2009 Kentucky Fishing Forecast

BE SURE TO READ BEYOND THE INTRODUCTION TO GET TO FULL FORECAST

From the Kentucky Department of Fish and Wildlife Resources

Welcome to the 2009 Fishing Forecast for Kentucky’s major fisheries.  The forecast is based on 2008 fish population surveys, creel surveys, fish stockings, and historical knowledge of the fisheries.  This handout is designed to assist anglers in planning their fishing trips and improving their fishing success.  Additional fishing information is available from the Department’s website at fw.ky.gov or by obtaining copies of the 2009 Sport Fishing and Boating Guide available at most sporting goods stores.  The Kentucky Trout Waters brochure is contained in the 2009 Fishing and Boating Guide.

To locate fishing access sites in Kentucky, visit our website and click on “Fishing & Boating”, then “Where to Fish”, and finally “Find a Place to Fish”.  You will be able to search for your favorite water bodies and get directions to all major boat launches and access sites.

Opening day of the 2009 fishing season starts March 1 with the new year’s license, so take a trip to your local sporting good store, get online at fw.ky.gov, or call 1-877-598-2401 to purchase your 2009 fishing license.

The Fishing Forecast was partially financed through funds provided by your purchase of fishing equipment and motor boat fuels under the Federal Sport Fish Restoration Program.

New and Expanding Fisheries in 2008

•    Redear sunfish stockings in Dewey Lake have resulted in a fishable population.
•    Blue catfish were stocked into Dewey Lake to provide a new fishery as well as help control zebra mussels.
•    Waverly Park in Jefferson County will now be stocked with bluegill, channel catfish and trout in an effort to expand our community fishing opportunities.
•    Several other community lakes have been added to our trout stocking program.  Please see the 2009 Kentucky Fishing and Boating Guide to see which community lakes are now being stocked with trout.

Fishing Forecast Summary

Make sure you check out the new Fishing Forecast Cheat Sheet located at the end of this publication.  For those looking for a quick answer to where the best fishing can be found for each species, the Cheat Sheet is your guide.  The Cheat Sheet lets you know which lakes are forecasted to provide good to excellent fishing for each of your favorite fish species.  Just look up the species you are interested in and then see which lakes have a check mark next to them.  These are the lakes which will provide the best chance for a memorable fishing trip for that species.  The Cheat Sheet is located on two pages, so if you don’t see the species you are interested in on the first page; make sure the check the following page.

New Up-and-Comers

Several lakes and rivers have shown substantial improvements in their fisheries in the last year.  You might try and get in on the action at the following water bodies:

•    Smallmouth bass fishing on the Barren River
•    Bluegill, redear sunfish and largemouth bass fishing at Beaver Lake (Anderson Co.)
•    Largemouth bass fishing at Bullock Pen Lake (Grant Co.)
•    Largemouth bass fishing at Dale Hollow Lake (Clinton/Cumberland Co.)
•    Redear sunfish and white bass fishing at Dewey Lake (Floyd Co.)
•    Largemouth bass fishing at Elmer Davis Lake (Owen Co.)
•    Redear sunfish fishing at Fagan Branch Lake (Marion Co.)
•    Smallmouth bass fishing on the Green River
•    Crappie and largemouth bass fishing on the Kentucky River
•    Channel catfish fishing at Kincaid Lake (Pendleton Co.)
•    Channel catfish fishing at Lake Cumberland (Clinton/Russell/Wayne/Pulaski/Whitley/Laurel Co.)
•    Largemouth bass fishing at Mill Creek Lake (Powell/Wolfe Co.)
•    Channel catfish fishing at Pan Bowl Lake (Breathitt Co.)
•    Blue catfish fishing at Taylorsville Lake (Spencer/Nelson/Anderson Co.)
•    Largemouth bass fishing at Yatesville Lake (Lawrence Co.)

Late Winter/Early Spring Fishing Frenzy

As you approach the end of the winter months in anticipation of beginning a new year of fishing, put your new fishing license to good use by trying a few early spring fishing “hot spots”.  In March, as water temperatures begin to rise into the 50’s and the winter doldrums are nearing their end, fish activity will usually begin in the smaller waters bodies such as farm ponds and public lakes as they usually warm sooner than reservoirs.  But, do not forget to take advantage of trout waters such as seasonal catch-and-release trout streams, lakes stocked with trout in winter months, community lakes stocked with trout and the Cumberland River (below Lake Cumberland).  Late winter and early spring may be the best times of the year to catch that trophy fish that you have always been after.

During the end of winter and early spring, largemouth bass, especially large females, begin to feed and are at their heaviest weight for the entire year.  Farm ponds and public lakes are prime spots for early largemouth bass fishing.  A few of the best lakes for catching a trophy bass are Barkley, Kentucky, Malone, Kincaid, Beshear, Greenbo, Wood Creek, and Guist Creek lakes.  Other lakes that offer excellent early bass fishing are Barren, Herrington, Mauzy, Green River and Cedar Creek lakes in central Kentucky and Cave Run, Dewey and Fishtrap lakes in eastern Kentucky.

If you are after smallmouth bass, head to Green River, Kentucky, Cumberland, Laurel River, Dale Hollow and Fishtrap lakes for a good chance at catching the smallmouth bass of a lifetime.  Streams also provide excellent fishing for smallmouth bass as adult fish begin to move from over-winter habitat in larger streams and rivers to spawning areas in smaller tributary streams.  Very good smallmouth bass fishing can be found in streams during the early spring throughout central and eastern Kentucky.  Some of the best opportunities can be found in Elkhorn Creek, South Fork Licking River, and several upper Kentucky River and Green River tributaries.

Slab crappie are ready to be caught, beginning in late winter, at most reservoirs in central and western Kentucky.  Catches of crappie over 12 inches are not uncommon at Barkley and Kentucky lakes during this time.  Recent research has shown crappie moving to shallow water well before the spawning season in early March, so start early for these fish.  Other good bets include Herrington, Nolin, Buckhorn and Yatesville lakes.

Excellent white bass fishing can be found during the early spring in headwater streams and rivers of our reservoirs such as Barkley, Cave Run, Nolin River, Green River, Herrington and Taylorsville lakes.  Also try the Kentucky, Green and Ohio rivers for white bass.  During late winter, sauger and walleye fishing are reaching their peak in tailwaters below dams, especially the Ohio and lower Kentucky, Cumberland and Tennessee rivers.  Excellent walleye fisheries can also be found in Cumberland, Laurel River and Carr Creek lakes.  If you are interested in muskie, they can usually be found moving to shallow shoreline structure and headwater areas in search of warmer water at Cave Run, Green, and Buckhorn lakes.  Try these late winter and early spring “hot spots”.  Not only will they cure your cabin fever, but you might catch the fish of your lifetime.

2009 FISHING FORECAST

Kentucky Department of Fish and Wildlife Resources

The fishing forecast is based on 2008 fish population surveys, planned fish stockings, and projections for 2009.

BARKLEY LAKE and TAILWATER 45,600 acres  (Trigg, Lyon and Livingston counties)

Blue catfish    Good    Good numbers of 10-20 pounders with the occasional 50+ pound fish.  Best fishing is during late spring and summer along deep river channels.  Fishing has been tougher during the recent drought conditions, but the fish are still there.  Blue catfish can be caught year-round in the tailwater.

Bluegill Excellent    Increasing numbers of fish up to 9 inches; the best fishing comes in May on sand or gravel spawning beds.  Crickets and worms under corks during the spawn is a good option.  Fish move deeper as the water warms in summer.

Channel catfish Good    Best fishing is during May along rocky banks and during summer along the main river channel and adjacent flats.  Try stink bait in shallow water in the spring.  Channel catfish can also be caught year-round in the tailwater.

Crappie Good    A lot of reports of people catching fewer fish, but fish that are caught are large (>12 inches).  White crappie are associated with structure, either brush piles as they move shallow in the spring, or ledges when they move to deeper water for the summer.  Black crappie are caught by casting jigs along rocky banks in the spring and fall.

Largemouth bass Excellent    Fishing continues to improve with excellent numbers of fish >15 inches and increasing numbers of fish >20 inches.  Fish shallow during spring with jigs and plastics.  Post spawn fish move to drop offs in the main lake and mouths of the bays.  Try fishing Carolina rigs, jigs, and crankbaits in deeper water.  In fall, bass move into the bays to feed on shad.

