Chickamauga Lake TWRA Fishing Forecast

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

Fishing Forecast

Chickamauga Lake Fishing Report: 11 Nov 2024

Report Contributor – Nathan Rogers, Region III Creel Clerk

The weather has been warmer throughout the mornings with lows only in the mid 50’s and highs as warm as 78. Water visibility is improving throughout the river. Current throughout the reservoir and below dams has been steady. The water levels are roughly 5 feet below full pool; the latest depth recorded is below. For any discharge or lake elevation info, check out the TVA Lake Info App.

Reservoir Conditions

Water Temp:

– Tennessee River (Upper Section): 67.1 degrees Fahrenheit

Water Clarity:

– Tennessee River (River Channel): 3 feet

– Creeks/Inlets: 2 feet

Water Level: 677.85 feet

Water Flow: (as of November 11^th)

– Watts Bar Dam: ~ 15625 cfs

– Chickamauga Dam: ~ 13430 cfs

Observed Species Information

Bass: Fishing is fair. Anglers are finding more success in creeks and sloughs. Finding creek channel ledges and points while throwing swimbaits, flukes, crankbaits, and A-rigs to attract bites. Topwater frogs over grass mats are picking up bites as well.

Crappie: Live minnows and small jigs over submerged structure, mostly in creeks or sloughs off main river.

Walleye: Fishing is slow. Anglers are starting to find Walleye below the dam and in other high current areas with cooler water temps. Most are trolling crankbaits in these areas, but some are finding success drift jigging as well.

2 Reports

06 Nov 2024

Report Contributor – Billy Wheat, Follow on Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/riprapfishingadventures and
www.riprapfishing.net

Chickamauga is 677-678. The water temperature is in the mid-60s. The big creeks are A-rig, scoping and Jerk baits. The bait is key. Keep a Topwater on as they may blow up anytime. Don’t forget that midrange crankbait on the shell beds and points. Find the shallow Hydrilla mats it’s time to go Froggin On The Chick Baby! Rat-l-trap in the flats especially if there is some grass present can be awesome.

11-1-2024 – 11-3-2024

Report Contributor – Nathan Rogers, Region III Creel Clerk

The weather was warmer throughout the mornings than previous weeks with lows in the mid 50’s but throughout the day it reaches as high as 75. Water visibility is improving throughout the river, but creeks are still much clearer. Current throughout the reservoir and below dams has returned to normal. The water levels are 4 feet below full pool; the latest depth recorded is below. For any discharge or lake elevation info, check out the TVA Lake Info App.

Reservoir Conditions

Water Temp:

– Tennessee River (Lower Section): 69.4 degrees Fahrenheit

– Tennessee River (Upper Section): 66.7 degrees Fahrenheit

Water Clarity:

– Tennessee River (River Channel): 1 foot

– Creeks/Inlets: 2 feet

Water Level: 678.86 feet

Water Flow: (as of November 3^rd)

– Watts Bar Dam: ~ 36000 cfs

– Chickamauga Dam: ~ 13700 cfs

Observed Species Information

Bass: Fishing is fair. Anglers are finding more success in creek and sloughs with better visibility due to muddiness of the river. Finding creek channel ledges and points while throwing swimbaits, flukes, crankbaits, and A-rigs to attract bites. Mud and clear water confluences are also hotspots holding fish. Topwater frogs over grass mats are picking up bites as well.

Crappie: Live minnows and small jigs over submerged structure, mostly in creeks or sloughs off main river.

White Bass: small jigging spoons and other shad-like baits in areas where fish are busting surface of water.

31 Oct 2024

Forecast Contributor – Billy Wheat, Follow on Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/riprapfishingadventures and
www.riprapfishing.net

Chickamauga is definitely better on the mid to lower end as the big creeks start to clear. The shad are the main deal as the creek channels and back of creeks are full of shad. The A-rig and Scoping baits are money if you find water to fish it. Any grass available is money with the CRB WAVE FROG!

23 Oct 2024

Forecast Contributor – Nathan Rogers, Region III Creel Clerk

The weather is cool throughout the mornings with lows in the mid 40’s but throughout the day it reaches as high as 80. Water temps are dropping due to the chilly nights. Water visibility is improving throughout the river, but creeks are still much cleaner. Current throughout the reservoir and below dams has returned to normal. The water levels are 3 feet below full pool. The latest elevation recorded is below. For any discharge or lake elevation info, check out the TVA Lake Info App.

Reservoir Conditions

Water Temp:

– Tennessee River (Lower Section): 69.1 degrees Fahrenheit

Water Clarity:

– Tennessee River (River Channel): 1.0 feet

– Creeks/Inlets: 3 feet

Water Level: 679.12 feet

Water Flow: Watts Bar Dam: ~ 11,000 cfs

– Chickamauga Dam: ~ 13,500 cfs

Observed Species Information

Bass: Fishing is fair. Anglers are finding more success in creeks and sloughs with better visibility due to the muddiness of the river. Finding creek channel ledges and points while throwing swimbaits, flukes, and crankbaits to attract bites. Mud and clear water confluences are also hotspots holding fish.

Crappie: Live minnows and small jigs over submerged structure, mostly in creeks or sloughs off the main river.

14 Oct 2024

Forecast Contributor – Nathan Rogers, Region III Creel Clerk

The weather was cooling off throughout the weekend with lows reaching into the mid 40’s and warming to around 70 throughout the day. Water temps are drooping due to the chilly nights and amount of current flowing through the reservoir. Water visibility throughout the Tennessee River system is extremely low due to the flood waters from western NC/Northeast TN finally reaching the lake. The water levels are 2 feet below full pool; the latest depth recorded is below. For any discharge or lake elevation info, check out the TVA Lake Info App.

Reservoir Conditions

Water Temp:

– Tennessee River (Upper Section): 70.3 degrees Fahrenheit

Water Clarity:

– Tennessee River (River Channel): 0.5 feet

– Creeks/Inlets: 2 feet

Water Level: 680.00 feet

Water Flow: (as of October 14^th)

– Watts Bar Dam: ~ 49143 cfs

– Chickamauga Dam: ~ 54681 cfs

Observed Species Information

Bass: Fishing is fair. Anglers are finding more success in creek and sloughs with better visibility due to muddiness of the river. Finding creek channel ledges and points while throwing swimbaits, flukes, and crankbaits to attract bites. Mud and clear water confluences are also hotspots holding fish.

Crappie: Live minnows and small jigs over submerged structure, mostly in creeks or sloughs off main river.

2 Reports

19 Sept 2024

Forecast Contributor – Billy Wheat, Follow on Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/riprapfishingadventures and www.riprapfishing.net

The water is a 1 to 1.5 feet below pool! The water temperature dropped below 80 but will come back up this week for sure!

The bass are definitely on the threadfin shad so when we see that we tighten up our wiggle on our baits to get more bites. The gizzards however run a wide wobble when they swim so the wider roll on our baits will get bit by a big one! Look for these fish to still be on their deeper drops and ledges but make sure you don’t forget about the top of the shell beds and scattered grass where the big gizzards live! Naturally the threadfin bite is going to be with a 3–4-inch shad shaped bait and the big gizzard bite is going be with 5–8-inch baits.

The FFS world has recognized this and have made baits for all applications. Here on Chickamauga Lake the Pop-R is dynamite for the threadfin and the Spook or Pencil popper baits are for the gizzards! So, keep them both on the deck as fish the same summertime places you may have the best Topwater day of your life!

Chickamauga Reservoir September 14^th – September 16^th, 2024

Forecast Contributor – Nathan Rogers, Region III Creel Clerk

The weather has been cool in the mornings throughout the weekend with it still getting to the 80’s throughout the day. Wind was high this weekend due to remnants of the hurricane. Water temps are dropping throughout the lake due to the chilly nights. Current has been steady throughout the day now due to lack of rain. Loads of grass present along banks and in sloughs from Hiwassee Island upstream to the dam. The water levels are at normal full pool; the latest depth recorded is below. Recent storms have slightly decreased water visibility. For any discharge or lake elevation info, check out the TVA Lake Info App.

Reservoir Conditions

Water Temp:

– Tennessee River (Upper Section): 80.2 degrees Fahrenheit

– Hiwassee River: 81.7 degrees Fahrenheit

Water Clarity:

– Tennessee River (River Channel): 3.5 feet

– Creeks/Inlets: 3 feet

Water Level: 681.63 feet

Water Flow: (as of September 16^th)

– Watts Bar Dam: ~ 9120 cfs

– Chickamauga Dam: ~ 14611 cfs

Observed Species Information

Bass: Fishing is fair. Anglers seemed to get more bites fishing humps/ledges off of main river and creek channels. The offshore humps and flats seem to be still successful but has slowed down compared to previous weeks. Shad-like baits are attracting most bites this way. Topwater bites are picking up over shallow grass flats as well. Live bait is the most successful method observed to catch larger fish. Upper portion of Hiwassee River seemed to hold some fish in the cooler waters as well as in the grass on current edges, throwing chatter baits and crankbaits.

Crappie: Live minnows and small jigs over submerged structure, mostly in creeks or sloughs off main river.

Catfish: Live/cut bait in current below dams.

Striped Bass: Same as catfish

White Bass: Best method observed was same method as catfish listed above. Others found success with small crankbaits and jigs where fish are busting the surface.

12 Sept 2024

Forecast Contributor – Billy Wheat, Follow on Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/riprapfishingadventures and www.riprapfishing.net

Chickamauga has plenty of grass on the upper end, but the grass is harder to find as you go down below Sale Creek. What this means is if you find some good grass down the lake, I’m sure they are using it. That Chatterbait shallow is hard to beat when the shad are getting chomped! The Topwater River2Sea Rover and Pop-R can be dynamite early on main channel flats and bank grass. The shell beds are great with a Carolina rig brush hog and a Swimbait 6-10 feet water. The water temperature is trying to get below 80. The water is down a foot or so.

September 6^th – September 8^th, 2024

Forecast Contributor – Nathan Rogers, Region III Creel Clerk

The weather has been cool in the mornings throughout the weekend with it still getting to the 80’s throughout the day. Water temps are dropping throughout the lake due to the chilly nights. Current has been steady throughout the day now due to lack of rain. Loads of grass present along banks and in sloughs from Hiwassee Island upstream to the dam. The water levels are at normal full pool; the latest depth recorded is below. Recent storms have slightly decreased water visibility. For any discharge or lake elevation info, check out the TVA Lake Info App.

Reservoir Conditions

Water Temp:

– Tennessee River (Lower Section): 80.2 degrees Fahrenheit

– Tennessee River (Middle Section): 80.3 degrees Fahrenheit

– Hiwassee River: 81.7 degrees Fahrenheit

Water Clarity:

– Tennessee River (River Channel): 4 feet

– Creeks/Inlets: 3 feet

Water Level: 681.84 feet

Water Flow: (as of September 8^th)

– Watts Bar Dam: ~ 10191 cfs

– Chickamauga Dam: ~ 13588 cfs

Observed Species Information

Crappie: Live minnows over submerged structure, mostly in creeks or sloughs off main river.

04 Sept 2024

Forecast Contributor – Billy Wheat, Follow on Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/riprapfishingadventures and www.riprapfishing.net

Chickamauga can be a little tough on folks right now, but you can use your electronics in 8-20 on the ledges and find some fish. If current is not available, then look for these fish to follow shad on top and out off the ledges “suspended “the Jerk bait in a natural clearer body can have much success during this time!

The other bait is a Forward-Facing Sonar bait which is a shad shaped plastic that most people refer to as a Minnow tied on a spinning rod with braid and a light leader 8-12 lb. test fluorocarbon with a light lead head with a 2/0 to5/0 hook the weight varying from 1/8 to 3/8 of an ounce. This is depending on the speed in which you are going to retrieve it through the suspended bass sometimes fast “heavier “sometimes slow “lighter”.

When the current runs, you can go to a bigger bait and a fast-moving bait like 5–7-inch Swimbait because they become way more active. Your electronics is very important as they will show you where the fish are located in the column or on the ledge or shell bed or tree or edge of grass. The alternatives to this are Carolina Rigs and Texas Rigs as well as Jigs with a craw trailer. Everyone fishes different styles, but your electronics should dictate what style. If you do not use a spinning rod learn how so that you can throw lighter baits and finesse baits when needed. If you just throw Glide Baits or Big Swimbaits, then target big structures such as trees and stumps as well as deeper boat docks. Chickamauga has giant bass in it, and they will eat big baits. But sometimes they don’t their mood swings can be fickle at times. So be versatile and open minded.

The grass bass are just the same when tougher conditions arise downsize when it is on throw big baits big rods and line. Remember watch the barometer and watch the current flow when it’s right go big when it’s tough change so you can still catch some bass. We are currently catching them in the grass and off the ledges it’s that time of year when you can have a great day in 5 feet or less as well as 5-25 ft!

2 Reports

29 Aug 2024

Forecast Contributor – Billy Wheat, Follow on Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/riprapfishingadventures and www.riprapfishing.net

Chickamauga has dropped a little the grass is great on the upper end of the lake some of it you can punch but most is Chatterbait and Swimbaits. They are still eating a swimming worm in the grass and Topwater is getting better by the day. Heading down the lake the glide and big Swimbait around deep docks and trees can pull up a big one for you. As always, the current makes a big difference as it positions fish on the humps, ledges and shell beds. Remember keep the scope on keep that Minner tied on!

August 23^rd – August 26^th, 2024

Forecast Contributor – Nathan Rogers, Region III Creel Clerk

The weather has been cool in the mornings throughout the weekend with it still getting to the lower 90’s throughout the day. Water temps are back on the rise unless in tailwaters of the dam or up the Hiwassee River. Current has gone back to relatively normal flows on the Tennessee River, with higher currents starting later in the afternoon compared to morning flows. Loads of grass present along banks and in sloughs above Richland Creek. The water levels are at normal full pool; the latest depth recorded is below. Recent storms have slightly decreased water visibility. For any discharge or lake elevation info, check out the TVA Lake Info App.

