family activity, see if you can spot any of the animals on our fun wildlife lake list.

Cowscow in water

While cows are normally found grazing fields near small ponds they are occasionally spotted on larger lakes.

This particular cow was spotted on Logan Martin Lake in July of 2016.

Cows are the largest domesticated mammalia.

Bullfrogs

Bullfrogs are amphibians. They eat creepy, crawly bugs but are not dangerous to larger species.

These creatures of land and water live in lakes, slow streams and ponds. The bullfrog is the largest of frogs in North America and make a deep loud call which is amplified by their internal vocal sac.

Bull frogs live predominately in the water but can be seen at the edge or on stumps and rocks in moist areas. You will find they are more active during the night.

Turtles

Turtles range in species and sizes. Most turtles are not dangerous, but snapping turtles can take off a finger so stay at a safe distance if you do not know which type of turtle is near you.

They eat bugs and small fish. Turtles spend most of their time in the water but can be seen on land as well.

Ducks

two ducks on rocks

Ducks are one of the easiest animals to spot around lakes and ponds. While they are fun wildlife to observe,  they will snap at you if you get too close.

Their hissing is an interesting sound, but it is a warning that they feel threatened and you should back away.

If you are visiting a campground or live on the lake, ducks are typically more friendly and love to gather as you throw popcorn or pieces of bread.

Beavers

Beavers are natural dam builders. You can find their handy work all around lakes and rivers where they have built dams as their shelters.

They live their lives in the water and are amazing swimmers.

These fury animals should be left alone, but are amazing to watch at work and swim.

Deer

Deer are elegant, graceful creatures that love cool, clear water for drinking. Deer run extremely fast and jump really high when spooked, so try to be quiet when you see them.

These beautiful animals are majestic and docile. In areas that humans visit often like campgrounds and homes on the lake, they become used to humans and may not spook as easily.

If you have a home on the lake, you can plant clover to get the deer to graze near your home. When they venture close to eat your clovers, you will get a great view of your fun wildlife semi-pet deer.

 

Raccoonraccoons on logs over the water

Raccoons are the thieves of the wild, they are rambunctious and fun to watch but can be troublesome for trashcans that tip over easily.

Some raccoons become so used to humans that they will make eye contact then go about their business.

Raccoons may bite if you get too close, so keep a safe distance when observing.

They only come out at night, so if you see a raccoon during the day, call animal control as this raccoon may be ill and dangerous.

For More Fun Wildlife Information

To read about more fun wildlife on lakes Environmental Education for Kids has numerous interesting facts. And check out our article, “Have Fun Exploring The Lake With Geocaching” for another family activity to try!