Redear sunfish Excellent    High numbers of 8-12 inch fish.  Prime fishing occurs in late April and throughout May as fish are spawning.  Fish can be found in areas with gravel substrate and vegetation.  Redear generally spawn a bit deeper than bluegill.

Sauger Fair    Population consisting of some harvestable-size (>14-inch) fish.  Many fish are caught trolling deep diving crankbaits near secondary channel breaks during the early summer.  Sauger can also be caught while fishing for catfish along the main river channel.

Smallmouth bass Fair    Smallmouth bass make up a small portion of the total bass population but are common in certain habitats. Best opportunity is around rocky shorelines, main lake points, and the canal during late winter and early spring with jerk baits.

Striped bass Good    The best fishing is in the Barkley Dam tailwater.  Striped bass will school up during periods of discharge downstream from the generator section of the dam.  Look for schools of shad breaking the surface during summer and fall in the reservoir, using topwater and blade-baits.  The population is limited in the lake.  Most are caught fishing ledges for white bass.

White bass Fair    Fishing success has been pretty good the last few years.  Look for schools of shad breaking the surface during summer and fall.  If you can’t find them working the surface, then fish along ledges on the main lake with a spoon or inline spinner.  Similar to striped bass, good fishing occurs in the tailwaters.

BARREN RIVER

Hybrid striped bass Good    Barren River Lake tailwater area fishing is best, especially during or following periods of heavy lake discharges.  Good success also below instream dams in Bowling Green and Greencastle areas.

Muskellunge Good    Focus effort at the mouth of feeder creeks and around wood structure or other current breaks during the summer months.  Some catches reported in Barren River Lake tailwater area.

Smallmouth bass Good    Fishing best from dam to Bowling Green.  Below Bowling Green good fish available, but more scattered.

BARREN RIVER LAKE 10,000 acres      (Allen and Barren counties)

Bluegill (sunfish)    Good    Good numbers of heavy 6–8 inch fish.  Fish stump beds and back of coves during the spring and fish deeper in the summer along rock outcrops.

Catfish Excellent    Good populations of channel and flathead catfish present with good numbers of larger individuals.  Best fishing is during June when spawning occurs along rock outcrops and in the back of smaller coves.  Use live or cut bait, chicken liver and night crawlers in the summer.  Night fishing generally best.

Crappie Fair    Black crappie comprise the majority of the crappie population.  Fish from the 2005 and 2006 spawns should be above the 9-inch size limit.  White crappie will be in short supply, but most will be 10-12 inches or better.  Target shallower water to find black crappie in spring and early summer.  Summer fishing is best around deeper structure and fish attractor sites.

Hybrid striped bass Good    Overall numbers are good with large fish (20-inch+) available.  In spring, focus on headwaters with spinner rigs and crankbaits.  Target main lake (around islands in lower lake) early in the morning and at dusk in the summer and fall with crankbaits and spoons as schools appear throughout the lake.  Look for areas where fish are working bait into the shallows, this can be some very thrilling fishing.  Some fish taken during the winter months scattered throughout the lake.

Largemouth bass Excellent    Average numbers of 15-inch+ fish are available. Numbers of fish greater than 20 inches are on the rise.

White bass Poor    Population still low.  Often found in mixed schools with hybrid striped bass.  Best bet is targeting headwater areas during spawning runs in late March to mid April.

Yellow bass Excellent    Yellow bass have been abundant since their introduction in 2003.  Compared to white bass and hybrid striped bass they are smaller (6-9 inches), have darker lines on the side with broken lines on the lower rear portion (the broken lines appear to be in a line), and are yellow in appearance.  Fishing methods similar to white bass using smaller jigs and spinners.

BEAVER LAKE 158 acres (Anderson County)

Bluegill Good    Good numbers of 7-8 inch fish; fish up to 10 inches present.

Channel catfish Good    4,000 channel catfish stocked annually; fish over 15 inches common.  Fall fishing good in shallows in coves.

Crappie Fair    Good numbers of fish between 8-10 inches.

Largemouth bass Good    Excellent numbers of bass up to 12 inches; should see an increase in 12-15 inch bass; good potential for a bass over 20 inches in lower lake.

Redear sunfish Good    Many 7-9 inch fish available around vegetation; 10-11 inch fish possible.

BESHEAR LAKE 760 acres (Caldwell and Christian counties)

Blue catfish    Fair    A small number (5/acre) were stocked in the fall of 2005-2008.  Their size ranged from 8-12 inches.  Recent sampling indicates the fish are adapting well, and growing fast.  Some already measure 25 inches and weigh over 5 pounds.

Bluegill Fair    Numerous small fish with occasional 8-inch fish caught.

Channel catfish Excellent    The numbers of channel catfish may be down since we reduced the number of fish stocked, but growth has increased. This has resulted in higher numbers of fish longer than 15 inches.  Better quality fish are being caught.  Channel catfish are stocked every other year.

Crappie Fair    Numerous fish in the 6-8 inch range, with an occasional 10-inch fish.  Best fishing during spring in areas of aquatic vegetation and around woody structure.

Largemouth bass Excellent    Population is dominated by bass 15-18 inches.  Best fishing during spring when fish move to shallow water, along the water willow and lily pads.  Try fishing the edges of these weeds with a pearl colored fluke using a short jerk retrieve.  During late afternoon, try top water baits.

BOLTZ LAKE 92 acres (Grant County)

Blue catfish Fair    Over 900 blue catfish stocked annually, 25-inch+ fish possible.

Bluegill Fair    Many 6-8 inch fish.

Channel catfish Fair    2,300 channel catfish stocked annually; fish over 15 inches common.

Crappie Fair     Fair numbers of fish between 6-8 inches; larger fish possible.

Largemouth bass Fair    Good numbers of quality bass; higher numbers of 15-inch fish common.

Redear sunfish Poor    Low numbers of 6-8 inch fish available around vegetation.

BRIGGS LAKE 18 acres (Logan County)

Bluegill Good    Good numbers of 6-8 inch fish available.

Channel catfish Good    All sizes available.  Stocked annually.

Largemouth bass Fair/ Good    Numerous 11-13 inch fish; better than average numbers of larger fish (18-inch+) available.

Redear sunfish Good    Better than average numbers of larger fish (8-inch+) available.  Larger fish found in the shallows early in the spring (late March–April).  Redear move to deeper water in summer (6-7 feet).

BUCKHORN LAKE and TAILWATER 1,250 acres (Leslie and Perry counties)

Bluegill Fair    Good size distribution.

Catfish Good    Stable population of both channel and flathead catfish.  Tailwater provides additional good fishery.  During 2007 sampling, a few flathead catfish were observed above 50 pounds.

Crappie Good    Excellent numbers up to 9 inches with larger fish up to 14 inches.  January-April is one of best times to fish when the water is drawn down and fish are confined to the lake channel.  Excellent fishing also occurs during July-August on shallow mud flats adjacent to main lake channel.

Largemouth bass Fair    Excellent growth rates of young bass and good numbers of 15-inch+ fish.  Good size distribution, but low overall numbers.  Fingerling bass were stocked in the fall of 2005, 2006, and 2008 to make up for poor spawns.

Muskellunge Good    “Good numbers of musky from mid-30 to mid-40 inch range.  Spring and summer fishing during 2007 was tough presumably due to abnormal weather patterns and pool fluctuations.  Tailwater has
good numbers of catchable fish from January-March.”

White bass Fair    Very low numbers of large fish.  Many 5-7 inch fish observed in 2008.  Look for a good pulse of catcheable sized fish in late 2009 and good numbers of quality fish in 2010.

BULLOCK PEN LAKE 134 acres       (Grant County)

Blue catfish Fair    Over 900 blue catfish stocked annually, 25-inch+ fish possible.

Bluegill Poor    Most fish are 6 inches or less, but are abundant.

Channel catfish Good    3,350 channel catfish stocked annually; potential for larger fish.

Crappie Fair    Most under 9 inches.

Largemouth bass Good    Good numbers at and above size limit; quality size fish possible.

Redear sunfish Poor    Very low numbers.

White bass Fair    Small population of large fish in the 14-17 inch range.

