Fishing in Kentucky – Full Guide: Spots, Licenses, Tips 

Are you ready to embark on an exciting angling adventure in the beautiful state of Kentucky? In this article, we will explore the 13 popular angling lakes and 5 best angling rivers that will surely satisfy your angling cravings.

Kentucky, known for its diverse and picturesque landscapes, is a haven for angling enthusiasts. The state boasts a wide variety of angling opportunities, from pristine lakes to meandering rivers. Whether you’re in pursuit of the best bass or aiming to reel in some sauger, Kentucky has it all.

Choose one of the best angling destinations in Kentucky. Nestled amidst lush forests and serene surroundings, these lakes and rivers offer a tranquil setting for fishers to relax and enjoy their favorite pastime. Its abundant fish population and well-maintained trails make it a top choice for both amateur and professional fishermen.

If you prefer exploring smaller bodies of water, one of Kentucky’s rivers is the perfect spot for you. With their decent fish population, these rivers provide an excellent opportunity for a great angling experience. Its meandering course through scenic landscapes adds to the charm of angling in their location.

As you embark on your angling journey in Kentucky, you’ll discover the lack of crowds and easier access to angling spots compared to other popular destinations. This allows for a more enjoyable and peaceful angling experience, where you can fully immerse yourself in the beauty of nature.

So, grab your angling gear and get ready to cast your line into the abundant waters of Kentucky. With its impressive list of angling lakes and rivers, this state offers endless possibilities for fishers of all skill levels. Whether you’re a seasoned fishing enthusiast or a novice, Kentucky promises an unforgettable angling adventure.

Popular Fishing Lakes in Kentucky

Lake Cumberland

This lake is a popular angling destination in Kentucky known for its vast size and great angling opportunities. Situated in the southern part of the state, this lake stretches across several counties and offers ample space for fishers to explore.

It is situated in the heart of the Cumberland River and covers an impressive surface area of approximately 65,530 acres. With an average depth of around 90 feet and reaching depths of up to 200 feet in some areas, this lake provides a diverse habitat for various fish types.

Fish Varieties

Fishers visiting this lake can expect to find a wide variety of fish types. The lake is particularly renowned for its abundance of smallmouth and largemouth bass, as well as crappie, walleye, and catfish. These varieties offer exciting opportunities for fishers of all skill levels.

Angling Tips for Lake

When angling in this lake, it’s essential to consider the lake’s size and structure. The vastness of the lake means that fish can be found in different areas at different times. Pay attention to underwater structures such as submerged rocks, ledges, and drop-offs, as these are often prime spots for fish to hide and feed.

Using a combination of live bait and artificial lures can be effective in attracting fish in Lake Cumberland. Experiment with different techniques, such as casting near shoreline cover or trolling along deeper areas, to increase your chances of success.

Best Fishing Spots at Lake

Some of the best angling areas at this lake include:

• Beaver Creek: Known for its bass angling opportunities, especially during the spawning season.
• The Narrows: A narrow section of the lake that can be productive for various fish types.
• Wolf Creek Dam: One of the best fishing spots for trout angling, particularly below the dam.

Kentucky Lake

This Lake is another fantastic angling destination in the state, offering fishers diverse opportunities and picturesque views. Situated in western Kentucky, this expansive lake provides ample room for angling enthusiasts to explore.

Situated along the Tennessee River, Lake Kentucky covers a massive area of approximately 160,300 acres. With an average depth of around 25 feet and reaching depths of up to 60 feet in some areas, this lake offers a favorable environment for various fish types.

Fish Varieties

Fishers visiting Lake  Kentucky can expect to encounter a wide range of fish types. The lake is best known for its excellent bass angling, with both largemouth and smallmouth being plentiful. Additionally, crappie, bluegill, catfish, and sauger can also be found in abundance.

Angling Tips for Lake Kentucky

When angling in Lake Kentucky, it’s crucial to locate areas with submerged structures such as brush piles, submerged trees, and drop-offs. These structures often attract fish and provide ideal angling spots.

