How to Fish Kentucky Lake: Best Patterns & Techniques

Kentucky Lake

Published: Nov 1, 2018Updated: May 17, 2025

Table of Contents

Spring Fishing Patterns on Kentucky Lake

Season	Species	Water Temp	Behavioral Patterns	Key Locations	Best Techniques	Forage Types	Bait Colors
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Largemouth Bass	52-62	Bass are actively transitioning from winter areas to pre-spawn staging locations, following warming trends and moving into 5-6 foot depths on main lake points and in protected coves Fish are showing increased feeding activity, particularly during warmer parts of the day, with surface feeding observed in the evenings when conditions are calm	Main lake points with riprap or rock, particularly those receiving wind Protected coves and larger bays with slightly warmer water Secondary points with pea gravel or rocky composition	Shallow Diving Crankbaits (0-6') worked along rocky banks and points Bladed Jigs worked around transition areas and riprap Spinnerbaits along pea gravel points and windblown areas	Crawfish emerging from winter areas and becoming more active in rocky areas Shad schools starting to move into pre-spawn staging areas Minnows active in shoreline areas during warmer periods	Vibrant Craw Colors Chartreuse Colors Bold Striped Patterns
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Smallmouth Bass	52-62	Actively feeding on shad in pre-spawn staging areas, particularly around current breaks and transition zones Suspending and relating to structure vertically rather than staying tight to bottom, as evidenced by Livescope observations Moving between shallow staging areas and slightly deeper water based on daily temperature fluctuations	Current breaks on bars where shad are congregating Stump fields in pre-spawn staging areas Transition areas between shallow flats and deeper water	Lipless Crankbaits worked through current breaks Umbrella Rigs for suspended fish Bladed Jigs around cover Soft Body Swimbaits (Small/Medium) for a more finesse approach	Shad (primary forage base confirmed by multiple reports) Crawfish (becoming more active in spring warming trends)	Bold Striped Patterns Vibrant Craw Colors Chartreuse Colors
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Striped Bass	55-68	Pre-spawn striped bass are actively feeding on shad schools, with fish aggressively chasing bait in the upper water column due to turbid conditions Fish are transitioning from winter patterns, moving towards river channels and humps in 20+ feet, suspending near bait schools rather than strictly relating to bottom structure	Bridge pilings and current breaks where bait schools concentrate River channel ledges and adjacent humps in 20+ feet of water Points and inlets where pre-spawn fish stage near spawning areas	Umbrella Rigs fished through suspended bait schools Vertical Jigging Deep (20'+) around bridge pilings and ledges Soft Body Swimbaits (Large) worked through upper water column	Shad - primary forage base confirmed by multiple reports Other suspended baitfish concentrating around structure	Bold Striped Patterns Chartreuse Colors Dark Neutrals
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Panfish / Bluegill	62-70	Pre-spawn bluegills are actively moving into warmer, shallow protected areas, particularly coves and bays, as they prepare for the upcoming spawn Fish are feeding more aggressively as water temperatures rise, focusing on insects and small invertebrates in the 6-8 ft depth range	Protected coves and bays with reduced wind/wave action at 6-8 ft depths Shallow flats adjacent to spawning areas, particularly near emerging vegetation Areas around docks and woody cover in protected areas	Bobbers with small jigs suspended at 6-8 ft depths, worked slowly around cover Live Bait Rigs with wax worms or small insects, particularly effective in the turbid conditions Crappie Dock Shooting for fish holding tight to dock structures	Aquatic insects and larvae Small invertebrates Emerging spring zooplankton	Chartreuse Colors Pink Colors Bold Striped Patterns
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Crappie	58-68	Pre-spawn crappie are staging in shallow areas near spawning zones, particularly around lily pads and other emergent vegetation as indicated by recent reports Fish are actively feeding on minnows in preparation for spawning, showing increased aggression and willingness to chase prey	Lily pad fields in protected coves, particularly where they intersect with channel swings Shallow brush piles near spawning areas Protected areas out of current with emerging vegetation	Crappie Sniping (Casting/Single Poling) around lily pads and shallow cover Bobbers with live minnows or jigs near vegetation Crankbaits Long Lining (Pulling/Trolling) along edges of spawning areas	Minnows, as confirmed by recent fishing reports Shad, particularly in areas near deeper water	Dark Neutrals Chartreuse Colors Bold Striped Patterns
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Catfish	55-68	Pre-spawn catfish are beginning to move from deeper winter haunts to shallower feeding areas, following creek channels and river ledges as migration routes Fish are becoming more active with warming water, but still maintaining proximity to deep water access Feeding activity increases during warmer afternoons, especially around structure that collects warmth	Creek channel intersections with main lake points in 15-25ft Boulder fields adjacent to deeper water in 20ft range Shallow mud flats near tributary inflows where water warms first	Live Bait Rigs with cut shad or large minnows Vertical Jigging Mid Depth (10-19') along channel edges Carolina Rigs worked slowly through transition areas	Shad schools congregating in pre-spawn areas Bottom-dwelling creatures becoming more active in warming water Smaller fish utilizing brush piles and stumps for cover	Vibrant Craw Colors Chartreuse Colors Dark Neutrals
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Spotted Bass	52-62	Spotted bass are transitioning from winter deep water patterns to pre-spawn staging areas, following channel swings and points as migration routes Fish are becoming more aggressive, moving up to feed in preparation for spawning, but still maintaining proximity to deeper water escape routes With the turbid conditions (1.1m Secchi), fish will stay relatively shallow and relate strongly to visible structure	Main lake points adjacent to channel swings, especially those with rock or boulder structure Brush piles and stumps in 8-15 foot depth range near pre-spawn staging areas Secondary points in major creek arms with good channel access	Bladed Jigs worked along points and through brush for active fish Hard Jerkbaits with longer pauses around suspended fish near structure Football Jigs worked slowly around rocky structure and points	Shad schools suspending near channel edges and points Crawfish becoming more active in rocky areas as water warms	Vibrant Craw Colors Bold Striped Patterns Chartreuse Colors
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	White Bass	52-62	White bass beginning pre-spawn movements into tributary areas and staging points, actively feeding in preparation for spawning Fish moving in large schools, following shad bait pods in transition areas between deeper winter haunts and spawning grounds	Main lake points and rocky structures near tributary entrances Bridge areas with current breaks and depth transitions Secondary points in major creek arms with rock or gravel bottom	Blade Baits worked vertically along depth transitions Lipless Crankbaits retrieved at medium speed parallel to points Soft Body Swimbaits (Small/Medium) worked through current breaks	Shad schools congregating in pre-spawn staging areas Small baitfish moving shallow with warming water	Vibrant Craw Colors Bold Striped Patterns Chartreuse Colors
