On the surface, Russell Marine looks like a premier boating dealership — a place to buy a wake boat, schedule a service appointment or grab gear before a day on the water. But talk to Emily Sprayberry, director of marketing, and a different picture emerges. Russell Marine isn’t just selling boats. It’s building culture. It’s fueling local economies. It’s shaping the way Alabama experiences the water.
And on Smith Lake, that influence is only getting stronger.
A legacy built on the water
Russell Marine is owned and operated by Russell Lands.
“Its structure centers on a network of strategically placed marinas and retail locations designed to support boaters across Lake Martin and Smith Lake,” said Sprayberry.
On Lake Martin, the company’s footprint is unmistakable. Four full‑service marinas — The Ridge, Kowaliga, River North and Real Island — offer everything from boat sales and service to fuel, storage and pro‑level gear. Each location is staffed by factory‑certified technicians, reinforcing the company’s reputation for high-quality service.
But the crown jewel sits inland: Russell Marine Boating & Outdoors, a 150,000‑square‑foot retail complex on Highway 280 in Alexander City. It’s the region’s largest showcase of new and pre‑owned boats, personal watercraft and off‑road vehicles, featuring premium brands like Nautique, Chris‑Craft, Godfrey, Sportsman, Key West, and Can‑Am.
This is where the boating lifestyle becomes a year‑round experience — not just a seasonal pastime.
Smith Lake: A growing chapter in the Russell Marine story
When Russell Marine expanded to Smith Lake, it wasn’t simply opening another dealership. It was stepping into a community with a strong identity and a deep love for the water.
The Smith Lake location on Alabama Highway 69 brings the company’s signature full‑service approach to the northern part of the state: boat sales, service, shrink‑wrap storage and a fully stocked ship store and pro shop. But the impact goes far beyond convenience.
According to Sprayberry, Russell Marine’s presence has helped attract boat buyers and lake visitors from across North and Central Alabama, increasing traffic to nearby businesses and strengthening the local recreation economy. The expanded showroom and pro shop have become a destination in their own right — a place where lake culture is celebrated, not just serviced.
More than a dealership: A community connector
What truly sets Russell Marine apart is its commitment to the people who call Smith Lake home — whether for a weekend or a lifetime.
“Russell Marine’s role in the Smith Lake community goes beyond selling boats – the company has a responsibility to create a positive experience for both residents and visitors,” Smith Lake Russell Marine Manager Daniel Uline said. “That responsibility can include building long-term relationships with customers and supporting local events and spaces where people can gather and enjoy the lake lifestyle.”
This summer, the dealership is hosting Pop‑Up Sales Events at Smith Lake Park on July 11 and Aug. 8, designed to connect with boaters where they already love to be. These events give families a chance to explore new boats and gear in a relaxed, community‑driven setting.
Sprayberry described the company’s role simply: “Russell Marine’s relationship with the community means being part of something larger than just a dealership. It means helping families create memories on the water, supporting a lifestyle that brings people together and contributing to a community that values lake traditions.”
Imagining the future
If Russell Marine could dream big — and it often does — the next big adventure for the Smith Lake community would be a Smith Lake Summer Weekend Festival.
Picture it: A multiday celebration of boating, watersports, live music and community experiences both on and off the water.
It’s the kind of event that could become a signature tradition — one that reflects the energy, passion and spirit of Smith Lake.
Russell Marine’s growth on Smith Lake is more than a business expansion. It means the best adventures are still ahead.
Russell Marine is located at 690 Alabama Highway 69 S, Hanceville, AL 35077. Find it online at www.russellmarine.net.
“Russell Marine’s role in the Smith Lake community goes beyond selling boats. The company has a responsibility to create a positive experience for both residents and visitors.”
"It means helping families create memories on the water, supporting a lifestyle that brings people together and contributing to a community that values lake traditions.”