Reservoir Conditions

Water Temp:

– Tennessee River (Upper Section): 79.4 degrees Fahrenheit

– Tennessee River (Middle Section): 84.3 degrees Fahrenheit

Water Clarity:

– Tennessee River (River Channel): 4 feet

– Creeks/Inlets: 3 feet

Water Level: 682.05 feet

Water Flow: (as of August 26^th)

– Watts Bar Dam: ~ 47,435 cfs

– Chickamauga Dam: ~ 46,020 cfs

Observed Species Information

Bass: Fishing is fair. Anglers seemed to get more bites fishing humps/ledges off of main river and creek channels. The most successful technique observed was fishing deeper flats and humps (15-20 feet) adjacent to main channel with deep diving crankbaits, swimbaits, and blade baits. Many anglers are also finding success on laydowns and flats throwing spinnerbaits, chatter baits and also finesse techniques (Wacky, Texas, and Dropshot). Topwater bites are picking up over shallow grass flats as well. Live bait is the most successful method observed to catch larger fish. Upper portion of Hiwassee River seemed to hold some fish in the cooler waters as well as in the grass on current edges.

August 17th – August 19th, 2024

Forecast Contributor – Nathan Rogers, Region III Creel Clerk

The weather has been cool in the mornings throughout the weekend with it still getting to the upper 80’s throughout the day. Water temps are back on the rise unless in tailwaters of the dam or up the Hiwassee River. Current has gone back to relatively normal flows on the Tennessee River, with higher currents starting later in the afternoon compared to morning flows. The water levels are at normal full pool; the latest depth recorded is below. Recent storms have slightly decreased water visibility. For any discharge or lake elevation info, check out the TVA Lake Info App.

Reservoir Conditions

Water Temp:

– Tennessee River (Middle Section): 85.9 degrees Fahrenheit

Water Clarity:

– Tennessee River (River Channel): 4 feet

– Creeks/Inlets: 3 feet

Water Level: 682.10 feet

Water Flow: (as of August 19th)

– Watts Bar Dam: ~ 47,470 cfs

– Chickamauga Dam: ~ 44,480 cfs

Observed Species Information

White Bass: Fishing is fair. Most angler are finding success with small crankbaits, small jigs, and blade baits. Look for schooling activity on the surface of the water.

Crappie: Fishing is fair. Anglers are catching crappie with live minnows or Bobby Garland plastics in and around brush piles in 10 – 15 ft. of water.

Catfish: Fishing is fair. Many anglers are starting to get some good catfish once current picks up throughout the reservoir. Fishing edges or in the middle of the channel in some cases. Large bends and current breaks of the channel seem to be the best spots. Sinking live/cut bait to the bottom with some heavy weight to beat the current works best.

2 Reports Below

14 Aug 2024

Forecast Contributor – Billy Wheat, Follow on Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/riprapfishingadventures and www.riprapfishing.net

The bass are going nuts on the shad right it’s getting that time of year when you can have a Topwater on all day and at any time catch a big one! Look for this activity around shallow grass, shallow shell beds or long points. When it happens it’s like a fire drill! ! The other way to have a blast is electronics look for them and catch them. That varies off the flats and shell beds adjacent to river bars that go from shallow to deep the grass beds if you find the right ones are prime as well!

August 10^th – August 12^th, 2024

Forecast Contributor – Nathan Rogers, Region III Creel Clerk

The weather has been cool in the mornings throughout the weekend with it still getting to the upper 80’s throughout the day. Water temps are back on the rise unless in tailwaters of the dam or up the Hiwassee River. Current has gone back to relatively normal flows on the Tennessee River, with higher currents starting later in the afternoon compared to morning flows. The water levels are at normal full pool; the latest depth I recorded is below. For any discharge or lake elevation info, check out the TVA Lake Info App.

Reservoir Conditions

Water Temp:

– Hiwassee River: 82.3 degrees Fahrenheit

– Tennessee River (Lower Section): 84.2 degrees Fahrenheit

Water Clarity:

– Tennessee River (River Channel): 4 feet

– Hiwassee River: 2.5 feet

– Creeks/Inlets: 3 feet

Water Level: 682.00 feet

Water Flow: (as of August 12^th)

– Watts Bar Dam: ~ 29850 cfs

– Chickamauga Dam: ~ 27920 cfs

– Ocoee #1 Dam: ~ 1990 cfs

– Apalachia: ~ 3865 cfs

Observed Species Information

Bass: Fishing is fair. Anglers seemed to get more bites fishing humps/ledges off of main river and creek channels. The most successful technique observed was fishing deeper flats and humps (15-20 feet) adjacent to main channel with deep diving crankbaits and swimbaits. Many anglers are also finding success on laydowns and flats throwing spinnerbaits, chatter baits and also finesse techniques (Wacky, Texas, and Dropshot). Topwater bites are picking up over shallow grass flats as well. Live bait is the most successful method observed to catch larger fish. Upper portion of Hiwassee River seemed to hold some fish in the cooler waters.

Catfish: Fishing is fair. Many anglers are starting to get some good catfish once current picks up throughout the reservoir. Fishing edges or in the middle of the channel in some cases. Large bends and current breaks of the channel seem to be the best spots. Sinking live/cut bait to the bottom with some heavy weight to beat the current works best.

07 Aug 2024

Forecast Contributor – Billy Wheat, Follow on Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/riprapfishingadventures and www.riprapfishing.net

Chickamauga is crazy right now! High water and current can make an unbelievable day. The shell beds and bluff breaks are awesome with a handful of baits from a Chatterbait to a Glide! The grass beds are fire as they pull to the edges to feed. The deep bite is a Minner or a blade bait! The big worm is definitely something to keep in hand. Remember stay light in the grass and heavy on the shell beds!

2 Reports

01 Aug 2024

Forecast Contributor – Billy Wheat, Follow on Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/riprapfishingadventures and
www.riprapfishing.net

Chickamauga is on fire right now with high water and current moving pick your poison! Cranks and Swimbaits can do some heavy damage but don’t forget the scope bass they can pile up under bait in the downside slack current and you can smash em! Remember on Chick don’t be afraid to think outside the box try off the wall baits and tactics as these bass get some heavy pressure, but the giants are waiting for you. Watch for the big gizzards and when you find them don’t be afraid to throw big baits. The grass is really good, but you have to cover some water look for the points and irregular features such as edges holes etc. The Topwater bite is coming on strong with this high water now is the time to have big numbers and big bass on the Chick! Have fun time is here!

July 26^th – July 29^th, 2024

Forecast Contributor – Nathan Rogers, Region III Creel Clerk

The weather has been cloudy and rainy most of the weekend with thunderstorms hitting nearly every afternoon. This has caused water temps to cool slightly throughout the lake. Current has begun to increase due to the influx of rain in the area. The water levels are about half a foot above normal full pool; the latest depth I recorded is below. For any discharge or lake elevation info, check out the TVA Lake Info App.

Reservoir Conditions

Water Temp:

– Tennessee River (Middle Section): 81.7 degrees Fahrenheit

– Tennessee River (Lower Section): 83.3 degrees Fahrenheit

Water Clarity:

– Tennessee River (River Channel): 3 feet

– Creeks/Inlets: 2 feet

Water Level: 682.15 feet

Water Flow: (as of July 29^th)

– Watts Bar Dam: ~ 46200 cfs

– Chickamauga Dam: ~ 47540 cfs

Observed Species Information

Bass: Fishing is fair. Anglers seemed to get more bites fishing humps/ledges off of main river and creek channels. The most successful technique observed was fishing deeper flats and humps (15-20 feet) adjacent to main channel with deep diving crankbaits and swimbaits. Many anglers are also finding success on laydowns and flats throwing spinnerbaits, chatterbaits and also finesse techniques (Wacky, Texas, and Dropshot). Topwater bites are picking up over shallow grass flats as well. Live bait is the most successful method observed to catch larger fish.

24 July 2024

Forecast Contributor – Billy Wheat, Follow on Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/riprapfishingadventures and
www.riprapfishing.net

Chickamauga Lake is definitely high warm and pressured! The kids have started so please be careful and as the National Jr and High School Bass Tournament begins stay alert! The bass are smoking a Swimming Worm and Swim Jig! The white Chatterbait is the search tool. The Real Deal Tackle has the Ultra Vibe Speed Worm from Zoom! It’s Money Dude! The Bigs eat it! The Whopper Plopper is juice if they will eat it early! The other part of it is go and dropshot the pink worm and a Damiki Vault when you find the schools!

July 22^nd – July 24^th, 2024

Forecast Contributor – Nathan Rogers, Region III Creel Clerk

The weather has been cloudy and rainy for a little over a week straight now. This has caused water temps to cool slightly throughout the lake. Current has begun to increase due to the influx of rain in the area. The water levels are about half a foot above normal full pool; the latest depth I recorded is below. For any discharge or lake elevation info, check out the TVA Lake Info App.

Reservoir Conditions

Water Temp:

– Tennessee River (Middle Section): 81.0 degrees Fahrenheit

Water Clarity:

– Tennessee River (River Channel): 3.5 feet

– Creeks/Inlets: 3.5 feet

Water Level: 682.65 feet

Water Flow: (as of July 24^th)

– Watts Bar Dam: ~ 5050 cfs

– Chickamauga Dam: ~ 20050 cfs

Observed Species Information

Bass: Fishing is fair. Anglers seemed to get more bites fishing humps/ledges off of main river and creek channels. The most successful technique observed was fishing deeper flats and humps (15-20 feet) adjacent to main channel with deep diving crankbaits and swimbaits. Many anglers are also finding success on laydowns and flats throwing spinnerbaits, chatter baits and also finesse techniques (Wacky, Texas, and Dropshot). Topwater bites are picking up over shallow grass flats as well. Live bait is the most successful method observed to catch larger fish.

July 12^th – July 15^th, 2024

Forecast Contributor – Nathan Rogers, Region III Creel Clerk

The weather was mostly sunny throughout the weekend and very hot with temps reaching as high as 95. The water temps are warm throughout the lake. Current has been steady for the last while due to the lack of rain in the area. The water levels are now to normal full pool; the latest depth I recorded is below. For any discharge or lake elevation info, check out the TVA Lake Info App.

Reservoir Conditions

Water Temp:

– Tennessee River (Middle Section): 85.7 degrees Fahrenheit

– Tennessee River (Upper Section): 78.9 degrees Fahrenheit

– Hiwassee River: 81.9 degrees Fahrenheit

Water Clarity:

– Tennessee River (River Channel): 4 feet

– Hiwassee River: 3 feet

– Creeks/Inlets: 3.5 feet

Water Level: 682.20 feet

Water Flow: (as of July 15^th)

– Watts Bar Dam: ~ 13035 cfs

– Chickamauga Dam: ~ 11750 cfs

– Ocoee #1: ~ 600 cfs

– Apalachia: ~ 670 cfs

Observed Species Information

Bass: Fishing is fair. Anglers seemed to get more bites fishing humps/ledges off of main river and creek channels. The most successful technique observed was fishing deeper flats and humps (15-20 feet) adjacent to main channel with deep diving crankbaits and swimbaits. Many anglers are also finding success on laydowns and flats throwing spinnerbaits, chatter baits and also finesse techniques (Wacky, Texas, and Dropshot). Topwater bites are picking up over shallow grass flats as well. Live bait is the most successful method observed to catch larger fish.

Striped Bass: Fishing is slow. Anglers have found some success trolling in current below the dam with crankbaits. Also fishing current edges/eddies with live bait (skipjack, shad)

Catfish: Fishing is fair. Using live/cut bait on river channel below dam in current. Anglers using jugs for fishing seem to be most successful.

Crappie: Fishing is slow. Live minnows near bridge pylons, channel marker lights, and other deep submerged structure was observed catches were reported.

10 July 2024

Forecast Contributor – Billy Wheat, Follow on Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/riprapfishingadventures and
www.riprapfishing.net

Chickamauga is full and water temperature is 80-85. Offshore is the way to go if you figure out what they bite that day. The more current the more aggressive you need to be. Slow or no current the more finesse you need to be which is the difference from a power bite or dropshot bite. The grass can be great but requires graph work and a variety of baits. Swim Jig and Swim Worm helps you search the grass. Topwater ploppers and flukes can be fantastic this time of year be sure to watch for schoolers!

2 Reports

03 July 2024

Forecast Contributor – Billy Wheat, Follow on Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/riprapfishingadventures and www.riprapfishing.net

Chickamauga is full and hot! The current is a huge help to school them up offshore, but you can still catch them out of wood and the shell beds. The scrounger is killer for pressured fish as well as the Minner and dropshot! The grass is awesome with the big worms and Swim Jig. The shallow fish are eating bluegill and crawfish. Shallow or deep is fun both require the use of electronics. They help you have a better understanding of your surroundings and single out things.

June 28^th – July 1^st, 2024

Forecast Contributor – Nathan Rogers, Region III Creel Clerk

The weather was cloudy with a chance of storms and rain but cleared up in evenings. The water temps are warm throughout the lake. Current doesn’t seem to pick up until the afternoon. The water levels are now to normal full pool; the latest depth I recorded is below. For any discharge or lake elevation info, check out the TVA Lake Info App.

