Cordell Hull Lake Tennessee
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Cordell Hull Lake TN Fishing Report: 28 March 2024
Forecast Contributor – Brandon Dowdy – Southern Woods and Waters https://swwtv.com/
Crappie– Fish have started moving up shallow and into the creeks that feed the main river channel. Stake beds produced a few fish over the past week, as well as brush piles in shallow water and sunny banks in the late mornings have been great. A small float with a 1/32oz jig in Monkey Milk has worked well in 3-8ft of water.
Bass– Fish are stacking up along the main river on bluffs and rock outcrops. A natural-colored swim jig or stick bait would be a good choice, as they have been feeding aggressively. While most fish are still in 10-12ft of water, plenty of Bass can be caught up shallow right now as well.
White Bass– Schools were found spotted all along the river feeding on shad. Any spinner, such as a rooster tail will put fish in the boat. Anywhere the bait is at, White Bass have been nearby in big numbers. A few have even been caught while bank fishing in shallow water in the past few days.
Catfish– Eating sized fish have been found in good numbers throughout the lake. Cut shad has been most effective recently and a few larger fish have been caught on live bluegill. Some large schools have already been caught in shallow coves feeding on live minnows.
14 Feb 2024
Forecast Contributor – Brandon Dowdy – Southern Woods and Waters https://swwtv.com/
Mid-lake has still been good in deeper water. Slowly bouncing 3-4inch swim jigs tipped with live minnows in the edge of the river channel and around bridge pillars has been working early morning and late evening.
Crappie: Several quality fish are coming out of the mouths of the creeks along the main river. Minnows on a Carolina or a Kentucky rig from straight over top of the trees should work well. Most numbers are in 12-18ft of water right now. A float and jig (slowly fished) has been working closer into the banks and partially submerged brush.
Stripe: Mainly feeding on bait fish in and near the main channel. LIVE BAIT is the answer. 4-7 inch shad are perfect and these fish are hovering around 20ft down in 35-50ft of water.
Bass: The bite is picking up, and local tournament weights are starting to show it. Plastics of all sorts have been working great along the steep banks and drop offs. Cranking is also working well, as fish are currently moving up and down the edge of the river channel following the numerous balls of bait and running them into the flats along the edge (match the hatch).
Jan 30-Feb 05
Forecast Contributor – Brandon Dowdy – Southern Woods and Waters https://swwtv.com/
Elevation as of Feb 05: 500.41
Sauger/Walleye:
Bluebird conditions have slowed things down a little, but fish are still being caught. While most of the bigger fish are still being found in the late evenings and at night as they move into shallow water, the daytime bite mid-lake has still been good in deep water. Slowly bouncing 3-4inch swim jigs tipped with live minnows in the river channel (45-55ft) has been very effective.
Crappie:
Fish are still keeping fairly deep near the main channels and are mainly being caught in 15-25ft of water in brush. Monkey Milk and White/Chartreuse jigs with 1/16oz heads have been effective, as well as live minnows. A few fish have begun to move further into the creeks and will continue over the next few weeks.
Stripe:
Mainly feeding on bait fish in and near the main channel. The best approach has been a live 4-6in Shad on a Carolina rig. Fish have been mainly suspended in 35-50ft of water.
Bass:
Overall, pretty slow, but quality fish are biting. Plastic worms and natural-colored craws in a wide range of depths have been catching some good fish. Ledges and points near the channel with 20+ feet of depth are holding good schools that have been biting 4in swim baits and crank baits.
23 Dec 2022
Forecast Contributor – Will Schibig, Region III Creel Clerk.
NEW
Reservoir Conditions: The water temperature averages 50 degrees throughout the system. Water clarity has varied with the rains, from 5’ to 3’ in the creeks or river. The water level has fallen back down to 499’, after reaching 502’ from the rains. The flows have been heavy, between 10,000-15,000 CFS. Most fish are in their winter patterns. Pay attention for floating debris, especially from Granville downstream.
Bass: Fishing is slow. The cold water has slowed the bite, almost too cold for moving baits. Fish are in their winter holes in deep water on bluff transitions or in channels. Fish are mostly suspended so front facing sonar and a jerk bait is the real winner this time of year. For those without equipment like that, fishing creek channels near the mouth or rocky river channel banks with current, fish jerk baits and A-rigs off the bank where your lure is in that 10-15 FOW. If the water clarity is too muddy, bang crankbaits and spinnerbaits off of wood and rock on shallow, sunny banks.
Sauger: Fishing is slow. The current is finally here on the river for prime jigging, but the water clarity is still poor. The use of bright colored jigs may still get the job done around underwater structure like sunken islands and creek mouths. Target 15-25 FOW on the main river.
Crappie: Fishing is good. This is the best the bite has been this fall/winter. Lots of fish are being caught on the lower end of the reservoir, mainly in larger creek arms. Crappie are being caught on deep brush or treetops near creek channels. Live scope has been a big player in this fishing, but all you need is a jig and structure that sits around 15-20’ deep. No slabs reported, but several keepers and 20+ fish caught from multiple anglers.
