Nickajack Lake Tennessee
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Nickajack Lake Fishing Report: 02 March 2026
Report Contributor: Tristan Owenby, https://www.facebook.com/tristan.owenby
It’s been another awesome week. The bass bite is starting to get really good on Nickajack. Jerk baits and grass edges were the thing this week. The cold weather made a slight dent in the progress the fish had made so we pulled off some and pinged some fish this week with a minnow out in the 10-15 ft range. We stayed on that same pattern just outside of them spawning areas.
26 Feb 2026
Report Contributor: Tristan Owenby
It’s been another awesome week. The bass bite is starting to get really good on Nickajack. Jerk baits and grass edges were the thing this week. The cold weather made a slight dent in the progress the fish had made so we pulled off some and pinged some fish this week with a minnow out in the 10-15 ft range. We stayed on that same pattern just outside of them spawning areas.
19 Feb 2026
Report Contributor: Tristan Owenby, https://www.facebook.com/tristan.owenby
Great week this week with pretty weather and some rain but just enough to get the current flowing great below the dam. A lot of fish caught this week in current brakes when that current flows it really puts them fish all tight in one area around creek mouths we caught them on jerk bait a-rig jig head minnow crankbait and swim jigs this week below the dam. The upper end is still a lot of staging fish finding them outside of spawning bays and flats on that first drop around 6-8 feet the Chatterbait a-rig and jerk bait are the key players in that. The fishing is only going to get better and better from here!
12 Feb 2026
Report Contributor: Tristan Owenby, https://www.facebook.com/tristan.owenby
Good week this week. Beautiful weather finally but still pretty brisk in the morning. This week has been all about the a-rig and trap main focus is staging fish that are trying to make their way shallow staying from that 6-12 range right on the first drop or around points that are staging into spawning area the jerk bait and minnow shaking also played a part and got on some nice groups of spotted bass around some bluff walls that was a real fun time as well.
19 Jan 2026
Report Contributor: Tristan Owenby, https://www.facebook.com/tristan.owenby
This week is going to be a tail race update. It’s been a pretty good week crankbaits and jerk baits where a key player in the drifting bite or if you were fishing without forward facing. The minnow shaking is the key player in the forward-facing bite. Finding a place with good boulder rock and areas like that is where I found the most success. Hopefully after this weather rolls through the a-rig bite will really fire up on the lower end but as for now it’s not great, just a lot of chasers and no commitment.
06 Dec 2025
Report Contributor, Nathan Rogers, Region III, Creel Clerk
The weather was much cooler in the morning, with lows in the lower 30s with highs throughout the day warming up to 48. Current throughout the reservoir has steadied. Water temperatures are dropping throughout the reservoir due to the cooler temperatures. The water levels were normal; the latest depth and discharge rate I have recorded is below. For any discharge or elevation info, check out the TVA Lake Info App. Wear life jackets if planning to go out during high water and heavy current conditions.
Reservoir Conditions
Water Temp: Upper end of reservoir: 53.7 degrees Fahrenheit – Lower end of reservoir: 52.7 degrees Fahrenheit
Water Clarity: Tennessee River (River Channel): 3 feet
Water Level: (as of December 6th) Reservoir elevation: 632.90 feet – Headwater elevation: 636.78 feet
Water Flow: (as of December 6th) Chickamauga Dam: ~ 34718 cfs – Nickajack Dam: ~ 25051 cfs
Observed Species Information
Upper section of the reservoir:
Bass: Small swimbaits and A-rigs casting into current edges, as well as drifting live shiners/jigging minnows in current, were the most successful practices observed. Ned rigs in deeper holes of the channel and ledges also attracted bites. Live shad in these areas was very effective as well.
Lower Section of the reservoir:
Bass: Fishing A-rigs, jerk baits, and swimbaits along grass edges has brought the most success. Lipless crankbaits and ffs minnows are also attracting bites in offshore humps/points away from grass.
16 Nov 2025
Report Contributor, Nathan Rogers, Region III, Creel Clerk
The weather was much cooler in the morning, with lows in the lower 40s with highs throughout the day warming up to 70. Current throughout the reservoir has steadied recently, but higher flows seem to occur during morning hours. Water temperatures are steady right now due to the warmer evenings. The water levels were normal; the latest depth and discharge rate I have recorded is below. For any discharge or elevation info, check out the TVA Lake Info App. Wear life jackets if planning to go out during high water and heavy current conditions.
Reservoir Conditions
Water Temp:
– Upper end of reservoir: 60.3 degrees Fahrenheit
– Lower end of reservoir: N/A degrees Fahrenheit
Water Clarity:
– Tennessee River (River Channel): 3 feet
Water Level: (as of November 16th)
– Reservoir elevation: 633.42 feet
– Headwater elevation: 634.93 feet
Water Flow: (as of November 16th)
– Chickamauga Dam: ~ 19650 cfs
– Nickajack Dam: ~ 14762 cfs
Observed Species Information
Upper section of reservoir:
Bass: Small swimbaits casting into current edges, as well as drifting live shiners/jigging minnows in current, were the most successful practice observed. Ned rigs in deeper holes of the channel and ledges also attracted bites. Live shad in these areas was very effective as well.
Catfish: Live/cut bait drifting in current or anchoring in deeper holes.
Bream/Sunfish: Live worms around bridges and other structures out of current.
Lower Section of the reservoir: N/A.
25 Oct 2025
Report Contributor, Nathan Rogers, Region III, Creel Clerk
The weather was much cooler in the morning, with lows in the mid-40s with highs throughout the day reaching only 53. Current throughout the reservoir is higher once again, possibly due to the draining of Chickamauga Reservoir for the winter pool. Water temperatures are cooling quite rapidly as well. The water levels were a little higher as well due to increased current; the latest depth and discharge rate I have recorded is below. For any discharge or elevation info, check out the TVA Lake Info App. Wear life jackets if planning to go out during high water and heavy current conditions.
Reservoir Conditions
Water Temp:
– Upper end of reservoir: 64.8 degrees Fahrenheit
– Lower end of reservoir: 65.1 degrees Fahrenheit
Water Clarity:
– Tennessee River (River Channel): 3 feet
Water Level: (as of October 30th)
– Reservoir elevation: 634.02 feet
– Headwater elevation: 635.49 feet
Water Flow: (as of October 30th)
– Chickamauga Dam: ~ 19688 cfs
– Nickajack Dam: ~ 28364 cfs
Observed Species Information
Upper section of reservoir:
Bass: Small swimbaits casting into current edges, as well as drifting live shiners/jigging minnows in current, were the most successful practice observed. Ned rigs in deeper holes of the channel and ledges also attracted bites.
Lower Section of the reservoir:
Bass: Most anglers were finding success following schooling fish busting bait on the surface. Some also found bites throwing Chatter baits over flats/humps off the main river with submerged grass/structure. Frogs over grass mats are still successful as well in early mornings/late evenings.
Catfish: Using live/cut bait in deeper pockets of the main channel, sometimes around bridge pylons and barge ties.
18 Oct 2025
Report Contributor, Nathan Rogers, Region III, Creel Clerk
The weather was much cooler in the morning with lows in the lower 50s but highs throughout the day reaching around 82. Current throughout the reservoir is still slower than in recent months. The water levels were about a foot lower than usual; the latest depth and discharge rate I have recorded is below. For any discharge or elevation info, check out the TVA Lake Info App. Wear life jackets if planning to go out during high water and heavy current conditions.
Reservoir Conditions
Water Temp:
– Upper end of reservoir: 73.7 degrees Fahrenheit
– Lower end of reservoir: N/A
Water Clarity:
– Tennessee River (River Channel): 3.5 feet
Water Level: (as of October 18th)
– Reservoir elevation: 633.48 feet
– Headwater elevation: 635.02 feet
Water Flow: (as of October 18th)
– Chickamauga Dam: ~ 19863 cfs
– Nickajack Dam: ~ 24488 cfs
Observed Species Information
Upper section of reservoir:
Bass: Most anglers were drifting live bait in the current below the dam to get bites. This method also works with artificial jigging minnows. Other baits anglers found success with were A-rigs as well as ned rigs in deeper holes throughout the river channel.
Lower Section of the reservoir:
N/A.
13 Oct 2025
Report Contributor, Nathan Rogers, Region III, Creel Clerk
The weather was much cooler in the morning, with lows in the lower 50s but highs throughout the day reaching around 80. Current throughout the reservoir has slowed somewhat compared to the previous week. The water levels were about a foot higher than usual; the latest depth and discharge rate I have recorded is below. For any discharge or elevation info, check out the TVA Lake Info App. Wear life jackets if planning to go out during high water and heavy current conditions.
Reservoir Conditions
Water Temp:
– Upper end of reservoir: N/A
– Lower end of reservoir: – 74.8 degrees Fahrenheit
Water Clarity:
– Tennessee River (River Channel): 4 feet
Water Level: (as of October 13th)
Reservoir elevation: 634.19 feet
Headwater elevation: 634.82 feet
Water Flow: (as of October 13th)
– Chickamauga Dam: ~ 13090 cfs
– Nickajack Dam: ~ 22327 cfs
Observed Species Information
Upper section of reservoir: N/A
Lower Section of the reservoir:
Bass: Many anglers are still using frogs and other topwater around or in grass mats and their edges to attract some bites. Trick worms and craws seem to work in grass edge areas as well. The most successful method observed this weekend was throwing jigging minnows or swimbaits around schooling fish chasing bait.
