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Omnia Fishing

J Percy Priest Reservoir

Published: Updated:

Spring Fishing Patterns on J Percy Priest Reservoir

SeasonSpeciesWater TempBehavioral PatternsKey LocationsBest TechniquesForage TypesBait Colors
Spring (Pre-Spawn)Largemouth Bass52-70
  • Pre-spawn largemouth bass are actively staging near spawning areas and feeding heavily to prepare for the spawn. Fish are transitioning from winter areas to shallower pre-spawn locations, particularly utilizing rocky structure and bluff walls as transition routes.
  • Fish are showing increased aggression and feeding activity, especially during warmer afternoon periods, as indicated by the reports of fish 'hammering' baits.
  • Bluff walls and boulder areas, particularly in transition zones leading to spawning flats
  • Rip rap banks receiving afternoon sun
  • Laydowns and wood cover adjacent to potential spawning areas
  • Finesse Jigs worked slowly along rocky structure
  • Ned Rigs targeting rocky areas and rip rap
  • Bladed Jigs for covering water and targeting active fish
  • Spinnerbaits around laydowns and in wind-blown areas
  • Crawfish emerging from winter dormancy
  • Bluegill in shallow cover
  • Shad schools in transition areas
  • Vibrant Craw Colors
  • Dark Neutrals
  • Bold Striped Patterns
Spring (Pre-Spawn)Smallmouth Bass52-60
  • Pre-spawn smallmouth are actively feeding on crawfish while transitioning from winter to spawning areas, particularly active on windblown points
  • Fish are moving from deeper wintering areas to staging areas near spawning flats, using points as transitional structures
  • Windblown main lake points with access to deeper water
  • Rocky transition areas between deep winter haunts and spawning flats
  • Secondary points in major creek arms with good rock content
  • Medium Diving Crankbaits (7'-12') worked along point transitions
  • Tubes dragged on bottom focusing on rocky areas
  • Ned Rigs worked slowly on points and transitions
  • Crawfish emerging from winter dormancy
  • Small baitfish relating to points
  • Vibrant Craw Colors
  • Bold Striped Patterns
Spring (Pre-Spawn)Striped Bass52-65
  • Striped bass are transitioning from winter deep-water patterns to more active pre-spawn movements, following bait schools into creek arms and towards spawning areas
  • Fish are particularly active during early morning and late evening periods, staging near points and channel edges that provide access to spawning tributaries
  • Main lake points adjacent to creek channels that provide staging areas near spawning tributaries
  • Bluff walls near deep water access that offer current breaks and ambush points
  • Secondary points in major creek arms where bait schools congregate
  • Umbrella Rigs worked along depth transitions to mimic shad schools
  • Soft Body Swimbaits (Large) slow-rolled through suspended bait schools
  • Vertical Jigging Mid Depth (10-19') around active bait schools
  • Shad schools beginning to move shallower with warming water
  • Smaller baitfish congregating near spawning areas
  • Bold Striped Patterns
  • Chartreuse Colors
  • Dark Neutrals
Spring (Pre-Spawn)White Bass52-65
  • Pre-spawn white bass are actively staging near points and moving into tributary areas, aggressively feeding on shad in preparation for spawning
  • Fish are schooling in the upper water column, particularly during morning hours, targeting shad in relatively shallow water due to turbid conditions
  • Main lake points near tributary arms and spawning areas
  • Open water areas with active shad schools
  • Secondary points in major creek arms
  • Shallow Diving Crankbaits (0-6') worked along points and shallow flats
  • Lipless Crankbaits retrieved at varying speeds through schooling fish
  • Soft Body Swimbaits (Small/Medium) for imitating shad in open water
  • Shad (primary forage based on multiple reports)
  • Small baitfish concentrating near spawning areas
  • Bold Striped Patterns
  • Chartreuse Colors
  • Dark Neutrals
Spring (Pre-Spawn)Crappie52-65
  • Pre-spawn crappie are transitioning from deeper winter haunts to shallower staging areas, becoming more active with warming water
  • Fish are moving towards spawning areas but still relating heavily to structure, suspending near brush piles and points in 8-15ft
  • Feeding activity increases as water warms, with most aggressive feeding during warmer afternoons
  • Secondary points leading into spawning coves, especially those with brush piles in 8-15ft
  • Steep banks with brush pile structure near spawning flats
  • Protected coves with deeper staging areas adjacent to eventual spawning grounds
  • Crappie Spider Rigging
  • Vertical Jigging Mid Depth (10-19')
  • Crappie Sniping (Casting/Single Poling)
  • Shad concentrations in pre-spawn staging areas
  • Small baitfish gathering in warming waters
  • Chartreuse Colors
  • Pink Colors
  • Bold Striped Patterns
Spring (Pre-Spawn)Spotted Bass52-65
  • Spotted bass are transitioning from winter patterns to pre-spawn, moving from deeper winter haunts to staging areas near spawning flats
  • Fish are becoming more aggressive and active as water temperatures rise, feeding heavily to prepare for spawning
  • Morning and afternoon feeding windows are extending with increasing daylight
  • Rocky points and transition areas adjacent to spawning flats
  • Steep bluff walls with nearby shallow flats
  • Channel swings near coves that will be used for spawning
  • Lipless Crankbaits worked along transition areas from deep to shallow
  • Bladed Jigs around rocky points and near shad schools
  • Shakey Heads worked slowly on bluff walls and rocky areas
  • Shad schools congregating in pre-spawn areas
  • Crawfish becoming more active in rocky areas as water warms
  • Small bluegill in shallow feeding areas
  • Vibrant Craw Colors
  • Bold Striped Patterns
  • Chartreuse Colors
Spring (Pre-Spawn)Trout45-58
  • Trout are actively feeding in dam tailwater areas where cool, oxygenated water provides ideal conditions
  • Fish are showing aggressive feeding behavior, willing to chase inline spinners in the current
  • Dam tailwater area with consistent cool water releases
  • Current breaks and eddies below the dam
  • Deeper pools in tailwater section where trout can rest
  • Inline Spinners
  • Soft Body Swimbaits (Small/Medium)
  • Live Bait Rigs
  • Shad
  • Various aquatic insects in tailwater
  • Chartreuse Colors
  • Bold Striped Patterns
  • Pink Colors
Spring (Pre-Spawn)Panfish / Bluegill58-68
  • Pre-spawn bluegill are transitioning from winter patterns to shallow staging areas, becoming more active as water temperatures rise
  • Fish are beginning to feed more aggressively but still relating strongly to cover in 4-8 foot depth range
  • Brush piles and stumps in 4-6 foot range near potential spawning flats
  • Edges of submerged vegetation in 4-6 foot depth
  • Protected coves with warming water temperatures