Striper: Fishing is good. Fish are being caught from Gainesboro down to the dam, with the larger fish being on the lower end. Trolling live bait in a channel in 15-20 FOW is what most anglers are doing.
16 Dec 2022
Forecast Contributor – Will Schibig, Region III Creel Clerk.
NEW
Reservoir Conditions: The water temperature sits between 53-55 degrees in the creeks or river. Water clarity averages around 5’ around the river channel, and 3’ in the creek arms. The water clarity is starting to clear after the heavy rains. The water level has fallen back down to 499’, after reaching 502’ from the rains. The flows have been heavy, between 6,000-12,000 CFS. Most fish are in their winter patterns. Pay attention for floating debris, especially from Granville downstream.
Bass: Fishing has improved. The warmer water has picked up the bite. Anglers are catching 5-10 fish a day, mostly in the major creek arms. Some anglers are catching fish while cranking the rocky banks near channels. It helps if these banks have current on them. Bright colored crankbaits or spinnerbaits work best here. Anglers are also getting bites fishing bridges and culverts where current is present. Shaky heads in 2-5’ in these areas are catching fish.
Sauger: Fishing is steady. The current has improved, but the water clarity has been poor for sauger fishing. The best method is still to vertically jig offshore structure like sunken islands or creek mouths between 20-40 FOW.
Crappie: Fishing is good. Crappie can still be found in creeks by bridges or brush in 10-15 FOW. Crappie will be found near baitfish, which are attracted to the warmer temperatures in the backs of the creeks due to runoff. Jigs or minnows are still the bait of choice.
Catfish: Fishing should be good. Catfish should be found in the creeks where runoff is. Runoff brings food that’s been washed down into the system and attracts baitfish as well. Using nightcrawlers, cut bait, or live bait in these areas should be productive.
09 Dec 2022
Forecast Contributor – Will Schibig, Region III Creel Clerk.
NEW
Reservoir Conditions: The water temperature sits around 52 degrees. Water clarity averages around 6’ around the river channel, and 4’ in the creek arms. The water level sits at 499.9’. The flow averages around 5,500 cfs. You will find more flow upstream from Gainesboro. Most fish are transitioning to their winter patterns. The heavy rains have muddied the water clarity and increased flows. The rains have also introduced warm water into the system. Focus on any runoff or tributary streams that brings warm water into the system, baitfish and predatory fish will be attracted to these areas.
Bass: Fishing has slowed due to the cold water. Most fish are already in their deep water/winter holes. You can find bass near creek mouths or channels. Most fish are suspended in 12 FOW or deeper. Using a jerk bait, float n fly, or A-rig and patience can earn a bite or two. With the warm rains, bass may move shallower to the backs of creeks. Try spinnerbaits, crankbaits, and jigs for these fish.
Sauger: Fishing is steady. We have gotten the extra flow we wanted on the channel, but the water clarity is becoming more turbid. Vertical jigging structure on the channel is still the best approach. Fish are being caught between 20-40 FOW. The bests stretch of river is around Granville.
Crappie: Fishing is getting better. Crappie are being caught under bridges or anywhere baitfish are present. Minnows and jigs in 10-18 FOW for crappie suspended over baitfish. Anglers are catching 8-10 fish a day.
Trout: Trout fishing is declining on the Obey River. Due to the lack of water generation from Dale Hollow Dam, the river is very low with a little flow. The trout are scattered and are hard to find unless you’re doing a float. The flow should pick up with these upcoming rains.
02 Dec 2022
NEW
Forecast Contributor – Will Schibig, Region III Creel Clerk.
Reservoir Conditions: The water temperature sits around 50 degrees. Water clarity averages around 8’ around the river channel, and 5’ in the creek arms. The water has dropped to 500’ this week, as the drawdown of the reservoir is in full swing. The flow averages around 5,000 cfs. You will find more flow upstream from Gainesboro. Most fish are transitioning to their winter patterns.
Bass: Fishing is hit-or-miss. Bass can be caught in their transitional locations around creek channels. Fishing the transitions of rip rap to bluff walls with crankbaits, jerk baits, or jigs are catching many largemouth and smallmouth. As the water drops into the 40s, the cranking bite will slow down and so will the anglers speed of fishing. Then tactics like tight-lining, A-rigs, and jerk baits with long pauses will be key.
Sauger: Fishing is getting better due to the increased flows. The flows have picked up from 3.5k to 6k CFS, making the river channel fish sit closer to structure. Anglers are starting to catch more fish and fill limits. Some bigger females are being caught between Granville and Gainesboro. Vertical jigging between 25’- 45’ around sunken islands or creek mouths is best.
Crappie: Fishing is good. Quality keepers are still being caught near brush or bridges on jigs. Anglers are still catching 4-8 fish a day, but some 30 fish days are being reported. Focus on depths of 10-15 FOW.
Trout: Fishing on the Obey River has slowed down. The water levels have dropped due to low generation creating a lack of flow and hazardous navigation on the river. The trout are mainly focused on bug hatches, so fly fishing with nymphs or midges is working best.
Striped Bass: Anglers are focusing their attentions further down river towards the Gainesboro area. Drift live bait on the river channel near breaks or wood. Fishing has been hit-or-miss.
