Growing up in Up-State NY, I have alwaqys heard the "myths" about divers inspecting the resorviore dams, and coming in contact with huge fish. The fish were so huge that the diver(s) were scared and they vowed not to go down there ever again.
I now live in in VA near Smith Mtn. Lake. I have heard the same stories down here.
Here at least, I have heard of an explanation. The dam on Smith Mtn. Lake is a power generating dam that pumps water back up during non-peak hours. Supposidly, fish grow very large because they feed on the fish ground up from pumping the water from the lower lake (Leesville).
Is it a myth? My kids and I would love to see you catch or video one!!
Glenn VA
This message has been edited. Last edited by: mod_ivy,
Please use find before posting. It gets you to your answer faster and eliminates duplicate myths.
I've heard this, usually applying to carp. Fish can only grow to the size limited by their species; some can be impressive specimens, but we're not talking whales.
The shredded fish theory sounds pretty good to me. How could the MBs test it in the shop, though?
Some friendly advice: Posting your contact info here invites spammers, prankster, id thieves and other bad guys. If the team needs to reach you, they have your info from when you signed up.
The fish definitely grow bigger below the damn but you ususally have to be closer than the water authority will let you be. I would imagine that those restrictions have been tightened quite a bit by DHS. If you have the right equipment and can cast far enough, you should notice much bigger in general. On the Texas coast and near many lake damns, I have pulled out several 40-60 pound catfish but nothing big enough to eat a Volkswagon or whatever the myth is saying this week. Don't quote me on the exact weight but that's what I seem to remember. My dad used to have pictures of them and they were bigger than my legs. (I was in college so these weren't child-sized legs.)