  • Bobbers with small jigs suspended at precise depths near cover
  • Ice Fishing Jigs worked slowly around structure
  • Live Bait Rigs with small minnows or worms
  • Small insects and larvae emerging with warming water
  • Tiny baitfish and shad fry
  • Small crustaceans near woody cover
  • Chartreuse Colors
  • Pink Colors
  • Dark Neutrals
Spring (Spawn)Largemouth Bass58-65
  • Bass are actively engaged in spawning behavior, moving into shallow protected areas with water temperatures around 60°F
  • Fish are territorial and aggressive, defending nesting sites in shallow water 1-3 feet deep
  • Feeding activity is opportunistic, with fish willing to strike both to feed and defend nests
  • Rocky areas in 1-3 feet of water, particularly those with good spawning substrate
  • Protected coves with stable water conditions
  • Shallow areas near bluff walls offering quick deep water access
  • Shakey Heads worked slowly through spawning areas
  • Texas Rigs (Pitch/Flip) for precise presentations around visible beds
  • Soft Jerkbaits for covering water between spawning areas
  • Bluegill moving into shallow spawning areas
  • Shad transitioning to spawning flats
  • Vibrant Craw Colors
  • Dark Neutrals
  • Pink Colors
Spring (Spawn)Smallmouth Bass55-65
  • Smallmouth bass transitioning to spawning areas, males preparing and guarding nests in protected areas with hard bottom
  • Pre-spawn feeding activity increases as water warms, with fish staging near spawning flats
  • Fish become more aggressive and territorial as they establish spawning territories
  • Protected rocky coves and pockets with gravel or rock bottom in 2-8 foot depth
  • Secondary points adjacent to spawning bays
  • Windblown rocky points near deeper water access
  • Tubes worked slowly along rocky bottoms
  • Ned Rigs dragged through spawning areas
  • Shallow Diving Crankbaits (0-6') worked parallel to shoreline structure
  • Crawfish emerging from winter dormancy
  • Small baitfish beginning to school in spawning areas
  • Juvenile bluegill in shallow covers
  • Vibrant Craw Colors
  • Dark Neutrals
  • Pink Colors
Spring (Spawn)Striped Bass58-68
  • Striped bass are in pre-spawn to spawning patterns, actively feeding in shallow to mid-depth zones during early morning hours
  • Fish are showing strong structure-oriented behavior, utilizing docks and adjacent areas as staging points
  • Aggressive feeding periods during low-light conditions, especially early morning, due to the lake's stained water (1.1m Secchi)
  • Docks and adjacent shallow flats in spawning pockets
  • Main lake points near deep water access
  • Creek channel intersections with spawning flats
  • Bladed Jigs worked parallel to dock edges
  • Umbrella Rigs for actively feeding fish
  • Soft Body Swimbaits (Large) for imitating shad
  • Shad schools in pre-spawn patterns
  • Small baitfish gathering near spawning areas
  • Bold Striped Patterns
  • Chartreuse Colors
  • Dark Neutrals
Spring (Spawn)White Bass52-65
  • White bass actively moving to river channels and creek arms for spawning, forming large schools in pre-spawn staging areas
  • Fish transitioning between deeper wintering areas and shallow spawning zones, often using points as migration routes
  • Aggressive feeding periods during early morning and late evening, especially in shallower water
  • Creek arms and river channel intersections where spawning runs occur
  • Main lake points adjacent to spawning tributaries
  • Shallow flats (3-8 feet) near tributary mouths
  • Blade Baits worked with quick, vertical snaps in staging areas
  • Inline Spinners retrieved steadily in shallow spawning areas
  • Soft Body Swimbaits (Small/Medium) worked along migration routes
  • Pre-spawn shad schools in tributary areas
  • Small baitfish congregating near spawning areas
  • Juvenile shad in warming shallow bays
  • Chartreuse Colors
  • Bold Striped Patterns
  • Dark Neutrals
Spring (Spawn)Crappie58-68
  • Crappie are moving into shallower staging areas near spawning flats in 3-8 feet of water
  • Fish are becoming more aggressive as water warms, actively feeding before spawning
  • Males beginning to establish and guard nesting areas in protected coves and pockets
  • Protected shallow coves with brush or structure in 3-8 feet
  • Secondary points leading into spawning pockets
  • Shallow brush piles adjacent to spawning flats
  • Crappie Dock Shooting
  • Bobbers
  • Crappie Sniping (Casting/Single Poling)
  • Shad fry and small juveniles
  • Small minnows gathering in spawning areas
  • Chartreuse Colors
  • Pink Colors
  • Bold Striped Patterns
Spring (Spawn)Spotted Bass58-68
  • Spotted bass are moving into shallower spawning areas, particularly in protected coves and pockets with hard bottom
  • Males are actively guarding nests while females stage on nearby points and ledges between spawning phases
  • Feeding becomes more aggressive during pre-spawn, with brief windows of intense activity
  • Protected rocky pockets and coves with gravel or small rock bottom
  • Secondary points leading into spawning areas
  • Bluff walls adjacent to spawning pockets
  • Texas Rigs (Pitch/Flip)
  • Shakey Heads
  • Bladed Jigs
  • Soft Body Swimbaits (Small/Medium)
  • Crawfish emerging from winter dormancy
  • Shad schools in pre-spawn patterns
  • Small bluegill in spawning areas
  • Vibrant Craw Colors
  • Dark Neutrals
  • Bold Striped Patterns
Spring (Spawn)Trout52-62
  • Trout are actively feeding in the dam tailwater area where water temperatures and oxygen levels are optimal for spring activity
  • Fish are concentrating near current breaks and structure where they can ambush prey while conserving energy
  • More aggressive feeding behavior during dawn and dusk periods when light penetration is less of a factor in the turbid water
  • Dam tailwater area with consistent cool water releases
  • Current breaks and eddies near the dam structure
  • Deeper pools with structure that provide holding areas near oxygenated water
  • Inline Spinners worked through current seams
  • Live Bait Rigs with suspended presentations
  • Soft Body Swimbaits (Small/Medium) mimicking shad
  • Shad concentrating in tailwater area
  • Small baitfish drawn to current
  • Aquatic insects in oxygenated water
  • Chartreuse Colors
  • Bold Striped Patterns
  • Pink Colors
Spring (Spawn)Panfish / Bluegill65-75
  • Actively spawning in shallow water areas, particularly around vegetation and brush piles in 2-6 foot depth range
  • Males aggressively guarding nests and striking at threats, while females stage slightly deeper near spawning areas
  • Protected coves with submerged vegetation in 4-6 foot range
  • Shallow flats near brush piles and stumps in 2-4 foot depth
  • Back areas of coves with firm bottom composition
  • Bobbers with small jigs suspended 2-4 feet deep
  • Live Bait Rigs with small hooks and light line
  • Micro Crankbaits worked slowly around spawning areas
  • Small insects and larvae around vegetation