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Sauger	45-55	Transitioning from winter deep water to shallow staging areas, following primary creek channels and stopping at channel bends and intersections Becoming more active in feeding during pre-spawn, taking advantage of baitfish schools in transition areas Most active during low-light periods, using stained water conditions to ambush prey throughout the day	Creek channel intersections with main lake in 15-25 foot depth Secondary points with rip-rap near spawning areas Transition areas where channels meet flats in 8-15 foot depth	Vertical Jigging Mid Depth (10-19') Blade Baits Soft Body Swimbaits (Small/Medium)	Shad moving into pre-spawn staging areas Small baitfish utilizing channel edges	Chartreuse Colors Bold Striped Patterns Dark Neutrals
Spring (Spawn)	Largemouth Bass	58-65	Bass are transitioning through spawn phases - some pre-spawn staging on secondary points (59-60°F), while others moving to spawning areas in protected shallow water Fish showing varied aggression levels - some actively feeding during overcast conditions, others more defensive around beds	Secondary points and gravel banks leading into spawning pockets Shallow protected areas with cypress trees and bushes near deep water access Hard bottom areas (sand, pea gravel) in 1-4 feet of water for spawning	Shakey Heads with finesse worms for numbers of fish on secondary points Texas Rigs for flipping bushes and shallow cover Drop Shot for stubborn bed fish Wacky Rigs around shallow cover	Crawfish - primary forage during spawn phase Shad - especially important on windy, overcast days	Vibrant Craw Colors Dark Neutrals Light Neutral Colors
Spring (Spawn)	Smallmouth Bass	58-65	Smallmouth bass transitioning to spawning areas, with males actively guarding nests in shallow rocky areas Fish are becoming more aggressive as water temperatures rise, showing increased feeding activity around boulder fields and transition areas	Boulder fields and rocky areas in 3-8 feet of water Protected coves with hard bottom and scattered rock Transition areas between spawning flats and deeper water	Tubes worked slowly around boulders and rock piles Ned Rigs dragged along transition areas Soft Jerkbaits fished with subtle twitches	Crawfish emerging from winter dormancy Small baitfish relating to spawning areas Shad schools in nearby deeper water	Vibrant Craw Colors Dark Neutrals Pink Colors
Spring (Spawn)	Striped Bass	58-68	Striped bass are moving into shallower river channels and transitional areas for spawning, often staging in 15-25 foot depths near current breaks Fish are actively feeding pre-spawn, targeting large schools of shad in preparation for spawning activity Schools are suspending in the water column, following bait and relating to current breaks near spawning areas	River channel ledges and current breaks near spawning flats Bridge pilings that create current breaks in spawning tributaries Humps and structural high spots adjacent to deeper water near spawning areas	Umbrella Rigs worked through suspended schools of fish Vertical Jigging Mid Depth (10-19') around bridge pilings and ledges Large Hair Jigs (Preacher) worked slowly through suspended fish	Large schools of shad suspended in the water column Smaller baitfish concentrating around current breaks	Bold Striped Patterns Chartreuse Colors Dark Neutrals
Spring (Spawn)	Panfish / Bluegill	65-72	Actively spawning and nesting in protected coves and bays at 6-8ft depths, with aggressive territorial behavior around beds Feeding regularly on insects and small invertebrates in shallow zones, particularly during warmer parts of the day	Protected coves with pea gravel bottom in 6-8ft depth range Shallow bays with spawning beds near stumps and woody cover Shoreline areas with reduced wind/wave action	Live Bait Rigs with wax worms fished through spawning beds Bobbers set at 4-6ft depth with live bait presentations Micro Crankbaits worked slowly through shallow spawning areas	Insects, particularly aquatic larvae and wax worms Small invertebrates in shallow zones	Chartreuse Colors Bold Striped Patterns Pink Colors
Spring (Spawn)	Crappie	58-72	In this turbid lake (1.1m secchi), crappie are staging and spawning in shallower water, typically 2-6 feet deep, relating heavily to visible structure like lily pads and brush Males are establishing and guarding nests while females move in and out of spawning areas, creating waves of active fish	Shallow lily pad fields noted in spring reports, particularly in protected coves Brush piles and woody cover in 4-8 foot depth range near spawning areas Protected coves and bays along the complex shoreline where water warms first	Crappie Sniping (Casting/Single Poling) around visible cover for precise presentations Bobbers with light jigs for suspended fish around spawning areas Crappie Dock Shooting for fish holding tight to structure	Shad schools in spawning bays Small bluegill and juvenile sunfish in vegetation	Chartreuse Colors Dark Neutrals Pink Colors
Spring (Spawn)	Catfish	58-70	Moving into shallower pre-spawn staging areas near creek channels and river ledges, becoming more active with warming water Actively feeding to build energy reserves for spawning, particularly during dawn and dusk periods Gathering around structure-rich areas like stumps and brush piles that provide both cover and spawning habitat	Creek channels and river ledges intersecting with shallow flats (8-15ft) Stumps and brush piles near spawning flats (3-8ft) Points and cuts with rock or wood structure leading to spawning areas	Live Bait Rigs with cut shad or large minnows Vertical Jigging Shallow (0-9') near structure Texas Rigs (Pitch/Flip) around visible cover	Shad schools moving into shallower pre-spawn areas Crawfish becoming more active in warming waters	Vibrant Craw Colors Chartreuse Colors Bold Striped Patterns
Spring (Spawn)	Spotted Bass	58-68	Spotted bass are in spawning mode, with males guarding nests in protected areas while females stage on nearby points and breaks Fish are actively feeding during pre and post-spawn periods, particularly during early morning and evening hours Due to the turbid water (1.1m secchi), fish are spawning shallower than typical, likely in 2-6 feet of water	Protected pockets and coves with hard bottom near channel swings Main lake points adjacent to spawning pockets Brush piles and stumps in 8-15 feet near spawning areas	Texas Rigs (Pitch/Flip) around visible cover in spawning pockets Spinnerbaits worked parallel to points and channel swings Shakey Heads on staging areas near spawning pockets	Shad schooling in creek arms and around points Crawfish becoming active in rocky areas and around brush	Vibrant Craw Colors Bold Striped Patterns Chartreuse Colors
Spring (Spawn)	White Bass	58-65	White bass are making spawning runs up tributary areas and channels, congregating in large schools Fish are actively feeding during pre and post-spawn periods, particularly during dawn and dusk Males arrive first in spawning areas, followed by larger females	Rocky points and riprap areas near tributary mouths where spawning occurs Current breaks near bridge structures where pre-spawn staging happens Secondary points leading into spawning bays and coves	Inline Spinners cast parallel to shoreline structure in spawning areas Small Soft Body Swimbaits worked through current breaks Vertical Jigging Shallow (0-9') around staging points	Shad schools in pre-spawn patterns Small baitfish in tributary areas Young of year panfish emerging in spawning bays	Chartreuse Colors Bold Striped Patterns Vibrant Craw Colors
Spring (Spawn)	Sauger	45-55	Sauger moving into shallow to mid-depth creek channels and transition areas for spawning, with post-spawn fish staging on adjacent structure Actively feeding during low-light periods, using turbid water conditions to their advantage for ambush feeding	Creek channel intersections with main lake in 8-15 feet of water Riprap areas adjacent to spawning channels Hard bottom transition areas where creek channels meet flats	Vertical Jigging Mid Depth (10-19') Blade Baits Live Bait Rigs	Shad concentrations in creek channels Small baitfish in spawning areas	Chartreuse Colors Bold Striped Patterns Vibrant Craw Colors