29 Sept 2025
Report Contributor, Nathan Rogers, Region III, Creel Clerk
The weather was warmer with lows in the lower 60s and highs reaching around 83. Current throughout the reservoir has increased somewhat compared to the previous week. The water levels are normal; the latest depth and discharge rate I have recorded is below. For any discharge or elevation info, check out the TVA Lake Info App. Wear life jackets if planning to go out during high water and heavy current conditions.
Reservoir Conditions
Water Temp:
– Upper end of reservoir: 81.0 degrees Fahrenheit
– Lower end of reservoir: N/A
Water Clarity:
– Tennessee River (River Channel): 3 feet
Water Level: (as of September 29th)
– Reservoir elevation: 633.27 feet
– Headwater elevation: 636.68 feet
Water Flow: (as of September 29th)
– Chickamauga Dam: ~ 33056 cfs
– Nickajack Dam: ~ 30644 cfs
Observed Species Information
Upper section of reservoir:
Bass: Of the observed anglers in this area, the bait of choice was live shad/shiners and throwing them along current edges below the dam or drifting with the current while jigging them near the bottom. Some anglers are finding luck throwing A-rigs as well as jigging minnows to attract bites.
Gar: Some anglers are targeting Gar on fly rods while drifting in the current below the dam. Mainly using minnow imitation flies or rope flies.
Lower Section of the reservoir:
N/A
Catfish: Live/cut bait in deeper holes throughout the channel. Also finding luck in deeper holes in coves off channel as well.
21 Sept 2025
Report Contributor, Nathan Rogers, Region III, Creel Clerk
The weather was warmer with lows in the lower 60’s and highs reaching around 84. Current throughout the reservoir has returned to normal compared to the previous week. The water levels are normal; the latest depth and discharge rate I have recorded is below. For any discharge or elevation info, check out the TVA Lake Info App. Wear life jackets if planning to go out during high water and heavy current conditions.
Reservoir Conditions
Water Temp:
– Upper end of reservoir: 81.0 degrees Fahrenheit
– Lower end of reservoir: 80.8 degrees Fahrenheit
Water Clarity:
– Tennessee River (River Channel): 3.5 feet
Water Level: (as of September 21st)
– Reservoir elevation: 633.39 feet
– Headwater elevation: 634.39 feet
Water Flow: (as of September 21st)
– Chickamauga Dam: ~ 13079 cfs
– Nickajack Dam: ~ 8803 cfs
Observed Species Information
Upper section of reservoir:
Bass: Of the observed anglers in this area, the bait of choice was live shad/shiners and throwing them along current edges below the dam or drifting with the current while jigging them near the bottom. Some anglers are finding luck throwing A-rigs as well as jigging minnows to attract bites.
Lower Section of the reservoir:
Bass: Many anglers found success with topwater baits in early morning hours over grass mats. Others were using trick worms/jigs and chatterbaits along grass edges impacted by the current. Many anglers are punching thick grass mats or using frogs to get bites as well, grass is very thick, so heavier weights will be needed for punching. Use of live shad/shiners was the most successful practice.
Catfish: Live/cut bait in deeper holes throughout the channel. Also finding luck in deeper holes in coves off channel as well.
15 Sept 2025
Report Contributor, Nathan Rogers, Region III, Creel Clerk
The weather was warmer with lows in the lower 60s and highs reaching around 83. Current throughout the reservoir was higher on this day compared to previous weeks. The water levels are normal; the latest depth and discharge rate I have recorded is below. For any discharge or elevation info, check out the TVA Lake Info App. Wear life jackets if planning to go out during high water and heavy current conditions.
Reservoir Conditions
Water Temp:
– Upper end of reservoir: N/A
– Lower end of reservoir: 83.1 degrees Fahrenheit
Water Clarity:
– Tennessee River (River Channel): 3 feet
Water Level: (as of September 15th)
– Reservoir elevation: 632.64 feet
– Headwater elevation: 636.41 feet
Water Flow: (as of September 15th)
– Chickamauga Dam: ~ 33149 cfs
– Nickajack Dam: ~ 29668 cfs
Observed Species Information
Upper section of reservoir:
No Surveys in this area
Lower Section of the reservoir:
Bass: Many anglers found success with topwater baits in early morning hours over grass mats. Others were using trick worms/jigs and chatterbaits along grass edges impacted by the current. Many anglers are punching thick grass mats or using frogs to get bites as well. Grass is very thick, so a heavier weight will be needed for punching. Use of live shad/shiners was the most successful practice.
Catfish: Live/cut bait in deeper holes throughout the channel. Also finding luck in deeper holes in coves off channel as well.
07 Sept 2025
Report Contributor, Nathan Rogers, Region III, Creel Clerk
The weather was cooler with lows in the upper 50s and highs reaching around 82. Current throughout the reservoir has returned to normal flows. The water levels are normal; the latest depth and discharge rate I have recorded is below. For any discharge or elevation info, check out the TVA Lake Info App. Wear life jackets if planning to go out during high water and heavy current conditions
Reservoir Conditions
Water Temp:
– Upper end of reservoir: N/A
– Lower end of reservoir: 81.2 degrees Fahrenheit
Water Clarity:
– Tennessee River (River Channel): 3 feet
Water Level: (as of September 7th)
– Reservoir elevation: 634.68 feet
– Headwater elevation: 632.80 feet
Water Flow: (as of September 7th)
– Chickamauga Dam: ~ 19637 cfs
– Nickajack Dam: ~ 30981 cfs
Observed Species Information
Upper section of reservoir: No Surveys in this area
Lower Section of the reservoir:
Bass: Many anglers found success with topwater baits in early morning hours over grass mats. Others were using trick worms/jigs and chatterbaits along grass edges impacted by the current. Many anglers are punching thick grass mats or using frogs to get bites as well. Grass is very thick, so a heavier weight will be needed for punching.
Catfish: Live/cut bait in deeper holes throughout the channel. Also finding luck in deeper holes in coves off channel as well.
30 Aug 2025
Report Contributor, Nathan Rogers, Region III, Creel Clerk
The weather was warmer with lows in the upper 60s and highs reaching around 84. Current throughout the reservoir has returned to normal flows. The water levels are normal; the latest depth and discharge rate I have recorded is below. For any discharge or elevation info, check out the TVA Lake Info App. Wear life jackets if planning to go out during high water and heavy current conditions.
Reservoir Conditions
Water Temp:
-Upper end of reservoir: N/A
– Lower end of reservoir: 80.7 degrees Fahrenheit
Water Clarity:
– Tennessee River (River Channel): 3 feet
Water Level: (as of August 30th)
– Reservoir elevation: 632.87 feet
– Headwater elevation: 634.69 feet
Water Flow: (as of August 30th)
– Chickamauga Dam: ~ 09659 cfs
– Nickajack Dam: ~ 1445 cfs
Observed Species Information
Upper section of reservoir:
No Surveys in this area
Lower Section of the reservoir:
Bass: Many anglers found success with topwater baits in early morning hours over grass mats. Others were using trick worms/jigs and chatterbaits along grass edges impacted by the current. Many anglers are punching thick grass mats to get bites as well; the grass is very thick, so a heavier weight will be needed for punching.
Catfish: Live/cut bait in deeper holes throughout the channel. Also finding luck in deeper holes in coves off channel as well.
24 Aug 2025
Report Contributor, Nathan Rogers, Region III, Creel Clerk
The weather was warmer with lows in the upper 60s and highs reaching around 84. Current throughout the reservoir has returned to normal flows. The water levels are normal; the latest depth and discharge rate I have recorded is below. For any discharge or elevation info, check out the TVA Lake Info App. Wear life jackets if planning to go out during high water and heavy current conditions.
Reservoir Conditions
Water Temp:
-Upper end of reservoir: N/A
– Lower end of reservoir: 82.7 degrees Fahrenheit
Water Clarity:
– Tennessee River (River Channel): 3 feet
Water Level: (as of August 24th)
– Reservoir elevation: 633.04 feet
– Headwater elevation: 635.62 feet
Water Flow: (as of August 24th)
– Chickamauga Dam: ~ 25747 cfs
– Nickajack Dam: ~ 13886 cfs
Observed Species Information
Upper section of reservoir:
No Surveys in this area
Lower Section of the reservoir:
Bass: Many anglers found success with topwater baits in early morning hours over grass mats. Others were using trick worms/jigs and chatterbaits along grass edges impacted by the current. Many anglers are punching thick grass mats to get bites as well; the grass is very thick, so a heavier weight will be needed for punching.
