LAKE GUNTERSVILLE, Ala. — Are you looking for a lake where the term "hawg bass" comes to life? If so, you should settle your crosshairs on northern Alabama, where some of the country's most incredible fishing is available within an hour of the Army's Redstone Arsenal in Huntsville.

The 'Bama lakes in the Tennessee River system are legendary for quality bass fishing.

A short casting distance west of Huntsville are Pickwick and Wheeler lakes, two of the biggest destinations for anglers seeking smallmouth bass that will push the rod-breaking 10-pound range.

If largemouth bass is your game, head east of Huntsville to Lake Guntersville, Alabama's biggest lake.

There is a certain allure to using your boat's trolling motor to carefully navigate narrow channels that cut through the thick aquatic vegetation. read more