i have a couple of local lakes in my area ive been fishing for a good while now and i just started hearing about topo maps i don't know why i just started hearing about them.  I was wondering if anyone knows how i can get a hold of one for my local lakes because ive looked every were it seems as if it doesn't exist.  Or is there a way i can get one made? They aren't big lakes but they are state parks. Thanks

ur local library might have one in archives.  or you can buy a sonar unit that allows you record ur outings and develop your own contour map.  the more you fish the better you will get at reading above the water to understand whats going on below that water.  a 3/4oz jig is ur friend b/c you can cast it a mile and feel everything on the bottom.

Ok cool im gonna get to it. I also read you forum it was really good. Thanks for all the help

Have you tried your local Walmart? That's where I got mine.

What lake was it you got it for?  I never would have thought walmart would sell anything like that.

 

Have you tried your local Walmart? That's where I got mine.

They had maps for both of my local lakes here in SC. I believe they were $7-8 each.

Just noticed that you are in SC too. I got maps for Keowee and Hartwell from the Walmart in Seneca.

It seems like the only way im gonna get one is like clakerbuzz said make my own because they don't have the contour maps unless someone with the fancy equipment makes one.  My local places aren't really places the pros like to go.

Hi Blackmax135,

 

What you need are true Topographic Maps that you get from the USGS.  If your lakes are man made then you want a Topographic map that predates the construction of the lake.  You will be able to locate all kinds of structure that is in the lake bottom.  Creeks, graveyards, railroad beds, roads, hills, ditches, town sites and such.  It is amazing what you can discover about your lakes.   

 

Frank

I would check your state DNR website.  We can get info on all 10,000 of our lakes (maps, water clarity, what type of fish are in the lake, ave size.....)

You can make your own topo maps using acmemapper.

http://mapper.acme.com

 

You will only have terrestrial topo lines of 10' though.

 

Print a light ink copy of the satellite view

Print the topo view on a clear printer sheet and put that on top of the satellite print.

 

This is one I did for part of a new lake;

 

I combined what FrankW & WayneP said!