Various angling techniques can be successful in Lake Kentucky, including casting with soft plastic baits, using live bait, or trolling with crankbaits. Experimenting with different depths and areas of the lake can help you find the most productive spots.

Best Angling Areas at Kentucky Lake

Some of the best angling areas at Lake Kentucky include:

• The LBL (Land Between the Lakes) Area: This vast area offers numerous angling opportunities for various types, including bass and crappie.
• Blood River: Known for its excellent crappie angling, especially during the spring spawning season.
• Kentucky Dam: A popular spot for fishers targeting bass, particularly around the rocky structures and channels.

Lake Barkley

Lake Barkley is a beautiful reservoir situated in western Kentucky, offering fishers a tranquil angling experience and a chance to catch various fish types.

Situated along the Cumberland River, Lake Barkley covers an area of approximately 58,000 acres. With an average depth of around 22 feet and reaching depths of up to 60 feet in some areas, this lake provides excellent angling opportunities.

Fish Varieties

Lake Barkley is home to a diverse range of fish types, making it an attractive destination for fishers. The lake is particularly known for its bass angling, with largemouth and smallmouth being popular targets. Additionally, crappie, catfish, bluegill, and sauger can also be found in abundance.

Angling Tips for Lake Barkley

When angling in Lake Barkley, consider targeting areas with submerged structures, such as standing timber, submerged brush piles, and rocky points. These structures often serve as habitats for various fish types.

Using a variety of angling techniques can be effective in Lake Barkley. From casting with spinnerbaits and topwater lures for bass to angling with live minnows or jigs for crappie, fishers can adapt their approach based on the target species and prevailing conditions.

Best Angling Areas at Lake Barkley

Some of the best angling areas at Lake Barkley include:

• Linton Bay: Known for its bass angling opportunities, particularly around the submerged timber.
• Eddy Creek: A popular spot for crappie angling, especially during the spawning season.
• The Canal: A narrow section of the lake that can yield good catches of various fish types.

4. Dale Hollow Lake

Dale Hollow Lake is situated on the border of Kentucky and Tennessee. It spans an area of approximately 27,700 acres and has a maximum depth of 130 feet.

Fish Varieties

Dale Hollow Lake is renowned for its diverse fish population. Anglers can find a variety of fish, including smallmouth, largemouth, crappie, walleye and catfish.

Fishing Tips

To have a successful angling experience at Dale Hollow Lake, try using soft plastic baits, crankbaits, and jigs for bass angling. Additionally, angling near rocky structures and submerged trees can improve your chances of catching fish.

Prime angling Areas at the Lake

Some of the prime angling areas at Dale Hollow Lake include the Big Island area, Sulphur Creek, and the Willow Grove Marina area.

5. Cedar Creek Lake

This lake is situated in Lincoln County, Kentucky. It covers an area of approximately 784 acres and has an average depth of 30 feet.

Fish Varieties

Anglers visiting this lake can expect to catch various fish types, including largemouth bass, bluegill, crappie and catfish.

Fishing Tips

For successful angling at the lake, consider using topwater lures, plastic worms, and live bait for bass angling. angling near brush piles and submerged vegetation can also yield favorable results.

Prime Angling Areas at the Lake

Some of the prime angling areas at this lake include the coves near the dam, the mouths of major creeks, and the area around the island.

6. Nolin River Lake

Nolin River Lake is situated in Grayson, Edmonson, and Hart counties in Kentucky. It spans an area of approximately 5,795 acres and has a maximum depth of 100 feet.

Fish Varieties

Anglers visiting Nolin River Lake have the opportunity to catch various fish, including largemouth, crappie, bluegill, and catfish.

Fishing Tips

To increase your chances of success at Nolin River Lake, try using spinnerbaits, plastic worms, and live bait for bass angling. angling around submerged timber and rocky areas can be productive.