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Largemouth Bass	68-82	Post-spawn bass are transitioning from spawning areas to summer locations, actively feeding to recover energy Fish are following shad schools and relating to brush piles in 8-10ft depth range Movement patterns show fish leaving creeks and moving toward main lake areas	Brush piles in 8-10 foot depth range Channel ledges near creek mouths Main lake points Flooded brush in shallow water	Drop Shot around brush piles Shallow Diving Crankbaits (0-6') along shoreline structure Bladed Jigs around brush piles Wacky Rigs in flooded brush	Shad schools transitioning to deeper water Crawfish in shallow areas Bluegill in flooded brush areas	Chartreuse Colors Dark Neutrals Vibrant Craw Colors
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Smallmouth Bass	68-77	Post-spawn smallmouth bass are splitting time between fry-guarding and actively feeding on shad, with some fish transitioning to deeper structure Fish are showing aggressive feeding behavior when encountering bait schools, particularly during shad spawn activity	Rock piles and boulder fields in 15-20 foot depth range Rip rap areas where shad are spawning Main lake ledges transitioning from spawning areas	Soft Body Swimbaits (Small/Medium) worked along rock structure Soft Jerkbaits for actively feeding fish around bait schools Drop Shot for more pressured fish on specific structure	Shad (primary forage with active spawn occurring) Minnows (secondary forage around rocky areas)	Vibrant Craw Colors Bold Striped Patterns Chartreuse Colors
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Striped Bass	69-72	Post-spawn stripers are actively schooling in deeper water (20'+ depth), following large schools of shad as they transition to summer patterns Fish are suspending in the water column rather than holding tight to bottom structure, requiring active tracking with electronics	Main river channel areas in 20+ feet of water where stripers are actively chasing shad schools Humps and underwater structure near deep water that concentrate bait schools Current breaks and ledges along the main river channel where bait gets concentrated	Vertical Jigging Deep (20'+) with spoons and heavy jigheads for actively feeding fish Vertical Jigging Mid Depth (10-19') when fish suspend higher in the water column Trolling Deep (20'+) to cover water and locate active schools	Shad schools moving to deeper water post-spawn Suspended baitfish in open water around structure	Bold Striped Patterns Chartreuse Colors Dark Neutrals
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Panfish / Bluegill	68-70	Post-spawn bluegill are actively feeding to recover energy, primarily targeting insects and small invertebrates in shallow to moderate depths Fish are establishing summer feeding patterns, moving between shallow cover and nearby deeper water throughout the day	Protected coves and bays with reduced wind/wave action at 6-8 foot depths Shallow flats adjacent to deeper water, especially near emerging vegetation Docks and wooden structure providing shade and cover	Live Bait Rigs with light line and small hooks for natural presentation Bobbers suspended at 4-6 feet for precise depth control Crappie Dock Shooting for targeting fish holding under structure	Aquatic insects and larvae Small invertebrates Zooplankton	Chartreuse Colors Pink Colors Dark Neutrals
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Crappie	68-75	Post-spawn crappie are transitioning from shallow spawning areas to deeper summer haunts, staging along the way at key structure in 8-15 foot depths Fish are actively feeding to recover from spawn, with feeding periods most intense during early morning and evening hours In the turbid conditions (1.1m Secchi), fish will stay relatively shallow and tight to structure they can sense with their lateral lines	Secondary points and channel swings with brush or timber in 8-15 foot range Outer edges of lily pad fields near deeper water Protected coves with standing timber or brush piles out of main lake current	Crappie Long Lining (Pulling/Trolling) along edges of structural elements to cover water and find active fish Crappie Spider Rigging to systematically work brush piles and timber edges Hover/Mid-Strolling near key structure to maintain precise depth control	Young-of-year shad starting to school in open water Small bluegill and sunfish around vegetation Emerging insects near vegetation edges	Chartreuse Colors Bold Striped Patterns Pink Colors
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Catfish	65-75	Post-spawn catfish are actively feeding and establishing summer patterns, concentrating around deep structure in 15-25 foot ranges Fish are making transitions between shallow spawning areas and deeper summer haunts, using channel edges and points as migration routes	Boulder fields and rock piles in 20 foot depth range Creek channel edges adjacent to spawning flats Main lake points with access to deep water	Drop Shot rigs worked around deep boulders and structure Live Bait Rigs with cut bait or live shad Vertical Jigging Deep (20'+) near rocky structure	Shad schools gathering around deep structure Bottom-dwelling prey like crawfish around rocky areas	Vibrant Craw Colors Bold Striped Patterns Chartreuse Colors
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Spotted Bass	62-72	Actively feeding and recovering post-spawn, targeting shad and other baitfish in transition areas between spawning flats and summer haunts Fish are becoming more aggressive and establishing feeding territories near channel swings and points	Main lake points adjacent to channel swings, especially those with rock or boulder structure Brush piles and stumps in 8-15 foot depth range near spawning flats Secondary points with access to deeper water in major creek arms	Bladed Jigs worked parallel to points and through brush Shakey Heads worked slowly around rock piles and channel edges Medium Diving Crankbaits (7'-12') along transitional structure	Shad schools moving to post-spawn staging areas Crawfish emerging in rocky areas Small bluegill in shallow brush areas	Vibrant Craw Colors Bold Striped Patterns Chartreuse Colors
Spring (Post-Spawn)	White Bass	58-68	Post-spawn white bass moving to main lake points and flats, actively feeding to recover energy Schools roaming in shallow to mid-depths (5-15 feet) following shad pods Aggressive feeding during dawn and dusk, utilizing current breaks and structure edges	Main lake points with rock piles and current breaks Bridge pilings and adjacent flats Shallow to mid-depth ledges near deep water access	Soft Body Swimbaits (Small/Medium) worked at varying speeds along structure edges Inline Spinners cast parallel to points and retrieved steadily Lipless Crankbaits worked through schooling areas	Shad schools in 5-15 foot depth range Young-of-year baitfish gathering near structure Small crawfish on rocky areas	Bold Striped Patterns Chartreuse Colors Pink Colors
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Sauger	55-68	Post-spawn sauger transitioning from spawning areas to early summer feeding patterns, actively pursuing baitfish in mid-depth zones Fish becoming more active during daylight hours, utilizing ambush points near current breaks and structure	Creek channel intersections in 15-25 foot depth range Riprap banks adjacent to deeper water Main lake points with access to channel edges	Vertical Jigging Mid Depth (10-19') Blade Baits Soft Body Swimbaits (Small/Medium)	Shad schools beginning to reform in post-winter patterns Small baitfish relating to creek channels and structure	Chartreuse Colors Bold Striped Patterns Vibrant Craw Colors

