As the largest freshwater lake in North Carolina and the namesake of the original Mattamuskeet Goose Club, Lake Mattamuskeet is an exceptional place for humans and wildlife alike. Its rich history has had a significant influence on its present, and now we’re looking to the future. The historic relaunch of the club has given Lake Mattamuskeet, and Hyde County as a whole, yet another attraction, cementing the area’s status as a destination location. The lake itself and the surrounding village have so much to offer. Read on to learn more about what you can expect when you visit beautiful Lake Mattamuskeet!
The crown jewel and the center of most activity in the area is the Mattamuskeet National Wildlife Refuge. Protected by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, this refuge consists of over 50,000 acres of natural forests and waters, including the 40,000 acre Lake Mattamuskeet. The lake was first acquired by the U.S. government in 1934, and the Mattamuskeet National Wildlife Refuge was established soon after. It’s an ideal waypoint for migratory birds that travel up and down the coast, and the lake itself is home to various species, including ducks, geese, and swans.
The vast preserve presents the perfect setting for nature-lovers to get outside and enjoy numerous recreational activities. Wildlife photographers rejoice at the wide variety of species and the opportunity to capture snapshots in their natural habitat. Anglers can take advantage of the many marshy offshoots of Lake Mattamuskeet, as well as the lake itself, in pursuit of bass, catfish, and many other species. If you simply want to take in the scenery while getting a bit of exercise, visitors are encouraged to hike or bike one of the several trails that surround and connect the refuge.
Of course, hunting is also a big part of Lake Mattamuskeet culture and its legacy. The surrounding counties have been a hotspot for hunting clubs through the years as people come to the area for sport. In fact, the history of the Mattamuskeet Goose Club and its founding members dates all the way back to its chartering in 1932. The Mattamuskeet National Wildlife Refuge hosts deer and waterfowl hunts that bring people from all over.
Are you ready to take advantage of all that Lake Mattamuskeet and Hyde County have to offer? Find maps of Mattamuskeet online, or learn more about Hyde County attractions before you visit. There’s something here for outdoor enthusiasts of all kinds, so get out there and explore!