CARPENTER LAKE  64 acres (Daviess County)

Bluegill Fair/Good    Most fish 6-7 inches, but a few larger fish are available.

Channel catfish Good    Stocked annually.

Largemouth bass Good    Decent number of 12-15 inch fish.  A few larger (18-20 inch) fish available.

Redear sunfish Poor/Fair    Low numbers.  Most fish 7-9 inches.

CARR CREEK LAKE  710 acres (Knott County)

Hydrilla was documented in Carr Creek Lake for the first time in 2008.  Boaters are asked to take measures to prevent the spread of this damaging invasive species within the lake and between lakes by properly inspecting and disinfecting boats, trailers and equipment.

Crappie Poor    Very heavy fishing pressure with occassional fishing success; some fish up to 15 inches.

Largemouth bass Fair    “Extremely low natural reproduction in recent years.  Fingerlings were stocked in the fall between 2004 and 2008 to make up for poor spawns.  Improving numbers of larger fish.  Fish greater than 20 inches are available.”

Smallmouth bass Poor    Low numbers but fish sampled up to 20 inches.

Spotted bass Good    Fish are concentrated in lower and mid-lake regions.  A few large fish up to 16 inches are present with the majority from 7-12 inches.  Rocky shoreline at dam is a good area for large fish.

Walleye Excellent    Very high numbers of fish from 15-26 inches with a few fish up to 30 inches.  March through May are good months to try during day or night.

CAVE RUN LAKE 8,270 acres (Bath, Menifee, Rowan and Morgan counties)

The beds of aquatic vegetation continue to expand (mainly in the lower sections of the lake, the Beaver Creek area and the Poppin Rock area).  If this growth continues in 2009, angling for muskellunge, largemouth bass, crappie (particularly black crappie) and other species around these beds should be good.

Bluegill Good    Widespread within the lake; most 7 inches long or less, but it is not unusual to catch 7-8 inch fish.  Look for bluegill early in the year in the back of coves in shallow areas that warm early.  Later around stumps or sunken woody structure within many areas of the lake.

Catfish Good    Good numbers of channel catfish up to two feet long with a few larger fish.  While not as plentiful as the channel catfish, flathead catfish are common and trophy sized fish are present.  Both species are found along shallow, rocky shoreline areas in early May-June where they seek spawning cavities in rock piles and submerged logs.  Later in the year they tend to be found in deeper water.

Crappie Fair    Spring fishing success should be similar to that found in 2008.  Six to eight inch crappie are the most common size found, but fair numbers of 10-12 inch fish can be found during spring and fall months.  Fishing tends to be tougher through the summer months.  During the spring, look for black crappie in the shallows near shore and later in the year they can be found along the weed beds.  For the last several years crappie numbers have been on the decline but seem to have stabilized in 2008.  This cyclic population should produce increased catches for a couple of years especially if the water remains clear in 2009.

Largemouth bass Good    Try fishing the edges and pockets of the weed beds and fallen trees.  Largemouth bass are much more numerous within the upper lake reaches. In the lower lake, largemouth bass are more common within embayment areas especially around woody structure.  Try the North Fork area, especially rock banks warmed by the morning sun in April and May.  The slot limit and aquatic vegetation growth continue to help the largemouth bass population.  Note: 13-16 inch protective slot limit.

Muskellunge Excellent    Trophy fish are numerous in the lake with good chances of catching a fish over 40 inches.  There is even a chance of catching a fish over 50 inches.  Excellent angling could be due to the catch and release practices by muskie anglers.  Note: 30-inch minimum size, one fish creel limit.

Smallmouth bass Fair    Chiefly found, but not very common, in the lower lake areas but are rare within the Licking and North Fork areas.  Look for them off rocky points or shoreline areas along the main lake. Note: 18-inch minimum size limit.

Spotted bass Good    Numerous within the mid and lower main lake shoreline; become less common within the upper reaches of the lake.  Most less than 13 inches.

White bass Good    Should provide some good action.  Look for them up lake early in the spring and in the jumps with the gizzard shad in the hot months of the year.  There are good numbers of fish 11-15 inches; some larger.  Note: no more than 5 white bass in the daily creel limit may be greater than 15 inches.

CEDAR CREEK LAKE  784 acres  (Lincoln County)

Bluegill Fair    Abundant smaller fish but few reach 7 inches.

Channel catfish Good    Abundant smaller (<13-inch) catfish with fair numbers of 14-20 inch fish.

Crappie Fair    Fairly abundant 6-8 inch fish; relatively few crappie exceed 9 inches.

Largemouth bass Excellent    Good density of 17-20 inch fish with increasing numbers of fish exceeding 20 inches.  Note: a trophy regulation of a 20-inch minimum size limit, 1 fish creel limit is in effect on this lake.

Redear sunfish Good    Good numbers of 6-9 inch fish.

CHENOA LAKE 35 acres  (Bell County)

This lake contains the aquatic plant watershield (Brasenia schreberi), which typically covers much of the shallow water areas and makes fishing difficult.  Measures will be taken in 2009 to control the watershield in the lake.

Bluegill Good    Good population of 6-8 inch fish.

Largemouth bass Good    Good density of 12-15 inch fish with some larger (18-inch+) fish available.

Redear sunfish Good    Less numerous than bluegill but fish exceeding 8 inches are available.

CLEAR CREEK LAKE 40 acres  (Bath County)

Eurasian water milfoil has covered a good portion of the lake; therefore fishing may be difficult especially in the fall.  Grass carp were stocked in 2007 and 2008 which will hopefully help eradicate the vegetation; please release any that are caught.

Bluegill Good    Very good numbers of 6-7 inch bluegill with occasional 8-inch fish caught.  Fish shallow shoreline areas in spring especially behind standing timber.

Largemouth bass Fair    Lake receives heavy pressure reducing the overall numbers of bass, but a few in the 20-25 inch range have been sampled.

Redear sunfish Good    Good population of 7-8 inch fish with several 9 and 10 inch fish present.

CORINTH LAKE  96 acres  (Grant County)

Bluegill Fair    Numbers of quality-size fish decreased.

Channel catfish Good    2,400 channel catfish stocked annually; fish over 15 inches common.

Crappie Fair    8-9 inch fish are possible.

Largemouth bass Good    Most bass between 12-15 inches.  Increased number of larger fish.

Redear sunfish Good    Fair numbers of fish greater than 8 inches; numbers of quality-size fish continue to decrease.

CUMBERLAND LAKE 50,250 acres (Russell, Wayne, Clinton, and Pulaski counties)

The boundaries of Lake Cumberland are now defined as Cumberland Falls on the Cumberland River, Devils Jump on the Big South Fork, the Narrows of Rockcastle River and Laurel River Lake Dam on Laurel River.

Bluegill Good    Numerous 5-7 inch bluegill available.

Channel catfish Excellent    Overlooked fishery offers excellent numbers of 16-20 inch fish.

Crappie Good    Fairly low density population but should be adequate numbers of keeper (10-inch+) crappie with occasional catches of larger (>12-inch) crappie.  Best catches in upper half of lake.

Largemouth bass Good    Increasing numbers of 15-20 inch fish.

Smallmouth bass Excellent    Good winter fishery.  Plenty of 15-18 inch fish present with increasing numbers of 18-inch+ fish.

Spotted bass Excellent    Numerous fish available with good density of relatively large 13-17 inch fish.

Striped bass Good    Several year-classes of fish available; strong 2006 year class should reach legal size (24 inches) in 2009, providing numerous 24-26 inch fish.  Should also be good catches of 8-15 lb fish, with fish larger than 15 lb caught occasionally.

Walleye Good    Still a good population in the lake although numbers may be down slightly from 2007 and 2008.  Most fish will be 2-4 pounds.  Upper half of lake is better for numbers.

White bass Poor    Population density remains low.  For best success, try headwater areas in early spring.

CUMBERLAND LAKE TAILWATER (Russell, Cumberland, Clinton, and Monroe counties)

Striped bass Fair    Fairly low density, but good size (15-pounds+).  Mid and lower sections of river are best.

Rainbow trout Excellent    Abundant 11-15 inch fish and good density of slot sized (15-20 inch) rainbow trout.  Anglers may see a slight increase in 20-inch and larger fish.  Continued dam repairs and drought conditions may concentrate trout in upper portion of the tailwater.