Reservoir Conditions

Water Temp:

– Tennessee River (Lower Section): 85.7 degrees Fahrenheit

– Hiwassee River: 83.2 degrees Fahrenheit

Water Clarity:

– Tennessee River (River Channel): 4 feet

– Hiwassee River: 3 feet

– Creeks/Inlets: 3.5 feet

Water Level: 682.61 feet

Water Flow: (as of July 1^st)

– Watts Bar Dam: ~ 15200 cfs

– Chickamauga Dam: ~ 17050 cfs

Observed Species Information

Bass: Fishing is fair. Anglers seemed to get more bites fishing humps/ledges off of main river and creek channels. The most successful technique observed was fishing deeper flats and humps (15-20 feet) adjacent to main channel with deep diving crankbaits and swimbaits. Many anglers are also finding success on laydowns and flats throwing spinnerbaits, chatter baits and also finesse techniques (Wacky, Texas, and Dropshot). Topwater bites are picking up over shallow grass flats as well. Live bait is the most successful method observed to catch larger fish.

White Bass: Fishing is slow. Anglers were using pop ’n corks with flies to draw some good bites.

Catfish: Fishing is fair. Using live/cut bait on river channel below dam in current. Anglers using jugs for fishing seem to be most successful.

26 June 2024

Forecast Contributor – Billy Wheat, Follow on Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/riprapfishingadventures and
www.riprapfishing.net

The good news for Chickamauga is the water flow is starting earlier and the schools are grouping up earlier. The 4 and 5 inch “Minner” are fire in these schools it allows you to use a heavier weight and work it faster when they are fired up. The hair jig and scrounger are great as well if it gets tough that little pink worm and a dropshot are fire! The heavy Neko rig worm in a 5-7 inch is right there as well. The shell beds with a big worm and a football jig still gets bit. The grass is hit and miss with a Swim Jig and an Ultra Vibe Speed worm. Water level is full and water temperature is Hot!

2 Reports

20 June 2024

Forecast Contributor – Billy Wheat, Follow on Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/riprapfishingadventures and www.riprapfishing.net

Chickamauga and Watts Bar are fishing the same and covered up with boats. The water level is slammed full and every day is the weekend! Good thing is the afternoon and evening they are dumping the Dams! Bad thing is morning not much current. That’s not a problem for the Scoping Program and The Minner! Graph work and FFS is what it takes. With all the FFS baits and heads flooding the market the thing I have figured out stay as light as possible and your bait in the strike zone. The new baits will swim when they leave and you can catch them on the crank! These fish are 8 to 35 feet! The wood and shell beds are good! Big Worms and Football jigs for the slower fishermen and don’t forget The Minner! If you can jerk a spoon and sling a big plug by all means you see a school bust em! The grass bass are lightweight worms and swim jigs.

Chickamauga Reservoir June 15^th – 16^th 2024

Forecast Contributor – Nathan Rogers, Region III Creel Clerk

The weather was hot and sunny throughout the weekend with highs reaching up to 93 degrees. The water temps throughout the lake are still climbing throughout the lake. Current doesn’t seem to pick up until the afternoon. The water levels are now to normal full pool; the latest depth I recorded is below. For any discharge or lake elevation info, check out the TVA Lake Info App.

Reservoir Conditions

Water Temp:

– Tennessee River (Lower Section): 87.7 degrees Fahrenheit

Water Clarity:

– Tennessee River (River Channel): 4 feet

– Creeks/Inlets: 3.5 feet

Water Level: 682.32 feet

Water Flow: (as of June 16^th)

– Watts Bar Dam: ~ 16650 cfs

– Chickamauga Dam: ~ 26970 cfs

Observed Species Information

Bass: Fishing is fair. Anglers seemed to get more bites fishing humps/ledges off of main river and creek channels. The most successful technique observed was fishing deeper flats and humps (15-20 feet) adjacent to main channel with deep diving crankbaits and swimbaits. Many anglers are also finding success on laydowns and flats throwing spinnerbaits, chatter baits and also finesse techniques (Wacky, Texas, and Dropshot). Topwater bites are picking up over shallow grass flats as well.

Catfish: Fishing is fair. Using live/cut bait on river channel below dam in current. Anglers using jugs for fishing seem to be most successful.

12 June 2024

Forecast Contributor – Billy Wheat, Follow on Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/riprapfishingadventures and www.riprapfishing.net

Chickamauga is full. Water temperature is high 70s low 80s. It is critical to have the graphs dialed up as you venture offshore on the shell beds and current breaks! The big plug and a hair jig is a must! If you don’t have that technology on your boat then get the football jig and Carolina rig out fish the top of the bars where they break into the creek channels or throw that big worm. The scrounger head with a long minnow bait can be awesome right now just don’t over reel it! The grass bite is actually getting better as it gets higher. Remember stay as light as you can in the grass be natural! Sometimes slower is better!

June 7^th – 12^th 2024

Forecast Contributor – Nathan Rogers, Region III Creel Clerk

The weather was warm and sunny throughout the weekend with mornings being chillier than usual for June. The water temps throughout the lake are still climbing with water temperatures in the main river being much cooler than creeks/inlets due to amount of current. The water levels are now to normal full pool; the latest depth I recorded is below. For any discharge or lake elevation info, check out the TVA Lake Info App.

Reservoir Conditions

Water Temp:

– Tennessee River (Lower Section): 79.8 degrees Fahrenheit

– Tennessee River (Middle Section): 77.2 degrees Fahrenheit

– Hiwassee River: 78.7 degrees Fahrenheit

Water Clarity:

– Tennessee River (River Channel): 4 feet

– Hiwassee River: 3 feet

– Creeks/Inlets: 3.5 feet

Water Level: 682.08 feet

Water Flow: (as of June 12^th)

– Watts Bar Dam: ~ 10529 cfs

– Chickamauga Dam: ~ 13282 cfs

– Ocoee #1 Dam: ~25 cfs

– Apalachia Dam: ~1496 cfs

Observed Species Information

Catfish: Fishing is fair. Using live/cut bait on river channel below dam in current. Anglers using jugs for fishing seem to be most successful.

Sunfishes: Fishing is good. Most anglers are using worms or crickets on banks in downed treetops or rocky structure.

30 May 2024

Forecast Contributor – Billy Wheat, Follow on Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/riprapfishingadventures and www.riprapfishing.net

Watts Bar is Full! The big worm bite is strong with the Jig right with it. Water temperature is in the high 70s. Offshore bite is great with the scope and a big plug also a football jig and 4 inch shad. As always on the Bar the wood is good! The grass bite seems to be getting better with a SwimJig and Swimming Worm.

22 May 2024

Forecast Contributor – Billy Wheat, Follow on Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/riprapfishingadventures and www.riprapfishing.net

Chickamauga is 683 full! The water temperature is 75-82. The shell beds are loaded on the shallow ones 8-12 the big worm and 5xd are great. The deeper ones the 6xd to 10xd are great you just have to get to them. The 3/4 ounce scrounger head with a fluke style bait is great. Keep a Top water on cause these bass will blow up at any time. Watch for big gizzards in areas and don’t be afraid to throw a 6-8 inch Swim bait.

Your electronics are critical so have them tuned up before you go out. Don’t forget the FFS and minnow baits. The old trusty jig is a must the 3/4 ounce football jig is a big fish bait. The bluffs are great to glide especially if there’s current. Back bays and creek swings with wood are great with the big worm. Bream beds are great to target with Senkos and Frogs.

2 Reports

15 May 2024

Forecast Contributor – Billy Wheat, Follow on Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/riprapfishingadventures and
www.riprapfishing.net

Chickamauga water elevation is 682. The water temperature is 68-73. The shell beds bite is a big worm and a swim bait. The grass is swim jig and Chatter bait shallow. The top water bite is better with a walking bait and a Pop-R. Watch for schoolers on the river bars it happens fast so be ready mostly in 5-7 feet. The wacky worm is just killing em in 2-4 feet around any grass or shallow docks. The shad are grouping heavy in 10-20 feet so the scope and a minnow bait is great around deep creek mouths and channel swing banks.

May 10^th – May 13^th 2024

Forecast Contributor – Nathan Rogers, Region III Creel Clerk

The weather was warm and sunny throughout the weekend with mornings being a bit chillier than the last few weeks. Most of the State experienced a very strong weather event causing flooding and debris throughout the lake. The water temps throughout the lake are still climbing with water temperatures in the main river being much cooler than creeks/inlets due to amount of current. Visibility in creeks is also much lower than the main river channel. The water levels were in flood stages to start the weekend but are now starting to lower back to normal full pool; the latest depth I recorded is below. For any discharge or lake elevation info, check out the TVA Lake Info App.

Reservoir Conditions

Water Temp:

– Tennessee River (Lower Section): 75.7 degrees Fahrenheit

– Tennessee River (Upper Section): 69.5 degrees Fahrenheit

Water Clarity:

– Tennessee River (River Channel): 3 feet

– Creeks/Inlets: 2 feet

Water Level: 681.83 feet

Water Flow: (as of May 13^th)

– Watts Bar Dam: ~ 47860 cfs (spilling)

– Chickamauga Dam: ~ 53280 cfs (spilling)

Observed Species Information

Bass: Fishing is fair. Anglers seemed to get more bites fishing humps/ledges off of main river and creek channels. Shad colored baits seem to be the most utilized of anglers surveyed. Many anglers are also finding success on lay downs and flats throwing spinner baits, chatter baits and also finesse techniques (Wacky, Texas, and Drop shot).

Crappie: Fishing is slow. Crappie are being found in deeper creek channels around lay downs. Some are being found around docks in backs of creeks as well.

Catfish: Fishing is fair. Using live/cut bait on river channel below dam in current.

09 May 2024

Forecast Contributor – Billy Wheat, Follow on Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/riprapfishingadventures and
www.riprapfishing.net

The river is rolling right now, and a muddy water invasion is here! Look for the clearest water you can find. Square bills and chatter baits are great in current breaks on the main channel. Top water lures and big worms are great in the grass as well as a swim jig. The frog and flipping jigs are great in the backwaters and creeks. If the area you find is clear and deep with some hard bottom and bait the dropshot and Damiki style baits on the scope can light them up!

08 May 2024

Forecast Contributor – Nathan Rogers, Region III Creel Clerk

The weather was warm throughout the weekend with it being cloudy all-day Friday. The water temps throughout the lake are still climbing with water temperatures in the main river being roughly 3 degrees cooler than creeks/inlets. Visibility in creeks is also much lower than the main river channel. The water level is climbing closer to summer pool being 1.5 feet from full; the latest depth I recorded is below. For any discharge or lake elevation info, check out the TVA Lake Info App.

Reservoir Conditions

Water Temp:

– Hiwassee River (Lower River): 78.2 degrees Fahrenheit

– Hiwassee River (Upper River): 74.7 degrees Fahrenheit

Water Clarity:

– Hiwassee River (River Channel): 3 feet

– Creeks/Inlets: 3 feet

Water Level: 681.3 feet

Water Flow: (as of May 3^rd)

– Watts Bar Dam: ~ 6415 cfs

– Chickamauga Dam: ~ 5650 cfs

– Ocoee #1 Dam: ~ 0cfs

– Apalachia Dam: ~ 2855 cfs

Observed Species Information

Bass: Fishing is fair. Many anglers are finding fish in creeks and channels on rocky bluffs/banks throwing finesse techniques such as Dropshot, Texas, Shaky head. Wacky Rigs and Ned seemed to result in more bites. When fishing water with low visibility, throwing brighter colors and baits with flair garnered some bites.

Crappie: Fishing is slow. Crappie are being found in deeper creek channels around lay downs. Rocky banks with shallow submerged structure are also good areas to target. Try throwing Bobby Garland style jigs or live minnows. Trolling creeks is also still a good practice.

Catfish: Fishing is fair. Using live/cut bait on river channel below dam in current.

White Bass: Fishing is fair. Small swimbaits and jigs in current breaks below dam.

02 May 2024

Forecast Contributor – Nathan Rogers, Region III Creel Clerk

The weather was warm throughout the weekend with it being cloudy all-day Saturday. Sunday got up to as warm as 82. The water temps throughout the lake are still climbing with water temperatures in the main river being roughly 3 degrees cooler than creeks/inlets. Visibility in creeks is also much lower than the main river channel. The water level is climbing closer to summer pool being 2 feet from full; the latest depth I recorded is below. For any discharge or lake elevation info, check out the TVA Lake Info App.

Reservoir Conditions

Water Temp:

– Upper end of lake (River Channel): 66.7 degrees Fahrenheit

Water Clarity:

– Tennessee River (River Channel): 4 feet

– Creeks/Inlets: 3 feet

Water Level: 680.95 feet

Water Flow: (as of April 28^th)

– Watts Bar Dam: ~ 6415 cfs

– Chickamauga Dam: ~ 5650 cfs

Observed Species Information

Catfish: Fishing is fair. Using live/cut bait on river channel below dam in current.

White Bass: Fishing is fair. Small swimbaits and jigs in current breaks below dam.

2 Reports

24 April 2024

Forecast Contributor – Billy Wheat, Follow on Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/riprapfishingadventures and www.riprapfishing.net

Chickamauga is in a full rotation from spawn to prespawn to post to shad spawn to bluegill spawn! The water level is 681 and the temperatures are 70-72 degrees. The Senko is hot! The swimbait is hot! The ole flipping stick with plastics is hot!

24 April 2024

Forecast Contributor – Nathan Rogers, Region III Creel Clerk

The weather was cooler throughout the weekend warming up after Monday morning. The water temps throughout the lake are still climbing with water temperatures in the main river being roughly 3 degrees cooler than creeks/inlets. Visibility in creeks is also much lower than the main river channel. The water level is climbing closer to summer pool being 3 feet from full; the latest depth I recorded is below. For any discharge or lake elevation info, check out the TVA Lake Info App.