Summer Fishing Patterns

Season	Species	Water Temp	Behavioral Patterns	Key Locations	Best Techniques	Forage Types	Bait Colors
Summer	Largemouth Bass	73-88	Bass are establishing both shallow and deep summer patterns, with fish moving deeper during midday heat (reported temps up to 88°F) and actively feeding during lower light periods Fish are showing ambush behavior around cover during mid-day, particularly relating to brush piles and shaded areas as mentioned in reports Active shad chasing behavior reported, especially in early/late day, with fish switching to more stationary ambush tactics during peak heat	Brush piles in 8-12 foot depth range, particularly productive for Texas-rigged presentations Main lake ledges, especially those near deep water access Shaded areas and deep cover for midday ambush locations Back of bays where shad are schooling	Texas Rigs (Pitch/Flip) - especially effective in brush piles under 12 feet Tubes - particularly effective for ambush points and brush piles Hard Topwater (Walking) - effective when bass are actively chasing shad Deep Diving Crankbaits (13'+) - productive on ledges when fish are deeper	Shad - primary forage based on multiple reports Bluegill - mentioned in shallow water scenarios Crawfish - particularly around brush piles and rock structure	Vibrant Craw Colors Bold Striped Patterns Dark Neutrals
Summer	Smallmouth Bass	75-82	Fish are actively feeding on shad, alternating between chasing bait and holding tight to structure like stumps and rock piles Moving between deep ledges during midday heat and shallower areas during morning/evening, showing aggressive chase behavior	Main lake ledges with creek channel intersections and hard bottom Rock points with deep water access Stump fields near channel breaks	Bladed Jigs worked at varying speeds depending on depth and time of day Drop Shot on deeper ledges and rock points Hard Jerkbaits for actively feeding fish near structure	Shad - primary forage based on multiple reports Minnows - secondary forage mentioned in reports	Vibrant Craw Colors Bold Striped Patterns Chartreuse Colors
Summer	Striped Bass	68-82	Striped bass will be seeking cooler, more oxygenated water during summer, suspending near thermocline in 20-30 foot depths and actively feeding during dawn/dusk periods Fish will school heavily around bait concentrations, moving frequently to follow shad schools in open water During hot midday periods, fish become less active and suspend deeper, typically returning to feeding zones during lower light conditions	Deep bridge pilings and river channel ledges where current creates oxygen-rich environments Main lake humps and points adjacent to deep water that concentrate bait Areas where the thermocline intersects with vertical structure, creating prime feeding zones	Trolling Deep (20'+) with umbrella rigs and deep diving crankbaits along channel edges Vertical Jigging Deep (20'+) when fish are spotted on electronics in deeper water Soft Body Swimbaits (Large) worked through suspended bait schools	Shad schools concentrating in cooler, deeper water Suspended baitfish relating to thermocline depth	Bold Striped Patterns Chartreuse Colors Dark Neutrals
Summer	Panfish / Bluegill	72-82	During summer, bluegills establish feeding patterns in shallow to moderate depths (4-12 feet), actively foraging on insects and small invertebrates during early morning and evening hours In the turbid conditions (1.1m Secchi), fish will stay relatively shallow and concentrate around structure for both feeding and protection	Protected coves and bays with reduced wind/wave action, particularly those with submergent vegetation or woody cover Dock areas in 6-10 foot depths offering shade and structure Shallow flats adjacent to deeper water, especially those with scattered vegetation or woody debris	Bobbers with small jigs suspended 4-8 feet deep near structure Crappie Dock Shooting for fish holding tight to dock structures Live Bait Rigs worked slowly around vegetation edges and woody cover	Aquatic insects and larvae in shallow vegetation Small invertebrates around dock structures and woody debris Zooplankton in open water areas near structure	Chartreuse Colors Pink Colors Bold Striped Patterns
Summer	Crappie	72-85	Suspending near brush piles and channel ledges in 15-25 foot range during midday heat Moving shallower to feed during early morning and evening, targeting shad schools Relating heavily to structure and cover due to turbid conditions, using lateral lines to detect prey	Brush piles positioned near river channel swings in 15-25 foot range Main lake points with proximity to deep water Protected coves with standing timber or brush out of current	Crappie Spider Rigging Vertical Jigging Mid Depth (10-19') Crappie Long Lining (Pulling/Trolling)	Shad schools suspending near structure Small bluegill around brush Young-of-year baitfish in shallow areas	Chartreuse Colors Dark Neutrals Pink Colors
Summer	Catfish	75-88	Catfish are highly active in summer, feeding aggressively during dawn, dusk, and night hours Fish are holding near structure during day, moving to shallower feeding zones during low light periods Actively pursuing shad schools and opportunistically feeding around brush piles and points	Deep creek channels and river ledges in 15-25ft range Points and cuts with boulder structure in 20ft zones Shallow flats near woody cover during night feeding periods	Live Bait Rigs with cut bait or live shad Vertical Jigging Deep (20'+) near structure during day Texas Rigs (Worming) worked slowly along ledges	Shad schools concentrated around points and ledges Bottom-dwelling prey like crawfish around rocky structure Small sunfish around brush piles and stumps	Chartreuse Colors Vibrant Craw Colors Bold Striped Patterns
Summer	Spotted Bass	72-85	Actively feeding in low-light periods along channel edges and points, suspending near bait schools during midday Moving between shallow feeding zones and deeper holding areas based on light conditions and temperature Relating strongly to vertical structure and ambush points near shad schools	Main lake points with access to deep water and bait schools Rocky areas and boulder piles adjacent to channel edges Brush piles and stumps in 15-25 foot depth range	Deep Diving Crankbaits (13'+) worked along channel edges and points Texas Rigs (Worming) around brush piles and boulder fields Spinnerbaits during low light periods near shallow structure	Shad schools suspended in the water column Crawfish around rocky structure Small bluegill near shallow cover	Vibrant Craw Colors Bold Striped Patterns Chartreuse Colors
Summer	White Bass	72-85	White bass will be actively schooling in medium depths (8-15 feet) during early morning and evening, moving shallower to feed on shad schools During midday heat, schools will retreat to deeper ledges and rock piles near bridge structures, suspending near bait	Bridge areas with current breaks and deep water access Rocky points and ledges adjacent to deeper water Main lake points where shad schools congregate	Soft Body Swimbaits (Small/Medium) worked at varying depths to match shad movement Spinnerbaits retrieved at medium speed along rocky structure Vertical Jigging Mid Depth (10-19') when fish are holding deeper during midday	Shad schools in 5-15 foot depth range Yellow Perch relating to rock structure	Bold Striped Patterns Chartreuse Colors Dark Neutrals
Summer	Sauger	72-84	Sauger transition to deeper main lake areas during hot summer temperatures, moving along channel edges and deeper structure during daylight Most active feeding during dawn/dusk periods when light penetration is lowest, taking advantage of their superior low-light vision in the stained water	Deep channel intersections in 20+ feet of water, especially where multiple creek channels meet Deep rip rap areas adjacent to channel swings Main lake points with quick access to deep water	Vertical Jigging Deep (20'+) along channel edges and intersections Trolling Deep (20'+) with deep diving crankbaits parallel to channel breaks Structure Jigs worked slowly along deep rip rap and points	Shad schools suspending near channel edges Bottom-oriented baitfish along structure	Chartreuse Colors Bold Striped Patterns Dark Neutrals