  • Small crustaceans in shallow areas
  • Tiny baitfish fry near spawning areas
  • Chartreuse Colors
  • Dark Neutrals
  • Pink Colors
Spring (Post-Spawn)Largemouth Bass70-78
  • Post-spawn largemouth are transitioning from shallow spawning areas to early summer patterns, actively feeding to recover energy
  • Fish are showing mixed depth patterns - some still shallow in 1-4ft range while others moving to deeper structure, suggesting a gradual migration phase
  • Most active during early morning periods before sun gets high, particularly in shallow zones
  • Stump fields in 4-6 foot range, especially those near deeper water access
  • Protected coves with boulders and laydowns
  • Marina boat slips and dock areas
  • Ledges where fish are beginning to stage for summer patterns
  • Shallow Diving Crankbaits (0-6') worked through stump fields
  • Hard Topwater (Popping) in shallow water during early morning
  • Soft Body Swimbaits (Small/Medium) in coves and around boulders
  • Bladed Jigs around boat slips when wind is present
  • Minnows/Shad schooling in coves and around structure
  • Bluegill in shallow areas around cover
  • Crawfish active around rocky structure and stumps
  • Chartreuse Colors
  • Vibrant Craw Colors
  • Bold Striped Patterns
Spring (Post-Spawn)Smallmouth Bass58-80
  • Post-spawn smallmouth are actively feeding to recover energy, moving between shallow and mid-depth areas with shad schools present in creek channels
  • Fish showing morning shallow water activity near docks and moving deeper during midday as temperatures rise
  • Boat docks in shallow water, particularly during morning hours
  • Creek channels on main lake where shad are congregating
  • Rock piles and points with access to deeper water
  • Bladed Jigs with trailers, especially effective in morning hours
  • Tubes worked around structure
  • Soft Body Swimbaits (Small/Medium) to match shad presence
  • Shad schools in creek channels
  • Bluegill in shallow areas near docks
  • Vibrant Craw Colors
  • Bold Striped Patterns
Spring (Post-Spawn)Striped Bass58-72
  • Post-spawn striped bass are actively feeding and recuperating, targeting shad schools in transition areas between shallow and deep water
  • Fish are most active during low-light periods, especially early morning, as evidenced by recent bank fishing success
  • Stripers are utilizing points and creek arms as ambush locations to intercept bait schools
  • Main lake points and secondary points in creek arms, particularly at Smith Springs cove
  • Creek channel intersections with major points
  • Shallow flats adjacent to deeper water, especially during early morning
  • Bladed Jigs worked along points and through shad schools
  • Soft Body Swimbaits (Large) slow-rolled near structure
  • Umbrella Rigs for actively feeding fish chasing shad
  • Shad schools concentrated around points and creek arms
  • Small baitfish transitioning to summer patterns
  • Bold Striped Patterns
  • Chartreuse Colors
  • Light Neutral Colors
Spring (Post-Spawn)White Bass58-72
  • Aggressively feeding in post-spawn recovery phase, forming medium-sized schools around baitfish concentrations, particularly during morning and evening periods
  • Moving between points and creek arms following shad movements, with increased surface feeding activity when birds are present
  • Main lake points adjacent to creek channels where shad are congregating
  • Shallow flats (8-15 feet) near river channel edges
  • Creek arm mouths with baitfish activity, especially during low light periods
  • Soft Body Swimbaits (Small/Medium) worked at varied speeds through the upper water column
  • Inline Spinners cast and retrieved parallel to points where baitfish are present
  • Lipless Crankbaits burned through schools when surface activity is spotted
  • Shad schools congregating near points and channel edges
  • Small baitfish in shallow creek arms
  • Chartreuse Colors
  • Bold Striped Patterns
  • Dark Neutrals
Spring (Post-Spawn)Crappie65-75
  • Post-spawn crappie transitioning from shallow spawning areas to deeper summer haunts, actively feeding to recover energy
  • Fish relating heavily to brush piles in 12-18ft range as staging areas during transition
  • Feeding activity peaks during morning and evening periods with scattered schools
  • Brush piles near spawning flats in 12-18ft range
  • Secondary points with access to deeper water
  • Deep dock areas adjacent to spawning coves
  • Crappie Spider Rigging
  • Vertical Jigging Mid Depth (10-19')
  • Crappie Long Lining (Pulling/Trolling)
  • Adult and juvenile shad in 8-15ft depth range
  • Small bluegill and sunfish fry near brush piles
  • Chartreuse Colors
  • Bold Striped Patterns
  • Pink Colors
Spring (Post-Spawn)Spotted Bass58-72
  • Post-spawn spotted bass are actively feeding during early morning hours, transitioning from nighttime shallow water feeding to deeper water during the day
  • Fish are relating to transition areas between spawning flats and deeper water, using rock piles and points as primary feeding stations
  • Rock piles and points adjacent to spawning pockets
  • Shallow to mid-depth transition areas near channel edges
  • Bluff walls with access to deep water
  • Soft Body Swimbaits (Small/Medium) worked parallel to points and transition areas
  • Carolina Rigs dragged along rocky bottom structure
  • Shakey Heads worked around rock piles and points
  • Shad
  • Crawfish emerging from rocky areas
  • Vibrant Craw Colors
  • Bold Striped Patterns
  • Chartreuse Colors
Spring (Post-Spawn)Trout52-62
  • Actively feeding in tailwater areas where cool, oxygenated water provides optimal conditions post-spawn
  • Concentrating near current breaks and structure where shad gather in the relatively turbid water
  • Dam tailwater area with consistent cool water releases
  • Current breaks and eddies near the dam structure
  • Deeper pools with structure where cooler water collects
  • Inline Spinners worked through current seams
  • Live Bait Rigs with suspended presentations
  • Trolling Shallow (0-9') near dam structure
  • Shad
  • Small Baitfish
  • Aquatic Insects
  • Chartreuse Colors
  • Bold Striped Patterns
  • Pink Colors
Spring (Post-Spawn)Panfish / Bluegill65-75
  • Post-spawn bluegill are actively feeding and recovering in shallow water zones, particularly around submerged vegetation in 4-6 foot depth range
  • Fish are utilizing vegetation edges and brush piles for protection while maintaining proximity to feeding areas
  • Submerged vegetation beds in 4-6 foot depth range
  • Brush piles and stumps in shallow water zones
  • Protected coves with emerging vegetation
  • Drop Shot with light tungsten weights (1/8 oz) and small hooks
  • Bobbers with suspended baits near vegetation edges
  • Finesse Hair Jigs worked slowly through cover
  • Small aquatic insects and larvae
  • Tiny crustaceans
  • Small worms and leeches
  • Chartreuse Colors
  • Bold Striped Patterns
  • Pink Colors