Brown trout Excellent    Anglers should continue to see good numbers of 15-20 inch brown trout.  Brown trout greater than 20 inches are not uncommon.

DALE HOLLOW LAKE 4,300 acres in Kentucky      (Clinton and Cumberland counties)

Largemouth bass    Good    Sampling in 2008 showed good numbers of 14-17 inch fish.

Smallmouth bass Excellent    Premier smallmouth bass fishery.  Several fish larger than 3 pounds.

Spotted bass Good    Good size distribution.  Several fish in the 12-15 inch range.

DEWEY LAKE      1,100 acres      (Floyd County)

Zebra mussels and hydrilla are present at Dewey Lake.  Boaters are asked to take measures to prevent the spread of these damaging invasive species by properly inspecting and disinfecting boats, trailers, and equipment.

Channel catfish Good    Stable population of channel catfish.  Good numbers found in the lower lake during winter months.  The upper lake is best in the summer months.

Crappie Fair    High numbers of fish with the majority less than 9 inches.  Black and white crappie present but dominated by white crappie.

Flathead catfish Good    Good size distribution with a few large fish from 20-40 pounds caught each year.  Popular with ticklers/noodlers in June; try fishing shallow in September and October.

Largemouth bass Fair    Bass continue to show good size distribution and numbers.  Continued spread of hydrilla could lead to poor growth in the future.

Redear sunfish Good    Supplemental stockings have improved numbers.  Find spawning colonies in April for great panfish action.  The peak of the spawn is about 2 weeks earlier than bluegill.

White bass Good    Numbers increasing; good spawns in 2001, 2002, and 2008.  A stocking program was initiated in 2003 and continued through 2007.  Locating them or their schools is key to any degree of success.

ELKHORN CREEK – main stem and North Fork (Franklin and Scott counties)

Channel catfish    Good    Large fish possible in bigger pools; good numbers of “keeper” fish.

Largemouth bass Good    Quality fishing found in slow moving pools in the North Fork.  Note: 12-16 inch slot limit applies on main stem.

Rock Bass Excellent    Many fish between 7-9 inches in main stem and in the lower North Fork section.

Smallmouth bass Excellent     Good numbers of smallmouth bass, especially on the main stem.  Good numbers of fish greater than 16 inches.  Note: 12-16 inch slot limit applies on main stem.

ELMER DAVIS LAKE 149 acres (Owen County)

Bluegill Excellent    Good numbers above 8 inches; many around beaver lodges.  Bluegill 9 inches or larger possible.

Channel catfish Good    3,725 channel catfish stocked annually; fish over 15 inches possible.

Crappie Fair    Most around 9-11 inches.

Largemouth bass Good    Plenty of bass under 12-15 inch slot limit with good numbers in the protected slot.  Bass numbers greater than 15 inches are stable.  Weed beds are back.  Trophy-size possible.

Redear sunfish Excellent    Fish greater than 8 inches possible near weed beds or on spawning beds in upper embayments. “Shellcrackers” greater than 10 inches present.

Warmouth Fair    Nice sized fish present, usually around weed beds. (Locally known as “redeye” or “rockbass”.)

FAGAN BRANCH LAKE 140 acres (Marion County)

Bluegill Good    Good numbers of 7-inch+ fish available.

Channel catfish Good    Good numbers of 12-15 inch fish.  Stocked every other year.

Largemouth bass Fair    Stable population but slower growing.  Fair numbers of 12-inch fish available.

Redear sunfish Excellent    Above average numbers of larger fish (8-inch+) present.

Smallmouth bass Fair    12-inch+ fish available with occasional larger fish (18-inch+).  Concentrate on dam areas.

FISHPOND LAKE  32 acres (Letcher County)

Bluegill Good    Good numbers and size distribution up to 10 inches; largest individuals will be deeper than young fish.  Try night fishing for large fish under overhanging shoreline brush and trees.  Warmouth are another panfish available at Fishpond Lake.

Channel catfish Fair    Lake receives annual stocking; fish up to 21 inches present.  Night fishing may produce best results.

Largemouth bass Excellent    Very good size distribution of fish up to 24 inches and 10 pounds.  Water is very clear and fish are often very difficult to catch during daylight hours.  Rainbow trout provide supplemental forage to largest individuals.

Rainbow trout Good    Fishing is best near months stocked.  Stockings are in January, April, May, and October.  Due to clear water most fishing is done at night.  A few trout will oversummer in most years providing fish up to 16 inches.

FISHTRAP LAKE and TAILWATER 1,131 acres (Pike County)

Bluegill Good    Some large bluegill available up to 11-12 inches; May and June have been popular months for angling.

Channel catfish Good    Good numbers and size distribution found throughout the lake.

Crappie Good    2008 proved to be another excellent year for crappie.  The population may be down slightly from 2008.  There are still good numbers of 9-inch and larger fish.  Try fishing cover at mid-depths in the lower lake during winter.

Flathead catfish Good    Good size distribution.  Largest fish sampled in lower lake with good numbers found up into headwater area of lake.

Hybrid striped bass Excellent    Very good numbers of hybrids in the lower lake.  Fair spawning run in headwaters in April.  Night fishing has become popular; look for fish in the jumps from May-July.  Some large fish up to 15 pounds are caught in headwater in August.  During winter drawdown hybrids are grouped in lower lake.  This is an underutilized fishery.

Largemouth bass Good    Fair numbers with excellent size distribution and good growth.  Ratio of keeper size bass is one of the best in eastern Kentucky.

Smallmouth bass Good    Population continues to grow, and totals approximately 15% of all black bass species in the lake.  Good fishing primarily in the headwaters of the lake up into the Levisa Fork River and in the lower portion of the lake from Grapevine to dam.  Large individuals up to 22 inches.

White bass Poor    A few large white bass can be found scattered around the lake usually roaming with hybrid striped bass.

GRAYSON LAKE 1,512 acres (Carter and Elliott counties)

Bluegill Good    Numerous, up to 7 inches and widespread throughout the lake.  Try fishing 5-6 feet deep in May and June.

Catfish Good    Widespread throughout the lake.  Fair numbers of channel and flathead catfish up to 20 inches, some trophy sized flathead catfish.  Try fishing the middle and upper sections in early fall.

Crappie Fair    Success should be as good if not better than 2008. In Grayson, it is important to fish around cover as that is where the fish are congregated.  Cover should be relatively easy to find in this cliff bound lake.  The upper portion around the Bruin ramp provides a good chance of catching nice sized white crappie, and the middle section provides the best chances for a black crappie.

Largemouth bass Fair    Found lake wide, most numerous of the black bass species.  Population tends to decline after the 12-inch size class in spite of the minimum size limit. Try fishing the upper reaches of the lake in the early spring; some 5 to 6 pound bass can be found here.  Note: 15-inch minimum size limit.

Spotted bass Fair    Stable population; numbers decline above 11 inches; most fish found in lower 2/3 of lake.

Smallmouth bass Poor    Population exists, but not routinely captured in our sampling efforts.  Note: 15-inch minimum size limit.

GREEN RIVER  (dam at Rochester down to mouth at Spottsville)

Catfish Good    Good populations of channel, blue, and flathead catfish. Trophy size blue and flathead catfish available. Good bets are tailwaters below locks and dams, in deeper holes, and around logs, brush, or rocks.

Crappie Fair/Good    Fish tributary mouths and brush along bank in spring and fall.  Use live minnows for best results.

Striped and hybrid striped bass Good    Good numbers below dams late spring through early fall.  Use topwater baits or lead head jigs with white or chartreuse bodies cast into boils below dams.  A rise and fall in the river can increase activity.

White bass Good    Good at tributary mouths in spring and below dams in summer. Top water baits or lead head jigs below dams in summer and lead head jigs or live bait at tributary mouths during spring.

GREEN RIVER (dam at Rochester up to Green River Lake Dam)

Muskellunge    Good    Fishing best at feeder creek mouths and around wood structure or other current breaks.  Fishing below instream dams is also a good bet.  Fish stocked annually throughout river above Rochester.

Smallmouth bass Good    Fishing best below dam to 31E in Hart County.

Walleye Fair    Fishing best below Green River Lake dam area and locks during late winter and early spring.  Stocked annually throughout the river.

