The 9 Best Fishing Lakes in Kentucky (And the Types of Fish to Expect!)

Welcome to the picturesque landscapes of Kentucky, a haven for anglers seeking the thrill of the catch! Nestled within this breathtaking state are serene bodies of water that boast some of the region’s best fishing opportunities. From tranquil lakes reflecting the beauty of the surrounding forests to expansive reservoirs teeming with aquatic life, each waterway promises adventure.

In this article, we will explore these unspoiled fishing gems. Join us as we discover the diverse array of fish that wait in the best fishing lakes in Kentucky.

1. Buckhorn Lake

Nestled in the peaceful Appalachian foothills of Perry and Leslie Counties, in Buckhorn Lake State Resort Park, Kentucky, lies Buckhorn Lake, a popular fishing destination for locals and visitors alike. With its vast 1230-acre expanse, the US Army Corps of Engineers made the lake in 1967. Today, Buckhorn Lake is known as one of the best fishing lakes in Kentucky.

Buckhorn Lake offers a variety of options for fishing enthusiasts, whether they prefer fishing from the bank or by boat. The 60-mile shoreline provides ample opportunities for bank fishing, while those who prefer fishing by boat can access the lake through several public boat ramps.

Duffs Bay Marina, situated close to the lake, is the go-to place for all your fishing needs. The marina offers rental boats and a bait shop, so you can have all the supplies for a successful fishing expedition. Additionally, several restaurants, lodging, and camping options are available nearby, making your stay more enjoyable.

Buckhorn Lake is renowned for its monster muskies, bluegill, crappie, and channel catfish, along with some aggressive bass catches, which put this fishing spot on the map. The tailwater is known for its hefty 30-40-inch muskies, making it the ideal spot for anglers to pursue these fish, particularly from February to March.

2. Yatesville Lake

Situated in Lawrence County, close to Louisa, you’ll discover Yatesville Lake, a splendid 2,300-acre reservoir. This location has been cherished by fishing enthusiasts for years, but it also offers a wide array of activities suitable for the whole family. 

Established in 1999, the state park near Yatesville Lake boasts an impressive 47 campsites suitable for tents and RVs, over 20 miles of trails for hiking, an 18-hole golf course, as well as options for cycling and horseback riding.

For those who enjoy camping, you’ll be spoilt for choice with the variety of land and water-based campsites, including boat-in spots and RV hookup locations. The park’s extensive 90-mile shoreline offers awe-inspiring vistas for visitors as they engage in boating, fishing, or simple sightseeing. To ensure a pleasant stay, the lake area is equipped with boat launch ramps, bait shops, boat rentals, and accommodation options.

Fishing is at its peak at Yatesville Lake during the post-spawn and early summer periods, particularly in May and June. Recent information indicates that using natural-colored lures and soft plastics, especially when employing a Texas Rig, has yielded significant success. Apart from the sought-after largemouth bass, fishers can also reel in bluegill, channel catfish, and white crappie, among other favored species.

3. Cave Run Lake 

Discover Cave Run Lake, a hidden treasure located in northeastern Kentucky, perfect for those who love fishing. This large lake covers 8,300 acres and offers over 200 miles of picturesque shoreline.

The area is well-prepared to accommodate visitors, offering a variety of campgrounds, a marina, convenience stores, fishing supplies, eateries, and numerous boat ramps. Fishers can choose to rent pontoon boats or fishing vessels, ensuring that everyone has the chance to cast their lines and experience the excitement of fishing.

Cave Run Lake is an ideal destination if you seek a one-of-a-kind fishing adventure. Sometimes referred to as the “Muskie Capital of the South,” the lake draws fishing lovers from across the nation to pursue the enormous muskie, one of the largest freshwater fish species. In fact, a 47-pound, 54-inch muskie, the current Kentucky state record, was caught in this lake in 2008.

Cave Run Lake is home to more than 150 fish species, including bass, crappie, bluegill, and catfish, providing diverse fishing opportunities for every angler. Regardless of whether you’re fishing from the shore or a rented vessel, you’re bound to catch an impressive fish worthy of boasting about.

4. Fishtrap Lake

A serene haven for fishermen, Fishtrap Lake is nestled in the eastern region of Kentucky, about 10 miles southeast of Pikeville. The lake stretches over 1,130 acres and boasts two convenient boat launch ramps, making it an ideal spot for anglers from West Virginia and North Carolina to enjoy a fulfilling fishing experience.

With approximately 40 miles of shoreline, most of which can only be reached by boat, Fishtrap Lake offers an exclusive and peaceful fishing experience. 

Anglers can cast their lines for a variety of fish, including hybrid stripers, bass, catfish, crappie, walleye, sunfish, and muskie. While fishing from the banks is possible near the boat launch ramps and other accessible areas, a boat is recommended for a more extensive fishing expedition.

Despite the lack of marinas, rental boats, or amenities on site, the lake remains a popular destination for camping and fishing enthusiasts. Camping is available off Grapevine Road or near the dam. Therefore, visitors are advised to pack all their necessities, including fishing gear, food, and water, to fully enjoy their time at Fishtrap Lake.

5. Nolin River Lake

Nolin River Lake, a massive 5,800-acre body of water in west-central Kentucky, is a haven for fishing enthusiasts. A fishing trip to this picturesque lake is incomplete without visiting Nolin Lake State Park, which boasts amenities like campsites, RV hookups, a boat launch ramp, and family-friendly activities.