18 Nov 2022
Forecast Contributor – Will Schibig, Region III Creel Clerk.
NEW
Reservoir Conditions: The water temperature sits around 58 degrees. Water clarity averages around 6’ around the river channel, and 4’ in the creek arms. The water has dropped to 500’ this week, as the drawdown of the reservoir is in full swing. The flow has increased to 5,500 cfs, you will find more flow upstream from Gainesboro. Most fish are transitioning to their winter patterns.
Bass: Fishing has picked up. Bass are being caught in more of their winter transition areas like channel swings or areas near deep water. Fishing has been good on main river channel banks that have rocks and laydowns. All three black bass species are being caught with crankbaits, spinnerbaits, and jigs there. The water has been a bit more turbid than usual, so use brightly colored lures and fish from the bank out to 10 feet of water.
Sauger: The fishing is getting better. The flow has increased slightly, and fish are starting to move upstream with the colder water temperatures. Target offshore structure in 25’ of water by vertically jigging while on the main river. In the creeks, fish are being caught in around the 15’ range while jigging.
Crappie: Fishing is decent. An average day for anglers is 4-6 keepers a day. Anglers are fishing brush with jigs and minnows near deep water. Bridges are still an active area for baitfish followed by crappie.
Trout: Fishing is still good on the Obey River. Fish are being caught during high and low flows. Bottom fishing during high flows with worms and power bait is productive. The most fish are being caught on low flow, while floating from Moody’s boat ramp to Donaldson boat ramp. Nymphs and midges are best for floats.
04 Nov 2022
Forecast Contributor – Will Schibig, Region III Creel Clerk.
NEW
Reservoir Conditions: The water temperatures are averaging between 60 to 62 degrees throughout. Water clarity averages around 8 feet around the river channel, and 4 feet in the creek arms. The lake elevation is 502 feet as the drawdown of the reservoir begins. The water flow has consistently been around 3.5k cfs. Bait is starting to move up from the very backs of the creeks towards the mouths. The last of the topped-out grass is around the Gainesboro area on the river channel and in Doe Creek.
Bass: Fishing has picked up on the lower end. Fish are being caught on crankbaits, jerk baits, and jigs in the creek arms. Smallmouths are being caught on rocky channel swings, and on the main river channel banks. Smallmouths are being caught on jigs and crankbaits.
Sauger: Fishing is steady. The low flows have consistently kept the bite down on the river channel. Still the best method is vertically jigging spoons and jigs on sunken islands and creek mouths.
Crappie: Fishing is getting better. Fish are being caught near baitfish whether on brush, bridges, or suspended with live scope. Minnows and jigs are working the best. The bite will continue to get better.
Trout: The fishing is still good on the Obey River. Flow has been inconsistent recently, allowing anglers to fish the type of flow they prefer. During high flow, bottom fishing with worms or corn works well. During zero generation, fly fishing has given the best results.
28 Oct 2022
Forecast Contributor – Will Schibig, Region III Creel Clerk.
NEW
Reservoir Conditions: The water temperatures are averaging in the low 60s on the river channel and 65 degrees in the creek arms. Water clarity averages around 6.5 feet around the river channel, and 4 feet in the creek arms. The water level is at 503.3 feet and dropping. The water flow has dropped to around 3,500 cfs. Bait is starting to move up from the very backs of the creeks towards the mouths. Most of the grass is topped out on the upper end from Granville to Gainesboro, but it is starting to die off.
Bass: Fishing has been steady. Fish are still being caught around bait in the middle portions of the creeks. Fish with jerk bait or crankbaits in the morning, and slow down with soft plastics during the day. Most anglers are targeting shallow structures near the banks near deep water.
Sauger: The bite has dropped off with the slowing of the flow. Sauger are still being caught on the same structure near the channel, like sunken islands and creek mouths. Walleye are starting to be caught from Granville upstream to Celina.
Crappie: I’m starting to see a few crappie being caught. Anglers are using jigs on laydowns near deep water on the river and creeks. The bite should only get better with the colder weather.
Striped Bass: The fishing is good. Striped bass are being caught in the Celina area and into the Obey River. Fish should start to move down into the Gainesboro area. Fishing with live shad is the best approach.
Trout: Fishing is still good on the Obey River. During low generation, floating flies or jigs has been the best. Whenever Dale Hollow Dam is pulling current, bottom fishing with night crawlers and power bait is best.
14 Oct 2022
Forecast Contributor – Will Schibig, Region III Creel Clerk.
NEW
Reservoir Conditions: The water levels are staying at 503 feet. Water flow has been down. The lack of rain is keeping the flow below 10,000 cfs. Water temperatures are consistently in the mid 60’s. Water clarity averages 5 feet in the river channel and 3 feet in creeks. Shad are moving from the backs of the creeks towards the mouths. Grass seems to only be topped out downstream of Gainesboro.
Bass: Fishing is fair. Bass are being caught throughout the reservoir. Most catches are near the baitfish in the creeks. Anglers are using slow moving baits like soft plastics and wacky rigged worms in these areas. Most anglers are fishing shallow structure near the bank.
