Dale Hollow Dam & Lake were authorized by the Flood Control Act of 1938 and the River and Harbor Act of 1946. The project was completed for flood control in 1943 and three power-generating units were added in 1948, 1949 and 1953, providing a total hydroelectric capability of 54,000 kilowatts. The project was designed by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers and built by private contractors. The dam impounds the floodwaters of the Obey River watershed (an area of 935 square miles) and forms a lake 61 miles long, which creates a permanent area for all types of water-based recreation. Dale Hollow Lake consists of nearly 30,000 acres of surface water and over 600 miles of shoreline. Dale Hollow's pristine waters are the nation's favorite for scuba divers, boaters, and anglers. The lake abounds with fish to include; Largemouth Bass, Kentucky Bass, Musky, Catfish, Bluegill, Crappie and is the home of the World Record Smallmouth Bass of 11 lb. 15 oz. The lake is also the home to one of the largest wintering Bald Eagle populations in the area. Dale Hollow Lake covers portions of Clay, Pickett, Overton and Fentress Counties in Tennessee and Clinton and Cumberland Counties in Kentucky. In addition to parks, golf courses and other attractions, there are homes associated with two famous Tennesseans found near Dale Hollow Lake. World War I hero Alvin C. York's home place is located in nearby Pall Mall, Tennessee. The Cordell Hull Birthplace Museum is located near Byrdstown, TN, approximately 5 miles from Sunset Marina,  Cordell Hull is most widely remembered as a recipient of the Nobel Peace Prize and the father of the United Nations. Hull also served the nation as a State Judge, U.S. Congressman, Senator and Secretary of State.