Deep Creek Lake is the largest inland body of water in the U.S.
state of Maryland. It covers approximately 3,900 acres (16 km2)
and has 69 miles (111 km) of shoreline. Like all lakes in
Maryland, it is man-made. The lake is home to a wide variety of
freshwater fish and aquatic birds. The Wisp ski resort is
located nearby. This resort is home to a thriving winter tourism
industry and has expanded its offerings to include some summer
activities as well. Fishing is extremely popular on the lake,
for species such as largemouth bass, smallmouth bass, and
walleye. Recreational boating is popular in the summertime as
well. The lake is a result of the Youghiogheny Hydroelectric
Company hydroelectric project on Deep Creek in the 1920s. Deep
Creek Dam, located about 8 miles (13 km) north of Oakland,
Maryland, consists of an earth and rock wall dam across a
tributary of the Youghiogheny River. Construction of the dam
began in 1923 and was completed in 1925. The hydroelectric plant
became operational in 1928. The lake wa