Prime Angling Areas at the Lake

Some of the prime angling areas at Nolin River Lake include Wax Marina, the areas near the dam, and the mouths of major tributaries.

7. Green River Lake

Situated in central Kentucky, Green River Lake is a popular angling destination known for its abundant fish varieties and picturesque surroundings. The lake covers an area of approximately 8,210 acres and has a maximum depth of 60 feet.

Fish Varieties

Green River Lake is home to a diverse range of fish types, including different types of fish, such as largemouth, crappie, bluegill, catfish, and muskie. Fishers can enjoy targeting these fish throughout the year.

Angling Tips for Green River Lake

To increase your chances of a great angling experience at Green River Lake, consider the following tips:

• Early mornings and late evenings tend to be the most productive times for angling.
• Pay attention to the water temperature and adjust your bait and techniques accordingly.
• Target submerged structures, such as fallen trees and underwater rock formations, where fish tend to seek shelter.
• Experiment with different bait options, including live bait, artificial lures, and soft plastics, to determine what works best for the specific fish.

Read more: Best Bass Fishing Lakes in The US – Best States For Fishing

Best Angling Areas at Green River Lake

Some of the best angling areas at Green River Lake include:

• The upper reaches of the lake, near the dam, where largemouth bass and muskie are often found.
• The creeks and inlets along the shoreline, provide excellent opportunities for crappie and bluegill angling.
• The deeper sections of the lake, where catfish can be targeted using bottom rigs and live bait.

8. Buckhorn Lake

Nestled in the eastern part of Kentucky, Buckhorn Lake offers fishers a serene setting and ample angling opportunities. With a surface area of around 1,230 acres and a maximum depth of 109 feet, this lake is a hidden gem for avid fishers.

Fish Varieties

Buckhorn Lake is known for its thriving populations of smallmouth, largemouth, crappie and catfish. Fishers can enjoy a variety of angling experiences targeting these different types of fish.

Angling Tips for Buckhorn Lake

To enhance your angling success at Buckhorn Lake, consider the following tips:

• Focus on rocky areas, submerged logs, and drop-offs, as smallmouth bass often inhabit these areas.
• Use natural-colored crankbaits, spinnerbaits, or plastic worms to attract largemouth.
• Crappie angling is productive near brush piles and fallen trees, particularly during the spring spawning season.
• Catfish can be caught using cut bait, chicken liver, or stinkbaits in deeper sections of the lake.

Best Angling Areas at Buckhorn Lake

Some of the best angling spots at Buckhorn Lake include:

• The upper end of the lake, where smallmouth bass are commonly found near rocky structures.
• The submerged timber areas, provide cover for largemouth and crappie.
• The deeper sections of the lake, where catfish can be targeted using bottom rigs and fresh bait.

9. Yatesville Lake

Situated in northeastern Kentucky, Yatesville Lake is a picturesque destination for angling enthusiasts. With a surface area of approximately 2,293 acres and a maximum depth of 40 feet, this lake offers a variety of angling opportunities.

Fish Varieties

Yatesville Lake is home to various types of fish, including largemouth, crappie, bluegill, catfish, and muskie. Fishers can target these different types of fish throughout the year, enjoying the challenge and excitement they bring.

Angling Tips for Yatesville Lake

To optimize your angling experience at Yatesville Lake, consider the following tips:

• Focus on shallow areas during the spring and fall, as largemouth bass tend to be more active in these seasons.
• Use live bait or artificial lures that mimic the natural forage present in the lake.
• Crappie angling is excellent near submerged brush piles and fallen trees, especially during the spawning season.
• Catfish can be caught using a variety of bait, such as cut bait, nightcrawlers, and chicken liver.

Best Angling Areas at Yatesville Lake

Some of the best angling spots at Yatesville Lake include:

• The coves and bays along the shoreline, are where largemouth and crappie can be found.
• The submerged structures, such as brush piles and fallen trees, provide cover for various types of fish.
• The deeper sections of the lake, where catfish can be targeted using bottom rigs and fresh bait.

