Columbus Lake is a large reservoir located on the Tennessee-Tombigbee Waterway in Mississippi. Covering 8,910 acres, it is the largest reservoir along the waterway. The lake extends 22 miles from Aberdeen Lock and Dam (mile 357.5) to Columbus Lock and Dam (Stennis Lock and Dam, mile 334.7).

Created in 1981, Columbus Lake is owned and managed by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers. The Mississippi Department of Wildlife, Fisheries, and Parks manages the lake's fisheries resources.

The lake is a popular destination for fishing, particularly for bass and crappie. Anglers can target species including bass, walleye, crappie, catfish and sunfish. A Mississippi fishing license is required for those aged 16-65.

An important safety consideration for paddlers is the presence of giant salvinia, a highly invasive floating aquatic plant. It is critical that paddlers thoroughly clean their boats and equipment before and after use to prevent spreading this invasive species.

The lake's large size and 22-mile length offer ample opportunities for day trips. Its connection to the Tennessee-Tombigbee Waterway may provide options for longer journeys.

Facilities are limited, though a boat launch is available.

Given its location in Mississippi, paddlers should be prepared for hot summers and mild winters typical of the region.

Standard boating rules apply on this large reservoir, and paddlers should be aware of potential motorized boat traffic.

The lake's position along the Tennessee-Tombigbee Waterway creates a scenic setting, likely featuring typical southern lowland forests and wetlands.

Columbus Lake's status as part of the Tennessee-Tombigbee Waterway gives it historical significance as part of this major navigational project connecting the Tennessee River to the Gulf of Mexico.