Fishing Woodward Lakes in Sumter County, Alabama

• Overview

  Woodward Lakes is listed under Sumter County, Alabama. It lies 148 feet above sea level. It runs to roughly 40 acres — big enough to hold fish away from the bank, small enough to learn. On our Sumter County list it sits near the top for size. Eutaw lies 18 miles from the water. For a city, Tuscaloosa is 44 miles off. Rules can differ a short way off, since the county line is near.

• Where to Fish on Woodward Lakes

  There is no recorded depth, so work from what you can see. Look for where the old bank line still shows under the surface. The old creek line under the surface is the feature worth finding. Fish reported in the area, according to open records, include dusky darter, bluegill, river darter and Alabama bass. Presence in the area does not guarantee a fish in this exact water on the day. Woodward Lakes responds to conditions more than to tactics.

• Seasonal Patterns

  Climate records put July near 81°F and January near 44°F. Cooler months are the productive ones on most of this water. Heat pushes fish deep from June onwards, so start early. The cooler months are the comfortable ones to fish here. On Woodward Lakes the same rules apply, with local timing.

• Tackle & Baits

  Nothing we hold confirms whether access is permitted. Nothing is listed nearby for parking or launching a boat. A small crankbait along the drop and a worm in the thick stuff cover the bass. Parking space is the usual limit rather than the bank itself. Signs go up and come down, so check on the day. Barns Pond at 2.6 miles is the sensible second choice. For Woodward Lakes in particular, ask before you travel.