Remember to familiarize yourself with local angling regulations and obtain the necessary permits before embarking on your angling adventures in Kentucky. Enjoy exploring these popular angling lakes and the thrill of reeling in your next big catch!

10. Cave Run Lake

Cave Run Lake is situated in northeastern Kentucky, covering an area of approximately 8,270 acres. With a maximum depth of about 150 feet, it offers plenty of space for fishers to explore.

Fish Varieties

The lake is home to various fish types, including largemouth bass, crappie, muskellunge and catfish. Fishers can enjoy a diverse angling experience at Cave Run Lake.

Angling Tips for Cave Run Lake

• When targeting largemouth, try using plastic worms or crankbaits near submerged structures such as fallen trees or rock formations.
• For crappie angling, jigs and minnows can be effective, especially around brush piles and submerged vegetation.
• If you’re looking to catch muskellunge, consider using large jerkbaits or spinnerbaits in areas with deeper water and plenty of covers.
• Catfish can be caught using a variety of baits, including cut bait, chicken liver, or stinkbaits. Look for them near the lake’s channels or in areas with rocky bottoms.

Best Angling Areas at Cave Run Lake

Some of the best spots for angling at Cave Run Lake include:

• Zilpo Campground area
• Claylick Boat Ramp area
• Long Bow Marina area

11. Fishtrap Lake

Fishtrap Lake is situated in eastern Kentucky and covers an area of approximately 1,131 acres. With a maximum depth of around 140 feet, it offers ample opportunities for fishers of all skill levels.

Fish Varieties

Fishers can expect to find a variety of fish types in Fishtrap Lake, including largemouth, spotted bass, crappie, and sunfish.

Angling Tips for Fishtrap Lake

• Spotted bass can often be caught using crankbaits, jigs, or live bait such as minnows. Look for them near rocky areas or submerged structures.
• Largemouth bass can be targeted using topwater lures, plastic worms, or spinnerbaits. They can often be found near weed beds or fallen trees.
• Crappie angling is popular at Fishtrap Lake, particularly around submerged brush piles or fallen trees. Minnows or jigs can be effective bait choices.
• Sunfish can be caught using small hooks and live bait such as worms or crickets. Look for them near shallow areas or around vegetation.

Best Angling Areas at Fishtrap Lake

Some recommended angling areas at Fishtrap Lake include:

• Ratliff Hole
• Mouth of the Gorge
• Fishtrap Dam area

12. Herrington Lake

Herrington Lake is situated in central Kentucky and spans approximately 2,335 acres. With a maximum depth of around 249 feet, it offers plenty of opportunities for fishers seeking a challenge.

Fish Varieties

The lake is known for its population of largemouth, smallmouth, crappie, and catfish. Fishers can enjoy targeting these fish throughout the year.

Angling Tips for Herrington Lake

• Largemouth bass can often be caught using topwater lures, plastic worms, or jigs. Look for them near submerged structures or weed beds.
• Smallmouths are known to be active near rocky areas or points. Crankbaits, jigs, or live bait can all be effective in enticing them.
• Crappie angling can be productive around brush piles, submerged trees, or boat docks. Minnows or small jigs are popular bait choices.
• Catfish can be targeted using various baits, including cut bait, chicken liver, or prepared stinkbaits. Focus on areas with deeper water and cover.

Top Fishing Locations at Herrington Lake

Some recommended angling areas at Herrington Lake include:

• Chimney Rock
• Kennedy Bridge area
• Dix River inlet

13. Taylorsville Lake

Taylorsville Lake is situated in Spencer, Anderson, and Nelson counties in Kentucky. It covers an area of approximately 3,050 acres and has a maximum depth of 75 feet.