16 Aug 2025
Report Contributor, Nathan Rogers, Region III, Creel Clerk
The weather was warmer with lows in the upper 60s and highs reaching around 91. Current throughout the reservoir has returned to normal flows. Water visibility was very low in the upper portion of the reservoir due to flooding in the Chattanooga area. The water levels are normal; the latest depth and discharge rate I have recorded is below. For any discharge or elevation info, check out the TVA Lake Info App. Wear life jackets if planning to go out during high water and heavy current conditions.
Reservoir Conditions
Water Temp:
– Upper end of reservoir: 84.6 degrees Fahrenheit
– Lower end of reservoir: 83.5 degrees Fahrenheit
Water Clarity:
– Tennessee River (River Channel): 3 feet
Water Level: (as of August 16th)
– Reservoir elevation: 633.14 feet
– Headwater elevation: 635.33 feet
Water Flow: (as of August 16th)
– Chickamauga Dam: ~ 24555 cfs
– Nickajack Dam: ~ 18504 cfs
Observed Species Information
Upper section of reservoir:
Bass: Drifting swimbaits/jigs in current below the dam. Some are also using live bait while drifting.
Catfish: Fishing live/cut bait in current breaks or deeper holes throughout the river.
Lower Section of the reservoir:
Bass: Many anglers found success with topwater baits in early morning hours over grass mats. Others were using trick worms/jigs along grass edges impacted by the current.
26 July 2025
Report Contributor, Nathan Rogers, Region III, Creel Clerk
The weather was hot with lows around 74 and warmed up to highs throughout the day, as warm as 92. Current throughout the reservoir has slowed once again. Water visibility has gone up slightly. The water levels are normal but dropping roughly a foot at times of lower generation; the latest depth and discharge rate I have recorded is below. For any discharge or elevation info, check out the TVA Lake Info App. Wear life jackets if planning to go out during high water and heavy current conditions.
Reservoir Conditions
Water Temp:
– Upper end of reservoir: 83.2 degrees Fahrenheit
– Lower end of reservoir: N/A
Water Clarity:
– Tennessee River (River Channel): 3.5 feet
Water Level: (as of July 26th)
– Reservoir elevation: 633.08 feet
– Headwater elevation: 634.72 feet
Water Flow: (as of July 26th)
– Chickamauga Dam: ~ 19624 cfs
– Nickajack Dam: ~ 8862 cfs
Observed Species Information
Upper section of reservoir:
Bass: Anglers are using swimbaits and other minnow/bait fish style baits along the rocky channel banks throughout the area below the dam and around downtown Chattanooga. Trick worms around banks with rock or grass throughout the whole section from Raccoon Mountain to Chickamauga Dam. Many anglers found success drifting spoons and jigging them up and down.
Catfish: Cut/live bait anchored in current below the dam as well as in current breaks throughout the upper portion. Many anglers are finding larger fish in deeper holes below the dam.
Lower Section of the reservoir:
No survey days for this report.
12 July 2025
Report Contributor, Nathan Rogers, Region III, Creel Clerk
The weather was hot with lows around 70 and warmed up to highs throughout the day as warm as 90. Current throughout the reservoir is lower than recent months but still generating. Water visibility has gone up slightly. The water levels are normal; the latest depth and discharge rate I have recorded is below. For any discharge or elevation info, check out the TVA Lake Info App. Wear life jackets if planning to go out during high water and heavy current conditions.
Reservoir Conditions
Water Temp:
– Upper end of reservoir: 83.6 degrees Fahrenheit
– Lower end of reservoir: 85.2 degrees Fahrenheit
Water Clarity:
– Tennessee River (River Channel): 4 feet
Water Level: (as of July 12th)
– Reservoir elevation: 633.05 feet
– Headwater elevation: 634.83 feet
Water Flow: (as of July 12th)
– Chickamauga Dam: ~ 19751 cfs
– Nickajack Dam: ~ 15156 cfs
Observed Species Information
Upper section of reservoir:
Bass: Anglers are using swimbaits and other minnow/bait fish style baits along the rocky channel banks throughout the area below dam and around downtown Chattanooga. Ned rigs around banks with rock or grass throughout whole section from Raccoon Mountain to Chickamauga Dam. Trolling crankbaits I current below dam has brought some anglers success as well.
Catfish: Cut/live bait anchored in current below dam as well as in current breaks throughout upper portion.
Lower Section of reservoir:
Bass: Most anglers are throwing trick worm baits such as Texas, dropshot, or wacky rigs along grass edges nearing channel banks.
Crappie: Observed methods were use of swimbaits, jigging minnows around submerged structure (fish attractor sites, trees) in roughly 10-20 feet deep.
07 July 2025
Report Contributor, Nathan Rogers, Region III, Creel Clerk
The weather was hot with lows around 70 and warmed up to highs throughout the day as warm as 92. Current throughout the reservoir has slowed once again to relatively normal flows. Water visibility has gone down slightly. The water levels are normal; the latest depth and discharge rate I have recorded is below. For any discharge or elevation info, check out the TVA Lake Info App. Wear life jackets if planning to go out during high water and heavy current conditions.
Reservoir Conditions
Water Temp:
– Upper end of reservoir: 82.9 degrees Fahrenheit
– Lower end of reservoir: N/A
Water Clarity:
– Tennessee River (River Channel): 3 feet
Water Level: (as of July 7th)
– Reservoir elevation: 633.46 feet
– Headwater elevation: 635.31 feet
Water Flow: (as of June 29th)
– Chickamauga Dam: ~ 21621 cfs
– Nickajack Dam: ~ 39441 cfs
Observed Species Information
Upper section of reservoir:
Bass: Anglers are using swimbaits and other minnow/bait fish style baits along the rocky channel banks throughout the area below dam and around downtown Chattanooga. Ned rigs around banks with rock or grass throughout whole section from Raccoon Mountain to Chickamauga Dam.
Catfish: Cut/live bait anchored in current below dam as well as in current breaks throughout upper portion.
Lower Section of reservoir:
No surveys in the area.
22 June 2025
Report Contributor, Nathan Rogers, Region III, Creel Clerk
The weather was hot with lows around 68 and warmed up to highs throughout the day as warm as 90. Current throughout the reservoir has increased due to spilling of both Chickamauga and Nickajack dams to aid in dredging on the reservoir. Water visibility has gone down slightly. The water levels are normal; the latest depth and discharge rate I have recorded are below. For any discharge or lake elevation info, check out the TVA Lake Info App. Wear life jackets if planning to go out during high water and heavy current conditions.
Reservoir Conditions
Water Temp:
– Upper end of Lake: N/A
– Lower end of Lake: 81.2 degrees Fahrenheit
Water Clarity:
– Tennessee River (River Channel): 3 feet
Water Level: (as of June 22nd)
– Lake elevation: 632.83 feet
– Headwater elevation: 636.23 feet
Water Flow: (as of June 22nd)
– Chickamauga Dam: ~ 32248 cfs (spilling)
– Nickajack Dam: ~ 24642 cfs (spilling)
Observed Species Information
Upper section of Lake: No survey days in this area
Lower Section of Lake: Bass: Anglers have started fishing transition areas such as ledges leading to deep water from shallow grass flats, mainly using trick worm baits but some are using swimbaits as well. Topwater baits are attracting bites over shallow flats with and without grass.
Catfish: Using live/cut bait on edges of channel where current is present, mainly on edges of islands or other current breaks.
18 May 2025
Report Contributor, Nathan Rogers, Region III, Creel Clerk
The weather was warmer with lows around 60 and warmed up to highs throughout the day as warm as 82. Current throughout the reservoir was higher than in previous weeks, most likely to prepare for incoming rain. Water visibility has dropped due to high water. The water levels are normal; the latest depth and discharge rate I have recorded are below. For any discharge or lake elevation info, check out the TVA Lake Info App. Wear life jackets if planning to go out during high water and heavy current conditions.
Reservoir Conditions
Water Temp:
– Upper end of Lake: N/A
– Lower end of Lake: 73.7 degrees Fahrenheit
Water Clarity:
– Tennessee River (River Channel): 1.5 feet
Water Level: (as of May 18th)
– Lake elevation: 632.42 feet
– Headwater elevation: 639.20 feet
Water Flow: (as of May 18th)
– Chickamauga Dam: ~ 54558 cfs (spilling)
– Nickajack Dam: ~ 56643 cfs (spilling)
Observed Species Information
Upper section of Lake:
Bass: 3–4-inch swimbaits, ned rigs, crankbaits, and worms along current breaks below the dam as well as around rocky banks. Topwater baits around shallow, rocky areas attracted bites as well.
Lower Section of Lake:
Bass: Fishing shallow grass mats with worms and swimbaits. Anglers were also throwing swimbaits along rocky banks. Throwing topwater on surfaced grass and over shallow points off the main channel.
02 May 2025
Report Contributor, Nathan Rogers, Region III, Creel Clerk
The weather was warmer with lows around 60 and warmed up to highs throughout the day as warm as 81. Current throughout the reservoir was lower than previous weeks but still steady. Water visibility has improved slightly. The water levels are normal; the latest depth and discharge rate I have recorded is below. For any discharge or lake elevation info, check out the TVA Lake Info App. Wear life jackets if planning to go out during high water and heavy current conditions.