Summer Fishing Patterns

SeasonSpeciesWater TempBehavioral PatternsKey LocationsBest TechniquesForage TypesBait Colors
SummerLargemouth Bass75-85
  • Bass are showing a dual pattern: early morning shallow feeding activity near grass and laydowns, transitioning to deeper structure during midday heat
  • Fish are relating strongly to thermoclines and actively feeding around baitfish schools, particularly near channel swing areas and rocky structure
  • Brush piles and ledges in 14-23 foot depth range, especially those near river channel swings
  • Rocky points and bluff walls with nearby deep water access
  • Early morning shallow grass lines and laydowns in 5-10 foot range
  • Shakey Heads worked slowly along deeper structure and bluff walls
  • Texas Rigs (Worming) around shallow cover early and late in day
  • Soft Jerkbaits when fish are actively chasing shad near surface
  • Shad - primary forage evidenced by multiple reports of fish chasing shad schools
  • Bluegill - secondary forage pattern noted in shallow areas
  • Dark Neutrals
  • Vibrant Craw Colors
  • Bold Striped Patterns
SummerSmallmouth Bass78-84
  • Smallmouth bass are holding in deeper water (12-15 feet) during summer heat, primarily relating to vertical structure and points, especially those with wind exposure
  • Fish are actively feeding on shad in deeper water, using bluff walls and points as ambush locations
  • Bluff walls in 10-20 feet of water
  • Wind-blown points in 12-15 feet
  • Deep river channel edges near structure
  • Shakey Heads with finesse worms worked slowly along bluff walls and points
  • Deep Diving Crankbaits (13'+) on wind-blown points
  • Drop Shot rigs in deeper water along vertical structure
  • Shad schools in deeper water
  • Crawfish along rocky structure
  • Chartreuse Colors
  • Vibrant Craw Colors
  • Bold Striped Patterns
SummerStriped Bass74-76
  • Active early morning feeding on shad, particularly from 5:30-7:00 AM as reported, with aggressive surface feeding behavior
  • Moving between points and creek arms following bait schools, showing consistent feeding patterns around bait concentrations
  • Transitioning deeper during midday hours when temperatures rise, seeking thermal refuge while maintaining proximity to bait
  • Points adjacent to creek arms, especially in Hamilton Creek area where recent catches occurred
  • Boat ramp areas and rip rap during early morning shad spawn activity
  • Mid-depth structure near baitfish schools, particularly around boulder areas
  • Medium Diving Crankbaits (7'-12') with shad-pattern baits during active feeding periods
  • Hard Topwater (Popping) during early morning surface feeding activity
  • Trolling Mid Depth (10-19') when fish are more scattered or during transition periods
  • Shad (primary forage, with active spawn noted in reports)
  • Surface-oriented baitfish schools
  • Bold Striped Patterns
  • Chartreuse Colors
SummerWhite Bass68-84
  • Schooling actively in upper-middle water column (8-15 feet) pursuing shad, particularly during early morning hours
  • Using creek arms and points as primary feeding zones, with increased activity during low-light periods due to turbid conditions
  • Back sections of major creek arms where baitfish are schooling
  • Main lake points adjacent to river channels
  • Shallow flats (8-12 feet) near channel swings where shad congregate
  • Soft Body Swimbaits (Small/Medium) worked at various depths through schooling fish
  • Underspins retrieved steadily through bait schools
  • Hard Topwater (Walking) during early morning surface feeding activity
  • Shad schools in upper water column
  • Small baitfish in creek arms
  • Bold Striped Patterns
  • Chartreuse Colors
  • Dark Neutrals
SummerCrappie75-85
  • Crappie are suspending near deep brush piles and following shad schools in depths of 20'+ during summer heat
  • Fish are schooling tightly and feeding actively when bait schools are located, with both keeper-size and smaller fish grouped together
  • Deep brush piles in 20'+ of water
  • Open water areas with suspended shad schools
  • Deep creek channel edges near structure
  • Trolling Deep (20'+)
  • Crappie Spider Rigging
  • Vertical Jigging Deep (20'+
  • Shad
  • Small sunfish
  • Chartreuse Colors
  • Bold Striped Patterns
  • Pink Colors
SummerSpotted Bass65-78
  • Spotted bass are transitioning to deeper summer patterns, actively feeding on ledges and bluff walls
  • Fish are most active during early morning hours, following shad schools and hunting crawfish near rocky structure
  • Bluff walls transitioning to deeper ledges
  • Deep rocky points with access to channel edges
  • Secondary points with scattered rock piles
  • Carolina Rigs dragged along depth transitions
  • Deep Diving Crankbaits (13'+) worked parallel to bluff walls
  • Football Jigs worked through rocky areas
  • Crawfish in rocky areas
  • Shad schools near channel edges and points
  • Vibrant Craw Colors
  • Bold Striped Patterns
  • Chartreuse Colors
SummerTrout58-68
  • Trout concentrated in dam tailwater areas seeking thermal refuge and higher oxygen levels during summer heat
  • Most active during early morning and late evening when water temperatures are coolest
  • Suspending near current breaks and deeper pockets where cool water congregates
  • Dam tailwater area with consistent cool water releases
  • Deep pockets and current breaks near dam structure
  • Shaded areas with good oxygen content near dam
  • Inline Spinners worked through current seams
  • Live Bait Rigs near bottom in deeper holes
  • Trolling Shallow (0-9') in early morning and evening
  • Shad
  • Small baitfish in current
  • Aquatic insects in tailwater area
  • Chartreuse Colors
  • Vibrant Craw Colors
  • Bold Striped Patterns
SummerPanfish / Bluegill75-85
  • Actively spawning and feeding in shallow water zones (2-6 feet) around vegetation and brush piles
  • Most active during early morning and evening hours, seeking shade during mid-day heat
  • Forming large colonies around prime spawning areas with males guarding nests
  • Submerged vegetation beds in 4-6 foot range
  • Brush piles and stumps in shallow water zones
  • Shaded areas under laydowns and near shoreline structure
  • Bobbers with light tackle suspended at 2-4 feet
  • Live Bait Rigs worked slowly through vegetation
  • Ice Fishing Jigs (small presentations) worked vertically near cover
  • Aquatic insects and larvae in vegetation
  • Small crustaceans near brush piles
  • Juvenile shad in shallow water
  • Chartreuse Colors
  • Bold Striped Patterns
  • Pink Colors