Reservoir Conditions

Water Temp:

– Upper end of lake (River Channel): 61.7 degrees Fahrenheit

– Hiwassee River: 69.1 degrees Fahrenheit

Water Clarity:

– Tennessee River (River Channel): 4 feet

– Creeks/Inlets: 2.5 feet

– Hiwassee River: 3.5 feet

Water Level: 680.8 feet

Water Flow: (as of April 24^th)

– Watts Bar Dam: ~ 6350 cfs

– Chickamauga Dam: ~ 10880 cfs

– Ocoee#1 Dam: ~ 720 cfs

– Apalachia: ~ 770 cfs

Observed Species Information

Bass: Fishing is getting better. Many anglers are finding fish in creeks and channels on drop-offs throwing finesse techniques such as dropshot, Texas, Shaky head, Damiki, and other soft plastic rigs. Some still target with live bait and attract some bits as well. When fishing water with low visibility, throwing brighter colors and baits with flair garnered some bites.

Crappie: Fishing is fair. Crappie are still being found in creeks in shallow water but also found in deeper channels as well. Rocky banks with shallow submerged structure are where most anglers are finding fish. Try throwing Bobby Garland style jigs or live minnows. Trolling creeks is also still a good practice.

16 April 2024

Forecast Contributor – Billy Wheat, Follow on Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/riprapfishingadventures and
www.riprapfishing.net

Chickamauga water level is 680 and the water temperature is in the 60s and climbing up fast. If you like throwing big baits now is the time for the 6–8-inch Swimbait! The grass is good in 3 to 8 feet of water and rotation is full swing for the spawn. Topwater is fun as well as the Wake Baits! But yet again the shell beds and offshore structures that aren’t that deep can hold the mother load on a Swimbait or Jerk bait!

17 April 2024

Forecast Contributor – Nathan Rogers, Region III Creel Clerk

The weather was warmer throughout the weekend with heavy winds arriving late in the week. The warm weather increased water temps throughout the lake with water temperatures in the main river are roughly 3 degrees cooler than creeks/inlets. The water level is up roughly 4 feet following the rain events; the latest depth I recorded is below. For any discharge or lake elevation info, check out the TVA Lake Info App.

Reservoir Conditions

Water Temp:

– Lower end of lake (River Channel): 67.1 degrees Fahrenheit

– Upper end of lake (River Channel): 65.1 degrees

Water Clarity:

– Tennessee River (River Channel): 4 feet

– Creeks/Inlets: 3.5 feet

Water Level: 680.1 feet

Water Flow: (as of April 17^th)

– Watts Bar Dam: ~ 6350 cfs

– Chickamauga Dam: ~ 10880 cfs

Observed Species Information

Striped Bass: Fishing is slow. Anglers are fishing below the dam in current with skipjack/shad as bait. The bite is slow, but anglers are still reeling in quality size striper.

Sunfish (Bream): Fishing is fair. Using worms on shallow banks and structure with worms or crickets.

10 April 2024

Forecast Contributor – Billy Wheat, Follow on Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/riprapfishingadventures and
www.riprapfishing.net

Chickamauga is 680 and the temperature is 61-65 the big Swimbait is strong on the main channel bluffs and rocks. Traps are great in the mouths of pockets before it gets super shallow. The last transition banks before the flats are great for staging bass. If you’re wanting to bed fish get a Senko or a creature bait and stay light on the weight. Don’t leave the spooks at home or the old standard Texas rig beat on the wood.

10 April 2024

Forecast Contributor – Nathan Rogers, Region III Creel Clerk

The weather was warm throughout the weekend with storms arriving early in the week and staying cloudy throughout. The overcast cooled creeks back a few degrees. Water temperatures in the main river are roughly 3 degrees cooler than creeks/inlets. The water level is up roughly 4 feet following the rain events; the latest depth I recorded is below. For any discharge or lake elevation info, check out the TVA Lake Info App.

Reservoir Conditions

Water Temp:

– Lower end of lake (River Channel): 61.0 degrees Fahrenheit

Water Clarity:

– Tennessee River (River Channel): 3.5 feet

– Creeks/Inlets: 3.5 feet

Water Level: 679.9 feet

Water Flow: (as of April 10^th)

– Watts Bar Dam: ~ 7630 cfs

– Chickamauga Dam: ~ 10880 cfs

Observed Species Information

Crappie: Fishing is fair. Crappie are up shallow due to spawning in backs and mouths of creeks. Rocky banks with shallow submerged structure are where most anglers are finding fish. Try throwing Bobby Garland style jigs or live minnows. Trolling creeks is also still a good practice.

03 April 2024

Forecast Contributor – Billy Wheat, Follow on Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/riprapfishingadventures and
www.riprapfishing.net

Chickamauga has been on the rise up to 678 and may go up another foot. The flats are getting busy with the Rat-l-trap and the wood in the transition banks are waiting on a flipper or a Spinnerbait. Some fish are pulling up on the beds while others are still on the A-rig and Jerk bait. Pick your poison it’s getting to be that time of year when it’s all going down at the same time. Water temperature is 62-65. Water level is. 678. Always remember if the current runs go to the current breaks and points.

27 March 2024

Forecast Contributor – Billy Wheat, Follow on Facebook
https://www.facebook.com/riprapfishingadventures
and www.riprapfishing.net

Chickamauga water level is 677 water temperature is 57- 61. With the dirty water in the creeks the Chatterbait and Square Bill around the wood is great. Traps on the flats are good as well especially with the presence of grass. The creek mouths both main and secondary are great for a Swimbait or Trap on the upper points with a current break. If it gets tough on you get the dropshot out and hit the shell beds with any grass at all around them.

2 Reports

20 March 2024

Forecast Contributor – Billy Wheat, Follow on Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/riprapfishingadventures and www.riprapfishing.net

Chickamauga is hanging around at 776 the water temperature is 58-63. The 2.5-3-inch Swimbait still gets bit! It’s time for the big baits Glides and Big Paddle Tails will catch some big ones on the shallow shell beds and points with stumps. The 1/2-ounce jig in a crawfish pattern is a big bite as well. Current breaks and main channel docks are great places for the jig and a square bill. Always have a shakey head on this time of year around wood or docks.

March 16^th – March 18^th, 2024

Forecast Contributor – Nathan Rogers, Region III Creel Clerk

The weather was warm throughout the weekend, but a cold front arrived Monday morning dropped lows down to the 30s again. Heavy storms Friday morning warmed creeks but also dirtied them with mud and debris. Water temperatures in the main river are roughly 3 degrees cooler than creeks/inlets. The water level came up roughly 2 feet following the Friday rain events; the latest depth I recorded is below. For any discharge or lake elevation info, check out the TVA Lake Info App.

Reservoir Conditions

Water Temp:

– Upper end of lake (River Channel): 55.2 degrees Fahrenheit

– Lower end of lake (River Channel): 57.2 degrees Fahrenheit

Water Clarity:

– Tennessee River (River Channel): 3.5 feet

– Creeks/Inlets: 1.5 feet

Water Level: 677.9 feet

Water Flow: (as of March 18^th)

– Watts Bar Dam: ~ 24800 cfs

– Chickamauga Dam: ~ 51250 cfs (spilling)

Observed Species Information

Bass: Fishing is getting better. Throwing jerk baits, shallow diving crankbaits, lipless crankbaits, and smaller swimbaits on shallow island flats and points brought great success to several anglers. Some still target with live bait and attract some bits as well. When fishing water with low visibility, throwing brighter colors and baits with flair garnered some bites.

Crappie: Fishing is fair. Crappie are starting to move into shallower water in creeks and inlets on the lower end of the lake. Try fishing Bobby Garland jigs or other smaller swimbaits near rocky points/flats in shallow water (less than 10 feet). On the upper end of the lake, crappie are still near creek mouths and inlets starting to venture to backs of creeks.

Striped Bass: Live bait (shad, skipjack) below dam in current breaks.

White Bass: Small jigs in current below dam

Walleye: Longline trolling crankbaits with planer boards in current below dam. Drift jigging the bottom with small to medium sized jigs. Some had luck jigging near banks and submerged brush as well.

14 March 2024

Forecast Contributor – Billy Wheat, Follow on Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/riprapfishingadventures and www.riprapfishing.net

Chickamauga is definitely doing great with the water temps on the rise you have to watch these bass will jump into super shallow water and hit a buzz bait or swim jig in the dirt! Look for the main channel bass to smoke a jerk bait or 5-7” paddle tail and as always, the A-rig. Its jig time as well the rising temperature will have them killing that jig. Main channel is the grass shell beds and stumps all of these are related to some sort of current break. The creek fishing is wood find a lay down catch a big one. Put your big boy britches on and throw that Glide Bait around the trees. Water level is 676. Water temperature is 53-56 and rising.

11 March 2024

Forecast Contributor – Nathan Rogers, Region III Creel Clerk

The weather was warm Monday evening but colder for the morning. Rainy days from the previous weekend warmed creeks but also dirtied them with mud and debris. Water temperatures in the main river are roughly 3 degrees cooler than creeks/inlets. The water level has been lower than usual for the past few weeks so be cautious when launching at certain ramps; the latest depth I recorded is below. For any discharge or lake elevation info, check out the TVA Lake Info App.

Reservoir Conditions

Water Temp:

– Tennessee River (River Channel): 56.8 degrees Fahrenheit

– Creeks/Inlets: 59.2 degrees Fahrenheit

Water Clarity:

– Tennessee River (River Channel): 3.5 feet

– Creeks/Inlets: 1.5 feet

Water Level: 678.9 feet

Water Flow: (as of March 11^th)

– Watts Bar Dam: ~ 24800 cfs

– Chickamauga Dam: ~ 51250 cfs (spilling)

Observed Species Information

Bass: Fishing is getting better. Throwing jerk baits, shallow diving crankbaits, and smaller swimbaits on shallow island flats and points brought great success to several anglers. Some still target with live bait and attract some bits as well.

07 March 2024

Forecast Contributor – Billy Wheat, Follow on Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/riprapfishingadventures and www.riprapfishing.net

Chickamauga elevation is 676 the water temperature is moving up in the mid-50s. The big baits are starting to play well. The Glide 6-10 inch and the paddle tails 5-8 inch are getting some attention. Shell beds any wood and grass is great especially if you have an area with all 3. The trap bite is 2-6 feet drop in the flats and ditches. The scoping and A-rig is happening in 12-25 around bait. Change is happening for sure as water temperatures are rising so be versatile and don’t be afraid to throw a big bait.

February 16^th – 18^th – 24

Forecast Contributor – Nathan Rogers, Region III Creel Clerk

The weather was warm Friday to start the weekend but then a cold front hit that night bringing temps down. This cold front seemed to really impact the fishing with hardly any surveyed anglers recording even a bite that Saturday morning. Water temperatures are starting to warm in the Tennessee River channel and stay somewhat cooler in the Hiwassee. The water level was up due to the heavy rains throughout the region in previous weeks; the latest depth I recorded is below. For any discharge or lake elevation info, check out the TVA Lake Info App.

Reservoir Conditions

Water Temp:

– Tennessee River (main lake): 50.1 degrees Fahrenheit

– Hiwassee River: 47.9 degrees Fahrenheit

Water Clarity:

– Tennessee River (main lake): 3.5 feet

– Hiwassee River: 3.5 feet

Water Level: 678.9 feet

Water Flow: (as of February 18^th)

– Watts Bar Dam: ~ 57670 cfs (spilling)

– Chickamauga Dam: ~ 76000cfs (spilling)

Observed Species Information

Bass: Fishing is fair. Using live bait (shad/minnows) on bluffs and main channel banks with deep water. Some anglers had success with swimbaits and lipless crankbaits in these areas too. During some recent surveys, anglers used square bill crankbaits and A-rigs on rocky banks and flats that garnered some bites.

Crappie: Fishing is fair. Using live minnows and/or Bobby Garland jigs in mouths of creeks/sloughs around submerged brush. Trolling small crankbaits or jigs in shallow creeks.

Walleye: Fishing is fair. Trolling crankbaits upstream in current below dam. Drifting downstream jigging 3/8^th to 1/2-ounce jig heads with hair or small swimbaits.

22 Feb 2024

Forecast Contributor – Billy Wheat, Follow on Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/riprapfishingadventures and www.riprapfishing.net

Chickamauga elevation is 676 and the dam is rolling look for schools of bait in the creek mouths and back in the deeper creeks and put the scoping baits to work. The jerk bait bite is fire along with the glider any wood 3-12 feet can hold some big ones. The A-rig bite can off the chart right in the 8-15 range especially around the shell beds my choice of A-rigs are Big Daddy’s Baits Dayton Boat dock Rig, Driftwood Custom Baits Peanut Rig and The Stealth Rig. The 3–5-inch baits are great. Remember any grass you find fish it 2-6 feet throw that Rat-l-trap and that Swimbait.

16^th – 18^th – 24

Forecast Contributor – Nathan Rogers, Region III Creel Clerk

Reservoir Conditions

Water Temp:

– Tennessee River (main lake): 50.1 degrees Fahrenheit

– Hiwassee River: 47.9 degrees Fahrenheit

Water Clarity:

– Tennessee River (main lake): 3.5 feet

– Hiwassee River: 3.5 feet

Water Level: 678.9 feet

Water Flow: (as of February 18^th)

– Watts Bar Dam: ~ 57670 cfs (spilling)

– Chickamauga Dam: ~ 76000cfs (spilling)

Observed Species Information

Crappie: Fishing is fair. Using live minnows and/or Bobby Garland jigs in mouths of creeks/sloughs around submerged brush. Trolling small crankbaits or jigs in shallow creeks.

Walleye: Fishing is fair. Trolling crankbaits upstream in current below dam. Drifting downstream jigging 3/8^th to 1/2-ounce jig heads with hair or small swimbaits.

14 Feb 2024

Forecast Contributor – Billy Wheat, Follow on Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/riprapfishingadventures and www.riprapfishing.net

Chickamauga is at 680 and rolling. The main channel bite is great with a Swimbait or Chatterbait. The bigger Spinnerbait is the ticket on the shell beds. The trap bite in the creeks is fire you just have to find them on the flats or points and grass is great to find in this situation. The conditions as of now are just go fish for a BigN! They are biting just cover water and use your electronics if you find them, they will bite!