Reservoir Conditions
Water Temp:
– Upper end of Lake: 69.5 degrees Fahrenheit
– Lower end of Lake: 74.8 degrees Fahrenheit
Water Clarity:
– Tennessee River (River Channel): 3 feet
Water Level: (as of May 2nd)
– Lake elevation: 632.75 feet
– Headwater elevation: 633.35 feet
Water Flow: (as of May 2nd)
– Chickamauga Dam: ~ 14560 cfs
– Nickajack Dam: ~ 8909 cfs
Observed Species Information
Upper section of Lake:
Bass: 3–4-inch swimbaits, ned rigs, crankbaits, and worms along current breaks below the dam as well as around rocky banks. Topwater baits around shallow, rocky areas attracted bites as well.
Lower Section of Lake:
Bass: Fishing shallow grass mats with worms and swimbaits. Anglers were also throwing swimbaits along rocky banks.
26 April 2025
Report Contributor, Nathan Rogers, Region III, Creel Clerk
The weather was warmer with lows around 60 and warmed up to highs throughout the day as warm as 79. Current throughout the reservoir was lower than in previous weeks but still steady. Water visibility has improved slightly. The water levels are normal; the latest depth and discharge rate I have recorded is below. For any discharge or lake elevation info, check out the TVA Lake Info App. Wear life jackets if planning to go out during high water and heavy current conditions.
Reservoir Conditions
Water Temp:
– Upper end of Lake: 67.6 degrees Fahrenheit
– Lower end of Lake: NA
Water Clarity:
– Tennessee River (River Channel): 3 feet
Water Level: (as of April 26th)
– Lake elevation: 634.24 feet
– Headwater elevation: 635.68 feet
Water Flow: (as of April 26th)
– Chickamauga Dam: ~ 19771 cfs
– Nickajack Dam: ~ 31863 cfs
Observed Species Information
Upper section of Lake:
Bass: 3-4 inch swimbaits, ned rigs, and crankbaits along current breaks below the dam as well as around rocky banks.
Lower Section of Lake:
No surveys in this area
14 April 2025
Report Contributor, Nathan Rogers, Region III, Creel Clerk
The weather was cooler with lows around the 30s, but warmed up to highs throughout the day as warm as 81. Current throughout the reservoir was high on Sunday but significantly lower on Monday. Water visibility has improved slightly. The water levels are normal; the latest depth and discharge rate I have recorded are below. For any discharge or lake elevation info, check out the TVA Lake Info App. Wear life jackets if planning to go out during high water and heavy current conditions.
Reservoir Conditions
Water Temp:
– Upper end of Lake: 62.1 degrees Fahrenheit
– Lower end of Lake: 64.6 degrees Fahrenheit
Water Clarity:
– Tennessee River (River Channel): 3 feet
Water Level: (as of April 14, 2025)
– Lake elevation: 634.10 feet
– Tailwater elevation: 634.18 feet
Water Flow: (as of April 14, 2025)
– Chickamauga Dam: ~ 7217 cfs
– Nickajack Dam: ~ 8747 cfs
Observed Species Information
Upper section of Lake:
Bass: 3–4-inch swimbaits, ned rigs, and crankbaits along current breaks below the dam as well as around rocky banks.
Lower Section of Lake:
Bass: Fishing is good. Anglers are throwing swimbaits and Texas rigs around grass edges, rocky banks/points in inlets off the main river channel, and finding success.
Crappie: Fishing is fair. Using live minnows as well as small jigs in coves off the main river, mainly over submerged structure and old roadbeds.
31 March 2025
Report Contributor, Nathan Rogers, Region III, Creel Clerk
The weather is warmer, with lows around the 60s and highs throughout the day as warm as 72. The current throughout the reservoir has slowed with Chickamauga Dam no longer spilling. Water visibility has improved slightly. The water levels are back to normal; the latest depth and discharge rate I have recorded is below. For any discharge or lake elevation info, check out the TVA Lake Info App. Wear life jackets if planning to go out during high water and heavy current conditions.
Reservoir Conditions
Water Temp:
– Upper end of Lake: N/A
– Lower end of Lake: 60.9 degrees Fahrenheit
Water Clarity:
– Tennessee River (River Channel): 2.5 feet
Water Level: (as of March 29th)
– Lake elevation: 633.95 feet
– Tailwater elevation: 633.95 feet
Water Flow: (as of March 29th)
– Chickamauga Dam: ~ 6535 cfs
– Nickajack Dam: ~ 6977 cfs
Observed Species Information
Upper section of Lake:
Bass: No survey in this area since last report
Lower Section of Lake:
Bass: Fishing is good. Anglers are throwing spinnerbaits, lipless cranks baits and swim baits around grass edges, rocky banks/points in inlets off main river channel and finding success.
Crappie: Fishing is fair. Use live minnows as well as small jigs in coves off the main river, mainly over submerged structures and old road beds.
01 March 2025
Report Contributor, Nathan Rogers, Region III, Creel Clerk
The weather was warmer throughout the weekend with lows around the mid 30’s and highs throughout the day as warm as 65. Current throughout the reservoir and below dams is still high with dams spilling. Water visibility has improved slightly. The water levels are currently over the full pool on the upper portions of the reservoir; the latest depth and discharge rate I have recorded are below. For any discharge or lake elevation info, check out the TVA Lake Info App. Wear life jackets if planning to go out during high water and heavy current conditions.
Reservoir Conditions
Water Temp:
– Upper end of Lake: 49.7 degrees Fahrenheit
– Lower end of Lake: N/A
Water Clarity:
– Tennessee River (River Channel): 2.5 foot
Water Level: (as of March 1st)
– Lake elevation: 633.89 feet
– Tailwater elevation: 643.50 feet
Water Flow: (as of March 1st)
– Chickamauga Dam: ~ 86603 cfs (spilling)
– Nickajack Dam: ~ 87348 cfs (spilling)
Observed Species Information
The upper section of Lake:
Bass: Fishing is good.
Many anglers are targeting Smallmouth Bass in this section of the lake throwing A-rigs, jerk baits, and jigging minnows along rocky banks impacted by the current. Live bait such as shiners and shad are great in these areas as well. Finding deep holes throughout the river channel and fishing the drop-off ledges where fish are holding is bringing success to anglers as well.
Lower Section of Lake:
No Surveys in the area
23 Feb 2025
Report Contributor, Nathan Rogers, Region III, Creel Clerk
The weather was cooler throughout the weekend with lows around the mid 20’s and highs throughout the day as warm as 50. Current throughout the reservoir and below dams is still high with dams spilling. Water visibility is still close to nothing due to flood waters except in certain coves and creeks. The water levels are currently over the full pool; the latest depth and discharge rate I have recorded are below. For any discharge or lake elevation info, check out the TVA Lake Info App. Wear life jackets if planning to go out during high water and heavy current conditions.
Reservoir Conditions
Water Temp:
– Upper end of Lake: 47.6 degrees Fahrenheit
– Lower end of Lake: N/A
Water Clarity:
– Tennessee River (River Channel): 1 foot
Water Level: (as of February 23rd)
– Lake elevation: 633.51 feet
– Tailwater elevation: 642.09 feet
Water Flow: (as of February 23rd)
– Chickamauga Dam: ~ 74401 cfs (spilling)
– Nickajack Dam: ~ 80694 cfs (spilling)
Observed Species Information
The upper section of Lake:
Bass: Fishing is good.
Many anglers are targeting Smallmouth Bass in this section of the lake throwing A-rigs, jerk baits, and jigging minnows along rocky banks impacted by the current. Live bait such as shiners and shad are great in these areas as well. Finding deep holes throughout the river channel and fishing the drop-off ledges where fish are holding is bringing success to anglers as well.
Lower Section of Lake:
No Surveys in the area
17 Feb 2025
Report Contributor, Nathan Rogers, Region III, Creel Clerk
The weather was warmer throughout the weekend with lows around the upper 40’s and highs throughout the day as warm as 70. Cold weather is forecasted the upcoming week with even chances of snow. Current throughout the reservoir and below dams has increased dramatically with the amount of rain impacting the area the past few weeks. Water visibility will be close to nothing due to flood waters. The water levels are currently over full pool; the latest depth and discharge rate I have recorded is below. For any discharge or lake elevation info, check out the TVA Lake Info App. Wear life jackets if planning to go out during high water and heavy current conditions.
Reservoir Conditions
Water Temp:
– Upper end of Lake: 47.6 degrees Fahrenheit
– Lower end of Lake: 48.1 degrees Fahrenheit
Water Clarity:
– Tennessee River (River Channel): 1 foot
Water Level: (as of February 17th)
– Lake elevation: 634.41 feet
– Tailwater elevation: 642.21 feet
Water Flow: (as of February 17th)
– Chickamauga Dam: ~ 81916 cfs (spilling)
– Nickajack Dam: ~ 90960 cfs (spilling)
Observed Species Information
– Upper section of Lake:
Bass: Fishing is good.
