Can I Fish Kentucky Lake with a Tennessee Fishing License in 2024?

Kentucky Lake, a vast reservoir spanning across the border of Kentucky and Tennessee, is a popular destination for anglers seeking a variety of fish species. One common question among visitors is whether they can use their Tennessee fishing license to fish in Kentucky Lake. The answer is yes, but with some important caveats.

Reciprocal Agreement Between Kentucky and Tennessee

Kentucky and Tennessee have a reciprocal agreement that allows anglers to fish in certain areas of Kentucky Lake with either a Kentucky or Tennessee fishing license. This agreement applies to the portion of the lake from Eggner’s Ferry Bridge (U.S. Hwy 68/80 in Kentucky) south to the Gov. Ned McWherter Bridge (U.S. Hwy 79 in Tennessee), including all embayments except Blood River in Kentucky.

Under this agreement, anglers can fish from the bank or attach legal sport fishing trot or limb lines in the described portion of Kentucky Lake. However, they must abide by the regulations of the state in whose waters they are fishing.

Fishing Licenses and Fees

To fish in Kentucky Lake, anglers have two options for purchasing a fishing license:

Kentucky Fishing License: Kentucky offers various fishing licenses, including a 1-Day Fishing license for $7.00, a 3-Year Fishing license (online only) for $55.00, and a Nonresident 7-Day Fishing license for $35.00.
Tennessee Fishing License: Tennessee also provides fishing licenses, but the specific fees and options may differ from Kentucky.

It’s important to note that while anglers can use either a Kentucky or Tennessee fishing license in the designated portion of Kentucky Lake, they must still follow the regulations of the state in which they are fishing.

Fish Species and Regulations

Kentucky Lake is home to a variety of fish species, including:

Black Bass: Largemouth, Smallmouth, and Spotted Bass are abundant in Kentucky Lake. The daily creel limit for all three species is five in any combination, with a minimum length limit of 15 inches on Largemouth and Smallmouth Bass. There is no length limit on Spotted Bass.
Crappie: Both Black and White Crappies are popular among anglers in Kentucky Lake. The daily creel limit for both species is twenty in any combination, with a minimum length limit of 10 inches.
Other Species: Kentucky Lake also supports populations of Bluegill, Redear Sunfish, Catfish (three species), White Bass, and Sauger.

Anglers should familiarize themselves with the specific regulations and size limits for each species in the state where they are fishing.

Fish Habitats and Attractors

Over the years, various fish habitats and attractors have been placed in Kentucky Lake to help anglers locate and catch fish. These include:

Christmas trees: Shallow-water stake beds and deep-water treetops
Artificial structures: Shallow-water fish attractor sites marked with PVC pipe and deep-water sites marked with buoys
Cypress trees: Planted in certain areas during low water conditions to stabilize substrate and provide additional habitat during higher water levels

Information about the locations and types of fish habitats and attractors in Kentucky Lake can be found on the Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency website.

Tips for Fishing Success

To increase your chances of success when fishing in Kentucky Lake, consider the following tips:

Bass Fishing: Bass fishing is successful year-round, and fish location can vary depending on water temperature and depth. Bass prefer areas with rock banks, natural habitats, and channel drops. Popular baits include deep diving crankbaits, Alabama rigs, artificial worms, and jigs.
Crappie Fishing: December to March is the prime fishing timeframe for crappies in Kentucky Lake. The most popular areas are located on the downstream side of TVA dams like Pickwick Dam. Baits usually consist of minnows or small jigs.

Remember to always check the latest regulations and size limits for the state in which you are fishing, and be mindful of any seasonal closures or special restrictions.

With its diverse fish populations, abundant fish habitats, and reciprocal fishing agreement between Kentucky and Tennessee, Kentucky Lake offers anglers a unique and exciting fishing experience. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, be sure to take advantage of this incredible resource in 2024 and beyond.