GREEN RIVER LAKE  8,210 acres  (Taylor and Adair counties)

Bluegill Fair/Good    Large population with some 7-8 inch fish.  Fish stump beds and back ends of coves during spring and deep water brush and structure during summer.

Channel catfish Excellent    All sizes available.  Fishing best at night or when water levels are on the rise and muddy.

Largemouth bass Good/Excellent    Good numbers of 16-18 inch fish from strong year class/spawn of 2004.  Better than average numbers of larger fish (18-inch+) available.

Muskellunge Excellent    Legal sized fish abundant.  Good numbers of 40-inch+ fish.  Fall, late winter and spring excellent time to catch trophy fish.  Population maintained by annual stocking.

Smallmouth Bass Fair    All sizes present with opportunity for trophy-sized fish; most abundant in mid/lower sections of Robinson Creek and Green River arms.

Spotted Bass Fair    Better than average numbers of fish larger than 12 inches available.  Occasional 15-inch+ fish available.

Walleye Good    Walleye numbers better than normal bolstered by good 2006 year class/stocking.  Larger fish (19-inch+) numbers also better than average.  Target dam area and up in headwater areas of Robinson Creek and Green River arms in late February through mid to late March.  During summer and  fall, concentrate on standing timber coves, main lake stump beds, humps, and channel drop offs.  Population maintained by annual stocking.

White Crappie Good    Good numbers of harvestable size fish (9-inches+) to start the year.  Better than average numbers of 10-inch+ fish.

White bass Poor    Overall numbers are very low, but those available will be larger fish (15-inches+).  Best opportunity will be fishing upper reaches of lake arms in late March and early April during spawning run.  Prospects for early and late surface activity/jumps in summer and fall is poor due to low numbers.

GREENBO LAKE 181 acres      (Greenup County – Greenbo State Park)

Bluegill    Fair    Gradually improving population; larger fish (up to 10 inches) are caught early to late spring in deep-water structure.  Try fishing near beaver lodges.  Note: bluegill and other sunfish -15 fish daily creel limit.

Channel catfish Good    Stocked annually; many 2-3 pound fish observed during fall sampling.

Largemouth bass Good    Good bass population but very difficult lake to fish.  Good numbers of fish over 15 inches.  Potential for trophy size bass.  Due to water clarity, anglers may have to fish deeper when fishing this lake.  In the fall of 2008, 2,715 4.5-inch largemouth bass were stocked to offset the effects of the poor spawn in that year.

Rainbow trout Excellent    Annually stocked population with some carry-over.  Best fishing year round is in the open lake area; during the spring and summer try fishing at night under lights.  Winter fishing can also be good.

Redear sunfish Fair    Numbers low, however a few 8-13 inch fish can be found.  After the spawn, try fishing in deeper water near the bottom. Note: see bluegill regulation.

GUIST CREEK LAKE  317 acres (Shelby County)

Bluegill Fair    Many fish, most 5-7 inches.  Easy to catch; good place to take a child fishing with live bait.

Channel catfish Excellent    Very good numbers of fish with potential for trophies.  Note: This lake is home to current bullhead catfish and white catfish state records.

Common Carp Good    Bottom-fish with grain-based bait; 3 to 4 lb. fish common.

Crappie Fair    Numerous, most in the 6-8 inch range.

Hybrid striped bass Fair    Many fish in the 20-25 inch range; potential for trophy-sized fish.

Largemouth bass Excellent    Very good numbers of fish over the 12-inch size limit; good potential for a trophy fish.

HERRINGTON LAKE 2,500 acres  (Mercer, Boyle and Garrard counties)

Bluegill Good    Stable number of fish up to 8 inches in and around cover in embayments and inlets of rock walls.  Best April-June.

Common Carp Fair    Fish in coves or headwaters with grain-based baits on bottom.

Crappie Good    Difficult to locate but many quality-size (9 inches or larger) available; best around brush in upper half of lake.  Potential for large black crappie around debris in inlets in main lake.

Flathead catfish Good    All sizes present; usually feed at night on sunfish and shad.

Hybrid striped bass Good    Two to five pound fish are common; possible trophy-sized fish.

Largemouth bass Good    Good numbers of fish over 12 inches, many over 15 inches; largest fish around shoreline cover in March and April; potential for trophy-sized fish.  Best success in the upper half of lake. Good at night during the summer.

Longnose gar Good    Large fish common; look for them around schools of shad; schooling common in fall; potential trophy size.

White bass Good    Should see good numbers during the spring run up the Dix River; good numbers of fish in the 12-14 inch range.  (Winter and spring rains should improve the spring spawning run).  Trophy-size present.

KENTUCKY LAKE and TAILWATER  51,000 acres  (Marshall, Calloway, Lyon, Livingston and Trigg counties)

Blue catfish Excellent    Best fishing on main lake during summer along deep channels.  Drift using live shiners or cut shad/skipjack in areas where creek channels meet the main river channel. Other baits to try include chicken hearts, night crawlers, grass hoppers or catalpa worms.  Year-round fishing in the tailwater.  Expect construction in tailwater area, with limited bank fishing.

Bluegill Excellent    Seeing good numbers of 6-8 inch fish.  The best fishing is in May.  Crickets and worms under corks during the spawn are great baits.  Later in summer try the stake beds or deep (6-10 foot water) brush piles.  Catch bluegill in a feeding frenzy during the summer months where mayflies are hatching along the shoreline.

Channel catfish Excellent    Best fishing during late spring along chunky rock shoreline of the lake and rip-rap shoreline around dam and marinas.  Good fishing along river channel during summer and on flats along the secondary channels.  Year-round fishing in the tailwater. Expect construction in tailwater area, with limited bank fishing.

Crappie Good    The population has good numbers of 11-13 inch fish and low numbers of sub-legal size crappie.  A lot of the keeper size crappie are black crappie, which prefer clear water and gravelly shoreline.  Crappie are vulnerable during late winter or early spring as they move toward shallow water areas for spawning. Fish are shallow in spring around buttonball bushes, brush piles and stake beds.  In fall and winter, crappie move to secondary channels and flats near creek channels. Cast toward gravel shoreline for black crappie and fish deeper for white crappie.

Largemouth bass Excellent    Lots of 8-12 inch bass due to above average spawns the past two years.  Number of bass above 15 inches still remains high, and more 20-inch+ bass are being caught. Aquatic vegetation found in some embayments will provide exciting topwater fishing during the summer and fall. Shallow cover such as buttonball bushes and fallen trees along the shoreline is best in the spring.  Deeper ledges and channels are better in the summer when there is some current, but bass can also be found chasing shad minnows in the shallow flats late in the afternoon.

Redear sunfish Excellent    Moderate numbers of 8-12 inch redear.  Best fishing is in late April and early May.  Fish in areas with gravel substrate and vegetation such as the yellow mustard flowers inundated by water.  Submerged pondweed clumps also hold redear sunfish.  These fish primarily feed on the bottom for bugs, snails and small mussels; hence you need to fish near or on the bottom.  Redear generally spawn a little deeper than bluegill.

Sauger Fair    Moderate population of harvestable-size (>14-inch) fish.  Best fishing is in fall and winter along secondary channels.  Try trolling crankbaits.  Higher abundance of harvestable-size sauger in the tailwater area; good winter fishery.  Expect construction in tailwater area, with limited bank fishing.

Smallmouth bass Good    Best fishing along rocky shorelines and bluffs, creek channels at mouths of embayments, the canal main lake points, and main lake stumps.  Night fishing during the summer months along gravel bars at the mouths of LBL embayments and rocky shoreline is good with dark color spinnerbait or crayfish colored creature baits.

Spotted bass Fair    Moderate numbers 12-15 inches in length.  Spotted bass are not normally targeted, but caught while fishing for largemouth or smallmouth bass.  Spotted bass migrate to the streams at the backs of embayments during the early spring.  Gravelly bars and points are a prime area to fish during the summer. Secondary points are good during the fall.

Striped bass Fair    Striped bass and their hybrids are being caught from the lake while fishing for white bass.  Trolling with 6-inch deep diver baits which imitate minnows is effective.  Better fishing is below Kentucky Dam in the tailwater.  Fish congregate below the dam during periods of discharge through the generator section of dam.  Expect construction in tailwater area, with limited bank fishing.