2 Reports Posted

Chickamauga – 2-7-24

Forecast Contributor – Billy Wheat, Follow on Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/riprapfishingadventures and www.riprapfishing.net

Chickamauga is really doing good with the water flow we are having the Swimbait bite and Chatterbait bite is great! The river bars are super especially if there is any grass at all on them. The trap bite is just as well in the creeks as they are holding a ton of shad right now. The A-rig and Jerk bait on the chunk rock banks 8-12 feet are sweet as well as the flat side crankbait bite. This all due to the steady water flow now. Water temperature is 44-48 depending on where you are. The water level is 677.

Chickamauga Reservoir February 3^rd-5^th 2024

Forecast Contributor – Nathan Rogers, Region III Creel Clerk

The weather was warm again this weekend with clear bluebird skies. Temperatures were around the mid to upper 30’s at night and reaching as high as 60. Water temperatures are still cool throughout the main channel but warmer in creeks and the Hiwassee; latest depth I recorded is below. For any discharge or lake elevation info, check out the TVA Lake Info App.

Reservoir Conditions

Water Temp:

– Tennessee River (main lake): 44.5 degrees Fahrenheit

– Hiwassee River: 48.9 degrees Fahrenheit

Water Clarity:

– Tennessee River (main lake): 3.5 feet

– Hiwassee River: 2.5 feet

Water Level: 677.35 feet

Water Flow: (as of February 5^th)

– Watts Bar Dam: ~ 46300cfs

– Chickamauga Dam: ~ 57000cfs (spilling)

– Apalachia: 3100cfs

– Ocoee #1: 2000cfs

Observed Species Information

Crappie: Fishing is fair. Using live minnows and/or Bobby Garland jigs in mouths of creeks/sloughs around submerged brush. Trolling small crankbaits or jigs in shallow creeks.

Walleye: Fishing is fair. Trolling crankbaits upstream in current below dam. Drifting downstream jigging 3/8^th to 1/2-ounce jig heads with hair or small swimbaits.

Catfish: Fishing is fair. Cut bait on river channels was the best practice observed.

Redear Sunfish (Shellcracker): caught in mouths of creeks and inlets with worms or minnows.

01 Feb 2024

Forecast Contributor – Billy Wheat, Follow on Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/riprapfishingadventures and www.riprapfishing.net

Water level is just below 677. Water temperature is 43-48. The current is running great through the dams which is always great the feeding activity levels are always high when this is happening. The main channel current breaks with an A-rig with 3-4.5-inch Swimbaits can get the job done. DT6 cranking or flat sides cranking will get you bit for sure. If you find any grass in the creeks or flats a Swimbait, Rat-l-trap and Chatterbait will catch them. 2-8 feet seem to be the zone when the current is running like this.

Chickamauga Reservoir January 26^th-31^st 2024

Forecast Contributor – Nathan Rogers, Region III Creel Clerk

The weather was oddly warm on Friday with rough storms with heavy rain and winds coming in late that night and Saturday. Temperatures were around the mid to upper 40’s’s at night and reaching as high as 51. After the storms moved out, the weather got much cooler the rest of the weekend. Water temperatures are cool throughout the lake with lots of current from the storms and increased pool level; latest depth I recorded is below. For any discharge or lake elevation info, check out the TVA Lake Info App.

Reservoir Conditions

Water Temp:

– Tennessee River (main lake): 44.5 degrees Fahrenheit

Water Clarity:

– Tennessee River (main lake): 3.5 feet

Water Level: 676.8 feet

Water Flow: (as of January 31^st)

– Watts Bar Dam: ~ 46200cfs

– Chickamauga Dam: ~ 59700cfs (spilling)

Observed Species Information

Crappie: Fishing is fair. Using live minnows and/or Bobby Garland jigs in mouths of creeks/sloughs around submerged brush.

Walleye: Fishing is fair. Trolling crankbaits upstream in current below dam and drifting downstream jigging.

Catfish: Fishing is fair. Cut bait on river channels was the best practice observed.

24 Jan 2024

Forecast Contributor – Billy Wheat, Follow on Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/riprapfishingadventures and www.riprapfishing.net

The water level is 677 and the water temperature is 40-43. The water flow is strong and that sets up for a great Swimbait bite especially on the shell beds in the main lake. Catch them on a 2.5 to 3.8 Swimbait with a 3/16 to 3/8 Swimbait head. The A-rig is great along with a 5-7 ft deep Jerk bait. The crankbait DT 6 is great because these conditions set the bass up usually above the 8 ft mark. Current breaks and shell beds are great for all of these baits. If you find grass the Chatterbait and Rat-l-trap are great as well. As far as the big baits the Glide and the big shad hard Swimbait 6-10 inches will get bit. Remember learn to read the current, find the shell beds or timber and catch a BigN!

14 Jan 2024

Chickamauga Reservoir January 13^th-14^th 2024

Forecast Contributor – Nathan Rogers, Region III Creel Clerk

The weather was cold Saturday morning and Sunday morning with some steady winds. Temperatures were around the mid to upper 20’s at night and reaching as high as 44. Water level was low due to expectation of heavy rain incoming the following day; latest depth I recorded is below. For any discharge or lake elevation info, check out the TVA Lake Info App.

Reservoir Conditions

Water Temp:

– Tennessee River (below Watts Bar Dam): 45.9 degrees Fahrenheit

– Tennessee River (main lake): 45.4 degrees Fahrenheit

Water Clarity:

– Tennessee River (below Watts Bar Dam): 4.5 feet

– Tennessee River (main lake): 4.5 feet

Water Level: 676.0 feet

Water Flow: (as of January 8^th)

– Watts Bar Dam: ~ 47000 cfs

– Chickamauga Dam: ~ 49500 cfs (spilling)

Observed Species Information

Bass: Fishing is fair. Using live bait (shad/minnows) on bluffs and main channel banks with deep water. Some anglers had success with swimbaits and lipless crankbaits in these areas too. A-rigs and jerk baits around docks and rock walls garnered some bites as well.

Crappie: Fishing is fair. Using live minnows and/or Bobby Garland jigs in mouths of creeks/sloughs around submerged brush. Also seen catches around bluff walls and deep current breaks.

Walleye: Fishing is fair. Trolling crankbaits upstream in current below dam and drifting downstream jigging.

10 Jan 2024

Forecast Contributor – Billy Wheat, Follow on Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/riprapfishingadventures and www.riprapfishing.net

The water is pulling hard elevation is 680 on the lower end and 682 in the upper end. With this dirty high water, it’s time to get the big Chatterbait, black, blue rattle jig, square bill, Rat-l-trap and a thumping Spinnerbait. Any wood that is in the water and any current breaks near points or creek mouths need to be hit. This is the time the big bass get tight and feed big. Any shallow shelled or rocky point that diverts the current need to be hit hard. Find the clearer water throw the A-rig and Swimbait especially around grass edges.

04 Jan 2024

Forecast Contributor – Billy Wheat, Follow on Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/riprapfishingadventures and www.riprapfishing.net

The water temperature is 45-48. The water level is 677. The current flow is low. The jerk bait bite is full tilt. We smoked them yesterday on it. 8-12 ft banks and channel swings. The 2.5-4-inch Swimbait getting bit especially around and under baitfish. If you happen to find some grass on the flats that is fishable the trap and Chatterbait will do it. Never leave home in the winter without the A-rig somedays it is off the chart!

26 Dec 2023

Forecast Contributor – Billy Wheat, Follow on Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/riprapfishingadventures and www.riprapfishing.net

The current has slowed some and the water is on the rise. When this happens don’t panic just find the grass on the river bars and flats the bait will pour into these areas. Don’t be surprised in the winter months that these fish will hit a topwater buzz bait especially a Big Daddy Baits Hairy Buzzer or a Driftwood Custom Baits Head Banger with a small Swimbait on it. The Chatterbait is a heavy hitter in the skinny water along with the Rat-l-trap.

But remember when that water current ramps up the jerk bait, A-rig, 4–5-inch Swimbait, Dt6-8 and a Glide can get it done. Don’t forget the small baits 2.5 to 3.5 Swimbaits can catch them good. The deep creeks can be great if you put your electronics to use get the Scoping Baits out and find the bait balls light line and small Damiki style minnows are awesome. The new Whiptail and Drift Shad from Driftwood Custom Baits are new and hot! Big Daddy Baits are also making a smaller version of the Booger Spin! The water temperature is 48-52. Water level is 677-678.

13 Dec 2023

Forecast Contributor – Billy Wheat, Follow on Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/riprapfishingadventures and

www.riprapfishing.net

The bass this week are killing an A-rig and a Swimbait. The 2.5 to 3.5 on the A-rig is great. The 4–6-inch Swimbait either a boot tail or a round tail on a 3/8 are the ticket. Look for the bait around underwater points, creek mouths and grass especially if the grass is near a shell bed. The old trusty Jerk bait is always a player in depths of 3-12 feet. Going deeper requires a 2.8 or Blade bait. One bait people count out in the winter is a big Spinnerbait 3/4 to 1 ounce as well as the Chatterbait these baits catch some Hawgs in the winter for sure. The water temperature is 51-52 degrees. Water level is 676-677.

07 Dec 2023

Forecast Contributor – Billy Wheat, Follow on Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/riprapfishingadventures and www.riprapfishing.net

The bass are loving a 2.8 to 3.5 Swimbait for sure. The other bait that they are mashing is a Chatterbait around the grass lines. The 2.8 is definitely awesome around or under the bait. Keep the crankbait tied on from a square bill to a DT10 those transition banks are starting to get good. The flats are pretty good with a 1/4 -5/8 oz Rat-l-trap bait! Water temperature is 52-55. Water level is 676.

30 Nov 2023

Forecast Contributor – Billy Wheat, Follow on Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/riprapfishingadventures and www.riprapfishing.net

The bass are feeling the cold weather but that makes them get the urge to eat and the baits of choice are Rat-l-trap style baits as well as medium running crankbaits and square bills. Grass edges, shell beds and hardcover are key places to find the biggest bass of the year. The jerk bait, A-rig and 2.5-to-4-inch swimbait can be fire this time of year.

The Glide baits are great when setting your sights on a Chickamauga giant depths range from 3-12 feet any stumps trees or rocks are great especially if there is some grass nearby. As the water settles in 50s and gets to the high 40s these big bass will start group up and get on those current breaks hot and heavy. Water level is 676 and water temperature fluctuates in the 50s.

15 Nov 2023

Forecast Contributor – Billy Wheat, Follow on Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/riprapfishingadventures and www.riprapfishing.net

The good news is the current is getting better and better as they drop the upper lakes and pull the water through the great Tennessee River system. The water levels are settling into the winter stages and the bass will start to group up in the schools that make the opportunity better for anglers that fish the shell beds and current breaks. But we must never rule out the opportunity for grass bass. The aquatic vegetation that survives the drawdown can be awesome for those magical moments that produce a Giant bass for those who stand strong during this time.

We leave the fickle world of small baits and step into the world of Glides and big paddling tails that entice the big bite of our life! The square bills got bigger our jigs become bulkier! The time to target the biggest bass in the pond starts now! The big stumps and standing timber associated with the nearby shell beds and steep drops are now being targeted with 5–8-inch Swimbaits and A-rigs along with the jerk baits and 3/4 to 1 oz traps. But never forget the frog bite in shallow vegetation if it’s available fish it!

Water levels are 677 and the water temperatures are going to go down from the 60s into the 50s. One of the number one baits is the Chatterbait ranging from 3/8 to 1 oz. Don’t forget the Crankbaits this time of year from 5-15 feet. Remember safety first use your maps and wear your life jacket.

08 Nov 2023

Forecast Contributor – Billy Wheat, Follow on Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/riprapfishingadventures and www.riprapfishing.net

The grass mats are hanging on for dear life! If they are there the frog is it! The scatter edge is open for many baits from a Chatterbait to a Buzz bait! Let them try to tell you how fired up they are! The main thing in the fall is stay with the bait!!! If you’re a slow fisherman with a jig or worm you’re fine. The transitional banks with deeper trees and docks put you right at home. The diehard offshore fishermen can look forward to the shell bed bite as the dropping water sets them up! Watch for birds they are here! Get some smaller baits rigged so you can throw a mile it’s coming. Water temperature is 64. Water level is 678.

01 Nov 2023

Forecast Contributor – Billy Wheat, Follow on Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/riprapfishingadventures and www.riprapfishing.net

The bass just felt another drop in the water we lost some mats and the water got colder but that’s good news for the lower section of the lake as these drops into winter pool happen it brings the Hydrilla beds down to lay over which is good. Then it scatters the grass in front of the beds. The frog is great, and the toad is great as well seems somedays they like one better.

The Rat-l-trap and Chatterbait are great on the edges and scattered grass. The Swimbait and Crankbait start to play as well as some of the bass start to drop off the side of the shell beds. These bass will bite the Swimbait and Crankbait as well as the A-rig! The sleeper is the Jerk bait! Always have a Jerk bait tied on! Don’t be afraid to have some finesse baits on those smaller Top waters and Little Swimbaits can really help you this time of year. The water level is 679-680. Water temperature is 56-60.

25 Oct 2023

Forecast Contributor – Billy Wheat, https://www.facebook.com/riprapfishingadventures

and www.riprapfishing.net

Water level is 679. Water temperature is 65-67. The water flow is up and down. The frog bite is great, but you have to put your time on the mats. If you see or hear nothing move on! When you see or hear activity stop and beat it down. Froggin and Punchin! Keep that Topwater Pop-R or Buzz bait on the deck for those minnow munchers on the edge!