Many anglers are targeting Smallmouth Bass in this section of the lake throwing A-rigs, jerk baits, and jigging minnows along rocky banks impacted by current. Live bait such as shiners and shad are great in these areas as well. Finding deep holes throughout river channel and fishing the drop off ledges where fish are holding is bringing success to anglers as well.
– Lower Section of Lake:
Bass: Fishing is good.
Many anglers are throwing A-rigs, jerk baits, and swimbaits around creek mouths/channels off of main river. Throwing these along grass edges on river channel banks also gets plenty of bites. Due to low visibility in most of the lake, anglers are targeting coves and creeks that are clearer than the river channel.
Catfish: live bait on current break edges below dam
05 Feb 2025
Report Contributor, Nathan Rogers, Region III, Creel Clerk
The weather was warmer throughout the weekend with lows around the 40’s and highs throughout the day as warm as 55. Current throughout the reservoir and below dams has picked back up. The water levels near the full pool; the latest depth and discharge rate I have recorded it below. For any discharge or lake elevation info, check out the TVA Lake Info App.
Reservoir Conditions
Water Temp:
– Upper end of Lake: 44.5 degrees Fahrenheit
Water Clarity:
– Tennessee River (River Channel): 4 feet
Water Level: 633.74 feet
Water Flow: (as of February 1st)
– Chickamauga Dam: ~ 24024 cfs (spilling)
– Nickajack Dam: ~ 31638 cfs
Observed Species Information
Bass: Fishing is good.
Upper Section of the lake:
Many anglers are targeting Smallmouth Bass in this section of the lake throwing A-rigs, jerk baits, and jigging minnows along rocky banks impacted by the current. Live bait such as shiners and shad are great in these areas as well. Finding deep holes throughout the river channel and fishing the drop-off ledges where fish are holding is bringing success to anglers as well.
Crappie: small jigging minnows on current breaks and in mouths of creeks
Sunfish/Bream: live worms in calm water around structures such as laid-down trees, submerged debris, or bridge pylons.
January 23th – 26th, 2024
Report Contributor, Nathan Rogers, Region III, Creel Clerk
The weather has been cold throughout the weekend with lows in the upper teens and highs throughout the day as warm as 51. The current throughout the reservoir and below dams has slowed compared to previous weeks. The water levels were 2 feet below full pool on the 26th; the latest depth and discharge rate I have 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: 40.6 degrees Fahrenheit
– Lower end of Lake: 41.6 degrees Fahrenheit
Water Clarity:
– Tennessee River (River Channel): 3.5 foot
Water Level: 634.08 feet
Water Flow: (as of January 26th)
– Chickamauga Dam: ~ 7080 cfs
– Nickajack Dam: ~ 8800 cfs
Observed Species Information
– Bass: Fishing is good.
– Lower section of the lake:
Most anglers are catching Largemouth Bass in this portion of the lake. Fishing transition areas such as pea gravel to larger rocky structures with A-rigs, jerk baits, and swimbaits all with a more natural color. Bluff walls impacted by current and other rocky structures are holding fish as well with anglers throwing shad-like minnows and swimbaits. Live shad in these areas is the most successful practice. Many anglers are targeting grass edges along river channel banks.
Upper Section of the lake: Many anglers are targeting Smallmouth Bass in this section of the lake throwing A-rigs, jerk baits, and jigging minnows along rocky banks impacted by the current. Live bait such as shiners and shad are great in these areas as well.
04 Sept 2024
Forecast Contributor Ethan Castle – Whitwell High School Bass Team
Fishing has been a little tougher lately even though the numbers have gone down a little the size has stayed around for the most part. water temps have been hanging in the low 80s for the most part. Flipping grass has been the main thing lately using a missile baits d bomb. throwing a white chatter bait or a dropshot with a robo worm in morning dawn on eelgrass edges in the river will also produce some good fish.
25 July 2024
Forecast Contributor Ethan Castle – Whitwell High School Bass Team
Fishing has been good for the most part and has not slowed down. Water temps have been ranging in the mid to high 80s. The fish seem to be biting in a bunch of different ways lately. I have still been staying offshore for the most part doing a lot of graphing trying to find big schools in 18 to 20 feet of water throwing a big crankbait in chartreuse blue back for the most part, on the slower days you can throw a big worm in plum or June bug and a big football jig in a blue craw color. There are a few good mats of grass starting to show up in the river that you can throw a frog on in the mornings and evenings especially if they have some current flowing.
05 June 2024
Forecast Contributor Ethan Castle – Whitwell High School Bass Team
Fishing has been really good lately. Water temps have been in the low 80s. Most of my fish have been coming out deep in 15-20 feet of water. I have been throwing a big crank bait with chartreuse and blue back, or a green pumpkin football jig for the tougher days. You can also throw a 5 inch Scottsboro swim bait at them and catch some bigger ones. Fishing grass clumps have been producing big ones as well, mainly around 8-12 feet of water. throwing a white or green pumpkin chatter bait has been the main bait, and for the tougher days you can throw a zoom ol monster in plum or junebug color and catch them.
17 April 2024
Forecast Contributor Ethan Castle – Whitwell High School Bass Team
Water temps have been reaching in the 70 and 72 degrees range these past few days. The majority of the bass are pulling up on beds and some post spawners but there are still a few pre-spawners. If you are going to sight fish any white craw Texas rigged has worked for me or a pink trick worm. I have still been catching a bunch on grass lines in the 7 foot or less range leading into spawning flats. Mainly throwing a Chatterbait in a shad color and on the days that the water gets dirty I will switch to a chartreuse and white with a gold blade. On the tougher days I have been throwing a Texas rigged craw with a 1/4 oz weight in a blue craw color and fishing really slow.
10 April 2024
Forecast Contributor Ethan Castle – Whitwell High School Bass Team
Fishing has been pretty good lately I’ve been catching a bunch of numbers lately with some chunks mixed in. Water temps have been in the 63 to 67 range. For the most part bass are in the pre-spawn stage and a few post spawn already. I’ve been fishing grass lines in the 6-to-8-foot range throwing chatter baits in shad colors and rattle traps in a copper color and catching a bunch in the 2-pound range with some 3s and 4s mixed in. When the fishing gets tough on some days, slowing down and throwing a simple Senkos will work too.
20 March 2024
Forecast Contributor Ethan Castle – Whitwell High School Bass Team
Fishing has been pretty good lately. water temps have still been in the high 50s to low 60s. I’ve been catching fish throwing a crankbait around chunk rock and on rip rap in a craw color. I have also been catching some on grass lines with chatter baits leading into flats in the 8-foot range. There are still some fish to be caught in the creek channels on an A-rig too.
12 March 2024
Forecast Contributor Ethan Castle – Whitwell High School Bass Team
Fishing has been fair to good lately. Water temps have been in the high 50s to low 60s some days. Most of my fish have still been coming off of rip rap throwing a shad-colored crankbait and flipping a craw-colored jig. I’ve also been catching a few fish off of flats in the 8 foot or less range throwing a Chatterbait and a rattletrap in shad patterns.
27 Feb 2024
Forecast Contributor Ethan Castle – Whitwell High School Bass Team
Water temps have been pretty stable staying in the 49-to-53-degree range. The water has cleared up some from last week but still dingy in areas. Most of my fish have still been coming off of rip rap throwing craw-colored crankbaits and flipping a Zorro HP jig. Be sure to watch for big logs as I have still been seeing a few and wear your life jackets.
21 Feb 2024
Forecast Contributor Ethan Castle – Whitwell High School Bass Team
Water temps have been ranging from 47 to 51. The dams still have the flood gates open and the turbines wide open so there has been a lot of current. The water has been clearing up a little day by day. Fishing has been a little slow, but they are still biting. Fishing rip rap has been the main producer with any craw-colored crankbaits and a Zorro HP flipping jigs in a craw color. I have also still been catching a few in ditches, live scoping in between 12 and 15 feet of water with a Damiki rig. Make sure to watch for logs in the river channel there has been a bunch of big floaters lately and make sure to wear your life jackets.
14 Feb 2024
Forecast Contributor Ethan Castle – Whitwell High School Bass Team
Water temps have dropped just a bit ranging from 47 to 52 degrees. With all this rain we have been having the dams have been flowing a lot of water and flood gates have been open causing the water to get good and dirty. The rip rap bite has still been producing and has been getting better and better as the sun comes up, with the dirty water any bright color crankbait and rattle traps will work. I have also caught a few bass in ditches ranging from 12 to 15 feet, live scoping and throwing Damiki rigs in a shad color.
23 Dec 2022
Forecast Contributor – Nathan Rogers – TWRA Region III Creel Clerk
NEW
Water current was swift due to the heavy rains of previous weeks in the area. The fishing was not negatively impacted though, the fish are still biting. Anglers are primarily catching smallmouth bass on the upper end of the reservoir, while on the lower end a few anglers are finding success targeting crappie and catfish.
Water temp: 48-50 degrees Fahrenheit
Reservoir elevation: 634.05 feet
Headwater elevation: 640.88 feet
Water visibility: 4 feet
Angler Notes
Bass: On upper end of reservoir, anglers are targeting bass (smallmouth, spotted bass) with swimbaits, Alabama rigs, crankbaits, and jigs. Fishing rocky banks and current breaks/eddies.
