As part of the early Catawba-Wateree river navigation system, the Catawba Canal (aka Fishing Creek Canal) went south from Powell's Landing (a little south of present-day Fort Lawn), through a ridge of the deepest cut in the state, 32 feet deep, to the valley of Fishing Creek and re-entering the Catawba River at the mouth of the creek.

In addition to six lift locks, there was one guard lock (100' x 12') at the north end. All structures were made of stone. The total lift was fifty-six (56) feet along the length of the canal. The contractors were Thomas & Briggs, with a total cost of $165,000.

This canal was closed in 1838. Nearly all of the original canal is now under water of the Fishing Creek Pond.

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