Sauger: Fishing has been steady. Anglers are still catching sauger on the river channel. While vertically jigging in the 40 feet range around any current breaks. The bite will get better whenever the river flow picks up.
Catfish: The bite has slowed down. Bottom fishing near baitfish in the creek channels with cut shad, night crawlers, and livers. Jug fishing in these same areas with similar baits is still effective.
Striped Bass: The bite is fair. The upper end of the reservoir is receiving the most flow thanks to the generation of Dale Hollow Dam and Lake Cumberland Dam. Around the mouth of the Obey River, troll live shad or trout on planer boards. Striped Bass are being caught into the Obey River as well.
Trout: Fishing is good. Trout fisherman in the Obey River are catching many trout and big trout. Fishermen on the lower end of the river are catching fish whenever there is generation while bottom fishing with night crawlers, power bait, or corn. During zero generation, fly fishing has been the most effective.
07 Oct 2022
Forecast Contributor – Will Schibig, Region III Creel Clerk.
NEW
Reservoir Conditions: The water temperatures are averaging between the mid and low 60s. Water clarity averages around 5 feet throughout the reservoir. The water level is at 503 and dropping. The water flow has dropped to around 10,000 cfs. Bait is starting to move up from the backs of the creeks towards the mouths. Most of the top grass is still on the upper end from Granville to Gainesboro.
Bass: Fishing is fair. Bass are being caught around bait in the creeks. Lures of choice are non-shad imitating baits, so the fish can see them better. This includes soft plastics, jigs, and wacky rigged worms fished near shallow structure.
Sauger: Fishing has continued to be good. Anglers targeting sauger and walleye are catching keepers while jigging river channel structure in 30 to 40 feet. You can still catch fish trolling crankbaits in 10 to 15 feet in creeks.
Catfish: Fishing is fair. Catfish have slowed down recently. Fish can still be caught in the traditional ways but target the areas of creeks that have lots of baitfish. Jugs or bottom fishing in these areas will still be effective.
Striped Bass: Fishing is still fair. The upper end of the reservoir near Celina, is still the most popular area. Trolling live bait on planer boards around the current seams is still the best method. Striped bass are being caught up the Obey River as well.
Trout: Trout fishing on the Obey River is starting to get really good. Anglers are catching limits, as well as several quality rainbows. Bottom fishing with worms, corn, or powerbait during high generation is still effective. In low flow conditions, fly fishing or covering water with spinners and spoons is also very effective.
01 Oct 2022
Forecast Contributor – Will Schibig, Region III Creel Clerk.
NEW
Reservoir Conditions: Water temperatures in the river channel average around 65 degrees on the upper end and 72 on the lower end. Creek channels average around 72 degrees throughout the reservoir. Flow has slowed down to 7,000 cfs. The water level has dropped back to 503’. Grass has peaked out on top near Gainesboro. Most shad are in the back of creek arms.
Bass: Fishing has been fair. The bass are mostly in the major creek arms with the baitfish, or on flats near the river channel. With so much baitfish in the creeks, anglers are getting bites fishing slow with soft plastics near the bank or in open pockets in grass.
Sauger: Sauger season might have come early this year. Anglers are still catching a lot of sauger in the creeks and the river channel. In the creeks, trolling gold, or chartreuse crankbaits in 10-12’ has been successful. Vertical jigging the river channel is already producing limits. Targeting either a drop or a current break in 30-40’ has been the trick.
White bass: Quality white bass and eater sized yellow bass have shown up in the creeks chasing bait. White bass, up to 2lbs, are being caught while in the jumps on top water spooks. A spinner, crankbait, or spoon casting at fish in the jumps is almost a guarantee for some fun.
Catfish: Fishing is still good. Targeting drops in the river channel with cut bait in 20-25’ has produced big catfish this week. Jug fishing with various baits has been producing lots of 3-5lb channel catfish all month.
Striped bass: People are still trolling live skipjack on planer boards with success. Target the Celina portion of the river, especially downstream of the Obey River.
23 sept 2022
Forecast Contributor – Will Schibig, Region III Creel Clerk.
NEW
Reservoir Conditions: Water temperatures in the river channel average around 65 degrees on the upper end, and 75 on the lower end. The creek channels average around 75 degrees throughout the reservoir. Flow has slowed down to 11,000 cfs. The water level has dropped to 503 feet. Grass is almost peaked out on top near Gainesboro. The majority of the shad are in the back of creek arms.
Bass: Fishing has been fair. Anglers are catching a few fish targeting the bank in creeks. Fish topwater and crankbaits near bait in the early morning or late afternoon. The rest of the day, target shade and structure on the bank with soft plastics.
Sauger: Fishing is still good. Most fish are being accidentally caught by bass fisherman in shallow water. If targeting sauger, try trolling crankbaits near creek mouths. Vertical jigging jigs and blade baits on the river channel is also catching fish.
Catfish: Fishing continues to be good. Fish live bait or cut shad near a channel is still producing fish. Jug fishing has been a popular method as well.
Striped Bass: Focus on the upper end of the reservoir near the Obey River. Troll live bait on planer boards near the bank and slack water.