Crappie: On the upper end of reservoir, crappie are being caught using small Bobby Garland jigs in non-current areas off of barge ties and bridge pillars. On lower end, crappie are being caught near bluff walls and bridge pillars.
Catfish: Drifting cut bait near main channel on lower end.
Other species: anglers have also been catching white bass, yellow bass, drum, and sunfish species on small jigs and blade baits. Bank anglers have had success with catching the species listed above as well.
16 Dec 2022
Forecast Contributor – Josh Bean – TWRA Region III Creel Clerk
NEW
Reservoir conditions: Fishing is fair on Nickajack at the moment. Most fish are being caught in the upper end of the reservoir. Water Temp – 53.4-54.7. Lake Elevation – 633’
Bass – On the upper end of the reservoir bass anglers have been focusing on current breaks near deep water (e.g., tributary mouths, pockets, and points on the downstream end of islands) with jigs, finesse lures, and live shad. On the lower end, not many fish are being caught. Grass is very limited now, but most fish are still being caught on jerk baits, A-rigs, and lipless crank baits.
Catfish – Anglers can be successful targeting catfish reservoir wide using live or cut bait.
18 Nov 2022
Forecast Contributor – Josh Bean – TWRA Region III Creel Clerk
NEW
Reservoir conditions: Fishing is fair on Nickajack at the moment. Most fish are showing up around grass. Fishing on upper end of lake is fishing well. The water temperature varies between 57.9 and 61 degrees. The lake elevation is 633 feet.
Bass: On the upper end of the reservoir, bass anglers have been focusing on current breaks near deep water (e.g., tributary mouths, pockets, and points on the downstream end of islands) with jigs, finesse lures, and live shad. On the lower end, not many fish are being caught. Grass is very limited now, but most fish are still being caught around grass on frogs, flukes, jerk baits, A-rigs, and lipless crank baits.
Catfish: Anglers can be successful targeting catfish reservoir wide using live or cut bait.
04 Nov 2022
Forecast Contributor – Josh Bean – TWRA Region III Creel Clerk
NEW
Reservoir conditions: Fishing is fair on Nickajack at the moment. Most fish are showing up around grass. Fishing on upper end of lake is fishing well. The water temperature varies between 60 and 64 degrees. The lake elevation is 633 feet.
Bass: On the upper end of the reservoir bass anglers have been focusing on current breaks near deep water (e.g., tributary mouths, pockets, and points on the downstream end of islands) with jigs, finesse lures, and live shad. On the lower end of the reservoir most fish are being caught frogging the grass, jerk baits, flukes, and swimbaits.
Catfish: Anglers can be successful targeting catfish reservoir wide using live or cut bait.
Panfish: Some anglers are having success fishing with crickets on the upper end of the reservoir.
28 Oct 2022
Forecast Contributor – Josh Bean – TWRA Region III Creel Clerk
NEW
Reservoir conditions: Fishing is fair on Nickajack at the moment. Most fish are showing up around grass. Fishing on upper end of lake is fishing well. The water temperature varies between 67 and 70 degrees. The lake elevation is 633 feet.
Bass: On the upper end of the reservoir bass anglers have been focusing on current breaks near deep water (e.g., tributary mouths, pockets, and points on the downstream end of islands) with jigs, finesse lures, and live shad. On the lower end of the reservoir most fish are being caught frogging the grass, jerk baits, flukes, and swimbaits.
Catfish: Anglers can be successful targeting catfish reservoir wide using live or cut bait.
Panfish: Some anglers are having success fishing with crickets on the upper end of the reservoir.
14 Oct 2022
Forecast Contributor – Josh Bean – TWRA Region III Creel Clerk
NEW
Reservoir conditions: Fishing is picking up on Nickajack at the moment. Most fish are showing up around grass edges close to deep water. The water temperature varies between 67 and 70 degrees. The lake elevation is 633 feet.
Bass: On the upper end of the reservoir, bass anglers have been focusing on current breaks near deep water (e.g., tributary mouths, pockets, and points on the downstream end of islands) with jigs, finesse lures, and live shad. On the lower end of the reservoir, most fish now are being caught deep on humps, roadbeds, and ledges with jigs, swimbaits, shaky heads, and drop shots. Some fish are now being caught punching and frogging the grass.
Catfish: Anglers can be successful targeting catfish reservoir wide using live or cut bait.
Panfish: Some anglers are having success fishing with crickets on the upper end of the reservoir.
23 Sept 2022
Forecast Contributor – Josh Bean – TWRA Region III Creel Clerk
NEW
Reservoir conditions: Fishing is picking up on Nickajack at the moment. Most fish are showing up around grass edges close to deep water. The water temperature varies between 74 and 78 degrees. The lake elevation is 633 feet.
Bass: On the upper end of the reservoir, bass anglers have been focusing on current breaks near deep water (e.g., tributary mouths, pockets, and points on the downstream end of islands) with jigs, finesse lures, and live shad. On the lower end of the reservoir, most fish now are being caught deep on humps, roadbeds, and ledges with jigs, swimbaits, shaky heads, and drop shots. Some fish are now being caught punching and frogging the grass.
Catfish: Anglers can be successful targeting catfish reservoir wide using live or cut bait.
Panfish: Some anglers are having success fishing with crickets on the upper end of the reservoir.
16 Sept 2022
Forecast Contributor – Josh Bean – TWRA Region III Creel Clerk
Reservoir conditions: Fishing is slow on Nickajack at the moment. Most fish are deep on humps and ledges, but some are showing up around grass edges close to deep water. The water temperature varies between 81 and 85 degrees. The lake elevation is 633 feet.
Bass: On the upper end of the reservoir, bass anglers have been focusing on current breaks near deep water (e.g., tributary mouths, pockets, and points on the downstream end of islands) with jigs, finesse lures, and live shad. On the lower end of the reservoir, most fish now are being caught deep on humps, roadbeds, and ledges with jigs, swimbaits, shaky heads, and drop shots. Some fish are now being caught punching and frogging the grass.
Catfish: Anglers can be successful targeting catfish reservoir wide using live or cut bait.
Panfish: Some anglers are having success fishing with crickets on the upper end of the reservoir.
09 Sept 2022
Forecast Contributor – Josh Bean – TWRA Region III Creel Clerk
NEW
Reservoir conditions: Fishing is slow on Nickajack at the moment. Most fish are deep on humps and ledges, but some are showing up around grass edges close to deep water. The water temperature varies between 81 and 85 degrees. The lake elevation is 633 feet.
Bass: On the upper end of the reservoir, bass anglers have been focusing on current breaks near deep water (e.g., tributary mouths, pockets, and points on the downstream end of islands) with jigs, finesse lures, and live shad. On the lower end of the reservoir, most fish now are being caught deep on humps, roadbeds, and ledges with jigs, swimbaits, shaky heads, and drop shots. Some fish are now being caught punching and frogging the grass.
Catfish: Anglers can be successful targeting catfish reservoir wide using live or cut bait.
Panfish: Some anglers are having success fishing with crickets on the upper end of the reservoir.
02 Sept 2022
Forecast Contributor – Josh Bean – TWRA Region III Creel Clerk
NEW
Reservoir conditions: Fishing is slow on Nickajack at the moment. Most fish are deep on humps and ledges, but some are now showing up around grass. The water temperature varies between 81 and 85 degrees. The lake elevation is 633 feet.
Bass: On the upper end of the reservoir, bass anglers have been focusing on current breaks near deep water (e.g., tributary mouths, pockets, and points on the downstream end of islands) with jigs, finesse lures, and live shad. On the lower end of the reservoir, most fish now are being caught deep on humps, roadbeds, and ledges with jigs, swimbaits, shaky heads, and drop shots. Some fish are now being caught punching and frogging the grass.
Catfish: Anglers can be successful targeting catfish reservoir wide using live or cut bait.
Panfish: Some anglers are having success fishing with crickets on the upper end of the reservoir.
26 Aug 2022
Forecast Contributor – Josh Bean – TWRA Region III Creel Clerk
NEW
Reservoir conditions: Fishing is slow on Nickajack at the moment. Most fish are deep on humps and ledges, but some are now showing up around grass. The water temperature varies between 81 and 85 degrees. The lake elevation is 633 feet.
Bass: On the upper end of the reservoir, bass anglers have been focusing on current breaks near deep water (e.g., tributary mouths, pockets, and points on the downstream end of islands) with jigs, finesse lures, and live shad. On the lower end of the reservoir, most fish now are being caught deep on humps, roadbeds, and ledges with jigs, swimbaits, shaky heads, and drop shots. Some fish are now being caught punching and frogging the grass.
Catfish: Anglers can be successful targeting catfish reservoir wide using live or cut bait.
Panfish: Some anglers are having success fishing with crickets on the upper end of the reservoir.