Fall Fishing Guide for J Percy Priest Reservoir

SeasonSpeciesWater TempBehavioral PatternsKey LocationsBest TechniquesForage TypesBait Colors
FallLargemouth Bass64-76
  • Bass are actively chasing shad and minnows in shallow to mid-depth zones, with clear signs of schooling activity beginning
  • Fish are transitioning between summer and fall patterns, becoming more aggressive as water temperatures drop into the low 70s
  • Feeding activity is concentrated around bait balls and in areas where current or wind positions forage
  • Areas with concentrated bait balls, particularly in coves and creek mouths
  • River channel ledges and adjacent structure in 10-15 foot range
  • Shallow flats and points where shad are present
  • Bladed Jigs worked around bait concentrations
  • Shakey Heads on ledges and deeper structure
  • Hard Topwater (Walking) early morning and during shad activity
  • Drop Shot when fish are suspended near bait schools
  • Shad - primary forage based on multiple recent reports
  • Minnows - mentioned frequently in shallow water catches
  • Chartreuse Colors
  • Natural Baitfish Colors
  • Vibrant Craw Colors
FallSmallmouth Bass52-68
  • Smallmouth bass actively feeding on baitfish and crawfish, following shad schools and staging near structural elements that provide access to both shallow and deep water
  • Fish transitioning between summer deep water patterns and shallow feeding areas, becoming more aggressive as water temperatures cool
  • Wind-blown main lake points with rock structure in 10-20 foot depth range
  • Deep bluff walls adjacent to baitfish schools
  • Rock piles and hard-bottom transitions near river channel edges
  • Drop Shot with small profile baits worked slowly along depth transitions
  • Spinnerbaits worked along windblown points and structure edges
  • Medium Diving Crankbaits (7'-12') worked parallel to bluff walls
  • Shad schools transitioning from deep summer locations to shallower areas
  • Crawfish becoming more active on rocky structure during moderate temperatures
  • Vibrant Craw Colors
  • Bold Striped Patterns
  • Dark Neutrals
FallStriped Bass58-65
  • Actively schooling and feeding on shad, following bait schools with heavy feeding activity indicated by bird (gull) presence
  • Most aggressive feeding during low-light periods, with extended feeding windows lasting up to 45 minutes when bait is located
  • Open water areas where birds are actively diving, indicating bait schools
  • Points and creek channels near deep water access
  • Bluff walls adjacent to bait-holding areas
  • Spoons - vertical jigged through active bait schools
  • Soft Body Swimbaits (Large) - for actively feeding fish near the surface
  • Umbrella Rigs - effective when fish are scattered but actively feeding
  • Shad - primary forage based on recent reports and bird activity
  • Other baitfish schools concentrated in fall patterns
  • Bold Striped Patterns
  • Chartreuse Colors
  • Natural Baitfish Colors
FallWhite Bass58-72
  • Moving in large schools following shad migrations to creek arms and coves, actively feeding on surface-schooling baitfish during low-light periods
  • Concentrating around channel swings and points that intersect baitfish migration routes, becoming more aggressive as water temperatures cool
  • Main lake points and channel swings where baitfish schools congregate
  • Creek arm mouths with depth transitions in 10-15 foot range
  • Shallow flats adjacent to deeper water where shad schools are present
  • Blade Baits worked vertically through suspended schools
  • Lipless Crankbaits retrieved at varying speeds to trigger reaction strikes
  • Soft Body Swimbaits (Small/Medium) worked at mid-depths following baitfish schools
  • Schooling shad migrating to creek arms
  • Small baitfish concentrating around points and channel edges
  • Chartreuse Colors
  • Bold Striped Patterns
  • Dark Neutrals
FallCrappie58-68
  • Crappie are transitioning to deeper brush piles, suspending near structure as water temperatures cool
  • Fish are actively feeding on shad schools, using brush piles as ambush points
  • Brush piles in 14-23 foot depth range
  • Deep creek channel bends with adjacent structure
  • Points and coves with vertical structure
  • Crappie Sniping (Casting/Single Poling) with LiveScope technology
  • Vertical Jigging Mid Depth (10-19')
  • Hover/Mid-Strolling near brush pile areas
  • Shad - primary forage base
  • Small sunfish around brush structure
  • Chartreuse Colors
  • Bold Striped Patterns
  • Pink Colors
FallSpotted Bass58-72
  • Actively chasing shad schools in creek arms and along main lake points as baitfish migrate to shallower water
  • Moving between shallow and mid-depth zones throughout the day, with more aggressive feeding during overcast conditions
  • Main lake points with rocky structure adjacent to deep water
  • Creek channel edges where bluff walls intersect with ledges
  • Shallow rock piles near channel swings in 8-15 feet of water
  • Soft Body Swimbaits (Small/Medium) worked parallel to points and channel edges
  • Spinnerbaits retrieved at varying speeds around rocky structure
  • Shakey Heads worked slowly along bluff walls and ledges
  • Shad schools migrating to creek arms
  • Crawfish in rocky areas
  • Vibrant Craw Colors
  • Bold Striped Patterns
  • Chartreuse Colors
FallTrout52-65
  • Trout becoming more active in the dam tailwater area as water temperatures cool, showing increased feeding activity
  • Fish staging in areas with higher oxygen content and following shad schools when actively feeding
  • Dam tailwater area with consistent cool water releases
  • Deep pools and eddies near the dam structure
  • Areas where cooler tributary waters enter the tailwater
  • Inline Spinners retrieved at moderate speeds to trigger reaction strikes
  • Live Bait Rigs with small minnows or worms near bottom structure
  • Spoons worked through current breaks and deeper pools
  • Shad schools congregating in tailwater area
  • Small baitfish and minnows
  • Aquatic insects and larvae in current
  • Chartreuse Colors
  • Bold Striped Patterns
  • Pink Colors
FallPanfish / Bluegill62-72
  • Bluegill are transitioning to deeper structure (4-6 ft) around brush piles and weed edges as water temperatures cool
  • Fish are schooling more tightly and feeding heavily to build energy reserves for winter
  • Active feeding periods are concentrated during warmer afternoon hours
  • Brush piles and stumps in 4-6 foot range
  • Deep edges of weed beds
  • Protected coves with remaining vegetation
  • Live Bait Rigs with small crawler pieces or waxworms
  • Vertical Jigging Shallow (0-9') with micro jigs
  • Bobbers with suspended baits near cover
  • Aquatic insects and larvae
  • Small crustaceans
  • Tiny baitfish fry
  • Chartreuse Colors
  • Pink Colors
  • Dark Neutrals