Fall Fishing Guide for Kentucky Lake

Season	Species	Water Temp	Behavioral Patterns	Key Locations	Best Techniques	Forage Types	Bait Colors
Fall	Largemouth Bass	65-76	Bass are actively feeding on shad in the upper water column, especially during morning hours, with continued activity throughout the day on cloudy or windy conditions Fish are transitioning between shallow flats and deeper structure, following baitfish movements and responding to daily temperature changes	Main lake points and creek channel intersections with flats Shallow bars and flats with concentrated baitfish Wind-blown banks and pockets with stumps or brush	Hard Topwater (Walking) worked aggressively over flats and points early and on cloudy days Shallow Diving Crankbaits (0-6') along transitional areas and wind-blown banks Drop Shot and Ned Rigs for slower presentations when fish become less active	Shad (primary forage based on multiple reports) Bluegill (secondary forage, especially around brush piles) Crawfish (tertiary forage, particularly around riprap and rocky areas)	Vibrant Craw Colors Bold Striped Patterns Chartreuse Colors
Fall	Smallmouth Bass	63-77	Actively chasing shad in shallow water, especially during wind conditions, with aggressive topwater strikes Transitioning between summer and winter patterns, following bait movements towards creek arms and coves Relating strongly to structural elements like points, shoals, and humps, especially during feeding periods	Main lake points and bars where bait is present Shallow flats and shoals near creek arm entrances Stumps and laydowns in 3-6 foot depth range	Hard Topwater (Walking) worked aggressively in windy conditions Shallow Diving Crankbaits (0-6') around points and ditches Tubes worked slowly around rocks and laydowns	Shad schools actively moving in shallow water Baitfish concentrating near structural elements	Vibrant Craw Colors Bold Striped Patterns Chartreuse Colors
Fall	Striped Bass	58-72	Actively schooling and chasing shad schools in the upper water column, especially during low light periods Following bait migrations into creek arms and coves as water temperatures cool Suspending near vertical structure that concentrates bait, particularly around bridge pilings and river channel edges	Bridge pilings and adjacent deep water Main river channel ledges near creek mouths Major creek arms with schools of shad Vertical structure near current breaks	Umbrella Rigs worked through suspended bait schools Vertical Jigging Deep (20'+) around bridge pilings Soft Body Swimbaits (Large) retrieved at varying speeds to match bait movement	Shad schools migrating into creeks Suspended bait balls near structure	Bold Striped Patterns Chartreuse Colors Dark Neutrals
Fall	Panfish / Bluegill	52-65	Bluegills are actively feeding to build energy reserves for winter, congregating around remaining vegetation and structure in moderate depths Fish are transitioning from shallow summer patterns to deeper pre-winter locations, showing preference for drop-offs and deep cover	Protected coves with remaining vegetation in 8-15 foot depths Dock areas with access to deeper water Stumps and woody cover near drop-offs	Vertical Jigging Shallow (0-9') Live Bait Rigs Micro Crankbaits	Small insects and larvae Remaining aquatic vegetation Zooplankton	Chartreuse Colors Pink Colors Dark Neutrals
Fall	Crappie	58-68	Crappie are actively following and feeding on shad schools as they migrate to deeper creek channels and main lake structure Fish are schooling more tightly and becoming increasingly structure-oriented as water temperatures decline Due to the turbid conditions (1.1m secchi), crappie are holding relatively shallow, typically in the 8-15 foot range near vertical structure	Brush piles positioned near creek channel swings out of current Main lake points with vertical structure adjacent to deeper water Protected coves with standing timber or dock clusters	Crappie Long Lining (Pulling/Trolling) Vertical Jigging Mid Depth (10-19') Crappie Spider Rigging	Shad schools migrating along channel edges Small bluegill relating to brush piles Young of year baitfish in protected areas	Chartreuse Colors Bold Striped Patterns Dark Neutrals
Fall	Catfish	58-72	Catfish actively feeding on shad schools in preparation for winter, following baitfish migrations to creek channels and river ledges Fish are transitioning from summer patterns to deeper winter holding areas, utilizing points and ledges as staging areas	Deep creek channels and river ledges where baitfish schools are congregating Main lake points with access to deep water and boulder structure in 20ft range Brush piles and stumps near channel edges serving as ambush points	Live Bait Rigs with cut shad or whole bait positioned near structure Vertical Jigging Deep (20'+) along channel edges and near boulders Texas Rigs (Worming) dragged through deeper brush piles and stumps	Shad schools moving into deeper water Bottom-dwelling prey fish utilizing brush and boulder structure	Vibrant Craw Colors Bold Striped Patterns Chartreuse Colors
Fall	Spotted Bass	58-72	Spotted bass actively chasing shad schools in creek arms and along main lake points, with increased feeding activity during falling water temperatures Fish transitioning between shallow and mid-depth zones, using channel swings and points as migration routes Becoming more structure-oriented as water cools, relating heavily to brush piles and boulder fields adjacent to deeper water	Main lake points intersecting with channel swings, especially those with rock or boulder structure Brush piles positioned on channel ledges in 15-25 foot depth range Creek arm intersections with the main channel where bait schools are present	Spinnerbaits worked along points and channel edges where shad are present Medium Diving Crankbaits (7'-12') parallel to rocky banks and over points Football Jigs worked slowly through deeper brush piles and rock piles	Shad schools congregating in creek arms and around points Crawfish active on rocky structure before water temperatures drop significantly	Vibrant Craw Colors Bold Striped Patterns Chartreuse Colors
Fall	White Bass	58-72	White bass actively schooling and chasing shad to shallower water, especially during morning and evening hours Fish moving between depths throughout the day, following bait schools along structure lines	Main lake points and rocky ledges where shad schools congregate Bridge areas with current breaks and structure Secondary points in major creek arms where bait is present	Lipless Crankbaits cast and retrieved at varying speeds to match bait activity Blade Baits worked vertically when fish are deeper Soft Body Swimbaits (Small/Medium) mimicking fleeing shad	Shad schools migrating to creek arms Young-of-year baitfish in shallow areas	Bold Striped Patterns Chartreuse Colors Vibrant Assorted Colors
Fall	Sauger	52-68	Actively feeding on shad during evening periods, moving from deeper water to shallow feeding zones Transitioning between depths throughout the day, using rip rap and channel edges as migration routes Utilizing stained water conditions for ambush feeding, especially during low light periods	Rip rap banks with access to deeper water Creek channel intersections near shoreline structure Main lake points with hard bottom composition	Bladed Jigs worked from shallow to deep with steady retrieve Vertical Jigging Mid Depth (10-19') along channel edges Lipless Crankbaits parallel to rip rap banks	Shad schools relating to structure Small baitfish in transitional areas	Bold Striped Patterns Chartreuse Colors Vibrant Craw Colors

