Book Your Fishing Charter in Altoona, AL

Altoona is a town in Etowah County, Alabama, United States. Blount County is only partially covered by it. It is part of the Gadsden Metropolitan Statistical Area. Altoona sprang up around coal mines founded by W.T. Underwood, the brother of former United States senator Oscar Underwood, in the early 1900s. The city had grown large enough for its citizens to seek incorporation, and the community was awarded its charter a few years later.

Today, the small inland city of Altoona has a suburban rural atmosphere which is perfect for travelers who want a more laid-back experience. Despite not having its fish-inhabited waterways, Altoona makes up for it near fishing destinations in the neighboring cities.

Altoona Fishing: An Enjoyable Time

Altoona may lack lakes and other waterways, but it is only a few hours away from various freshwater reservoirs.

The Etowah River Water Trail runs 163 miles and passes through one of the nation's most significant and biologically rich rivers. It features ideal wading places for capturing striped bass, especially during low water levels. There are sections of the river that are knee to waist deep for up to a mile. Various other fish species frequently traverse these shallow waters. Stripers often use these weirs as funnels to get from one area to another.

Next is Lake Cheaha, tucked away at the base of Cheaha Mountain. This six-acre hand-dug lake is home to some of the best recreational bass and bluegill fishing in the area. Picnics, fishing, sunning, swimming, and paddleboats are available three miles from the Cheaha Hotel and across the street from the lower campgrounds.

Meanwhile, the mountainous Desoto State Park is set atop gorgeous Lookout Mountain in scenic Northeast Alabama and complemented by several gushing waterfalls and fragrant wildflowers that will take your breath away, continuing in the rustic heritage of the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC). The CCC made several natural additions to the park during its development in the late 1930s that have endured the test of time and will be enjoyed by future generations.

Plan Your Trip in Altoona

1. Camp at the Noccalula Falls Park

Over 120 campsites are available, ranging from primitive tent camping to pull-throughs with full hookups. The campground is located along Black Creek Valley, providing spectacular views of the falls, gorge, and creek below. The Black Creek Trail runs from Noccalula Falls campsite to Black Creek Road and is a 1.7-mile crushed stone trail with excellent scenery along the Black Creek Gorge. The walk begins near the wedding chapel at Noccalula Falls. Over 5 miles of groomed single-track paths cross the main trail, which is ideal for walking, running, and mountain biking.

2. Visit the Gadsden Museum of Art

Each year, the Gadsden Museum of Art and History hosts a range of changing art exhibitions, including solo artist presentations, group shows, and the display of pieces from the permanent collection, fostering an appreciation of the visual arts. The Museum promotes local history awareness and appreciation by displaying artifacts, pictures, and decorative arts of historical value to Gadsden and Etowah County.