Trout: Trout fisherman are catching lots of rainbow trout and a few over 16” on the lower end of the Obey River tailwater. Bottom fishing with night crawlers, spinners, and fly fishing is all working.
16 Sept 2022
Forecast Contributor – Will Schibig, Region III Creel Clerk.
NEW
Reservoir Conditions: Water temperatures in the river channel average around 70 degrees. The creek channels average around 75 degrees. Flow has slowed down to 11,000 cfs. The water level is around 503 feet. Watch for floating debris throughout the reservoir. Most shad can be found in the back of major creek arms.
Bass: Fishing has been steady. Target the main creek arms, especially towards the backs where the most baitfish can be found. You will get best results in the early morning with top waters, square bills, and spinnerbaits fishing around rock, wood, or grass.
Sauger: Anglers targeting sauger and walleye are jigging spoons and jigs in 25 feet of water on the river channel. Most sauger are being accidentally caught by bass fishermen casting onto the bank while fishing shad imitating baits. There are lots of keeper-sized sauger being caught along with a few quality fish as well.
Catfish: Fishing has been good. Anglers who are jug fishing are catching channel catfish in the back of creeks using an assortment of baits. Bottom fishing with cut skipjack on the main river channel targeting drops is also producing good sized catfish.
Sunfish:Larger sunfish have been caught while fishing river channel banks with shade. Nightcrawlers are effective.
09 Sept 2022
Forecast Contributor – Will Schibig, Region III Creel Clerk.
NEW
Reservoir Conditions: The water temperature in the river channel average 68 degrees. The creek channels average 73 degrees. Flow has slowed to 11,000 cfs. The lake elevation is 503 feet. Watch for floating debris throughout the reservoir. Most shad can be found in the back of major creek arms.
Bass: Fishing has been steady. Bass are being caught anywhere near baitfish right now, which is mostly in the backs of creek arms. Use shad imitating baits like topwater, square bills, spinnerbaits, and vibrating jigs. Anglers are also targeting main lake grass. Slowly fish the grass with soft plastics.
Catfish: Anglers who are jug fishing are catching channel catfish in the back of creeks using an assortment of baits. Bottom fishing with cut skipjack targeting drops on the main river channel is also producing good sized catfish.
Sauger: Anglers targeting sauger and walleye are jigging spoons and jigs in 25 feet of water on the river channel. Most sauger are being accidentally caught by bass fisherman casting onto the bank while fishing shad imitating baits. There are lots of keeper-sized sauger being caught along with a few quality fish as well.
Trout: Trout fishing has been good on the Obey River. Bottom fishing with nightcrawlers, during one or two generators, has been producing good sized fish. Several rainbow trout over 18 inches have been caught this week.
02 Sept 2022
Cordell Hull
Forecast Contributor – Will Schibig, Region III Creel Clerk.
NEW
Reservoir Conditions: The water temperature in the river channel average 70 degrees. The creek channels average 75 degrees. This week, flow has averaged between 10,000 and 15,000 cfs. The lake elevation is 503 feet. Watch for floating debris throughout the reservoir. Grass has topped out on the upper end of the reservoir near the river channel.
Bass: Target structures near a channel such as a channel wood, grass, or chunk rock. Fish slow after the morning bite with soft plastics or a jig. If the current is in contact with a piece of structure, you’ll have a better chance for a bite.
Catfish: Jug fishing is still the most popular method for catfish. There are many jugs/noodles in Flynn’s Creek and Salt Lick Creek. Bait them with live bait, livers, or cut bait.
Sauger: Sauger are still being caught in Martin Creek and Little Indian Creek near Granville. Troll crankbaits near the creek channels in 5 to 15 feet of water.
Striped bass: Striped bass are still being caught early in the morning on live bait. The river channel temperatures near Celina are around 60-65 degrees, so most fish are holding up there. Try trolling live bait on planer boards.
26 Aug 2022
Forecast Contributor – Will Schibig, Region III Creel Clerk.
NEW
Reservoir Conditions: The water temperature in the river channel average 65 degrees. The creek channels average 70 degrees. Flow has averaged 20,000 cfs this week. The lake elevation has risen to over 504 feet. Watch for floating debris throughout the reservoir. There are lots of shad in the backs of pockets and creeks, although they are still small in size. Grass is starting to top out on the upper end of the reservoir.
Bass: Early morning topwater around grass has produced some quality fish. Most fishermen have been successful flipping rock near channels, especially in the shade. Any type of wood structure off the river channel in 5 to 10 feet of water has also been producing bites. Anglers are catching many smallmouth bass on riverbanks with currents. Try a crankbait, a jig, or a soft plastic.
Catfish: Catfish are still being caught mainly using jugs or limb lines. Worms, livers, or live bait have been popular baits of choice among anglers this week.
Walleye and Sauger: There are lots of walleye and sauger caught by bass fishermen, and it varies from deep rock banks to water only inches deep. Martin Creek has been the hotbed of theses catches. Lures included crankbaits, soft plastics, ned rigs, and hair jigs. To target walleye or sauger, troll crankbaits in Martin Creek around the creek channel in 6 to 10 feet or find areas with a lot of shad.