The flats and back of creeks this time of year can be great with Ratltrap baits and Whopper Ploppers. If you’re having trouble with that go to deeper creek bends and tapering points next to deep water. The square bill and jerk bait could be the deal. If the action is slow then take the finesse baits out and use your electronics to find the deeper bass. The dropshot and Ned Rig are great choices to get bit!

18 Oct 2023

Forecast Contributor – Billy Wheat, Follow on Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/riprapfishingadventures and www.riprapfishing.net

The water level is pretty much jumping around 680-679 so the shad are starting to pour into the mats where the bluegill already live. This being said now is a good time to experiment with the sizes of Frogs you throw as well as the type of baits you throw in and around the mats. Weedless weightless Swimbaits and Flukes are a great alternative to the frogs when the shad start work their way in the mats.

The transition banks are starting to show up with a jig a spinnerbait and a square bill. The jerk bait is starting to shine as well. The chunky rock banks with a faster drop is where the jerk bait and A-rig are a great option as the shad are getting thick. The main points and 6-8 feet shell beds on the main river are bigger chatter baits and swimbaits. That RatLtrap bite in the back of the creeks us going on to but everywhere. Move around cover much water if you find them stand on them because they move around a bunch. Water temperature is 64-67.

04 Oct 2023

Chickamauga Lake – 10-4-23

Forecast Contributor – Billy Wheat, Follow on Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/riprapfishingadventures and www.riprapfishing.net

Bass are on the chase and busting those small baitfish so downsize your swimbaits buzz baits and Topwater baits this has been going on for 30 plus years on the TN River systems and probably longer match hatch! The Driftwood Custom Baits Head Banger 3/16 and 1/4 oz little buzzers will get them to bite! The smaller Pop-Rs can do the same! The small flukes can also be a blast!

Switching gears to the big side of life if you don’t care about numbers and you are looking for the big bite! Big Gizzards and Big Shiners and Big Bluegill imitators are a must! Glides and Big Jointed Swimbaits will catch some Big Ones! Be careful as the water starts to drop down always wear a life jacket and USE YOUR MAPPING! Electronics will help you navigate be mindful of your surroundings. Water temperature is 76-80. Water level is up and down 682-681 May drop anytime! Safety First!!!!

27 Sept 2023

Forecast Contributor – Billy Wheat, Follow on Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/riprapfishingadventures and www.riprapfishing.net

Bass are on the chase and busting those small baitfish so downsize your Swimbaits Buzz baits and Topwater baits this has been going on for 30 plus years on the TN River systems and probably longer match hatch! The Driftwood Custom Baits Head Banger 3/16 and 1/4 oz little buzzers will get em to bite! The smaller Pop-Rs can do the same! The small flukes can also be a blast! Switching gears to the big side of life if you don’t care about numbers and you are looking for the big bite!

Big Gizzards and Big Shiners and Big Bluegill imitators are a must! Glides and Big Jointed Swimbaits will catch some Big Ones! Be careful as the water starts to drop down always wear a life jacket and USE YOUR MAPPING! Electronics will help you navigate be mindful of your surroundings. Water temperature is 76-80. Water level is up and down 682-681 May drop anytime! Safety First!!!!

21 Sept 2023

Forecast Contributor – Billy Wheat, Follow on Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/riprapfishingadventures and www.riprapfishing.net

Upper region of the lake is very grassy with the Chatterbait and Swim Jig either in a shad pattern or bluegill pattern. The Big Swimbaits are starting to play as the big Gizzard Shad are moving in heavily. If you want to get bit with numbers downsize! If you want to swing for a big bite, then get a big bait and go to work.

The midsection of the lake was great on a Speed Worm and “The Jig” for me fishing the deeper grass edges normally what they are doing in that area kind of pertains the rest of the way down. The water temperature is ranging from 76-80. Water level is around 681.

14 Sept 2023

Forecast Contributor – Billy Wheat, Follow on Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/riprapfishingadventures and www.riprapfishing.net

Bass are being caught on Chatter baits and Swim Jigs in bluegill patterns and shad patterns in the grass flats. The grass edges that fall into the river channel can be targeted with dropshots and Neko rig worms with the assistance of live scope or 360. The mats are hit and miss with the Frog or a Top Toad the Copper Red

Baits Tsunami frog walks unbelievable and draws some awesome strikes the Top Toad is great in the scattered mats.

If the current is turned up the big Swimbait and big Chatterbait are great in the shad colors. Find a good edge in the grass and get the big stick out with a punch weight from 1 oz to 1.5 oz. Paired with the new Driftwood Custom Baits D425 and big braid. Topwater baits are Pop-Rs and Pencil Popper style baits. Water temperature is 80-82. Water level is 682.

06 Sept 2023

Forecast Contributor – Billy Wheat, Follow on Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/riprapfishingadventures and www.riprapfishing.net

The good news is that there are some Frog bass around but not everywhere! The more consistent bite is schoolers and punchers! The grass lines are long and continuous so make sure you look for the irregular features in that grass line especially when the current is running! I stress this you must watch the current if it cranks up try to put yourself in position to intercept these schools that set up on the shell beds and current breaks!

The baits are The Tsunami Frog by Copper Redbaits the D425 puncher by Driftwood Custom Baits and the Saltless Ol Big Stick by Jaw Dropper Plastics! The Chatterbait is always the Jack Hammer and one of the best trailers is a Spunk Shad which has a very realistic swimming action! Scattered grass and hard grass edges are places the bass hunt for a meal and if see Bluegill in the grass. Frog if possible if not I throw a swim jig if I see big gizzards, I throw a swim bait. Try to let the conditions tell you what you need to be doing. The water is full the water temperature is 80-85.

31 Aug 2023

Forecast Contributor – Billy Wheat, Follow on Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/riprapfishingadventures and www.riprapfishing.net

The good news is the water is cooling down some and the Bluegill and Big Gizzards are becoming very active. The cooler temperatures at night are helping and the grass mats are starting to pop with the bug eating bluegill are getting fired up! This means get your Frogs and Punchers ready. The Big Gizzard activity means get the Big Glide Baits and Big Swimbaits out and swing for a giant.

On the Topwater side the Big Whopper Plopper and Big Walking Baits are big fish catchers. These all can be used on the grass lines, bluffs and lay down trees. Always be mindful of water flow on the Tennessee River system and don’t forget the offshore shell beds football jigs, big worms and Carolina rigs are the slower presentations the quicker presentations are 8-15 feet Crankbaits, big spinners baits and swimbaits 5-7 inches. The finesse approach is Neko rig and light dropshots along with the wacky rig Senko on the grass edges. Water temperatures are 78-82. Water level is varying from full to a foot low.

17 Aug 2023

Forecast Contributor – Billy Wheat, Follow on Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/riprapfishingadventures and www.riprapfishing.net

Early morning Topwater great with a Pop-R, Pencil Popper or a Spook. The shad pattern seems to get more strikes. The big Chatterbait 3/4 paired with a 4.25- or 5-inch Swimbait I like the Driftwood Custom Baits paddle tails in a shad or bluegill pattern on the grass edges or shell beds when the current is running.

August is a great month to swim that worm and swim that jig in the grass. Remember to pay attention to the water flow schedule it positions the fish and usually will group them up. Water level is full and water temperatures are 80-85.

10 Aug 2023

Forecast Contributor – Billy Wheat, Follow on Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/riprapfishingadventures and www.riprapfishing.net

Bass are definitely schooling around the grass edges the spooks Buzz bait and Pop-Rs are doing some work. Swim Jigs and Chatter baits are also a good bet especially if they’re pulling water. The finesse game in the grass is a light dropshot or a Neko rig with a finesse worm.

The offshore is great to run if the water is pulling. Big Spinnerbait and a Big Chatterbait is a great choice when gunning for a big one. Water level is full. Water temperature is 81-83.

02 Aug 2023

Forecast Contributor – Billy Wheat, Follow on Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/riprapfishingadventures and www.riprapfishing.net

The bass are really liking the Pencil Popper type baits the Shower Blow the Cane Walker and the Yozuri baits are great. The dropshot heavy or light gets bit with that RoboWorm or the Dawn flatworm by Driftwood Custom Baits. The Swim Jig is great in a bluegill pattern or a shad pattern with a little glimmer blue in it. Most of this happens around a good grass edge or a shallow shell bed. The Jaw Dropper Plastics hook worm or the Zoom Mag Speed Worm depending on the depth of the grass will determine your weight size we run a 1/8-3/8.

The brand new D4.25 is really great now it’s a very versatile bait used alone or as a trailer you can even punch it! The 6th Sense square bill is a great player around the rock and wood. Always look for things that are different or out of the ordinary on your depth finder one small area can make a huge difference for you. You don’t always have to fish really deep this time of year just did the bait the difference in an area and that can make all the difference. As always on the Tennessee River if you get the right current flow, you can blast them I. A short amount of time. Water temperature is 85. Water level is full.

27 July 2023

Forecast Contributor – Billy Wheat, Follow on Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/riprapfishingadventures and www.riprapfishing.net

The schoolers are starting to pop up make sure you have the small shad swimbaits on a spinning rod so you can throw it a mile! The Shower Blow and the Pop-R are great as well! The grass seems to be key and actually right now it’s not going to take much as our grass is way behind this year but when you find the good grass that is 2-4 high that’s money! Watch the current like a hawk if surges and runs for a little while that can be the window to mash them on a big plug big Swimbait or the get bit Scrounger! I love a Hair Jig and a Flutter Spoon. But if you fire them on a loud you can smoke them quick! When everything seems to be slow the finesse tactics are the way to go Dropshot, Neko Worm, Ned Rig even a mini-Carolina rig is awesome! Water temperature is 84-87. Water level is high a little but dropping.

19 July 2023

Forecast Contributor – Billy Wheat, Follow on Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/riprapfishingadventures and www.riprapfishing.net

The good news is they are starting to chase really good the Topwater bite is fun around grass edges and on top of some of the shallower humps. The Spook and Pencil Popper type walking baits are great but sometimes they just want the old Pop-Rs. If you’re having trouble getting bit change to a jerk bait small in profile or a small Swimbait. The grass is great stay light stay big stay slow because they are some nice ones in that grass. That big worm is great! The bream colors in the swim jigs are starting to get hit pretty hard. The offshore fish depending on the current would be flutter spoons and Scroungers. Water temperature is 83-85. Water level is full.

12 July 2023

Forecast Contributor – Billy Wheat, Follow on Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/riprapfishingadventures and www.riprapfishing.net

The big worm is a killer right now! The shell beds or the grass get the biggest one you can and a big stick and take it to them! My friend today had an 8.1 Hawg! Grass and bait! Current and shell beds! Get the Swim Jigs and get the dropshot and pink worm out! Pick your poison but pay close attention to the current if it turns on you can really hurt em! Water temperature is 83-85! Water level is full.

06 July 2023

Forecast Contributor – Billy Wheat, Follow on Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/riprapfishingadventures and www.riprapfishing.net

The good news is the water has been running up in the day when the water is not running the grass bite is there for you with a Senko, big worm and swim jig. If you like to punch grass or flip grass that is great as well. I saw some bluegill bedding today so that wacky rig and frog works well in the skinny water. When the current kicks on a big crankbait, flutter spoon, Carolina Rig, Swimbait, Neko Rig worm and a football jig can be great. But as always, we know that Hair Jig fires them up and catches big ones. If it’s a tough bite the dropshot and Scrounger are getting it done. Water temperature is 80-84. Water level is full.

28 June 2023

Forecast Contributor – Billy Wheat, Follow on Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/riprapfishingadventures and www.riprapfishing.net

The bass are trying to get a little excited about this water starting to move a bit! Here’s the decisions you make each day! If you’re ledge, shell bed or hump fishing by all means go do it! If you fish really shallow go do it! The water level permits that now! When the water drops back, and they pull water more consistently just fish offshore! If there is no water moving but you have high water you can go shallow.

Learn the water levels and the current schedule it will increase your chances for a better day. Shallow water lighter weights more natural presentation! Deeper water heavier weights but shad, Crawfish and Bluegill imitation baits. The water level is max full plus a little! The water temperature is still cool for this time of year 76-81. But it’s getting Hot !

21 June 2023

Forecast Contributor – Billy Wheat, Follow on Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/riprapfishingadventures and www.riprapfishing.net

The electronics on your boat are so important right now. From looking on the ledges to scoping in the grass. The thing I’ve seen this week is either go big or go small. The big Swimbait 5-7 inch gets bit then a 3.3 gets bit. A 12-inch worm gets bit then a 5-inch worm gets bit. When you get around them and they are grouped it seems they don’t care they are competing and mad! Make sure you keep that Topwater, Jerk bait, Fluke, Spook, Pop-R or whatever you like to throw when they are schooling because when they come up, they are chewing.

The big worm seems to be the go-to for the slow go. In the grass and on the ledge or shell bed. The Senko is right beside of it! The clients I had last week caught a 10 pounder a 7-pound 3/4 both on the Senko. They were patient and persistent and it paid off. The water temperature is 79-82 every time I think it’s going to get hot and warm up it tricks me! When the current starts running things are going to go crazy because we’ve had low to none. The flutter spoon and the big crankbait are always on my deck when deep fishing. But I do love that Scrounger with a Fluke!

14 June 2023

Forecast Contributor – Billy Wheat, Follow on Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/riprapfishingadventures and www.riprapfishing.net

The cold front we got kind of spun em out a little, but the good news is it’s going to get hot! That means run the water! These fish may be a little difficult to fire now but when they get on the water schedule they’ll fire up and eat! The hair jig and scrounger are great! Hopping the big spoon is great! If things are tough get a dropshot a Neko or Carolina rig! If you don’t have the patience, go to the grass and throw the trolling motor down and cover water with a Chatterbait or Swim Jig! The early Topwater bite on a ShowerBlow or Spook is good just fish the grass edge dropping in the river channel! Water temperatures are all over 76-82! But are going to change get your sunscreen out!!!

