Aiken is the largest city found in the heart of Aiken County. Its unique spider-like shape makes it hard to miss on the map. The city is brimming with downtown outdoor experiences and recreational activities. Founded in 1835 and named after the first president of the South Carolina Railroad, the city remains organized as it originally was. It was given the “All-America City Award” by the National Civic League in 1997 and was named “Best Small Town of the South” by Southern Living. Aiken is your perfect travel destination in the south.
Aiken is very supportive of its sport fishing. Anglers have the opportunity to be recognized by the South Carolina Department of Natural Resources with their trophy catches. The award focuses on these trophy games: black and white crappie, brown trout, blue catfish, largemouth, and striped bass. Aiken also holds Fishin’ Adventure with the Neighborhoods or FAN, an opportunity for friends and family to gather over food, games, and fishing! With great recreational fishing opportunities and supportive government, what more can you ask for?
Gems Lakes Recreation Area, southwest of the city, is a charming spot with a relaxed environment for a good day of fishing. Swimming, picnicking, and spending time at the playground are among the outdoor activities residents can do in the area. Launching access for boats, paddles, kayaks, and canoes is available for residents and their accompanied guests. There is a fishing dock where people can fish game species like largemouth bass, bluegill, channel catfish, and crappie. Drift fishing is a popular technique in the lake since the atmosphere is calm and laid-back. Don’t forget to bring live bait for higher chances of better bites!
Burdens Deep Pond, a modest and sweet spot southwest of Aiken, promises fish species such as largemouth bass, bluegill, brown bullhead, redear sunfish, blue and channel catfish. In the center of Aiken, anglers may go to Hounds Lake for largemouth bass, bluegill, common carp, spotted bass, channel catfish, and smallmouth bass. And in the central south of the city, Holley Lake awaits anglers to fish largemouth bass, bluegill, and black crappie.
Aiken’s lakes offer year-round fishing opportunities. The city secures that these ponds and lakes are annually stocked to ensure productive recreational fishing any time of the year! So grab your gear, book a local guide, and head out to Aiken for a memorable fishing trip.
Don’t forget to drop by Virginia Acres park when you come to Aiken. The place has great outdoor activities such as a picnic, playground, ziplines, rope climbing, music-making, and a track for walking and jogging. The 46 acres park is also home to several sports fields and facilities for soccer, tennis, pickleball, hardball, racquetball, basketball, golf, and tennis. This park definitely has something for you on your next trip to the south!
Citizens Park is a sprawling recreation area for every local and visitor. It has ball fields, a splash pad, walking paths, and a playground. Coming to Aiken with your family is made easy by Citizens Park, where your kids can enjoy while you relax under the sun.