Winter & Ice Fishing Patterns

Season	Species	Water Temp	Behavioral Patterns	Key Locations	Best Techniques	Forage Types	Bait Colors
Winter	Largemouth Bass	42-52	Largemouth bass are showing lethargic behavior due to cold water, but still actively feeding on crawfish and shad near hard structure Fish are congregating around deep vertical structure and requiring multiple presentations to trigger strikes	Steep banks with rip rap and boulders Deep water reefs and rock piles Laydowns adjacent to deeper water	Medium Diving Crankbaits (7'-12') worked parallel to steep banks Football Jigs worked slowly along bottom structure Damiki Rig for suspended fish near deep structure	Crawfish seeking shelter in rocks and riprap Shad schools in deeper water	Vibrant Craw Colors Dark Neutrals
Winter	Smallmouth Bass	44-49	Smallmouth bass are suspending near or actively relating to hard cover (brush piles, stumps, rock piles) in winter, with forward-facing sonar reports confirming vertical positioning Fish are showing selective feeding patterns with a preference for slower, prolonged presentations with periodic triggers (pauses, erratic movements)	Brush piles in 15-25 foot depth range, especially those near channel swings or current breaks Rock piles and boulder fields that provide current breaks Stump fields adjacent to deeper water	Hard Jerkbaits worked with long pauses between twitches Umbrella Rigs slow-rolled through suspended fish Damiki Rig vertically presented to fish marked on electronics Drop Shot with subtle movements for inactive fish	Shad (primary forage based on multiple reports) Crawfish (secondary forage noted in deeper rocky areas)	Bold Striped Patterns Vibrant Craw Colors Chartreuse Colors
Winter	Striped Bass	45-56	Striped bass are heavily schooling around current breaks and structure, actively feeding on large schools of shad Fish are suspending in the water column following bait schools rather than relating strictly to bottom structure	Bridge pilings and associated current breaks Main river ledges with active bait schools Deep channels with current flow	Umbrella Rigs worked through suspended schools Soft Body Swimbaits (Small/Medium) with steady retrieve Vertical Jigging Deep (20'+) when fish are holding deeper	Shad (primary winter forage) Baitfish schools concentrated around structure	Bold Striped Patterns Chartreuse Colors Dark Neutrals
Winter	Panfish / Bluegill	34-42	Panfish are holding tight to dock structures and other cover, requiring precise presentations with minimal movement Fish are showing preference for subtle presentations with extended pauses, indicating a more lethargic winter feeding pattern	Docks in protected coves, especially those with deeper water access Stumps and woody cover in sheltered areas Protected bays with reduced wind exposure	Crappie Dock Shooting - focus on precise presentations under docks Ice Fishing Jigs - worked with minimal movement and long pauses Finesse Hair Jigs - subtle presentation around cover	Minnows - primary winter forage Small insects - secondary winter food source	Chartreuse Colors Pink Colors Dark Neutrals
Winter	Crappie	38-45	Suspending near deep brush piles in 18-25 foot range, seeking areas out of current Schooling behavior around structure, with fish tightly grouped in winter concentrations Feeding periods are shorter and more precise in winter, with fish being most active during warming trends	Brush piles in 18-25 feet of water away from current Stake beds and artificial structure near channel swings Deep stumps adjacent to river channel edges	Damiki Rig - vertical presentation directly over suspended fish Vertical Jigging Mid Depth (10-19') - working through the water column Crappie Sniping (Casting/Single Poling) - for more scattered fish	Shad - primary winter forage based on multiple reports Minnows - secondary forage option mentioned in reports	Dark Neutrals Chartreuse Colors Bold Striped Patterns
Winter	Catfish	49-55	Catfish congregate in deep, stable environments like river channels and ledges during winter, moving minimally to conserve energy Feeding periods become shorter and less frequent, with fish most active during stable weather patterns and slight warming trends	Deep creek channels and river ledges, particularly in 20+ foot depths Deep boulder fields around 20ft depth ranges Deep brush piles adjacent to channel swings	Vertical Jigging Deep (20'+) Live Bait Rigs Structure Jigs	Winter-stressed shad schools in deeper water Bottom-dwelling creatures like crawfish Small fish seeking winter refuge in deep structure	Vibrant Craw Colors Chartreuse Colors Bold Striped Patterns
Winter	Spotted Bass	45-52	Spotted bass are suspending near vertical structure and actively feeding on shad and blueback herring schools Fish are showing a preference for slower presentations due to winter conditions, requiring methodical retrieves	Main lake points with boulders and vertical structure adjacent to deep water Brush piles and stumps near channel swings Deep water areas where baitfish are schooling	Hard Jerkbaits with long pauses between twitches Soft Jerkbaits worked slowly around structure Blade Baits worked vertically through suspended bait schools	Shad schools suspended in the water column Blueback Herring relating to main lake structure	Purple Colors Vibrant Craw Colors Dark Neutrals
Winter	White Bass	38-48	White bass are schooling in deeper water around rock piles and ledges, following and feeding on shad schools Fish are responding well to aggressive, rip-and-pause presentations suggesting active feeding despite cold water	Deep rock piles near channel edges where shad schools congregate Steep ledges and drop-offs, especially those adjacent to deeper wintering holes Bridge areas with current breaks that concentrate baitfish	Vertical Jigging Deep (20'+) with lipless crankbaits using a rip-rip-pause cadence Blade Baits worked vertically along ledges and rock piles Lipless Crankbaits worked with aggressive lifts and drops near bottom structure	Shad schools concentrated in deeper water Yellow Perch around rock structure	Bold Striped Patterns Chartreuse Colors Vibrant Craw Colors
Winter	Sauger	38-45	Sauger will concentrate in deep main lake channels and creek channel intersections, typically holding in 20+ feet of water Fish are actively feeding on shad schools in deeper water, using channel edges and hard structure as ambush points	Deep creek channel intersections with main river channels in 20+ feet Deep water adjacent to rip rap areas along main lake points Channel ledges and drops near winter baitfish concentrations	Vertical Jigging Deep (20'+) Blade Baits Jigging Spoons	Shad schools concentrated in deep water Small baitfish relating to channel edges	Chartreuse Colors Bold Striped Patterns Dark Neutrals