Winter & Ice Fishing Patterns

SeasonSpeciesWater TempBehavioral PatternsKey LocationsBest TechniquesForage TypesBait Colors
WinterLargemouth Bass46-59
  • Fish are maintaining relatively active feeding patterns in 46-52°F range, particularly around wind-blown points and areas with less current
  • Suspending and schooling behavior noted, especially when relating to bait balls in deeper water
  • Moving between deeper winter holding areas and shallower feeding zones, with activity increasing on warmer days
  • Wind-blown main lake points, especially those with rock structure in 10-14 foot range
  • Protected areas with minimal current near deep water access
  • Rocky bluff walls and ledges in 8-10 foot depth
  • Areas where bait balls are congregating, particularly near structure
  • Drop Shot with subtle presentations in deeper, calmer areas
  • Medium diving crankbaits (7-12') worked along wind-blown points
  • Damiki rig for suspended fish around bait schools
  • Shakey heads worked slowly along rocky structure
  • Shad congregating in large schools, particularly visible along bluffs
  • Crawfish in rocky areas, especially active on warmer winter days
  • Vibrant Craw Colors
  • Natural Shad Colors
  • Dark Neutrals
WinterSmallmouth Bass43-48
  • Smallmouth bass are holding tight to hard structure (rock piles, points) and responding to slow-moving presentations
  • Fish are actively feeding on crawfish in the 43-48°F temperature range, with aggressive strikes when baits are worked near bottom structure
  • Rocky points with access to deeper water
  • Rock piles in 10-20 foot depth range
  • River channel structure including laydowns
  • Football Jigs worked slowly along bottom structure
  • Finesse Jigs with subtle movements
  • Soft Body Swimbaits (Small/Medium) worked methodically
  • Crawfish - primary winter forage based on multiple recent catches
  • Small bottom-dwelling baitfish
  • Vibrant Craw Colors
  • Dark Neutrals
WinterStriped Bass48-54
  • Striped bass actively feeding on deep bait schools, typically in 25-30 ft of water, with aggressive strikes reported on moving baits
  • Fish are schooling with white bass around concentrated bait pods, showing increased activity during rainfall events
  • Deep points where coves meet main lake body, especially near marina areas
  • Areas with concentrated bait schools in 25-30 ft depths
  • Creek channel edges and deeper structure adjacent to shallow feeding zones
  • Vertical Jigging Deep (20'+)
  • Blade Baits
  • Swim Jigs worked along bottom contours
  • Shad concentrated in deep winter schools
  • Smaller baitfish suspended in deep water columns
  • Bold Striped Patterns
  • Chartreuse Colors
  • Dark Neutrals
WinterWhite Bass48-55
  • Schooling in deeper main lake areas, following and corralling shad schools near river channels
  • Most active during low-light periods, especially when birds indicate surface feeding activity
  • Forming mixed schools with striped bass, suggesting similar winter feeding patterns
  • River channels with nearby points where shad schools concentrate
  • Main lake areas where birds are actively feeding
  • Secondary points near deep water access
  • Umbrella Rigs with swimbaits matching shad size
  • Blade Baits worked vertically in 10-15 foot range
  • Vertical Jigging Mid Depth (10-19') when fish are spotted on electronics
  • Threadfin Shad concentrated in schools
  • Other small baitfish in the 2-4 inch range
  • Bold Striped Patterns
  • Chartreuse Colors
  • Dark Neutrals
WinterCrappie48-52
  • Crappie are tightly schooled in deep brush piles, typically suspended above structure in the 14-23 foot range
  • Fish become more lethargic and feed less aggressively, with primary feeding windows during stable weather periods
  • Deep brush piles in 14-23 foot range, particularly those near channel bends or creek channels
  • Suspended areas above deeper brush piles where schools can maintain comfortable temperatures
  • Deep creek channel intersections with structure nearby
  • Vertical Jigging Deep (20'+)
  • Damiki Rig
  • Hover/Mid-Strolling
  • Shad schools concentrated in deeper water
  • Winter-stressed and dying shad
  • Chartreuse Colors
  • Pink Colors
  • Bold Striped Patterns
WinterSpotted Bass45-55
  • Spotted bass concentrate on steep vertical structure, particularly bluff walls and deep ledges, seeking stable winter temperatures
  • Fish are typically less aggressive but will feed actively during warming trends and stable weather periods
  • Schools tend to be tight and relate closely to bottom structure and baitfish schools
  • Deep bluff walls with access to adjacent creek channels
  • Rock piles and ledges in 15-30 foot depth range
  • Main lake points near deep water access
  • Blade Baits worked vertically along bluff walls
  • Shakey Heads worked slowly on rock piles and ledges
  • Football Jigs dragged along bottom structure
  • Schooling shad in deeper water
  • Bottom-dwelling crawfish in rocky areas
  • Small baitfish holding tight to structure
  • Vibrant Craw Colors
  • Dark Neutrals
  • Bold Striped Patterns
WinterTrout42-52
  • Concentrating in tailwater areas below the dam where consistent cool, oxygenated water provides ideal winter habitat
  • Feeding actively but in shorter windows, particularly during stable weather patterns and consistent water releases
  • Dam tailwater area with consistent water flow and oxygen levels
  • Deep pools and eddies immediately downstream of the dam
  • Current seams and breaks where cooler water creates feeding zones
  • Inline Spinners worked slowly through current seams
  • Live Bait Rigs with suspended presentations
  • Spoons worked vertically in deeper pools
  • Shad congregating in tailwater area
  • Small baitfish drawn to current
  • Aquatic insects in oxygenated water
  • Chartreuse Colors
  • Bold Striped Patterns
  • Pink Colors
WinterPanfish / Bluegill75-85
  • Bluegill concentrating in shallow protected areas near brush piles and stumps in 4-6 foot range due to limited water clarity
  • Actively feeding during warmer parts of day, primarily on small invertebrates and zooplankton around vegetation
  • Brush piles and stumps in 4-6 foot depth range with nearby vegetation
  • Protected coves with submerged vegetation
  • Laydowns and woody structure in shallow zones
  • Bobbers with small jigs positioned just above vegetation
  • Vertical Jigging Shallow (0-9') around brush piles
  • Live Bait Rigs near structure
  • Small aquatic insects and larvae
  • Zooplankton
  • Small shad
  • Chartreuse Colors
  • Pink Colors
  • Bold Striped Patterns