White bass Fair    Fishing on main lake in the summer when white bass are found along secondary creek channels near main river channel.  Look for main channel points and bends; also near the canal.  Good numbers in the Kentucky Dam tailwater along with its cousin the yellow bass.  Expect construction in tailwater area, with limited bank fishing.

KENTUCKY RIVER      255 miles  (main stem)

Bluegill*    Fair    Shoreline areas around woody debris out of the current hold some quality fish but in low numbers.

Channel catfish Fair    Look for silt-free rocky habitat or below dams or palisades.

Common Carp Fair    Bottom fish with grain-based baits below dams.

Crappie* Good    Locate in backwater/creek-mouth areas with low current; fish up to 12 inches or more possible.

Flathead catfish Fair    Large fish present around large boulders and log jams.

Hybrid striped bass Fair     Sporadic catches of 15-20 inch fish below dams.  Numbers are increasing due to a stocking program which began in 2006.

Largemouth bass* Good    Locate in cover just below dams, in creek mouths, bank slides, or around timber.

Muskellunge Fair    Best in spring around creek mouths and in summer around timber and creek mouths.  Stocked annually in upper river.  More fish in upper half of river (Pools 6-14).

Sauger Fair    Found around sand bars, creek mouths, and below dams around rock and sand bars.  Numbers are increasing due to a stocking program which began in 2006.

Smallmouth bass Fair    Nice fish possible in mouths of quality tributaries; also found around rock piles and walls.

Spotted bass Fair    Sporadic catches of small to medium-sized fish; usually below dams but also around palisade rock wall areas.

Walleye Fair    Present in low numbers due to escapement from reservoir in headwaters as well as stocking; good size fish possible below dams.

White bass Good    Many 10-12 inch fish below dams.  Numbers are increasing due to a stocking program which began in 2006.

*These are considered “standing water species” and do best in the river after prolonged periods of low-flow conditions.  High water or flooding conditions for extended periods will reduce their numbers in the Kentucky River.

KINCAID LAKE 183 acres  (Pendleton County)

Bluegill Poor    Most fish are less than 6 inches.

Channel catfish Good    4,000 channel catfish stocked annually; fish over 15 inches possible.

Crappie Poor    Most between 7-9 inches.

Largemouth bass Good      Good numbers of fish over 15 inches (best in over 12 years), excellent potential for a trophy fish.   Note: 12-inch minimum size limit.

KINGFISHER LAKE 36 acres      (Daviess County)
Bluegill    Fair    Low, but increasing numbers; most fish 6-7 inches.

Channel catfish Good    Stocked annually.

Largemouth bass Poor/Fair    Population dominated by sub-legal fish.  A late-summer oxygen depletion killed several of the larger bass, but some 12-13 inch fish still present.

LAKE CARNICO      114 acres      (Nicholas County)

Bluegill Fair    Numbers are low, however a few fish greater than 6 inches can be found.

Largemouth bass Good    Good populations of bass; good numbers of fish greater than 15 inches and a few 20-inch bass are present.  Five hundred 4.5-inch largemouth bass were stocked in the fall of 2008 to help offset effects of a poor spawn in that year.

Redear sunfish Poor/Fair    Numbers are low, however a few fish greater than 5 inches can be found.

LAKE LINVILLE      274 acres      (Rockcastle County)

Bluegill Good    Abundant 5-7 inch fish available.  Good access for bank anglers.

Crappie Fair    Most fish are 7-10 inches in length with a limited number of larger fish available.

Channel catfish Good    Stocked during odd-numbered years.  Good numbers of 10-16 inch fish with some fish over 20 inches available.  Good bank fishing available.

Hybrid striped bass Fair    Began annual stockings in 2007.  Anglers should begin seeing catchable-sized hybrids in 2009.

Largemouth bass Good    High density population of mostly smaller fish (<14 inches), although fish larger than 18 inches are available.

Smallmouth bass Poor    Low density population.

Spotted bass Fair    Abundant but most less than 12 inches.

White bass Poor    Low density population.

LAKE MALONE 826 acres  (Muhlenburg, Todd, and Logan counties)

Bluegill Fair/Good    Large number of  4-6 inch fish.  Some larger fish available.

Channel catfish Good    Stocked annually; good numbers available.  Note: 12-inch size limit.

Crappie Fair/Good    Moderate number of 9-10 inch fish.  Fish brush piles and fallen trees along some of the steeper banks.

Largemouth bass Excellent    Excellent stable population with large number of 15-20 inch fish.  Many trophy fish available.  Fish the shoreline waterwillow during spring and at night during summer with plastic baits.  Fish submerged trees and brush along deeper banks in summer with spinnerbaits and jigs.

Redear sunfish Fair/Good    Low numbers of redear, but good size (10-11 inch) fish available.  Fish water willow edge along the shoreline in spring/early summer.  Move to deeper submerged structure as weather warms.

LAKE REBA 76 acres  (Madison County)

Drought experienced during the last few years has had some positive and negative effects.  Shoreline vegetation is becoming a problem.  In 2007, grass carp were stocked and in 2008 chemicals were applied to reduce the shoreline vegetation.  More grass carp and spraying is planned for 2009 to try to further reduce the amount of vegetation.  Remember it is illegal to harvest grass carp from this lake.

Bluegill Good    Abundant but very few larger than 6 inches.  Many of these small fish tend to be found thick in the weed beds.  Good opportunity for kids to catch a fish.

Channel catfish Good    Stocked annually.  Also many brown bullheads 12-15 inches long can be found in the lake.

Largemouth bass Fair    Most bass are smaller than the 15-inch minimum size limit.  Larger bass generally are in areas of the lake that need to be reached by boat.  Several bass over 19 inches have been sampled.  In the fall of 2008 several hundred 5-inch largemouth bass were stocked to offset a poor spawn and to try and thin the abundant sunfish population.  Note: 15-inch minimum size limit.

Redear sunfish Good    Fair numbers within the lake, most less than 7 inches.  Note: see bluegill forecast.

LAKE WILGREEN      169 acres      (Madison County)

Recent introductions (sources unknown) of gizzard shad have resulted in high numbers of both large and small individuals of this species.  This could have a negative impact on the sunfish fishery in the lake, but may take several years to be noticed; also could have a positive impact on the largemouth bass if they are able to feed on the rapidly growing shad.

Bluegill Fair    Healthy population up to 6 inches; after that numbers show a decline.  This population may begin to decline as the bass feed on the shad rather than the sunfish.  This may result in slow growth and overpopulation of the bluegill.  Removing some of the 4-6 inch bluegill may help this population.

Largemouth bass Good    Numbers of fish greater than 12 inches similar to previous years and a few bass larger than 20 inches are present.  Fall sampling showed that the larger fish are heavy, probably the result of these fish being able to feed on the larger shad.  Try fishing weed beds and woody debris.

Redear sunfish Fair    Low number of fish were sampled in 2008; especially fish 6 inches and larger.  Note: see bluegill forecast.

LAUREL RIVER LAKE  5,829 acres  (Whitley and Laurel counties)

Bluegill Good    Good numbers of 6-7 inch fish.

Crappie Fair    Blacknose crappie stockings (2002-2007) have marginally improved the population although overall numbers remain low.

Largemouth bass Good    Stable population of 14-18 inch fish available.  Most bass are concentrated in the upper Laurel River arm.  Fingerling largemouth bass have been stocked annually since 2005 to bolster weak year classes.

Rainbow trout Good    Stocked annually.  Should be good numbers of 10-14 inch trout.  Occasional catches of larger fish.  Best fishing at night from May–September.  Try trolling during November-March.

Smallmouth bass Excellent    Excellent winter fishery.  Good numbers of 15-18 inch fish with some larger fish available.  Best in mid and lower sections of the lake.

Spotted bass Good    Stable population of 11-14 inch fish available; best in the mid and lower sections of the lake.

Walleye Good    Good density of 17-22 inch fish.  Fish at night for best chance at a larger fish.

White bass Poor    Low density population.  Best numbers in Laurel River arm.

MARION COUNTY LAKE  32 acres  (Marion County)

Bluegill Good    Good numbers of 6-inch fish.

Channel catfish Good    All sizes available.  Stocked annually.

Largemouth bass Fair    Good numbers of 10-14 inch fish with an average number of 15-inch and larger fish.