07 June 2023

Forecast Contributor – Billy Wheat, Follow on Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/riprapfishingadventures and www.riprapfishing.net

The water is warm, and the bass are loving the grass and ledges. Swimming the big worm in the grass seems to get their attention pretty well when you get around them, but you have to be persistent. The bream beds are still hopping, and the wacky rig Senko is great. Look for that early morning bite with that Topwater around those longer shallow points with grass. When you go to the ledges don’t forget the pressure these fish get on this lake sometimes you have to throw a worm or football jig or even a dropshot but if you can fire them up on a big bait it’s a ball of fire for a while! Water temperature is 79-82. Water level is full!

31 May 2023

Forecast Contributor – Billy Wheat, Follow on Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/riprapfishingadventures and www.riprapfishing.net

5-31-23

The grass bite is great early swimming a worm and a Swim Jig also the Swimbait on a light head will get some action. Keep that Zara Spook tied on for sure. The ledges and deeper shell beds are great if you can’t fire them schools on a crankbait or hair jig get the scrounger and dropshot out and finesse them. These fish get pressured pretty fast so don’t be afraid to finesse fish. In the creeks fish the wood and grass keep they big worm and Chatterbait on and cover water. The water temperature is 76-81. Water level is full.

24 May 2023

Forecast Contributor – Billy Wheat, Follow on Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/riprapfishingadventures and www.riprapfishing.net

5-24-23

The Spook bite is good early on the points especially with grass the Swim Jig and big worm is very effective on the scattered grass and the spoon bite is good, but you have to look for them on your electronics on the main channel points and shell beds. The Scrounger and 5–6-inch Swimbait will definitely work but you have to ride and look for them. The Carolina Rig Brush Hog is good in 5-12 feet especially on gravel with scattered grass. The water is starting to move some so check the dams release schedule. Water temperature is 77-81. Water level is full.

17 May 2023

Forecast Contributor – Billy Wheat, Follow on Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/riprapfishingadventures and www.riprapfishing.net

5-17-23

Bass are starting to show up on the offshore ledges pretty good. Electronics are key in this situation looking for irregular features in the ledges are key but takes time if you’re willing to put that time in it can definitely pay off. The Carolina Rig and Big Standup Shakey head are for the slower presentation but if you find a school that Big Daddy’s Baits Hair jig is phenomenal to fire them up. Swimbaits and big Crankbaits are premium when you get them fired up. The other deal is the grass and lay downs for the grass it’s hard beat the Swim Jig and Chatterbait and with the grass being low in the water column now you can even throw shallow Crankbaits over it. The lay down trees are Texas Rig Worms and Jigs. Water temperature is 80.5 -78 and the lake is Full Pool.

10 May 2023

Forecast Contributor – Billy Wheat, Follow on Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/riprapfishingadventures and www.riprapfishing.net

5-10-23

Bass are running the shad hard in the morning the Chatterbait and Swim Jig are great. The number one deal when the shad slowdown is the standard Big Green Pumpkin worm and a Senko Texas Rig around the grass and lay down trees are great. Water temperature is in the 70s and things are getting active. The elevation is super close to full! Don’t forget that Carolina Rig Bite with the Brush Hog can be Awesome!

03 May 2023

Forecast Contributor – Billy Wheat, Follow on Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/riprapfishingadventures and www.riprapfishing.net

5-3-23

Bass are feeling this cold front, but things are looking up! Starting out with water temperatures in the low 60s and afternoons in the high 60s the shad are getting frisky again and the bass are in and out! The bluegill and Shellcrackers are bedding now! The Senko is the ticket around those bream beds! The Chatterbait and Swim Jig is getting bit dang good when you find those Shad are present. I personally like the Carolina Rig and Swimbait on the shell beds along with a 5xd Strike King crankbait. Water level is 681.82 almost full!

27 April 2023

Forecast Contributor – Billy Wheat, Follow on Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/riprapfishingadventures and www.riprapfishing.net

4-27-23

I’m trying to think of something right now you can’t catch a bass on around here! Topwater, flipping, square bill and Senko are all working with the water creeping up and up and the water temperature that dropped starting to rise these bass are feeling it! They are in all stages and a big one can hit you on any cast! From 1foot to 20 feet a wacky rig to a Carolina rig. Now is the time to just have fun and go fishing on Lake Chickamauga. The shad spawn is hit and miss but it’s coming on strong! Bluegill and Shellcracker beds are popping up so it’s time for “Frogging On The Chick Baby”.

19 April 2023

Forecast Contributor – Billy Wheat, Follow on Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/riprapfishingadventures and www.riprapfishing.net

4-19-23

The bass are still coming and going from the spawning areas with the Swimbait bite getting great! The ditches and deeper grass are really starting to do well. The shell beds are good especially if you can find some grass near them. The Swimbait size ranges from 4-7 inches with a 1/4 to 1/2-ounce head. Flip the wood when you get near it with a jig or plastic bait. There was a little bit of a shad spawn beginning so get those Swim Jigs and Spinnerbaits ready. Any time they are on the beds it’s hard to beat a wacky rig Senko. Water temperature is from 65-70. Elevation remains 679-680.

12 April 2023

Forecast Contributor – Billy Wheat, Follow on Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/riprapfishingadventures and www.riprapfishing.net

4-12-23

The spawn is going strong the rotation has really picked up the last couple of days. Water temperature is 61-71 depending on your depth. Bass are in and out the wood has become very promising with a Texas Rig worm or Jig. They are also in the ditches, points and deeper brush. The lack of current is lacking but the grass is great with a Swimbait or Chatterbait in a shad pattern. The small crankbaits are playing a pretty good role around 5-8 feet gravel and chunk rock (transition banks). The Buzz bait can be great with chop on the water in 2 feet or less. Elevation remains 679-680.

31 March 2023

Forecast Contributor – Billy Wheat, Follow on Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/riprapfishingadventures and www.riprapfishing.net

NEW

With water between 57-65 the bass are starting to feel the urge to get ready to spawn but not all of them many are still on main channel shell beds are still being occupied and will continue while the rotation starts. Spinnerbaits, Shallow Crankbaits and Chatterbaits are great to search around wood and docks and for sure in the grass. Slowdown baits are Texas Rig Lizards and Brush Hogs. Shakey heads are great, and you always need a Senko style bait. Always look for grass it can be super this time of year with a Rat-L-Trap style baits. Always wear your PFD while navigating.

14 Oct 2022

Forecast Contributor Hensley Powell – www.hensleypowellfishing.com – Follow on Facebook

NEW

On Chickamauga I’ve been catching them on a frog, punching, a little spinner bait and a small buzz bait. All the good fish have come from punching isolated mats, small mats that’s by themselves and still green. The frog fish is knowing where there at and throw and throw at them until they bite. I’m expecting this cooler weather to improve the frog bite. It’s a tough bite but we’re catching good quality fish. I’m catching 15 fish a day with three or four good fish four to six pounds. Last trip out we had around 10 hits on a frog and around six bites punching but all six of those were three to five and a half pound fish. You might punch 10 mats before you get bit but if you get bit, it’s a good fish.

16 Sept 2022

Forecast Contributor Hensley Powell – www.hensleypowellfishing.com – Follow on Facebook

NEW

On Chickamauga and Nickajack I’ve been punching isolated mats and getting some pretty good quality fish. I’ve been catching two or three out of one mat and then having to find another one. In the bigger mats the bites have been seldom but the isolated mats it will always have two or three fish in them. I’m also catching fish on a small spinner bait really well. The spinner baits have been different colors, but it seemed like the small willow blade size is what mattered. The bass are eating the small minnows right now. Also catching fish on a small buzz bait right now. A small Zorro head knockers. I’ve also been told people are catching some good fish on an A-Rig out from the grass. The frog bite may turn on in the next week or so.

01 July 2022

Chickamauga

Forecast Contributor Hensley Powell – www.hensleypowellfishing.com – Follow on Facebook

NEW

One day we caught 27. We’re still fishing ledges and caught a handful of four-to-five-pound fish. The next day they didn’t pull hardly any water. It was a lot tougher, but we still caught fish and a few nice fish, but we had work for them. One day we caught them on a ¾ ounce football head jig. The next day they weren’t biting good, and we ended up having to drop shot and basically finesse them into biting. There’s still a lot of schools out there and I found one that there were still 40-50 fish in it.

24 June 2022

Chickamauga Forecast
Contributor Hensley Powell – https://www.hensleypowellfishing.com – Follow on Facebook

NEW
Everything is pretty much the same on Chick and Nickajack. I’m catching them on drop shots Neko rigs and ¾ ounce football head jigs. A lot of the bass have moved on out to 22 to 24 feet of water. There are some big schools. A lot of the schools are full of 2 ¾ pounders to 3 pounders. Every now and then you get a 4 or 5 pounder but there’s not that many. I’m catching 30 fish a trip right now. It will stay like this until at least until the end of July.There is some good fish being caught on Chick punching grass that hasn’t topped out. People are just finding clumps of grass. You’re not getting many bites but when you do, you’re getting a big bite.

03 June 2022

Forecast Contributor Hensley Powell – www.hensleypowellfishing.com – Follow on Facebook

NEW

Since they started pulling a little bit of water it’s big time on the ledges. I’m catching them from 13 feet to 26 feet deep. There’s some good bass out there. Now where they didn’t pull water for a while there’s also a lot of fish that have pulled up in the grass. So, there’s big schools on ledges and a lot on the hydrilla that’s growing up.

27 May 2022

Forecast Contributor Hensley Powell – www.hensleypowellfishing.com – Follow on Facebook

NEW

It’s pretty much the same as last week with a lot of ledge fishing. With all this rain they’re starting to pull a lot of water and that’s really going to help things out. The last three weeks most of the time your boat is facing upriver because there’s no current. Now they’re pulling current. I’m catching them anywhere between 13 to 22 feet depending on the spots. But it’s pretty much all on ledges and a lot on the river itself. Before they were pulling water, I would have to slow it down and throw a Neko rig, a jig, soft plastics with a big shakey head and stuff like that. We’ve caught a few on a swimbait but with the current I’m going to be throwing a crankbait. I expect the month of June will be really good on the ledges.

20 May 2022

Chickamauga

Forecast Contributor Hensley Powell – www.hensleypowellfishing.com – Follow on Facebook

NEW

The ledges are filling up with fish. There’s more and more bass coming out there. They started coming out around two weeks ago and they’re healing up after the spawn and feeding really well. It’s wide open on ledges right now. Once you get on them and get them fired up it’s every cast.

13 May 2022

Chickamauga

Forecast Contributor Hensley Powell – www.hensleypowellfishing.com – Follow on Facebook

NEW

There’s a lot of bass starting to pop up offshore. You still have some up for the spawn but there’s just a lot moving out. Where they’re filling up Watts Bar and just got Chickamauga to full pool it’s leaving this one without a lot of current. The offshore fish are kind of hard to catch due to the lack of current. They’ll suspend a lot, and you’ll have to catch one and then leave them alone for a little while and come back. There’s still a flight going on to bed right now, but the majority are starting to pull out on the ledges.

22 April 2022

Chickamauga

Forecast Contributor Hensley Powell – www.hensleypowellfishing.com – Follow on Facebook

I’ve seen several fish on bed. I’ve seen a few big ones but there’s more bucks than females so far. We took wacky rigs and Sinkos Texas rigged and flipping them. We caught a few off the beds but we would come out a few feet and would pick up a female here and there about six feet outside the bed. There’s a bunch of flights of fish coming and going right now. The water is slowing coming up. On the full moon weekend there were fish coming up everywhere. We fished some stump beds with a wacky rig and caught some. We caught one seven, and a couple between four and five and one that was close to six pounds. We caught a bunch in the two-to-three-pound range.

25 March 2022

Chickamauga

Forecast Contributor Hensley Powell – www.hensleypowellfishing.com – Follow on Facebook

I’ve been catching them out from the spawning pockets and not up in them. More on the river on any hydrilla stubble that’s out in front of the pockets. They’re scattered but I’m working that back and forth with a chatter bait and a lipless crankbait. I’m covering a lot of water out in front of every creek, every pocket and everything else. I’m putting the boat in around seven to eight feet of water and throwing up into three to four feet and catching them in the five-to-six-foot range right at the drop of it. The stubble seems to be a little thicker right there.

18 March 2022

Chickamauga

Forecast Contributor Hensley Powell – www.hensleypowellfishing.com – Follow on Facebook

The water temperature Thursday was over 60 degrees on the river. Chickamauga is still running behind Nickajack. I’m catching them on a chatter bait and rattle trap on any clumps of grass you can find isolated clumps. They’re not staging well here yet and it’s more a situation where you pull up and catch one or two and then come back two hours later and catch another one.

11 March 2022

Chickamauga

Forecast Contributor Hensley Powell – www.hensleypowellfishing.com – Follow on Facebook

We had all that rain and the lake went above summer pool and then they started drawing the water down about 12 inches every 24 hours for days and days and it’s kind of got the lake messed up. Fish are scattered instead of staged up really good. I think once that water gets back to winter pool and levels out it’s probably going to get really good really quick. The water going up so quick scattered all the shad and all the fish. There’s not any shad balled up. The cold front coming through should help group everything back up a little better.

28 Jan 2022

Forecast Contributor Hensley Powell – www.hensleypowellfishing.com – Follow on Facebook

Powell states that some people are catching bass in the creeks and the primary baits are a Damiki Vault, an A-Rig, and a jerk bait. Target the steeper banks, look for shad and then run your baits, especially the A-rig, parallel to the steep bank. Some of the fish are as deep as 20 feet. There aren’t many in numbers, but the sizes have been good. Powell stated since the last cold front fishing has slowed down quite a bit.