19 July 2022
Forecast Contributor – Josh Bean – TWRA Region III Creel Clerk
NEW
Reservoir conditions: Fishing is slow on Nickajack at the moment. Most fish are deep on humps and ledges, but some are now showing up around grass. The water temperature varies between 84.5 and 87 degrees. The lake elevation is 633 feet.
Bass: On the upper end of the reservoir, bass anglers have been focusing on current breaks near deep water (e.g., tributary mouths, pockets, and points on the downstream end of islands) with jigs, finesse lures, crankbaits, and swimbaits. On the lower end of the reservoir, most fish now are being caught deep on humps, roadbeds, and ledges with jigs, swimbaits, shaky heads, and drop shots. Some fish are now being caught punching and frogging the grass.
Catfish: Anglers can be successful targeting catfish reservoir wide using live or cut bait.
12 Aug 2022
Forecast Contributor – Josh Bean – TWRA Region III Creel Clerk
NEW
Reservoir conditions: Fishing is slow on Nickajack at the moment. Most fish are deep on humps and ledges, but some are now showing up around grass. The water temperature varies between 84.5 and 87 degrees. The lake elevation is 633 feet.
Bass: On the upper end of the reservoir, bass anglers have been focusing on current breaks near deep water (e.g., tributary mouths, pockets, and points on the downstream end of islands) with jigs, finesse lures, crankbaits, and swimbaits. On the lower end of the reservoir, most fish now are being caught deep on humps, roadbeds, and ledges with jigs, swimbaits, shaky heads, and drop shots. Some fish are now being caught punching and frogging the grass.
Catfish: Anglers can be successful targeting catfish reservoir wide using live or cut bait.
05 Aug 2022
Forecast Contributor – Josh Bean – TWRA Region III Creel Clerk
NEW
Reservoir conditions: Fishing is slow on Nickajack at the moment. Most fish are deep on humps and ledges, but some are now showing up around grass. The water temperature varies between 84.5 and 87 degrees. The lake elevation is 633 feet.
Bass: On the upper end of the reservoir, bass anglers have been focusing on current breaks near deep water (e.g., tributary mouths, pockets, and points on the downstream end of islands) with jigs, finesse lures, crankbaits, and swimbaits. On the lower end of the reservoir, most fish now are being caught deep on humps, roadbeds, and ledges with crankbaits, jigs, shaky heads, and drop shots or flipping around grass.
Catfish: Anglers can be successful targeting catfish reservoir wide using live or cut bait.
29 July 2022
Forecast Contributor – Josh Bean – TWRA Region III Creel Clerk
NEW
Reservoir conditions: Fishing is slow on Nickajack at the moment. Most fish are on humps and ledges, but some are now showing up around grass. The water temperature varies between 84.5 and 87 degrees. The lake elevation is 633 feet.
Bass: On the upper end of the reservoir, bass anglers have been focusing on current breaks near deep water (e.g., tributary mouths, pockets, and points on the downstream end of islands) with jigs, finesse lures, crankbaits, and swimbaits. On the lower end of the reservoir, most fish now are being caught deep on humps, roadbeds, and ledges with crankbaits, jigs, shaky heads, drop shots, or flipping around grass.
Catfish: Anglers can be successful targeting catfish reservoir wide using live or cut bait.
Panfish: Anglers are having success with crickets and nightcrawlers in the backs of coves around brush.
22 July 2022
Forecast Contributor – Josh Bean – TWRA Region III Creel Clerk
NEW
Reservoir Conditions: Fishing is fair on Nickajack at the moment. Most fish are on humps and ledges, but some are now showing up around grass. The water temperature varies between 84.5 and 87 degrees. The lake elevation is 633 feet.
Bass: On the upper end of the reservoir, bass anglers have been focusing on current breaks near deep water (e.g., tributary mouths, pockets, and points on the downstream end of islands) with jigs, finesse lures, crankbaits, and swimbaits. On the lower end of the reservoir, most fish now are being caught deep on humps, roadbeds, and ledges with crankbaits, jigs, shaky heads, drop shots, or flipping around grass.
Catfish: Anglers can be successful targeting catfish reservoir wide using live or cut bait.
Panfish: Anglers are having success with crickets and nightcrawlers in the backs of coves around brush.
15 July 2022
Forecast Contributor – Josh Bean – TWRA Region III Creel Clerk
NEW
Reservoir conditions: Fishing is good on Nickajack at the moment. Most fish are on humps and ledges, but some are now showing up around grass. The water temperature varies between 84.5 and 87 degrees. The lake elevation is 633 feet.
Bass: On the upper end of the reservoir, bass anglers have been focusing on current breaks near deep water (e.g., tributary mouths, pockets, and points on the downstream end of islands) with jigs, finesse lures, crankbaits, and swimbaits. On the lower end of the reservoir, most fish now are being caught deep on humps, roadbeds, and ledges with crankbaits, jigs, shaky heads, and drop shots or flipping around grass.
Catfish: Anglers can be successful targeting catfish reservoir-wide using live or cut bait.
Panfish: Anglers are having success with crickets and nightcrawlers in the backs of coves around brush.
08 July 2022
Forecast Contributor – Josh Bean – TWRA Region III Creel Clerk
NEW
Reservoir Conditions: Fishing is good on Nickajack at the moment. Most fish are on humps and ledges. The water temperature varies between 84.5 and 87 degrees. The lake elevation is 633 feet.
Bass: On the upper end of the reservoir, bass anglers have been focusing on current breaks near deep water (e.g., tributary mouths, pockets, and points on the downstream end of islands) with jigs, finesse lures, crankbaits, and swimbaits. On the lower end of the reservoir, most fish now are being caught deep on humps, roadbeds, and ledges with crankbaits, jigs, shaky heads, and drop shots.
Catfish: Anglers can be successful targeting catfish reservoir wide using live or cut bait.
Panfish: Anglers are having success with crickets and nightcrawlers in the backs of coves around brush.
24 June 2022
Forecast Contributor – Josh Bean – TWRA Region III Creel Clerk
NEW
Reservoir Conditions: Fishing is good on Nickajack at the moment. Most fish are on humps and ledges. Catfish are biting very good on the Chickamauga Tailwater. Water temperatures vary from the upper 70’s to 84 in some coves. The lake elevation is 633’.
Bass: On the upper end of the reservoir bass anglers have been focusing on current breaks near deep water (e.g., tributary
mouths, pockets, and points on the downstream end of islands) with jigs, finesse lures, crankbaits, and swimbaits. On the lower end of the reservoir most fish now are being caught deep on humps, roadbeds, and ledges with crankbaits, jigs, shaky heads, and drop shots.
Catfish: Anglers can be successful targeting catfish reservoir wide using live or cut bait.
Panfish: Anglers are having success with crickets and nightcrawlers in the backs of coves around brush.
10 June 2022
Forecast Contributor – Josh Bean – TWRA Region III Creel Clerk
NEW
Reservoir Conditions: Fishing is good on Nickajack at the moment. Fish are starting show up more on humps and ledges. Catfish are biting very well on the Chickamauga tailwater. Water temperatures vary from the mid 70’s to 83 in some coves. The lake elevation is 633’.
Bass: On the upper end of the reservoir bass anglers have been focusing on current breaks near deep water (e.g., tributary mouths, pockets, and points on the downstream end of islands) with jigs, finesse lures, crankbaits, and swimbaits. On the lower end of the reservoir most fish now are being caught deep on humps, roadbeds, and ledges with crankbaits, jigs, shaky heads, and drop shots.
Catfish: Anglers can be successful targeting catfish reservoir wide using live or cut bait.
03 June 2022
Forecast Contributor – Josh Bean – TWRA Region III Creel Clerk
NEW
Reservoir Conditions: Fishing is good on Nickajack at the moment. Fish are starting show up more on humps and ledges. Catfish are biting very well on the Chickamauga tailwater. Water temperatures vary from the mid 70’s to 83 in some coves. The lake elevation is 633’.
Bass: On the upper end of the reservoir bass anglers have been focusing on current breaks near deep water (e.g., tributary mouths, pockets, and points on the downstream end of islands) with jigs, finesse lures, crankbaits, and swimbaits. On the lower end of the reservoir most fish now are being caught deep on humps, roadbeds, and ledges with crankbaits, jigs, shaky heads, and drop shots.
Crappie: A few anglers have been catching crappie with jigs and trolling around flats and creek channels.
Catfish: Anglers can be successful targeting catfish reservoir wide using live or cut bait.
27 May 2022
Forecast Contributor – Josh Bean – TWRA Region III Creel Clerk
NEW
Reservoir Conditions: Fishing is good on Nickajack at the moment. Fish are starting to transition away from spawning areas. Water temperatures vary from the mid 70’s to 83 in some coves. The lake elevation is 633’.
Bass: On the upper end of the reservoir bass anglers have been focusing on current breaks near deep water (e.g., tributary mouths, pockets, and points on the downstream end of islands) with jigs, finesse lures, crankbaits, and swimbaits. On the lower end of the reservoir most fish now are being caught deep on humps, road begs and ledges with crankbaits, jigs, shaky heads, and drop shots.