Redear sunfish Good    Good numbers of 6-8 inch fish.  Larger fish found in the shallows early in the spring.  Redear move to deeper water (7-8 feet) in summer months.

White Crappie Fair    Large fish available; fish laydown trees in the upper end of the lake in spring and brushpiles in late winter and summer.

MARTINS FORK LAKE   334 acres  (Harlan County)

Bluegill Fair    Good numbers.  Most harvested fish are 7.25 inches or less.  Fish shallow mud flats in spring or summer.

Channel catfish Good    Most fish are less than 20 inches; periodically stocked.  Fish at night for better results as water is very clear.

Crappie Fair    White crappie are present.  Harvested fish are typically 9-10 inches.  Crappie are scattered in shallow water in spring, and congregate in tight groups in standing timber in summer.

Largemouth bass Fair    Excellent growth but low recruitment and low numbers.  Recent stocking should improve numbers.

Walleye Poor    The last stocking occurred in 2004.  A few large fish are still available.  Department is planning for stocking of native strain walleye in the future.

MAUZY LAKE 85 acres  (Union County, Higginson-Henry WMA)

Bluegill Poor/Fair    Population dominated by small (3-5 inch) fish.

Channel catfish Good    Stocked annually; good numbers present.

Largemouth bass Good/Excellent    Population continues to improve following 2003 renovation.  Large number of 15-20 inch fish in the population.  Some larger fish also present.  Fish plastic baits and spinnerbaits around hardwood brush piles, especially in spring/early summer.

MCNEELY LAKE    51 acres    (Jefferson County)

Bluegill Good    Good numbers of fish through 8 inches.

Channel catfish Good    Catchable-size stocked each year; large fish possible.

Common Carp Fair    A few large fish present.

Crappie Fair    Nice fish near weed beds and fallen trees, particularly in spring.

Largemouth bass Good    Good numbers of fish over the 12-inch size limit.  Best cover is water willows, fallen trees and stumps.

Redear sunfish Good    Low numbers, but some quality fish present.

Warmouth Fair    Large fish present around weed beds.

METCALFE COUNTY LAKE   22 acres  (Metcalfe County)

Bluegill Fair    Numerous fish available.  Fair numbers of 6-7 inch fish.

Blue catfish Fair    Trophy fish (30-inches+) available.  Fish were stocked in 2002.

Crappie Fair    Small size and not overly abundant.

Largemouth bass Good    Fair numbers of 12-inch+ fish.  Trophy fish (20-inch+) numbers above average.

Rainbow trout Fair    600 fish stocked in March for a put and take fishery.

MILL CREEK LAKE  109 acres  (Monroe County)

Bluegill Fair/Good    Good numbers of 6-inch fish.

Channel catfish Fair    Stocked every other year.

Largemouth bass Fair/Good    Good numbers of 12-inch+ fish available; larger fish present but at low densities.

Smallmouth bass Fair    Low numbers; but trophy fish available.

MILL CREEK LAKE      41 acres      (Powell/Wolfe County – Natural Bridge State Park)

Clear, steep sided lake has limited bank access and is difficult to fish.  Standing flooded timber and large boulders can be found in the upper portion of the lake.

Bluegill Poor/Fair    Not overly abundant in the lake but 6 inch and greater fish are present.

Channel catfish Good    Stocked annually.

Largemouth bass Good    Numbers of fish greater than 15 inches similar to previous years.  Overall, bass are not highly abundant but great opportunities to catch large healthy fish.  Try fishing the upper portion of the lake in the flooded timber and due to the water clarity you may have to fish deeper.  Note: 15-inch minimum size limit.

Rainbow trout Excellent    Best time to fish is within the first few days after stocking; otherwise fair-to-good, usually at night during the warmer months.

NOLIN RIVER LAKE 5,795 acres  (Grayson, Edmonson and Hart counties)

Catfish    Good    Channel catfish – Good number of 15-20 inch fish.  Several trophy fish available.  Fish upper lake (Sportsmans Paradise and Cane Run) and river area in early spring and rocky main lake banks mid-May through June.  Flathead catfish – lower numbers than channels but several large (30+ lbs) fish harvested annually.  Fish late May through June on steeper rocky banks.

Crappie Good    Decrease in number of 10-12 inch fish from last couple of years.  Large number of 8-9 inch fish present.  Average size of catch will decrease in 2009, but should increase in 2010.

Largemouth bass Good    Increase in number of 15-inch and larger fish over last couple of years.  Good population with increasing number of larger fish.

Walleye Fair    Most fish in the 14-17 inch range with a few up to 20 inches.  In early spring, fish Bacon Creek and above with lead head jigs and grub bodies.  In summer, troll Sportsman’s Paradise, Conoloway Creek, and main lake points.

White bass Excellent    Excellent population of white bass.  Many 13-15 inch fish.  Fish Bacon Creek and upper river during spring spawning run with leadhead jigs and grubs.  Fish main lake points and jumps in summer.  Many fish caught at night under lights during summer with jigging spoons or minnows.

OHIO RIVER

Blue catfish Good    Good populations in tailwaters and deep holes around outside bends.

Channel catfish Excellent    Look for silt-free, rocky habitat and embayments.

Common carp Fair    Large fish possible.  Tributaries and backwaters away from current are best areas.  Also watch for increasing numbers of silver carp and bighead carp.

Crappie Fair/Good    Backwater areas and creek mouths with brushy habitat are best producers.

Flathead catfish Good    Potential for very large fish; look for cover such as sunken logs, boulders or other large objects.

Hybrid striped bass Excellent    Fish up to 6 pounds in and around tailwaters.

Largemouth bass Fair    Tributaries and backwaters away from current are best areas.

Sauger Good    Spring and fall below dams with minnows or jigs on bottom.

Smallmouth bass Fair    Low population in mid/upper river in sections of rocky habitat and tailwaters.

Spotted bass Fair    Main channel around cover.

Striped bass Fair    Mid-summer to late fall good for 6-10 pound fish.

Walleye Fair    Occasionally found in tailwaters.

White bass Good    Good population.

PAINTSVILLE LAKE and TAILWATER  1,139 acres  (Morgan and Johnson counties)

Hydrilla is present at Paintsville Lake.  Boaters are asked to take measures to prevent the spread of this damaging invasive species by properly inspecting and disinfecting boats, trailers, and equipment.

Channel catfish Fair    Large catfish present in low densities in upper lake.  Large fish are often located deep in the lower lake.

Crappie Fair    Most of successful fishing is done on the upper end of the lake into Open Fork and Little Paint Creeks; fish sampled up to 15 inches.

Largemouth bass Poor    High survival of young fish due in part to presence of hydrilla which offers ample cover.  Stable population with high numbers of fish less than 12 inches; fish sampled up to 22 inches.  Slow growth rates but fish over 15 inches are slowly increasing.

Rainbow trout Good    Good fishing in shallow water during winter-early spring; fair fishing in summer at depth of 20-25 feet.  The catch and release portion of the tailwater can offer good quality rainbow and brown trout fishing.

Smallmouth bass Poor    Poor recruitment; fish sampled up to 22 inches; 18-inch minimum size implemented in 2005.  Changes made in water releases at dam in 2006 to improve summer cool water habitat.  Supplemental stocking of native strain fish planned for 2009.

Spotted bass Fair    Numbers down slightly; some large spotted bass present.  Best fishing in lower half of lake.

Walleye Fair    Good size distribution and density up to 20 inches; numbers of fish are improving.  Potential for trophy size fish.  Look for active fish to be suspended in March; also May and October are good months to fish with live night crawlers on a light jighead fished off the bottom.  Limiting coolwater release in summer should continue to improve the walleye fishery.

White bass Poor    Some reproduction during 2001 and 2002; many of these are now harvestable size; however, numbers are starting to decrease.

PAN BOWL LAKE 98 acres  (Breathitt County)

Eurasian water milfoil is present in Panbowl Lake.  Boaters are asked to take measures to prevent the spread of this damaging invasive species by properly inspecting and disinfecting boats, trailers, and equipment.

Bluegill Good    Excellent numbers and size distribution up to about 7.5 inches throughout the lake.  Fish early or late in the year when milfoil is not a problem.

Channel catfish Good    Most fish are less than 20 inches; periodically stocked.

