Melton Hill Lake
TWRA is now publishing fishing forecast for area lakes: The TWRA wants to build a comprehensive report each week of the state’s lakes. If you do not see a report for your favorite lake and you are someone who can provide a report please contact us at Ask.TWRA@tn.gov and provide us with your contact information
Melton Hill Lake Fishing Report by TWRA Fishing Forecast: 16 April 2026
Report Contributor – Sydney Feistner, Region 4 Creel Clerk
Fishing has been really strong the past couple of weeks on Melton Hill, with water temperatures in the low 70s, and the lake is continuing to pick up. The bite has improved with the warming water, and fish are becoming more predictable. Anglers are finding success with targeting points, bluff ends, and submerged structure. Reaction baits are starting to shine, and there’s been a noticeable increase in feeding activity. Melton Hill should continue to improve and fish well in the coming weeks. It’s a great time to be on the water.
18 March 2026
Report Contributor – Sydney Feistner, Region 4 Creel Clerk
Water Temperature – Mid to Upper 50s
Bass: Bass are primarily being located near the mouths of coves and along creek channel edges, particularly in areas where channels intersect with available structure. Recent cooler temperatures pushed some fish slightly deeper along those breaks, but the current warming trend has increased afternoon activity, with more fish beginning to move and feed during the warmest part of the day.
Crappie: Crappie are being observed farther back in coves, with fish concentrated near creek channels and scattered grassy habitat. Most fish are being caught over approximately 20 feet of water and are often relating to vertical structure along channel edges rather than holding tightly to brush.
18 Feb 2026
Report Contributor – Sydney Feistner, Region 4 Creel Clerk
Water Temperature – Mid/High 40s
Bass: Bass have been holding in the mouths of coves and along creek channels, especially where the channel swings close to structure. After the recent cold snap, fish have been somewhat lethargic and holding deeper along those channel edges. With the recent warming trend, more fish are starting to move and feed, particularly during the warmest part of the afternoon.
Crappie: Crappie are being found back in coves as well, particularly around creek channels and some grassy areas. Most fish are being located in about 25 feet of water. They are not heavily relating to brush at the moment but have also been on vertical structure along the creek channel. On colder days, they tend to position deeper in the water column. With the recent warm front, they have moved up and are holding much shallower despite the deeper water beneath them.