03 Dec 2021

Chickamauga

Forecast Contributor Hensley Powell – https://www.hensleypowellfishing.com/ – Follow on Facebook

Powell is in the annual boat transition period and waiting on his new boat to get in and rigged so he hasn’t been on the water in a couple of weeks. However, he reports that other guides he’s talked to are having most of their luck with an A-rig and a jerk bait for bass.

Mid Nov 2021

Forecast Contributor Hensley Powell – https://www.hensleypowellfishing.com/ – Follow on Facebook

I’m catching bass on a Damiki vault blade bait and an A-rig. I’ve talked to other guides and that’s what they’re catching bass on as well. If you see birds throw the Damiki vault under them. It’s been effective in six to ten feet of water out from the grass and the A-rig has been good at the edge of the grass. I’ll have info on crappie soon as I have some crappie guide trips lined up.

22 Oct 2021

Chickamauga

Forecast Contributor Hensley Powell – https://www.hensleypowellfishing.com/ – Follow on Facebook

Powell states lots of fish are being caught in the jumps. Schools of 100 bass are being seen come up on the surface and anglers are catching fish after fish on top water baits. Both largemouth and smallmouth are being caught. Also, the frog bite is better than it’s ever been according to some anglers right now. It’s safe to say bass fishing is doing well on Chick right now.

17 Sept 2021

Chickamauga

Forecast Contributor Hensley Powell – https://www.hensleypowellfishing.com/ – Follow on Facebook

Powell states he’s still catching bass on topwater with a smaller white buzz bait around shallow hydrilla grass in places. He’s also catching bass punching the grass mats. He is using a black and blue Missile Baits D Bomb for his best results. Powell is still catching a few out deep but the better results for numbers are shallow covering water.

03 Sept 2021

Chickamauga

Forecast Contributor Hensley Powell – https://www.hensleypowellfishing.com/ – Follow on Facebook
I’m catching a lot on topwater. I fished deep and I fished shallow with topwater and if I caught fish deep, I’d catch one to three off a spot. Then I’d go shallow and cover water and catch three to five in an area and then I may go 20 minutes before I caught the next one. I was catching the shallow ones over grass and it was mostly hydrilla. I didn’t throw a frog, but I’ve been told some are catching them pretty good on a frog. I’ve been fishing mid lake to the lower end and other than duckweed I’ve not see where you can throw a frog.

27 Aug 2021

Chickamauga

Forecast Contributor – Billy Wheat and Blue Water Resort – http://www.bluewaterdayton.com/

Bass are being caught in shallow water and deep water. There are many variations of techniques that can work this time of year. The Topwater bite is one of the best ways to catch these bass. Topwater baits this time of year can vary from a Topwater walking bait to a Frog. The grass plays a big factor in these areas. The grass may be in 2-3 feet of water down to 15-20 feet of water. Remember this if you fish shallow stay light if you fish below 8 feet go heavier on your weight but not heavy the worms and jigs need to be natural in presentation don’t crash the grass but swim baits through it or just touch it. If you experience thick grass mats you may have to punch it with a heavy weight or run a frog over it. Current breaks on main river points or bluff walls are a great Topwater area as well. But as always, the plastic worm is hard to beat. Watch for baitfish in the mats and watch for schoolers August and September are great months to catch a giant bass.

13 Aug 2021

Forecast Contributor Hensley Powell – https://www.hensleypowellfishing.com/ – Follow on Facebook

Hensley Powell states things are steady on Chick with bass following bait balls. Fish are still being caught on ledges in 24-25 feet as well as some on top water. If the bass are busting the minnows almost any bait works. If you can catch them coming up in the jumps you can whack them. You have to move around a lot to find them.

06 Aug 2021

Chickamauga

Forecast Contributor Hensley Powell – https://www.hensleypowellfishing.com/ – Follow on Facebook

Hensley Powell states things are much the same on Chickamauga this week. “A lot of the fish are starting to bust up. I’m starting to see schooling bass following two-inch minnows in bait balls and that shouldn’t be happening yet, but it is. I’m still catch fish on ledges but there coming up in the jumps. We’re catching them on ledges in 24-25 feet and some on top water. If they were busting minnows, you could just throw about anything in there to catch them. They had the minnows pushed up and they were feeding like crazy on them. We’re not catching anything big but catching a lot of two and three pounders,” said Powell.

30 July 2021

Chickamauga

Forecast Contributor Hensley Powell – https://www.hensleypowellfishing.com/

FB: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100028485888798

Hensley states things are starting to change up in the last week. “A lot of the fish are starting to bust up. I’m starting to see schooling bass following two-inch minnows in bait balls and that shouldn’t be happening yet, but it is. I’m still catch fish on ledges but there coming up in the jumps. Today we caught 60 fish with some on ledges in 24-25 feet and some on top water. If they were busting minnows, you could just throw about anything in there to catch them. They had the minnows pushed up and they were feeding like crazy on them. We’re not catching anything big but catching a lot of two and three pounders,” said Powell.

23 July 2021

Chickamauga

Forecast Contributor Hensley Powell – https://www.hensleypowellfishing.com/

FB: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100028485888798

Powell states the bigger fish are still busted up. “I’m catching them out of brush and out of grass, but the schooling fish are still out deep, deep. I’m catching those 22 to 27 feet deep. Those are two and half to three and half pounds. Very seldom do you get a four pounder out of there. I’m fishing half the day in grass and half the day. If we catch any big fish it will be out of grass and brush. I’m fishing the grass first thing,” said Powell.

09 July 2021

Chickamauga

Forecast Contributor Hensley Powell – https://www.hensleypowellfishing.com/

FB: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100028485888798

Powell reports that summer conditions remain the same and ledge fishing is still the deal. “I didn’t guide over the holiday weekend, but the bite is still there. Sometimes you’ll have to work more to fire the school. I’m going to try some different things this weekend to see what else folks can try and be successful with,” said Powell. Keep throwing those drop shots and shakey heads when the bite is tough.

02 July 2021

Chickamauga

Forecast Contributor @Hensley Powell – https://www.hensleypowellfishing.com/

FB: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100028485888798

Powell reports that ledge fishing is still the deal but the schools of fish are becoming a little more finicky and anglers are having to downsize their baits. “You may have to go down to drop shots and shakey heads to get those first bites but we’re still catching a lot of fish on each trip,” said Powell. Powell stated the ledge bite for bass is going to hold a few weeks longer until the grass improves.

25 June 2021

Chickamauga

Forecast Contributor Hensley Powell fishing – https://www.hensleypowellfishing.com/ –

Powell that the ledges are wide open with him catching 30 to 60 fish regularly. “I had a four hour trip Sunday and I don’t know how many fish they caught. They were doubling up the whole time we were there. There’s a lot of three pounders being caught, but every now and then you’ll get one big one. I had one over 10 one day. Normal trips I’m averaging 20 pounds for best five each trip and we’re catching 50 to 60 fish.

18 June 2021

Chickamauga

Forecast Contributor Hensley Powell – https://www.hensleypowellfishing.com/

FB: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100028485888798

Powell states that about every ledge spot has fish on it right now. I’ve caught fish the last few days on a football head jig and caught some on a drop shot when they (TVA) wasn’t pulling water. When they’re not pulling water you have to work for them a little harder. A lot of my better fish have been caught on a crankbait. We were throwing 10XDs and 6XDs and those were bringing a little better quality of bass. They’re schooled up pretty good.

11 June 2021

Chickamauga

Forecast Contributor Hensley Powell – https://www.hensleypowellfishing.com/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100028485888798

Powell states that the river bite remains the same as last week with bass out on ledges. A lot of the better fish are being caught on a swimbait right now, but you can throw a drop shot or just about anything on those schools and catch fish. The quality fish are coming on a jig and a swimbait.

04 June 2021

Chickamauga

Forecast Contributor Hensley Powell – https://www.hensleypowellfishing.com/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100028485888798

The bass have really pulled out on ledges and after this last full moon we had, what did spawn have moved out and there’s some quality fish starting to pull out right now. I’m catching a lot better fish on a swimbait right now, but you can throw a drop shot or just about anything on those schools and catch fish. The quality fish are coming on a jig and a swimbait. I had a guide trip Monday and I quit counting the fish we caught when we got to 50.

Chickamauga

Forecast Contributor Hensley Powell Fishing – https://www.hensleypowellfishing.com/

Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100028485888798,

The water temps have shot up around six to eight degrees really quick and a lot of the bass are going out deep. I had a guide trip Monday and I lost count of how many fish we caught in really deep water. We caught some as deep as 30 feet. They’ve been on ledges for about three weeks but they really started to eat good on Monday. Those really hot days pushed out them. There were still some that went on bed on the last full moon. We threw creature jigs, football head jigs and shadalicious swim baits in 5.5 inch. We had best luck with a magic craw Zoro baits in the football jig, and white creature jigs with four duck feathers.

21 May 2021

Chickamauga – Hensley Powell, https://www.hensleypowellfishing.com/, https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100028485888798, reports that a lot of the fish have moved out on ledges. They started showing up out there around two weeks ago. But since it’s got hot in the last few days, they’re really starting to make a move. Anywhere from the dam up to Hwy 60 bridge there’s ledge fish popping up everywhere. There are still some just going on bed. I saw a seven pounder Wednesday on bed. The majority of the fish from Sequoyah down have spawned but from Sequoyah up to the 60 bridge it’s about 50-50.

14 May 2021

Chickamauga – Hensley Powell, https://www.hensleypowellfishing.com/, https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100028485888798, reports that during the cool nights the water temps have cooled back to 64 to 66 degrees depending on where you are on the lake. The new moon Wednesday caused more bass to go on bed, but we’ve also started catching some this week on deep spots for ones that have already spawned. So, you can pretty much catch them both shallow and deep.

Further information has the lake elevation is at 682’. Water temperatures are ranging from the mid 60’s to around 70 degrees. Crappie are starting to move out to deeper water. Fishing under docks, around stumps, and submerged brush in areas leading from spawning grounds to deeper water is better during this period. A few crappie are still being caught in less than 10’ of water.

Many bass will be spawning. The spawning process goes on for 2-2.5 months. Some bass finish the process and move out while others move in to begin the process. The bass that have moved out will be on grass or wood near the bedding areas. After a few days many of these bass will move to the offshore humps and ledges. Bass are being caught in several patterns from very shallow out to 15’. Pick the pattern that works toward your strengths.

Trolling directly below the dam is a great way to catch walleye and sauger. Most anglers use crankbaits that run 10′-12′ deep.

Drifting the river using bluegill, shad, bologna, nightcrawlers, chicken livers, and many other baits are great ways to hook a catfish. Rocky banks are good areas to fish around.

White Bass/Striped Bass are caught in greater numbers below Watts Bar Dam. Use shad for striper fishing and a spinning type lure for white bass. Some anglers fish at night using minnows, worms, and spoons while using a light to draw in baitfish.

Bluegill can be caught on the bottom while using a worm or cricket rigged with a hook and split shot. You can also use the same setup to fish shallow by just adding a float. Fishermen are starting to catch some bluegill and shellcracker in less than 5’ of water. Many bluegill and shellcracker can be caught around docks, rocky creeks, brush piles or along creek bottoms. Some will be spawning, and the shallow isolated sloughs will have fish.

07 May 2021

Chickamauga – Hensley Powell fishing, https://www.hensleypowellfishing.com/, reports the shad spawn is active and that first thing in the mornings top water and spinner baits are doing well. Two to three hours after daylight the shad spawn stops and it’s time to fish bedding areas with a whacky rig. A lot of fish are just starting to come up. The lake is about six inches below summer pool.

Creel Report for Chickamauga

Reservoir Conditions: Water temperatures range from the mid 60’s to low 70’s depending where you are on the lake. With rising water temps and lake elevations it’s a great time to be out fishing.

Crappie: Crappie can still be caught 10’ and under around structure as well as trolling.

Bass: Bass are being caught shallow in the warmer slack water.

Bluegill/Shellcracker: Bluegill can be caught many places on the lake with a worm and floater.

REPORTS ARE TAKEN ON BODIES OF WATER CURRENTLY SURVEYED. REPORTS ARE BASED ON INTERVIEWS AND DATA COLLECTED BY CREEL CLERKS.

30 April 2021

Chickamauga –

Report courtesy of Hensley Powell fishing

https://www.hensleypowellfishing.com/, https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100028485888798, reports he caught 19 pounds of bass on wacky rigs with an 8 pounder off a bed while sight fishing. He stated with the shad spawn spinnerbaits and flukes are a good way to go right now.

Blue Water Marina & Resort and Guide Billy Wheat states that bass are hitting swim baits and swim jigs in shad and bluegill patterns. The water is almost up all the way with wave after wave of spawners coming in. The shad spawn has started so a topwater or spinnerbait is a great option first thing in the morning. He has been seeing shellcrackers and bluegill on the beds while bass fishing so grab the kids and go get them. He’s been graphing in the creeks and seeing crappie out on the deep stumps in 12-15 feet.

Chickamauga Lake TWRA Fishing Forecast

June 28^th – July 1^st, 2024

June 7^th – 12^th 2024

May 10^th – May 13^th 2024

March 16^th – March 18^th, 2024

16^th – 18^th – 24

Forecast Contributor – Billy Wheat, https://www.facebook.com/riprapfishingadventures

and www.riprapfishing.net

Chickamauga

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Chickamauga Lake TWRA Fishing Forecast

June 28th – July 1st, 2024

June 7th – 12th 2024

May 10th – May 13th 2024

March 16th – March 18th, 2024

16th – 18th – 24

Forecast Contributor – Billy Wheat, https://www.facebook.com/riprapfishingadventures

and www.riprapfishing.net

Chickamauga

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June 28^th – July 1^st, 2024

June 7^th – 12^th 2024

May 10^th – May 13^th 2024

March 16^th – March 18^th, 2024

16^th – 18^th – 24