Striped bass: Trolling live bait on planer boards in the early morning is still producing fish over the 30 inches.
19 Aug 2022
Forecast Contributor – Will Schibig, Region III Creel Clerk.
NEW
Reservoir Conditions- The water temperature in the river channel average 65 degrees. The creek channels average 75 degrees. Flow has averaged 15,000 cfs this week. The lake elevation is around 503 feet. The water clarity is starting to clear up, especially off the river channel. Watch for floating debris throughout the reservoir. There are lots of shad in the backs of pockets and creeks, although they’re still small in size. Grass is starting to top out on the upper end of the reservoir.
Bass: Fishing has been varying with the changing weather. The most consistent patterns seem to be flipping shallow cover with a jig or Texas-rig. Some fish are being caught around grass in the early morning with either top-water jigs or soft plastics.
Catfish: Anglers are utilizing limb lines and jugs tipped with live sunfish or shad in the backs of creeks and pockets. Another approach would be bottom fishing the flats near deep holes on the river channel with cut bait.
Sauger: Many sauger are being caught by anglers right now. Bass fishermen are catching sauger on shad imitating baits up shallow in creeks. Anglers targeting sauger, are also having luck trolling crankbaits near creek channels.
Sunfish: Bluegill are still being caught near the bank. Redear sunfish have been caught bottom fishing near a creek channel on rocky banks. Nightcrawlers are a great choice of bait.
Striped bass: striped bass are being caught near Celina while trolling live bait. If flows allow, you may be able to find a few into the Obey River.
12 Aug 2022
Forecast Contributor – Will Schibig, Region III Creel Clerk.
NEW
Reservoir Conditions- Water temperatures in the river channel average around 65 degrees. The creek channels average around 75 degrees. Flow has averaged 14,000 cfs this week. The lake elevation is 503 feet. The water clarity is starting to clear up, especially off the river channel. Watch for floating debris throughout the reservoir. There are lots of shad in the backs of pockets and creeks, although they’re still small in size.
Bass: Fishing has been good. Anglers are catching multiple fish in the 2 – 3 lb. range throughout the reservoir. The most popular pattern has been flipping jigs or soft plastics around shallow cover, especially near a channel. Anglers are giving offshore points and drop offs a lot of attention on the lower end of the reservoir. Grass is starting to top out on the upper end and is producing fish as well.
Catfish: Anglers are targeting catfish with limb lines and jug fishing with either live sunfish or chicken livers. Some fishermen are targeting deep holes on the river where there are log jams or other cover.
Sauger: Some sauger are being caught from Granville upstream. If you are targeting sauger or walleye, try fishing at night with jigs or jerk baits on the river. During the day, try trolling crankbaits near the deep banks.
Sunfish: Bluegills and other sunfish are being caught on shade lines on shallow banks in the creeks. A simple worm and bobber rig is working fine.
White bass: White bass are still being caught in the jumps while chasing shad. You can find them in the back of pockets or on river channel flats. Small crankbaits, inline spinners, or jigs should work.
05 Aug 2022
Forecast Contributor – Will Schibig, Region III Creel Clerk.
NEW
Reservoir Conditions- Water temperatures in the river channel average around 68 degrees. Creek channels average around 80 degrees. Flow has averaged 14,000 cfs earlier in the week but has dropped to 8,500 cfs. The lake elevation is 503 feet. The water clarity is turbid. Watch for floating debris throughout the reservoir. Due to the unstable conditions of the reservoir caused from the recent rains, not many anglers are out on the water.
Bass: Fishing has been slow. The best bite occurs early in the morning or late evenings. During these times anglers can take advantage of a top water bite window. Buzz baits, spooks, or whopper ploppers are effective around wood, grass edges, or flats where shad are present. Target backwaters or mouths of creeks where current breaks are present. Fishing slowly around grass on the upper end of the reservoir may bring bites as well.
Crappie: Crappie fishing has been slow due to the recent rain. Crappie are still in deeper water either suspended around bait or close to structures. They can be caught with live minnows or jigs. Once the water temperature cools, they will follow the bait back into the creeks.
Walleye & sauger: Target walleye and sauger on the upper end of the reservoir. Some sauger are being caught near the Obey River while bottom fishing at night. You may try fishing crankbaits, jerk baits, or hair jigs at night near deep holes.
Catfish: Anglers are having success targeting catfish. Fishing with noodles off a channel is popular right now. Bottom fishing the main river with cut bait or stink bait is effective as well.
Trout: Many bank anglers are catching trout on the Obey River bottom fishing with worms. On average, Dale Hollow Dam is pulling two or more generators creating a steady flow. Try using worms, power bait, inline spinners, or spoons from any of the access areas.
Striped bass & white bass: Anglers are catching white bass in the jumps in shallow flats near channels. Any small, shad imitating lure seems to work. Concentrate on the upper end of the reservoir for striped bass, trolling with planner boards early in the morning.
29 July 2022
Forecast Contributor – Will Schibig, Region III Creel Clerk.