Key Seasonal Structures in Kentucky Lake

Season	Species	Primary Structure	Secondary Structure
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Largemouth Bass	Main lake points with riprap or rock, particularly those receiving wind	Protected coves and larger bays with slightly warmer water
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Smallmouth Bass	Current breaks on bars where shad are congregating	Stump fields in pre-spawn staging areas
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Striped Bass	Bridge pilings and current breaks where bait schools concentrate	River channel ledges and adjacent humps in 20+ feet of water
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Panfish / Bluegill	Protected coves and bays with reduced wind/wave action at 6-8 ft depths	Shallow flats adjacent to spawning areas, particularly near emerging vegetation
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Crappie	Lily pad fields in protected coves, particularly where they intersect with channel swings	Shallow brush piles near spawning areas
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Catfish	Creek channel intersections with main lake points in 15-25ft	Boulder fields adjacent to deeper water in 20ft range
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Spotted Bass	Main lake points adjacent to channel swings, especially those with rock or boulder structure	Brush piles and stumps in 8-15 foot depth range near pre-spawn staging areas
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	White Bass	Main lake points and rocky structures near tributary entrances	Bridge areas with current breaks and depth transitions
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Sauger	Creek channel intersections with main lake in 15-25 foot depth	Secondary points with rip-rap near spawning areas
Spring (Spawn)	Largemouth Bass	Secondary points and gravel banks leading into spawning pockets	Shallow protected areas with cypress trees and bushes near deep water access
Spring (Spawn)	Smallmouth Bass	Boulder fields and rocky areas in 3-8 feet of water	Protected coves with hard bottom and scattered rock
Spring (Spawn)	Striped Bass	River channel ledges and current breaks near spawning flats	Bridge pilings that create current breaks in spawning tributaries
Spring (Spawn)	Panfish / Bluegill	Protected coves with pea gravel bottom in 6-8ft depth range	Shallow bays with spawning beds near stumps and woody cover
Spring (Spawn)	Crappie	Shallow lily pad fields noted in spring reports, particularly in protected coves	Brush piles and woody cover in 4-8 foot depth range near spawning areas
Spring (Spawn)	Catfish	Creek channels and river ledges intersecting with shallow flats (8-15ft)	Stumps and brush piles near spawning flats (3-8ft)
Spring (Spawn)	Spotted Bass	Protected pockets and coves with hard bottom near channel swings	Main lake points adjacent to spawning pockets
Spring (Spawn)	White Bass	Rocky points and riprap areas near tributary mouths where spawning occurs	Current breaks near bridge structures where pre-spawn staging happens
Spring (Spawn)	Sauger	Creek channel intersections with main lake in 8-15 feet of water	Riprap areas adjacent to spawning channels
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Largemouth Bass	Brush piles in 8-10 foot depth range	Channel ledges near creek mouths
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Smallmouth Bass	Rock piles and boulder fields in 15-20 foot depth range	Rip rap areas where shad are spawning
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Striped Bass	Main river channel areas in 20+ feet of water where stripers are actively chasing shad schools	Humps and underwater structure near deep water that concentrate bait schools
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Panfish / Bluegill	Protected coves and bays with reduced wind/wave action at 6-8 foot depths	Shallow flats adjacent to deeper water, especially near emerging vegetation
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Crappie	Secondary points and channel swings with brush or timber in 8-15 foot range	Outer edges of lily pad fields near deeper water
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Catfish	Boulder fields and rock piles in 20 foot depth range	Creek channel edges adjacent to spawning flats
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Spotted Bass	Main lake points adjacent to channel swings, especially those with rock or boulder structure	Brush piles and stumps in 8-15 foot depth range near spawning flats
Spring (Post-Spawn)	White Bass	Main lake points with rock piles and current breaks	Bridge pilings and adjacent flats
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Sauger	Creek channel intersections in 15-25 foot depth range	Riprap banks adjacent to deeper water
Summer	Largemouth Bass	Brush piles in 8-12 foot depth range, particularly productive for Texas-rigged presentations	Main lake ledges, especially those near deep water access
Summer	Smallmouth Bass	Main lake ledges with creek channel intersections and hard bottom	Rock points with deep water access
Summer	Striped Bass	Deep bridge pilings and river channel ledges where current creates oxygen-rich environments	Main lake humps and points adjacent to deep water that concentrate bait
Summer	Panfish / Bluegill	Protected coves and bays with reduced wind/wave action, particularly those with submergent vegetation or woody cover	Dock areas in 6-10 foot depths offering shade and structure
Summer	Crappie	Brush piles positioned near river channel swings in 15-25 foot range	Main lake points with proximity to deep water
Summer	Catfish	Deep creek channels and river ledges in 15-25ft range	Points and cuts with boulder structure in 20ft zones
Summer	Spotted Bass	Main lake points with access to deep water and bait schools	Rocky areas and boulder piles adjacent to channel edges
Summer	White Bass	Bridge areas with current breaks and deep water access	Rocky points and ledges adjacent to deeper water
Summer	Sauger	Deep channel intersections in 20+ feet of water, especially where multiple creek channels meet	Deep rip rap areas adjacent to channel swings
Fall	Largemouth Bass	Main lake points and creek channel intersections with flats	Shallow bars and flats with concentrated baitfish
Fall	Smallmouth Bass	Main lake points and bars where bait is present	Shallow flats and shoals near creek arm entrances
Fall	Striped Bass	Bridge pilings and adjacent deep water	Main river channel ledges near creek mouths
Fall	Panfish / Bluegill	Protected coves with remaining vegetation in 8-15 foot depths	Dock areas with access to deeper water
Fall	Crappie	Brush piles positioned near creek channel swings out of current	Main lake points with vertical structure adjacent to deeper water
Fall	Catfish	Deep creek channels and river ledges where baitfish schools are congregating	Main lake points with access to deep water and boulder structure in 20ft range
Fall	Spotted Bass	Main lake points intersecting with channel swings, especially those with rock or boulder structure	Brush piles positioned on channel ledges in 15-25 foot depth range
Fall	White Bass	Main lake points and rocky ledges where shad schools congregate	Bridge areas with current breaks and structure
Fall	Sauger	Rip rap banks with access to deeper water	Creek channel intersections near shoreline structure
Winter	Largemouth Bass	Steep banks with rip rap and boulders	Deep water reefs and rock piles
Winter	Smallmouth Bass	Brush piles in 15-25 foot depth range, especially those near channel swings or current breaks	Rock piles and boulder fields that provide current breaks
Winter	Striped Bass	Bridge pilings and associated current breaks	Main river ledges with active bait schools
Winter	Panfish / Bluegill	Docks in protected coves, especially those with deeper water access	Stumps and woody cover in sheltered areas
Winter	Crappie	Brush piles in 18-25 feet of water away from current	Stake beds and artificial structure near channel swings
Winter	Catfish	Deep creek channels and river ledges, particularly in 20+ foot depths	Deep boulder fields around 20ft depth ranges
Winter	Spotted Bass	Main lake points with boulders and vertical structure adjacent to deep water	Brush piles and stumps near channel swings
Winter	White Bass	Deep rock piles near channel edges where shad schools congregate	Steep ledges and drop-offs, especially those adjacent to deeper wintering holes
Winter	Sauger	Deep creek channel intersections with main river channels in 20+ feet	Deep water adjacent to rip rap areas along main lake points