Key Seasonal Structures in J Percy Priest Reservoir

SeasonSpeciesPrimary StructureSecondary Structure
Spring (Pre-Spawn)Largemouth BassBluff walls and boulder areas, particularly in transition zones leading to spawning flatsRip rap banks receiving afternoon sun
Spring (Pre-Spawn)Smallmouth BassWindblown main lake points with access to deeper waterRocky transition areas between deep winter haunts and spawning flats
Spring (Pre-Spawn)Striped BassMain lake points adjacent to creek channels that provide staging areas near spawning tributariesBluff walls near deep water access that offer current breaks and ambush points
Spring (Pre-Spawn)White BassMain lake points near tributary arms and spawning areasOpen water areas with active shad schools
Spring (Pre-Spawn)CrappieSecondary points leading into spawning coves, especially those with brush piles in 8-15ftSteep banks with brush pile structure near spawning flats
Spring (Pre-Spawn)Spotted BassRocky points and transition areas adjacent to spawning flatsSteep bluff walls with nearby shallow flats
Spring (Pre-Spawn)TroutDam tailwater area with consistent cool water releasesCurrent breaks and eddies below the dam
Spring (Pre-Spawn)Panfish / BluegillBrush piles and stumps in 4-6 foot range near potential spawning flatsEdges of submerged vegetation in 4-6 foot depth
Spring (Spawn)Largemouth BassRocky areas in 1-3 feet of water, particularly those with good spawning substrateProtected coves with stable water conditions
Spring (Spawn)Smallmouth BassProtected rocky coves and pockets with gravel or rock bottom in 2-8 foot depthSecondary points adjacent to spawning bays
Spring (Spawn)Striped BassDocks and adjacent shallow flats in spawning pocketsMain lake points near deep water access
Spring (Spawn)White BassCreek arms and river channel intersections where spawning runs occurMain lake points adjacent to spawning tributaries
Spring (Spawn)CrappieProtected shallow coves with brush or structure in 3-8 feetSecondary points leading into spawning pockets
Spring (Spawn)Spotted BassProtected rocky pockets and coves with gravel or small rock bottomSecondary points leading into spawning areas
Spring (Spawn)TroutDam tailwater area with consistent cool water releasesCurrent breaks and eddies near the dam structure
Spring (Spawn)Panfish / BluegillProtected coves with submerged vegetation in 4-6 foot rangeShallow flats near brush piles and stumps in 2-4 foot depth
Spring (Post-Spawn)Largemouth BassStump fields in 4-6 foot range, especially those near deeper water accessProtected coves with boulders and laydowns
Spring (Post-Spawn)Smallmouth BassBoat docks in shallow water, particularly during morning hoursCreek channels on main lake where shad are congregating
Spring (Post-Spawn)Striped BassMain lake points and secondary points in creek arms, particularly at Smith Springs coveCreek channel intersections with major points
Spring (Post-Spawn)White BassMain lake points adjacent to creek channels where shad are congregatingShallow flats (8-15 feet) near river channel edges
Spring (Post-Spawn)CrappieBrush piles near spawning flats in 12-18ft rangeSecondary points with access to deeper water
Spring (Post-Spawn)Spotted BassRock piles and points adjacent to spawning pocketsShallow to mid-depth transition areas near channel edges
Spring (Post-Spawn)TroutDam tailwater area with consistent cool water releasesCurrent breaks and eddies near the dam structure
Spring (Post-Spawn)Panfish / BluegillSubmerged vegetation beds in 4-6 foot depth rangeBrush piles and stumps in shallow water zones
SummerLargemouth BassBrush piles and ledges in 14-23 foot depth range, especially those near river channel swingsRocky points and bluff walls with nearby deep water access
SummerSmallmouth BassBluff walls in 10-20 feet of waterWind-blown points in 12-15 feet
SummerStriped BassPoints adjacent to creek arms, especially in Hamilton Creek area where recent catches occurredBoat ramp areas and rip rap during early morning shad spawn activity
SummerWhite BassBack sections of major creek arms where baitfish are schoolingMain lake points adjacent to river channels
SummerCrappieDeep brush piles in 20'+ of waterOpen water areas with suspended shad schools
SummerSpotted BassBluff walls transitioning to deeper ledgesDeep rocky points with access to channel edges
SummerTroutDam tailwater area with consistent cool water releasesDeep pockets and current breaks near dam structure
SummerPanfish / BluegillSubmerged vegetation beds in 4-6 foot rangeBrush piles and stumps in shallow water zones
FallLargemouth BassAreas with concentrated bait balls, particularly in coves and creek mouthsRiver channel ledges and adjacent structure in 10-15 foot range
FallSmallmouth BassWind-blown main lake points with rock structure in 10-20 foot depth rangeDeep bluff walls adjacent to baitfish schools
FallStriped BassOpen water areas where birds are actively diving, indicating bait schoolsPoints and creek channels near deep water access
FallWhite BassMain lake points and channel swings where baitfish schools congregateCreek arm mouths with depth transitions in 10-15 foot range
FallCrappieBrush piles in 14-23 foot depth rangeDeep creek channel bends with adjacent structure
FallSpotted BassMain lake points with rocky structure adjacent to deep waterCreek channel edges where bluff walls intersect with ledges
FallTroutDam tailwater area with consistent cool water releasesDeep pools and eddies near the dam structure
FallPanfish / BluegillBrush piles and stumps in 4-6 foot rangeDeep edges of weed beds
WinterLargemouth BassWind-blown main lake points, especially those with rock structure in 10-14 foot rangeProtected areas with minimal current near deep water access
WinterSmallmouth BassRocky points with access to deeper waterRock piles in 10-20 foot depth range
WinterStriped BassDeep points where coves meet main lake body, especially near marina areasAreas with concentrated bait schools in 25-30 ft depths
WinterWhite BassRiver channels with nearby points where shad schools concentrateMain lake areas where birds are actively feeding
WinterCrappieDeep brush piles in 14-23 foot range, particularly those near channel bends or creek channelsSuspended areas above deeper brush piles where schools can maintain comfortable temperatures
WinterSpotted BassDeep bluff walls with access to adjacent creek channelsRock piles and ledges in 15-30 foot depth range
WinterTroutDam tailwater area with consistent water flow and oxygen levelsDeep pools and eddies immediately downstream of the dam
WinterPanfish / BluegillBrush piles and stumps in 4-6 foot depth range with nearby vegetationProtected coves with submerged vegetation

Primary Forage by Season

SeasonSpeciesPrimary ForageSecondary Forage
Spring (Pre-Spawn)Largemouth BassCrawfish emerging from winter dormancyBluegill in shallow cover
Spring (Pre-Spawn)Smallmouth BassCrawfish emerging from winter dormancySmall baitfish relating to points
Spring (Pre-Spawn)Striped BassShad schools beginning to move shallower with warming waterSmaller baitfish congregating near spawning areas
Spring (Pre-Spawn)White BassShad (primary forage based on multiple reports)Small baitfish concentrating near spawning areas
Spring (Pre-Spawn)CrappieShad concentrations in pre-spawn staging areasSmall baitfish gathering in warming waters
Spring (Pre-Spawn)Spotted BassShad schools congregating in pre-spawn areasCrawfish becoming more active in rocky areas as water warms
Spring (Pre-Spawn)TroutShadVarious aquatic insects in tailwater
Spring (Pre-Spawn)Panfish / BluegillSmall insects and larvae emerging with warming waterTiny baitfish and shad fry
Spring (Spawn)Largemouth BassBluegill moving into shallow spawning areasShad transitioning to spawning flats
Spring (Spawn)Smallmouth BassCrawfish emerging from winter dormancySmall baitfish beginning to school in spawning areas
Spring (Spawn)Striped BassShad schools in pre-spawn patternsSmall baitfish gathering near spawning areas
Spring (Spawn)White BassPre-spawn shad schools in tributary areasSmall baitfish congregating near spawning areas
Spring (Spawn)CrappieShad fry and small juvenilesSmall minnows gathering in spawning areas
Spring (Spawn)Spotted BassCrawfish emerging from winter dormancyShad schools in pre-spawn patterns
Spring (Spawn)TroutShad concentrating in tailwater areaSmall baitfish drawn to current
Spring (Spawn)Panfish / BluegillSmall insects and larvae around vegetationSmall crustaceans in shallow areas
Spring (Post-Spawn)Largemouth BassMinnows/Shad schooling in coves and around structureBluegill in shallow areas around cover
Spring (Post-Spawn)Smallmouth BassShad schools in creek channelsBluegill in shallow areas near docks
Spring (Post-Spawn)Striped BassShad schools concentrated around points and creek armsSmall baitfish transitioning to summer patterns
Spring (Post-Spawn)White BassShad schools congregating near points and channel edgesSmall baitfish in shallow creek arms
Spring (Post-Spawn)CrappieAdult and juvenile shad in 8-15ft depth rangeSmall bluegill and sunfish fry near brush piles
Spring (Post-Spawn)Spotted BassShadCrawfish emerging from rocky areas
Spring (Post-Spawn)TroutShadSmall Baitfish
Spring (Post-Spawn)Panfish / BluegillSmall aquatic insects and larvaeTiny crustaceans
SummerLargemouth BassShad - primary forage evidenced by multiple reports of fish chasing shad schoolsBluegill - secondary forage pattern noted in shallow areas
SummerSmallmouth BassShad schools in deeper waterCrawfish along rocky structure
SummerStriped BassShad (primary forage, with active spawn noted in reports)Surface-oriented baitfish schools
SummerWhite BassShad schools in upper water columnSmall baitfish in creek arms
SummerCrappieShadSmall sunfish
SummerSpotted BassCrawfish in rocky areasShad schools near channel edges and points
SummerTroutShadSmall baitfish in current
SummerPanfish / BluegillAquatic insects and larvae in vegetationSmall crustaceans near brush piles
FallLargemouth BassShad - primary forage based on multiple recent reportsMinnows - mentioned frequently in shallow water catches
FallSmallmouth BassShad schools transitioning from deep summer locations to shallower areasCrawfish becoming more active on rocky structure during moderate temperatures
FallStriped BassShad - primary forage based on recent reports and bird activityOther baitfish schools concentrated in fall patterns
FallWhite BassSchooling shad migrating to creek armsSmall baitfish concentrating around points and channel edges
FallCrappieShad - primary forage baseSmall sunfish around brush structure
FallSpotted BassShad schools migrating to creek armsCrawfish in rocky areas
FallTroutShad schools congregating in tailwater areaSmall baitfish and minnows
FallPanfish / BluegillAquatic insects and larvaeSmall crustaceans
WinterLargemouth BassShad congregating in large schools, particularly visible along bluffsCrawfish in rocky areas, especially active on warmer winter days
WinterSmallmouth BassCrawfish - primary winter forage based on multiple recent catchesSmall bottom-dwelling baitfish
WinterStriped BassShad concentrated in deep winter schoolsSmaller baitfish suspended in deep water columns
WinterWhite BassThreadfin Shad concentrated in schoolsOther small baitfish in the 2-4 inch range
WinterCrappieShad schools concentrated in deeper waterWinter-stressed and dying shad
WinterSpotted BassSchooling shad in deeper waterBottom-dwelling crawfish in rocky areas
WinterTroutShad congregating in tailwater areaSmall baitfish drawn to current
WinterPanfish / BluegillSmall aquatic insects and larvaeZooplankton