Fish Varieties

Taylorsville Lake is known for its diverse fish population. Fishers can expect to find species such as largemouth, crappie, bluegill, and catfish in these waters.

Angling Tips for this Lake

When angling at Taylorsville Lake, it’s recommended to use live bait or artificial lures that mimic the natural prey of the target fish types. Largemouth are often caught near submerged structures, while crappie can be found around brush piles and fallen trees. Bluegill can be caught using small hooks and worms near the shorelines, and catfish are commonly found in deeper areas of the lake.

Best Angling Areas at the Lake

Some of the best angling areas at Taylorsville Lake include the Tanglewood Recreation Area, Settlers Trace Marina, and Possum Ridge Boat Ramp. These areas provide easy access to the lake and offer opportunities to catch various fish types.

14. Best Fishing Rivers in Kentucky

Floyds Fork Creek

It is situated in Jefferson County, Kentucky. It flows through the eastern part of the county, offering ample angling opportunities.

Fish Varieties

It is home to a variety of fish types, including smallmouth, largemouth, bluegill and catfish.

Cumberland River/Wolf Creek Dam

The Cumberland River flows through southeastern Kentucky, and the Wolf Creek Dam is situated in Russell County. This area is known for its excellent angling opportunities.

Fish Varieties

Fishers can expect to find a wide range of fish types in the Cumberland River, including smallmouth, largemouth, crappie, and catfish.

Kentucky River

The Kentucky River flows through central and northern Kentucky, offering fishers numerous angling spots throughout its course.

Fish Varieties

The Kentucky River is home to species such as smallmouth, largemouth, muskie, and catfish, providing a diverse angling experience.

Casey Creek

It is located in Adair and Casey counties in Kentucky. It offers a serene angling environment for fishers to enjoy.

Fish Varieties

This waterbody is known for its population of smallmouth bass, largemouth, bluegill, and catfish, making it a popular spot for fishers.

Read more: Kerr Lake Bass Fishing Guide: Spots, Licenses, Tips – Virginia

Ohio River

The Ohio River forms Kentucky’s northern border, providing ample angling opportunities for fishers in the state.

Fish Varieties

The Ohio River is home to a variety of fish types, including catfish, sauger, white bass, and blue catfish. fishers can enjoy a productive angling experience in this mighty river.

Disclaimer: The information provided in this article is based on reliable sources and research. It is always recommended to refer to official angling regulations and local authorities for the most up-to-date information

FAQs

Q: Can you name some of the popular lakes in Kentucky?

A: Some of the popular lakes in Kentucky include Nolin Lake, Kentucky Lake, Barkley Lake, Dale Hollow Lake, and Cave Run Lake.

Q: What makes Nolin Lake State Park a premier location for anglers?

A: Nolin Lake State Park offers multiple angling tournaments and has miles of shoreline, making it a premier location for fishers.

Q: What are the best fish species to catch in Kentucky lakes?

A: Kentucky lakes are known for their excellent bass angling. Anglers can catch bass, including largemouth and smallmouth bass, as well as sauger, channel catfish, carp, and red-ear sunfish.

Q: When is the best time to fish in Kentucky lakes?

A: The best time to fish in Kentucky lakes is during early spring and late fall for bass, and late spring and early summer for white crappie.

Q: Are there any world record catches in Kentucky lakes?

A: Kentucky lakes have produced world-record catches, including muskies and largemouth bass.

Q: Which lake is known as one of the largest man-made lakes in the nation?

A: Kentucky Lake is known as one of the largest man-made lakes in the nation.

Q: Are these angling lakes easily accessible?

A: Yes, these angling lakes in Kentucky are easily accessible for fishers.

Q: Can you catch other fish species besides bass in Kentucky lakes?

A: Yes, besides bass, fishers can catch other fish types in Kentucky lakes, including crappie and various freshwater species.

Q: How many acres do these fishing lakes cover?

A: These angling lakes in Kentucky cover a significant number of acres, providing ample space for angling and recreation.