Crappie Fair    Black and white crappie are present; fish sampled up to 12 inches; most are less than 9 inches.  Fish tend to congregate in tight groups.

Largemouth bass Good    Very good size distribution of fish up to 12 inches and above 18 inches; lake contains a large amount of aquatic vegetation providing cover for large fish.

Redear sunfish Good    Excellent numbers and size distribution up to about 9 inches.  May and June are good months to fish around weed beds.

PENNYRILE LAKE  47 acres  (Christian County)

Bluegill Fair    Some very large bluegill are present, as a result of the stunted bass population.  Numerous fish less than 6 inches also present.

Channel catfish Good    Good numbers of catfish 12-15 inches, and a few larger individuals present as well.  Fishing around fallen trees and beaver huts with night crawler or cheese bait should provide success.

Crappie Poor    Low overall numbers of crappie, but those present are large.

Largemouth bass Fair    A quiet and scenic lake with high numbers of bass 12 inches and smaller.  It is a great place to take kids fishing!  Note: bass are protected between 12-15 inches.

Redear sunfish Fair    Numerous fish in the 7-9 inch range.  Few redear present greater than 10 inches.  Try fishing a small piece of nightcrawler under a cork near the bottom for best success.

REBEL TRACE LAKE  19 acres  (Menifee county)

Eurasian water milfoil has covered a good portion of the lake; therefore fishing may be difficult, especially in the fall.  Grass carp have been stocked in 2007 and 2008 in attempts to control the vegetation so please release any grass carp caught.

Bluegill Fair    Good numbers of 6-inch bluegill are present with an occasional 8-inch fish caught.  Fish shallow shoreline areas and downed timber in spring.

Largemouth bass Fair    Lake receives heavy pressure therefore fewer numbers of bass are caught.  Though limited, fish up to 19 inches can be found.  Fish woody structure and weed beds.

Redear sunfish Good    Good population of 7-inch fish with some 9-inch fish present.

ROUGH RIVER LAKE and Tailwater  5,100 acres  (Breckinridge and Grayson counties)

Catfish Good    Good number of channel catfish. Lower number of flathead catfish, but trophy fish available.  Tailwater good in early summer and again during fall drawdown.  Fish upper lake areas in early spring and moderately steep rocky banks during mid May-June for spawning fish.

Crappie Good    Good number of 9-11 inch fish in the population.  Anglers should see an increase in the number and size of crappie caught in 2009.  Tailwater provides a good early spring crappie fishery.

Hybrid striped bass Excellent    Large number of fish over 15 inches.  Many trophy fish available.  Fish upper lake areas in spring and main lake (Dam to Tules Creek on north fork and Dam to Little Clifty Creek on south fork) for summer jumps.  Troll main lake points in summer and fall.  Tailwater good in spring (April).

Largemouth bass Good    Good numbers of fish in the 12-15 inch and 15-inch and larger size groups.  Stable population with numbers in all size ranges similar over last several years.

SHANTY HOLLOW LAKE  135 acres  (Warren and Edmonson counties)

Bluegill Fair    Expect 6-7 inch fish.

Channel catfish Good    All sizes available.  Stocked annually.

Largemouth bass Fair    Fair numbers of keeper sized fish (15-inches+).  Good numbers of 12-14 inch fish.

Redear sunfish Fair    Larger fish (8-inch+) available.  Fishing best in late March to mid-April.

SMOKY VALLEY LAKE 36 acres  (Carter County–Carter Caves State Park)

Bluegill    Fair    Fairly common 7-inches or less, but very few 8-inch bluegill present.

Channel catfish Good    Stocked annually.  Limb lines (set lines), jug lines and trot lines are illegal to use at this lake.

Largemouth bass Fair    Most fish appear to be less than 12 inches in size in spite of the minimum size limit.  As a result, the minimum size limit on bass will be removed in 2009 in an effort to restore the population.  There will still be a 6 fish creel limit.  Improvements can only be made if anglers remove some of the small fish.

SPURLINGTON LAKE  36 acres (Taylor County)

Bluegill Fair    Fair numbers of 6-inch+ fish.

Channel catfish Good    All sizes present.  Stocked annually.

Largemouth bass Good    Good numbers of 15-inch and larger fish available.

TAYLORSVILLE LAKE 3,050 acres  (Spencer, Anderson and Nelson counties)

Blue catfish Excellent    Population increasing; stocked annually since 2002.  Fish with live bait, cut bait or crankbaits (open water areas).  Fish up to 30 inches possible.

Bluegill Good    Good number of fish 6 inches and longer around standing timber in coves.

Channel catfish Good    Many fish of all sizes.  Look for bigger fish in the timber in spring, head of creeks in fall, and points next to channel any time.

Crappie Fair    Good number of fish at and above the 9-inch size limit.  Black crappie now dominate population.  Good spawns of black crappie noted last year.  Note: Daily creel limit 15 fish.

Hybrid striped bass Fair    Overall numbers lower, but fair numbers of fish greater than 15 inches.  Fish up to 30 inches are possible.  In spring and fall, there is good fishing in headwaters.  Look for jumps early and late in day July-September.

Largemouth bass Good    Good numbers of 12-18 inch fish.  Best in timber coves; try embayments in spring and fall.

White bass Fair    Good numbers in Salt River above the lake in spring (with good flow from rains) and fall; many 10-13 inch fish present.

THREE SPRINGS LAKE 30 acres  (Warren County)

Bluegill    Fair    Fair numbers of 6-8 inch fish.

Channel catfish Good    Good sized fish available (15-inch+).  Stocked annually.

Largemouth bass Fair    Numerous fish available; few fish larger than 15 inches, but some trophies (20-inch+) are present.

Rainbow Trout Fair    1,000 fish stocked in January for put and take fishing.

Redear Excellent    Better than average number of larger fish (7-inch+) available; some trophies (10-12 inch+) present.

WASHBURN LAKE  26 acres  (Ohio County)

Bluegill Fair    Low numbers, but population improving.  Several 6-7 inch bluegill now present.

Channel catfish Fair/Good    Stocked annually.

Largemouth bass Good    Population has improved the last couple of years (lake renovated and restocked in 2000).  Good number of fish over 12 inches available.  Some 16-19 inch fish now in the population.

WEST FORK DRAKES RESERVOIR  88 acres  (Simpson County)

Bluegill Good    Good numbers of 6-inch+ fish.

Channel catfish Good    Numerous sizes available.

Largemouth bass Fair    Lots of fish from 10-13 inches.  Average numbers of bigger fish.

Redear sunfish Good    Better than average number of 7-8 inch fish present.

WOOD CREEK LAKE  672 acres  (Laurel County)

Bluegill Fair    Numerous small bluegill.  Fair numbers of larger (6-7 inch) bluegill.

Channel catfish Excellent    Abundant 12-18 inch fish available; occasional catches of fish up to 5 pounds.

Crappie Fair    Good density of smaller fish with relatively few fish exceeding 9 inches.  Note: the 9-inch size limit is removed effective March 2009.

Largemouth bass Good    Good numbers of 14-18 inch fish; trophy potential with several fish exceeding 18 inches.

Rainbow trout Fair    Stocked annually.

Redear sunfish Fair    Fairly low numbers but several 8 inch and larger redear available.  Mid and lower lake areas are best.

Smallmouth bass Poor    Low density in the lake.

Spotted bass Fair    Most are 10-12 inches.  Mid and lower lake areas are best.

Walleye Fair    Native strain stockings (annually since 2002) have established a low density fishery.  Some very large fish (10 lbs+) are available, although the overall population remains relatively low.

YATESVILLE LAKE  2,314 acres  (Lawrence County)

Bluegill Good    Excellent numbers and size distribution up to about 7.5 inches throughout the lake.

Channel catfish Good    Quality size distribution and densities of catfish exist in all areas of the lake; during fall/early winter many fish are shallow in upper lake.

Crappie Good    Very high numbers of small fish.  Good numbers of harvestable fish from 9-14 inches with the occasional fish up to 17 inches.  The upper lake is a good area during spring and late fall.

Flathead catfish Fair    Good size distribution with fair numbers, rocky shoreline and brush will have better numbers.

Largemouth bass Good    Good size distribution of fish with good numbers of 15-inch+ fish.  Largemouth have seen three consecutive good spawning years.  Large fish are found on deep structure in early fall.