NEW
Reservoir Conditions: Water temperatures in the river channel vary from the 70’s on the lower end to the low 60’s on the upper end of the reservoir. Creek channels are in the low to mid 80’s throughout the reservoir. Flow has averaged 16,000 cfs. Water level is around 503 feet. The water clarity is turbid. Watch for floating debris throughout the reservoir.
Bass: Anglers are catching largemouth bass on channel flats and in the back of the creeks while chasing shad. Lures include shad imitation baits such as topwater baits, square bills, spinnerbaits, and lipless crankbaits. Targeting cover around the main river channel, such as laydowns and current breaks with soft plastics, jigs, or worms should result in some bites as well.
Crappie: Crappie are being caught near creek channels and deep structure. Anglers are finding some fish on bridge pylons, or anywhere schools of shad tend to congregate. Live minnows or jigs are some options that are being used.
Walleye & Sauger: Fishermen are targeting walleye & sauger from the Roaring River north to the state line. Focus on the river channel and deep holes where the water temperatures are cooler. Popular techniques this time of year include trolling crankbaits and night crawler harnesses. Fishing at night along river channel banks and islands may work as well.
Striped Bass: Concentrate on the river around the Celina area due to the cooler water temperatures. Trolling live bait with planner boards or using lures such as a Redfin casting onto current breaks. Early mornings or late in the evening should give you the best chance.
White Bass: Anglers are having great success catching white bass in the jumps while in shallow water on channel flats or the back of pockets. Lures include spinners, topwater, crankbaits, or spoons. White bass are actively chasing shad, and as the water cools into fall, they should start schooling into bigger groups.
Catfish: Fishing has been slow. Anglers are targeting deep holes with live bream or cut bait. Jug fishing has been a popular method in creeks off the river channel.
Sunfish: Anglers have been catching bluegill on live bait and jigs on banks off the creek channel. The mayfly hatch is winding down, but anglers may be able to catch the end of it in the Granville area by using jigs or popping bugs.
early May 2022
Cordell Hull
Forecast Contributor – Brandon Ragland – TWRA Region III Creel Clerk
Reservoir Conditions: Water temperatures are in the low 50’s from Roaring River to the state line and they are in the mid 50’s up to near 60 in the back of major creeks. Water levels are around 503.7’.
Sauger: Some fish are being caught while trolling in the river with crankbaits.
Walleye: Walleye are spawning right now in the upper portion of the river. Since walleye are closely related to the sauger, anglers are possibly catching walleye in the same areas that they are fishing for sauger. Try casting crankbaits and troll behind the boat in the main river around Roaring River upstream.
Crappie: Water temperatures have cooled off. Crappie may have pulled away from the shallow water. If we can get some consistent warmer days, crappie will pull back up in the shallow water. Crappie jigs and fishing with live minnows are some baits that will help you be successful.
Bass: Bass are being caught in the creek channels and points while slow rolling spinnerbaits, jerk baits, and crankbaits. As the days get warmer, bass will begin to move to shallower water.
Striped Bass: Fish are being caught in the major creeks from Roaring River downstream to the dam. Down rigging or planner boards while using skipjack or shad are good baits to use.
White Bass: White bass are making their spawning run up the creeks. Concentrate on fishing around the mouths of creeks using a jib or silver buddy.
15 April 2022
Cordell Hull
Forecast Contributor – Brandon Ragland – TWRA Region III Creel Clerk
Reservoir Conditions: Water temperatures are in the low 50’s from Roaring River to the state line and they are in the mid 50’s up to near 60 in the back of major creeks. Water levels are between 500 and 501.
Sauger: Some fish are being caught while trolling in the river with crankbaits.
Walleye: Walleye are spawning right now in the upper portion of the river. Since walleye are closely related to the sauger, anglers are possibly catching walleye in the same areas that they are fishing for sauger. Try casting crankbaits and troll behind the boat in the main river around Roaring River upstream.
Crappie: Water temperatures have cooled off. Crappie may have pulled away from the shallow water. If we can get some consistent warmer days, crappie will pull back up in the shallow water. Crappie jigs and fishing with live minnows are some baits that will help you be successful.
Bass: Bass are being caught in the creek channels and points while slow rolling spinnerbaits, jerk baits, and crankbaits. As the days get warmer, bass will begin to move to shallower water.
Striped Bass: Fish are being caught in the major creeks from Roaring River downstream to the dam. Down rigging or planner boards while using skipjack or shad are good baits to use.
White Bass: White bass are making their spawning run up the creeks. Concentrate on fishing around the mouths of creeks using a jib or silver buddy.
08 April 2022
Cordell Hull
Forecast Contributor – Brandon Ragland – TWRA Region III Creel Clerk
Reservoir Conditions: Water temperatures are in the lower and mid 50’s. Elevation is at 499, and full pool is 504. Water clarity still seems to be turbid.
Sauger: Few fish are being caught but anglers can concentrate at the mouths of creeks using jigs with minnows.
Walleye: The water temperatures are optimal for these fish to spawn. Since walleye are closely related to the sauger, anglers are possibly catching walleye while fishing for sauger.
