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History Fishing Smithland Pool Facilities Footbridge

Golconda Marina

With slips for more than 200 boats, Golconda Marina is an Ohio River landmark. Located in extreme southeastern Illinois in the town of Golconda, the marina serves as the gateway to the river's Smithland Pool. A 23,000-acre recreational area of fingered tributaries off the Ohio River, Smithland Pool is recognized as one the finest fishing and boating areas in the nation.

History

The site for the marina was created in 1937 when barrow dirt was used to build a flood wall around the town of Golconda. The resulting pit formed a water-impoundment area that offered excellent trapping and fishing.

The marina began as a project of the Lusk Conservancy District and was completed as a joint venture of the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers and the Illinois Department of Natural Resources. Opened in 1988 as one of the Ohio River's most up-to-date facilities, the marina is owned by the Department of Natural Resources, which leases it to a private concessionaire.

A large bluff on the north side of the marina, also owned by DNR, features camping, picnicking, and 2 hiking trails overlooking the river. Called Rauchfuss Hill after a farm family who lived there for many years, the site also has been known as Steamboat Hill because of the view it offers of steamboats traveling the Ohio River.

Fishing

Popular fish available to anglers include:

	Largemouth bass
	Smallmouth bass
	Kentucky spotted bass
	Crappie
	Bluegill
	Sauger
	Striped bass
	White bass
	Catfish

Many fishing tournaments are hosted at the marina. Courtesy transportation from the marina is provided by several Golconda businesses, or, if you enjoy walking, a short stroll will put you in the heart of Golconda via the new Footbridge.

Smithland Pool

Smithland Pool was formed in 1980 upon completion of the Smithland Navigation Project at Hamletsburg. The pool is more than 72 miles long, extending from north of the Smithland Lock on the Ohio River to the John T. Meyers Lock. From Smithland Pool there is easy, deep-water access to Evansville, Ind. (110 miles), Kentucky Lake (56 miles), Barkley Lake (54 miles), and Mobile, Ala. (655 miles).

The pool's shoreline, numerous islands and deep, clean water attract outdoor recreationists looking for excellent boating, water skiing and fishing.

Facilities

The marina is a full-service facility, offering:

	Overnight moorage
	Covered slips
	Marine Supplies
	Gas
	Diesel
	Mechanic service
	Food and Drink
	Shower facilities

* Accessibility for disabled visitors is provided.

The concession building is open March 1 through Nov. 20. It houses a full line of fishing equipment, boating accessories, bait, food, drink and camping supplies.

The Town

Home to about 750 residents, Golconda is a typical river town. It features early 20th century architecture reflecting the prosperous times when the river trade made it the economic center of the area. Visitors to Golconda today will find both elegant dining and down-home barbeque, as well as variety of overnight accommodations, including cottages, motels, cabins and bed-and-breakfast inns.

The town is rich in history and was known as an overnight stop for riverboat pilots and captains. Residents also tell tales of local river pirates who once cruised the Ohio.

Footbridge

A much needed addition to Golconda is the new footbridge. Connecting the marina to the downtown area is a convenience for everyone. With a beautiful view of the Ohio River, this structure is a must see.