Cannon Water Adventures, Sherrills Ford

One of the largest man-made bodies of fresh water in North Carolina, Lake Norman is home to a diverse ecological system. Over 520 miles of dry oak-hickory forest lines the lake that catfish, yellow perch, and striped bass share with turtles—even a few beavers. This reservoir is also home to paddlers from Cannon Water Adventures. This family-owned business, which was established in 2017, rents boats, jet skis, kayaks and paddle boards to Lake Norman explorers. For those new to water sports, there is no need to worry—it's easy to fall off a paddleboard in the beginning, but rentals include life jackets. In addition, Cannon Water Adventures has classes in which curriculum covers navigation, water safety, and proper form for paddleboarding and kayaking. Set on a calm portion of the lake's northern edge, this rental business also boasts a waterfront sport shop.