Crappie: These cool days have moved crappie to deeper waters. As it warms up crappie can be found in shallow waters around structures. They will begin to spawn soon, so concentrate around these areas over the next few weeks. Crappie jigs and fishing with live minnows will help you be successful.
Bass: Bass are being caught in channel banks and points with slow rolling spinnerbaits, jerk baits, and crankbaits.
Striped Bass: Fish are being caught in the major creeks from Roaring River down to the dam. Down rigging or planner boards while using skipjack or shad are some techniques to try.
White Bass: White bass are making their spawning run up creeks and can be caught at the mouth of creeks using a jig or silver buddy. Anglers should concentrate on creeks from Wartrace upriver.
01 April 2022
Cordell Hull
Forecast Contributor – Brandon Ragland – TWRA Region III Creel Clerk
Reservoir Conditions: Water temperatures are between 47 and the lower 50’s in the back of creeks. Elevation is at 499, and full pool is 504. Water clarity still seems to be turbid.
Sauger: Few fish are being caught but anglers can concentrate at the mouths of creeks using jigs with minnows.
Walleye: The water temperatures are optimal for these fish to spawn. Since walleye are closely related to the sauger, anglers are possibly catching walleye while fishing for sauger.
Crappie: These cool days have moved crappie to deeper waters. As it warms up crappie can be found in shallow waters around structures. They will begin to spawn soon, so concentrate around these areas over the next few weeks. Crappie jigs and fishing with live minnows will help you be successful.
Bass: Bass are being caught in channel banks and points with slow rolling spinnerbaits, jerk baits, and crankbaits.
Striped Bass: Fish are being caught in the major creeks from Roaring River down to the dam. Down rigging or planner boards while using skipjack or shad are some techniques to try.
White Bass: White bass are making their spawning run up creeks and can be caught at the mouth of creeks using a jig or silver buddy. Anglers should concentrate on creeks from Wartrace up river.
18 March 2022
Cordell Hull
Forecast Contributor – Brandon Ragland – TWRA Region III Creel Clerk
Reservoir Conditions: Water temperatures are between 47 and the lower to mid-50’s in the back of creeks. The elevation is at 501, and full pool is 504. Water clarity still seems to be turbid.
Sauger: Few fish are being caught but anglers can concentrate at the mouths of creeks using jigs with minnows.
Walleye: The water temperatures are optimal for these fish to spawn. Since walleye are closely related to the sauger, anglers are possibly catching walleye while fishing for sauger.
Crappie: Crappie can be caught in the creeks. On warm sunny days, crappie can be found in shallow water around structure. They will begin to spawn soon, so concentrate around these areas over the next week or so. Crappie jigs and fishing with live minnows will help you be successful.
Bass: Bass are being caught in channel banks and points with slow rolling spinnerbaits and crankbaits.
Striped Bass: Fish are being caught in the major creeks from Martin Creek to Defeated Creek. Down rigging or planner boards while using skipjack or shad are some techniques to try.
04 March 2022
Cordell Hull
Forecast Contributor – Danny Stone – TWRA Region III Creel Clerk
Reservoir Conditions: Fishing is good. Lake conditions are clearing up fast.
Bass: Several bass are being caught while fishing channel banks and points with spinnerbaits, crankbaits, and A-rigs in 5-10 feet of water.
Crappie: A few crappie are being caught on jigs while fishing fallen trees and sunken brush in the pockets in 5 feet of water.
Sauger: A few sauger are being caught around Wartrace while fishing the mouths of the creeks in 45 feet of water.
Striped Bass: A few stripers are being caught in the major creeks while drifting shad in the channels.
25 Feb 2022
Cordell Hull
Forecast Contributor – Danny Stone – TWRA Region III Creel Clerk
Reservoir Conditions: Fishing is limited due to flooding. Flooding is likely to continue to several more days.
18 Feb 2022
Cordell Hull
Forecast Contributor – Danny Stone – TWRA Region III Creel Clerk
Reservoir Conditions: Fishing is good water temp in the creek in the mid 50’s
Bass: A few bass are being caught on spinnerbaits and jigs while fishing deeper banks in the creeks in 5 feet of water.
Crappie: A few crappie are being caught on jigs around sunken brush in 10 feet of water.
Sauger: A few really nice catches of sauger have been made while fishing mid to upper lake with jigs in 35 to 50 feet of water.
11 Feb 2022
Cordell Hull
Forecast Contributor – Danny Stone – TWRA Region III Creel Clerk
Reservoir Conditions: Fishing is good. The water is low and there is not much current.
Bass: A few bass are being caught in the afternoon on spinnerbaits and crankbaits around channel banks.
Sauger/Walleye: A few walleye and sauger are being caught in the main river channel in deeper holes from Granville to Gainesboro.
Crappie: A few crappie are being caught on jigs and minnows around sunken brush in 10 feet of water.
Jan 2022
Forecast Contributor – Danny Stone – TWRA Region III Creel Clerk
Reservoir Conditions: Due to bad winter weather, no anglers have been fishing.
Cordell Hull
Forecast Contributor – Danny Stone – TWRA Region III Creel Clerk
Reservoir Conditions: The water is high and muddy. No anglers have been fishing.
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