Bait Colors by Season for J Percy Priest Reservoir

SeasonSpeciesBait Colors
Spring (Pre-Spawn)Largemouth Bass
  • Vibrant Craw Colors
  • Dark Neutrals
  • Bold Striped Patterns
Spring (Pre-Spawn)Smallmouth Bass
  • Vibrant Craw Colors
  • Bold Striped Patterns
Spring (Pre-Spawn)Striped Bass
  • Bold Striped Patterns
  • Chartreuse Colors
  • Dark Neutrals
Spring (Pre-Spawn)White Bass
  • Bold Striped Patterns
  • Chartreuse Colors
  • Dark Neutrals
Spring (Pre-Spawn)Crappie
  • Chartreuse Colors
  • Pink Colors
  • Bold Striped Patterns
Spring (Pre-Spawn)Spotted Bass
  • Vibrant Craw Colors
  • Bold Striped Patterns
  • Chartreuse Colors
Spring (Pre-Spawn)Trout
  • Chartreuse Colors
  • Bold Striped Patterns
  • Pink Colors
Spring (Pre-Spawn)Panfish / Bluegill
  • Chartreuse Colors
  • Pink Colors
  • Dark Neutrals
Spring (Spawn)Largemouth Bass
  • Vibrant Craw Colors
  • Dark Neutrals
  • Pink Colors
Spring (Spawn)Smallmouth Bass
  • Vibrant Craw Colors
  • Dark Neutrals
  • Pink Colors
Spring (Spawn)Striped Bass
  • Bold Striped Patterns
  • Chartreuse Colors
  • Dark Neutrals
Spring (Spawn)White Bass
  • Chartreuse Colors
  • Bold Striped Patterns
  • Dark Neutrals
Spring (Spawn)Crappie
  • Chartreuse Colors
  • Pink Colors
  • Bold Striped Patterns
Spring (Spawn)Spotted Bass
  • Vibrant Craw Colors
  • Dark Neutrals
  • Bold Striped Patterns
Spring (Spawn)Trout
  • Chartreuse Colors
  • Bold Striped Patterns
  • Pink Colors
Spring (Spawn)Panfish / Bluegill
  • Chartreuse Colors
  • Dark Neutrals
  • Pink Colors
Spring (Post-Spawn)Largemouth Bass
  • Chartreuse Colors
  • Vibrant Craw Colors
  • Bold Striped Patterns
Spring (Post-Spawn)Smallmouth Bass
  • Vibrant Craw Colors
  • Bold Striped Patterns
Spring (Post-Spawn)Striped Bass
  • Bold Striped Patterns
  • Chartreuse Colors
  • Light Neutral Colors
Spring (Post-Spawn)White Bass
  • Chartreuse Colors
  • Bold Striped Patterns
  • Dark Neutrals
Spring (Post-Spawn)Crappie
  • Chartreuse Colors
  • Bold Striped Patterns
  • Pink Colors
Spring (Post-Spawn)Spotted Bass
  • Vibrant Craw Colors
  • Bold Striped Patterns
  • Chartreuse Colors
Spring (Post-Spawn)Trout
  • Chartreuse Colors
  • Bold Striped Patterns
  • Pink Colors
Spring (Post-Spawn)Panfish / Bluegill
  • Chartreuse Colors
  • Bold Striped Patterns
  • Pink Colors
SummerLargemouth Bass
  • Dark Neutrals
  • Vibrant Craw Colors
  • Bold Striped Patterns
SummerSmallmouth Bass
  • Chartreuse Colors
  • Vibrant Craw Colors
  • Bold Striped Patterns
SummerStriped Bass
  • Bold Striped Patterns
  • Chartreuse Colors
SummerWhite Bass
  • Bold Striped Patterns
  • Chartreuse Colors
  • Dark Neutrals
SummerCrappie
  • Chartreuse Colors
  • Bold Striped Patterns
  • Pink Colors
SummerSpotted Bass
  • Vibrant Craw Colors
  • Bold Striped Patterns
  • Chartreuse Colors
SummerTrout
  • Chartreuse Colors
  • Vibrant Craw Colors
  • Bold Striped Patterns
SummerPanfish / Bluegill
  • Chartreuse Colors
  • Bold Striped Patterns
  • Pink Colors
FallLargemouth Bass
  • Chartreuse Colors
  • Natural Baitfish Colors
  • Vibrant Craw Colors
FallSmallmouth Bass
  • Vibrant Craw Colors
  • Bold Striped Patterns
  • Dark Neutrals
FallStriped Bass
  • Bold Striped Patterns
  • Chartreuse Colors
  • Natural Baitfish Colors
FallWhite Bass
  • Chartreuse Colors
  • Bold Striped Patterns
  • Dark Neutrals
FallCrappie
  • Chartreuse Colors
  • Bold Striped Patterns
  • Pink Colors
FallSpotted Bass
  • Vibrant Craw Colors
  • Bold Striped Patterns
  • Chartreuse Colors
FallTrout
  • Chartreuse Colors
  • Bold Striped Patterns
  • Pink Colors
FallPanfish / Bluegill
  • Chartreuse Colors
  • Pink Colors
  • Dark Neutrals
WinterLargemouth Bass
  • Vibrant Craw Colors
  • Natural Shad Colors
  • Dark Neutrals
WinterSmallmouth Bass
  • Vibrant Craw Colors
  • Dark Neutrals
WinterStriped Bass
  • Bold Striped Patterns
  • Chartreuse Colors
  • Dark Neutrals
WinterWhite Bass
  • Bold Striped Patterns
  • Chartreuse Colors
  • Dark Neutrals
WinterCrappie
  • Chartreuse Colors
  • Pink Colors
  • Bold Striped Patterns
WinterSpotted Bass
  • Vibrant Craw Colors
  • Dark Neutrals
  • Bold Striped Patterns
WinterTrout
  • Chartreuse Colors
  • Bold Striped Patterns
  • Pink Colors
WinterPanfish / Bluegill
  • Chartreuse Colors
  • Pink Colors
  • Bold Striped Patterns