Lake Murray Irmo Side “Rhett’s Reef“

Welcome to Rhett's Reef, a renowned dive site located at the north end of Lake Murray Dam in the Lake Murray Dam North Recreational Area. Situated just 9 minutes away from Wateree Dive Center, this dive spot offers convenient proximity for diving enthusiasts.

To enter the water, make your way down the stairs located on the left side when entering the picnic area from the parking lot. Upon descent, you'll discover an array of fascinating marine life, including Striped Bass, Largemouth Bass, White Perch, Bluegill, Sunfish, and Catfish. Divers have also added objects of interest on the left side of the stairs, enhancing the dive experience.

There are a few key points to remember while exploring Rhett's Reef. Firstly, the water entry is made easy by the stairs, although it's important to be cautious of any uneven surfaces. Secondly, most divers prefer to venture into the area located left of the stairs, as it provides a serene dive environment away from boat traffic. On the right side of the stairs, you'll find a heavily used boat ramp nestled in the back of the cove. As a result, divers typically avoid this area to ensure their safety and tranquility.

While buoys are in place to mark the zone as a boat exclusionary area, it's worth noting that some boats may disregard these buoys. In honor of SSG Rhett Bickley Jr., who played a vital role in the implementation of these "No Boat" buoys by the South Carolina Department of Natural Resources, divers have affectionately named this spot "Rhett's Reef."

Please be aware that there is a $5 fee per car from April to Labor Day. For further information, you can visit the Dominion Energy website. Additionally, kindly note that the kayak dock is exclusively reserved for kayaker use, and scuba divers are advised not to utilize it. Lastly, while swimming is prohibited in this area, scuba diving is allowed. Should you encounter any guards during your visit, please maintain a polite and respectful demeanor.

Rhett's Reef offers a visibility of 3 meters and a maximum depth of 9 meters, making it an ideal diving location for divers of all skill levels, ranging from beginners to advanced. Located in Lexington County, South Carolina, this dive site truly exemplifies the beauty of Lake Murray Dam and provides an unforgettable diving experience in the United States.