Crappie: A few anglers have been catching crappie up shallow with jigs and trolling around flats and creek channels.
Catfish: Anglers can be successful targeting catfish reservoir wide using live or cut bait.
13 May 2022
Forecast Contributor – Josh Bean – TWRA Region III Creel Clerk
NEW
Fishing is fair on Nickajack at the moment. Fish are starting to transition away from spawning areas. Water Temp – Varies from Mid 60’s to touching 73 in some coves.
Lake Elevation – 634’
Bass – On the upper end of the reservoir bass anglers have been focusing on current breaks near deep water (e.g., tributary mouths, pockets, and points on the downstream end of islands) with jigs, finesse lures, crankbaits, and swimbaits. On the lower end of the reservoir anglers have been targeting bass Shallow with jigs, whacky rigs, and shaky heads on brush, points, and some fish are being caught while sight fishing beds.
Crappie – A few anglers have been catching crappie with jigs and trolling around flats and creek channels.
Catfish – Anglers can be successful targeting catfish reservoir wide using live or cut bait.
15 April 2022
Forecast Contributor – Josh Bean – TWRA Region III Creel Clerk
Reservoir Conditions: Fishing is getting right on Nickajack. Anglers are catching more fish with temperatures rising. Water temperatures are in the upper 50’s to low 60’s, and the lake elevation is 634’. If you want to catch a variety of species, try fishing current breaks and steep rocky shorelines with crankbaits or blade baits on the upper end of the reservoir. Anglers have been catching largemouth bass, smallmouth bass, spotted bass, white bass, bluegill, and walleye below Chickamauga Dam.
Bass: On the upper end of the reservoir bass anglers have been focusing on current breaks near deep water (e.g., tributary mouths, pockets, and points on the downstream end of islands) with jigs, blade baits, crankbaits, and swimbaits. On the lower end of the reservoir anglers have been targeting bass shallow with jigs, big swimbaits, and shaky heads on brush, points, and rip-rap banks.
Crappie: A few anglers have been catching crappie up shallow with jigs and trolling around flats and creek channels.
Catfish: Anglers can be successful targeting catfish reservoir wide using live or cut bait.
Walleye: A few anglers have been catching walleye below Chickamauga Dam on live shiners.
08 April 2022
Forecast Contributor – Josh Bean – TWRA Region III Creel Clerk
Reservoir Conditions: Fishing is getting right on Nickajack. Anglers are catching more fish with temperatures rising. Water temperatures are in the upper 50’s to low 60’s, and the lake elevation is 633’. If you want to catch a variety of species, try fishing current breaks and steep rocky shorelines with crankbaits or blade baits on the upper end of the reservoir. Anglers have been catching largemouth bass, smallmouth bass, spotted bass, white bass, bluegill, and walleye below Chickamauga Dam.
Bass: On the upper end of the reservoir bass anglers have been focusing on current breaks near deep water (e.g., tributary mouths, pockets, and points on the downstream end of islands) with jigs, blade baits, crankbaits, and swimbaits. On the lower end of the reservoir anglers have been targeting bass Shallow with jigs, lipless crankbaits, shaky heads on flats, points, and rip-rap banks.
Crappie: A few anglers have been catching crappie on jigs in current breaks and eddies on the downstream side of islands.
Striped Bass and White Bass: Anglers have been catching a few striped bass on the lower end of the reservoir using crankbaits and Tennessee rigs.
Catfish: Anglers can be successful targeting catfish reservoir wide using live or cut bait.
Walleye: A few anglers have been catching walleye below Chickamauga Dam on live shiners.
18 March 2022
Forecast Contributor – Josh Bean – TWRA Region III Creel Clerk
Reservoir Conditions: Fishing has picked up some on Nickajack. Anglers are catching more fish with temperatures rising. Water temperatures are in the lower to mid-50’s, and the lake elevation is 633’. If you want to catch a variety of species, try fishing current breaks and steep rocky shorelines with crankbaits or blade baits on the upper end of the reservoir. Anglers have been catching largemouth bass, smallmouth bass, white bass, bluegill, and walleye below Chickamauga Dam.
Bass: On the upper end of the reservoir bass anglers have been focusing on current breaks near deep water (e.g., tributary mouths, pockets, and points on the downstream end of islands) with jigs, blade baits, crankbaits, and swimbaits. On the lower end of the reservoir anglers have been targeting bass shallow with jigs, lipless crankbaits, shaky heads on flats, points, and rip-rap banks.
Crappie: A few anglers have been catching crappie on jigs in current breaks and eddies on the downstream side of islands.
Striped Bass: Anglers have been catching a few striped bass on the lower end of the reservoir using crankbaits and Tennessee rigs.
Catfish: Anglers can be successful targeting catfish reservoir wide using life or cut bait.
Walleye: A few anglers have been catching walleye below Chickamauga Dam on live shiners.
04 March 2022
Forecast Contributor – Josh Bean – TWRA Region III Creel Clerk
Reservoir Conditions: Fishing has not changed much from last week and is still pretty slow. Weather patterns seem to be the main reason for this. The lake elevation is at 634’ and water temperatures are in the mid to upper 40’s, with some embayments reaching 50. If you want to catch a variety of species try fishing current breaks and steep rocky shorelines with crankbaits or blade baits on the upper end of the reservoir. Anglers have been catching largemouth bass, smallmouth bass, spotted bass, white bass, bluegill, and walleye below Chickamauga Dam.
Bass: On the upper end of the reservoir bass anglers have been focusing on current breaks near deep water (e.g., tributary mouths, pockets, and points on the downstream end of islands) with jigs, blade baits, and swimbaits. On the lower end of the reservoir anglers have been targeting bass with Tennessee rigs, jigs, lipless crankbaits and jerk baits on flats, points, and rip-rap banks.
Crappie: A few anglers have been catching crappie on jigs in current breaks and eddies on the downstream side of islands.
Striped Bass: Anglers have been catching a few striped bass on the lower end of the reservoir using crankbaits and Tennessee rigs.
Catfish: Anglers can be successful targeting catfish reservoir wide using live or cut bait.
Walleye: A few anglers have been catching walleye below Chickamauga Dam on live shiners.
25 Feb 2022
Forecast Contributor – Josh Bean – TWRA Region III Creel Clerk
Reservoir Conditions: Fishing has been pretty slow this week on Nickajack. Weather patterns seem to be the main reason for this. The lake elevation is at 633’ and water temperatures are in the mid to upper 40’s. If you want to catch a variety of species try fishing current breaks and steep rocky shorelines with crankbaits or blade baits on the upper end of the reservoir. Anglers have been catching largemouth bass, smallmouth bass, spotted bass, white bass, bluegill, and walleye below Chickamauga Dam.
Bass: On the upper end of the reservoir a few bass anglers have been focusing on current breaks near deep water (e.g., tributary mouths, pockets, and points on the downstream end of islands) with jigs, blade baits, and swimbaits. On the lower end of the reservoir anglers have been targeting bass with Tennessee rigs and jigs on drop offs and humps.
Crappie: A few anglers have been catching crappie on jigs in current breaks and eddies on the downstream side of islands.
Striped Bass: Anglers have been catching a few striped bass on the lower end of the reservoir using crankbaits and Tennessee rigs.
Catfish: Anglers can be successful targeting catfish reservoir while using live or cut bait.
11 Feb 2022
Forecast Contributor – Joey Root – TWRA Region III Creel Clerk
Reservoir Conditions: The lake elevation is at 633’ and water temperatures are in the low to mid 40’s. If you want to catch a variety of species try fishing current breaks and steep rocky shorelines with crankbaits or blade baits on the upper end of the reservoir. Anglers have been catching largemouth bass, smallmouth bass, spotted bass, white bass, bluegill, and walleye below Chickamauga Dam.
Bass: On the upper end of the reservoir a few bass anglers have been focusing on current breaks near deep water (e.g., tributary mouths, pockets, and points on the downstream end of islands) with jigs, blade baits, and swimbaits. On the lower end of the reservoir anglers have been targeting bass with Tennessee rigs and jigs on drop offs and humps.
Crappie: A few anglers have been catching crappie on jigs in current breaks and eddies on the downstream side of islands.
Striped Bass: Anglers have been catching a few striped bass on the lower end of the reservoir using crankbaits and Tennessee rigs.
Catfish: Anglers can be successful targeting catfish reservoir while using live or cut bait.
Jan 2022
Forecast Contributor – Joey Root – TWRA Region III Creel Clerk
Reservoir Conditions: The lake elevation is at 632.2’ and water temperatures are in the upper 40’s. With the cold inconsistent weather this region has experienced recently, fishing at Nickajack Reservoir has been relatively slow. Currently, the reservoir is experiencing high flows and dirty water following the large rain events. These conditions generally create difficult angling conditions. As the weather and reservoir hydrology stabilizes fishing should improve.
Bass: On the upper end of the reservoir, a few bass anglers have been focusing on current breaks near deep water (e.g., tributary mouths, pockets, and points on the downstream end of islands) with jigs, blade baits, and swimbaits.
Catfish: Catfish can be caught reservoir wide using live or cut bait.