The lake has various campgrounds and lodgings around it, making it easier for visitors to explore the 170 miles of shoreline. The lake’s shoreline also provides ample opportunities for bank fishing, canoeing, kayaking, and enjoying the breathtaking view. One can rent boats at the marinas for a more immersive fishing experience. 

While Nolin River Lake has not produced any state-record fish, it consistently yields a decent quantity and size of many species throughout the year. The best time for largemouth bass, sunfish, bluegill, and walleye fishing is between early spring and late fall, while crappie fishing yields a good catch both during the early spring and summer months. White bass are abundant during late spring and early summer. 

However, fishing during winter can be challenging due to the fluctuating water levels.

6. Herrington Lake

Located between Burgin and Bryantsville in the heart of Kentucky, Herrington Lake is a haven for boating and fishing enthusiasts. With an impressive 325 miles of shoreline encircling its 3,600-acre expanse, there’s a spot for everyone to relax and unwind.

If you’re seeking a memorable fishing adventure, Herrington Lake should be high on your list. The lake is known for providing some of Kentucky’s finest reservoir fishing experiences. As the state’s deepest lake, it’s a true haven for anglers.

For a more enjoyable visit, Herrington Lake features multiple marinas and over a dozen boat launch ramps, ensuring easy public access to the water. A range of boats are available for rent, such as kayaks, paddle boats, jon boats, and pontoon boats.

Herrington Lake is an ideal fishing destination for both experienced anglers and novices. You’ll have a great time catching many different fish. The lake teems with largemouth bass, smallmouth bass, catfish, crappie, bluegill, spotted bass, hybrid striped bass, and white bass.

Additionally, don’t overlook the possibility of reeling in a trophy-sized catch! Herrington Lake is well-known for producing remarkable catches, particularly for white bass.

7. Taylorsville Lake

For fishing lovers seeking a picturesque location to engage in their beloved hobby, Taylorsville Lake in Kentucky presents the ideal setting. The lake covers 3,000 acres and has breathtaking scenery. 

Head out onto the water with a kayak, canoe, or fishing vessel, and with five public paved boat ramps, starting your fishing journey is a breeze.

Taylorsville Lake caters to various interests, whether it’s camping, boating, or fishing. The lake provides exceptional fishing prospects for those on boats as well as shore-casting individuals. 

However, certain times of the year can be quite busy, particularly during holidays like the 4th of July. Therefore, numerous fishers fish early in the morning, late evening, and nighttime.

The lake is inhabited by diverse fish species, including crappie, bass, white bass, saugeye, hybrid stripers, sunfish, and catfish. During the spring and fall, fishers come in big numbers along the 93 miles of shoreline to catch bass, crappie, and sunfish in shallow waters. 

As the seasons shift, larger fish trail baitfish into deeper waters in the summer and winter. Catfish can be located year-round in and around the creek and river channels, making it an amazing location for anglers of all skill levels.

8. Lake Barkley

Featuring over 1,000 miles of striking shoreline and encompassing a remarkable 58,000 surface acres, Lake Barkley ranks among Kentucky’s premier fishing lakes. With an array of amenities designed for anglers, this lake is a top choice for fishing enthusiasts at all skill levels.

Most of the lake is within Kentucky’s boundaries, providing convenient access to numerous marinas and boat rental establishments. Additionally, you’ll discover fishing-oriented accommodations, including campsites, RV parks, and lodges tailored to anglers.

The fun doesn’t end there – besides fishing, visitors enjoy various activities, from dining at local eateries to shopping for bait and tackle and more. In addition, a range of boats is available for rent, including kayaks and houseboats, allowing you to traverse the lake’s waters in style and comfort.

Now, let’s discuss the main draw: fishing. Lake Barkley is renowned for its outstanding bass fishing, and it’s frequently listed among the top ten best bass lakes in the southeastern United States, together with its sister lake, Kentucky Lake. 

Moreover, the lake boasts a remarkable crappie population, positioning it as one of the nation’s finest crappie lakes. You can also reel in white bass, catfish, stripers, walleye, paddlefish, sunfish, and sauger, ensuring there’s a catch for every angler.

9. Kentucky Lake

Experience the magnificence of Kentucky Lake, a stunning 186,000-acre body of water with over 2,380 miles of picturesque shoreline. With an array of bays, inlets, and points, this location offers excellent angling opportunities and breathtaking sightseeing.

On the eastern shore lies a vast 170,000-acre nature preserve, further adding to the allure of this remarkable destination. With over a dozen marinas, visitors can find everything they need for fishing, including fuel, boat rentals, tackle, food, and supplies, all in one place.

Kentucky Lake is the place to be for those seeking a fishing adventure. Explore the vastness of Kentucky Lake by renting a watercraft or bringing your own watercraft. You can choose from canoes, fishing boats, kayaks, jon boats, power boats, or pontoons from local marinas.

The lake boasts an impressive catalog of state fishing records, currently holding the records for six species: white bass (tie), spotted gar, bighead carp, golden shiner, smallmouth buffalo, and yellow perch. 

But don’t let this list fool you, Kentucky Lake is also home to some of the best sauger, white bass, smallmouth bass, bluegill, largemouth bass, and red-ear sunfish in the Bluegrass State.

Summary Of The Best Fishing Lakes In Kentucky

The photo featured at the top of this post is © William Bell / Flickr – License / Original