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

If you’re an avid angler looking to explore the abundant fishing opportunities in Kentucky Lake, you might be wondering if your Tennessee fishing license is valid in these waters. The good news is that thanks to a reciprocal agreement between Kentucky and Tennessee, anglers can fish with either a Kentucky or Tennessee fishing license in a specific portion of Kentucky Lake.

The Reciprocal Agreement

According to the Kentucky Department of Fish and Wildlife, anglers can fish with either a Kentucky or Tennessee fishing license 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. This agreement allows anglers to enjoy the diverse fish species and habitats found in this section of the lake without the need for a separate license from each state.

However, it’s important to note that anglers must abide by the fishing regulations of the state in which they are fishing. This means that if you’re fishing in Kentucky waters, you must follow Kentucky’s size and creel limits, while Tennessee’s regulations apply if you’re fishing in Tennessee waters.

Fishing Opportunities in Kentucky Lake

Kentucky Lake is a popular destination for anglers seeking a variety of fish species. The reservoir is home to abundant populations of largemouth bass, smallmouth bass, bluegill, redear sunfish, catfish, white crappie, black crappie, sauger, and white bass. The average weight of angler-harvested largemouth bass has exceeded 2.3 pounds during the last ten years, making it a prime target for bass anglers.

To enhance the fishing experience, various fish habitats have been placed in the reservoir over the years, including Christmas trees, shallow-water stake beds, deep-water treetops, and artificial structures. These habitats help concentrate fish for anglers and provide valuable cover for different species.

Fishing Tips for Kentucky Lake

Anglers can find success fishing Kentucky Lake year-round, with fish location varying depending on water temperature and depth. Bass prefer areas with rock banks, natural habitats, and channel drops. Effective baits for bass include deep diving crankbaits, Alabama rigs, artificial worms, and jigs.

For crappie anglers, December to March is the prime fishing timeframe, with the most popular areas located on the downstream side of TVA dams like Pickwick Dam. Crappies prefer cover at different depths depending on water temperature and time of year.

Purchasing Fishing Licenses

To fish in Kentucky Lake, anglers 16 years and older in Kentucky and 13 years and older in Tennessee are required to have a valid fishing license. Fishing licenses can be purchased online or at many of the resorts surrounding the Land Between the Lakes and at local businesses.

It’s important to note that while the Land Between the Lakes National Recreation Area does not require a special fishing license, anglers must still have a license issued by the state in which they are fishing.

Planning Your Fishing Trip

With its abundant fishing opportunities and reciprocal agreement between Kentucky and Tennessee, Kentucky Lake is an excellent destination for anglers in 2024. Before planning your trip, be sure to familiarize yourself with the specific regulations and creel limits for the state in which you’ll be fishing.

To make the most of your fishing adventure, consider booking a comfortable cabin or lodge along the shores of Kentucky Lake or Lake Barkley. With so many natural wonders and attractions in the Land Between the Lakes area, you and your family can enjoy a memorable fishing retreat filled with good times and lasting memories.