Primary Forage by Season

Season	Species	Primary Forage	Secondary Forage
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Largemouth Bass	Crawfish emerging from winter areas and becoming more active in rocky areas	Shad schools starting to move into pre-spawn staging areas
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Smallmouth Bass	Shad (primary forage base confirmed by multiple reports)	Crawfish (becoming more active in spring warming trends)
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Striped Bass	Shad - primary forage base confirmed by multiple reports	Other suspended baitfish concentrating around structure
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Panfish / Bluegill	Aquatic insects and larvae	Small invertebrates
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Crappie	Minnows, as confirmed by recent fishing reports	Shad, particularly in areas near deeper water
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Catfish	Shad schools congregating in pre-spawn areas	Bottom-dwelling creatures becoming more active in warming water
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Spotted Bass	Shad schools suspending near channel edges and points	Crawfish becoming more active in rocky areas as water warms
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	White Bass	Shad schools congregating in pre-spawn staging areas	Small baitfish moving shallow with warming water
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Sauger	Shad moving into pre-spawn staging areas	Small baitfish utilizing channel edges
Spring (Spawn)	Largemouth Bass	Crawfish - primary forage during spawn phase	Shad - especially important on windy, overcast days
Spring (Spawn)	Smallmouth Bass	Crawfish emerging from winter dormancy	Small baitfish relating to spawning areas
Spring (Spawn)	Striped Bass	Large schools of shad suspended in the water column	Smaller baitfish concentrating around current breaks
Spring (Spawn)	Panfish / Bluegill	Insects, particularly aquatic larvae and wax worms	Small invertebrates in shallow zones
Spring (Spawn)	Crappie	Shad schools in spawning bays	Small bluegill and juvenile sunfish in vegetation
Spring (Spawn)	Catfish	Shad schools moving into shallower pre-spawn areas	Crawfish becoming more active in warming waters
Spring (Spawn)	Spotted Bass	Shad schooling in creek arms and around points	Crawfish becoming active in rocky areas and around brush
Spring (Spawn)	White Bass	Shad schools in pre-spawn patterns	Small baitfish in tributary areas
Spring (Spawn)	Sauger	Shad concentrations in creek channels	Small baitfish in spawning areas
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Largemouth Bass	Shad schools transitioning to deeper water	Crawfish in shallow areas
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Smallmouth Bass	Shad (primary forage with active spawn occurring)	Minnows (secondary forage around rocky areas)
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Striped Bass	Shad schools moving to deeper water post-spawn	Suspended baitfish in open water around structure
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Panfish / Bluegill	Aquatic insects and larvae	Small invertebrates
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Crappie	Young-of-year shad starting to school in open water	Small bluegill and sunfish around vegetation
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Catfish	Shad schools gathering around deep structure	Bottom-dwelling prey like crawfish around rocky areas
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Spotted Bass	Shad schools moving to post-spawn staging areas	Crawfish emerging in rocky areas
Spring (Post-Spawn)	White Bass	Shad schools in 5-15 foot depth range	Young-of-year baitfish gathering near structure
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Sauger	Shad schools beginning to reform in post-winter patterns	Small baitfish relating to creek channels and structure
Summer	Largemouth Bass	Shad - primary forage based on multiple reports	Bluegill - mentioned in shallow water scenarios
Summer	Smallmouth Bass	Shad - primary forage based on multiple reports	Minnows - secondary forage mentioned in reports
Summer	Striped Bass	Shad schools concentrating in cooler, deeper water	Suspended baitfish relating to thermocline depth
Summer	Panfish / Bluegill	Aquatic insects and larvae in shallow vegetation	Small invertebrates around dock structures and woody debris
Summer	Crappie	Shad schools suspending near structure	Small bluegill around brush
Summer	Catfish	Shad schools concentrated around points and ledges	Bottom-dwelling prey like crawfish around rocky structure
Summer	Spotted Bass	Shad schools suspended in the water column	Crawfish around rocky structure
Summer	White Bass	Shad schools in 5-15 foot depth range	Yellow Perch relating to rock structure
Summer	Sauger	Shad schools suspending near channel edges	Bottom-oriented baitfish along structure
Fall	Largemouth Bass	Shad (primary forage based on multiple reports)	Bluegill (secondary forage, especially around brush piles)
Fall	Smallmouth Bass	Shad schools actively moving in shallow water	Baitfish concentrating near structural elements
Fall	Striped Bass	Shad schools migrating into creeks	Suspended bait balls near structure
Fall	Panfish / Bluegill	Small insects and larvae	Remaining aquatic vegetation
Fall	Crappie	Shad schools migrating along channel edges	Small bluegill relating to brush piles
Fall	Catfish	Shad schools moving into deeper water	Bottom-dwelling prey fish utilizing brush and boulder structure
Fall	Spotted Bass	Shad schools congregating in creek arms and around points	Crawfish active on rocky structure before water temperatures drop significantly
Fall	White Bass	Shad schools migrating to creek arms	Young-of-year baitfish in shallow areas
Fall	Sauger	Shad schools relating to structure	Small baitfish in transitional areas
Winter	Largemouth Bass	Crawfish seeking shelter in rocks and riprap	Shad schools in deeper water
Winter	Smallmouth Bass	Shad (primary forage based on multiple reports)	Crawfish (secondary forage noted in deeper rocky areas)
Winter	Striped Bass	Shad (primary winter forage)	Baitfish schools concentrated around structure
Winter	Panfish / Bluegill	Minnows - primary winter forage	Small insects - secondary winter food source
Winter	Crappie	Shad - primary winter forage based on multiple reports	Minnows - secondary forage option mentioned in reports
Winter	Catfish	Winter-stressed shad schools in deeper water	Bottom-dwelling creatures like crawfish
Winter	Spotted Bass	Shad schools suspended in the water column	Blueback Herring relating to main lake structure
Winter	White Bass	Shad schools concentrated in deeper water	Yellow Perch around rock structure
Winter	Sauger	Shad schools concentrated in deep water	Small baitfish relating to channel edges

Bait Colors by Season for Kentucky Lake

Season	Species	Bait Colors
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Largemouth Bass	Vibrant Craw Colors Chartreuse Colors Bold Striped Patterns
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Smallmouth Bass	Bold Striped Patterns Vibrant Craw Colors Chartreuse Colors
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Striped Bass	Bold Striped Patterns Chartreuse Colors Dark Neutrals
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Panfish / Bluegill	Chartreuse Colors Pink Colors Bold Striped Patterns
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Crappie	Dark Neutrals Chartreuse Colors Bold Striped Patterns
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Catfish	Vibrant Craw Colors Chartreuse Colors Dark Neutrals
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Spotted Bass	Vibrant Craw Colors Bold Striped Patterns Chartreuse Colors
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	White Bass	Vibrant Craw Colors Bold Striped Patterns Chartreuse Colors
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Sauger	Chartreuse Colors Bold Striped Patterns Dark Neutrals
Spring (Spawn)	Largemouth Bass	Vibrant Craw Colors Dark Neutrals Light Neutral 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)	Panfish / Bluegill	Chartreuse Colors Bold Striped Patterns Pink Colors
Spring (Spawn)	Crappie	Chartreuse Colors Dark Neutrals Pink Colors
Spring (Spawn)	Catfish	Vibrant Craw Colors Chartreuse Colors Bold Striped Patterns
Spring (Spawn)	Spotted Bass	Vibrant Craw Colors Bold Striped Patterns Chartreuse Colors
Spring (Spawn)	White Bass	Chartreuse Colors Bold Striped Patterns Vibrant Craw Colors
Spring (Spawn)	Sauger	Chartreuse Colors Bold Striped Patterns Vibrant Craw Colors
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Largemouth Bass	Chartreuse Colors Dark Neutrals Vibrant Craw Colors
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Smallmouth Bass	Vibrant Craw Colors Bold Striped Patterns Chartreuse Colors
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Striped Bass	Bold Striped Patterns Chartreuse Colors Dark Neutrals
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Panfish / Bluegill	Chartreuse Colors Pink Colors Dark Neutrals
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Crappie	Chartreuse Colors Bold Striped Patterns Pink Colors
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Catfish	Vibrant Craw Colors Bold Striped Patterns Chartreuse Colors
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Spotted Bass	Vibrant Craw Colors Bold Striped Patterns Chartreuse Colors
Spring (Post-Spawn)	White Bass	Bold Striped Patterns Chartreuse Colors Pink Colors
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Sauger	Chartreuse Colors Bold Striped Patterns Vibrant Craw Colors
Summer	Largemouth Bass	Vibrant Craw Colors Bold Striped Patterns Dark Neutrals
Summer	Smallmouth Bass	Vibrant Craw Colors Bold Striped Patterns Chartreuse Colors
Summer	Striped Bass	Bold Striped Patterns Chartreuse Colors Dark Neutrals
Summer	Panfish / Bluegill	Chartreuse Colors Pink Colors Bold Striped Patterns
Summer	Crappie	Chartreuse Colors Dark Neutrals Pink Colors
Summer	Catfish	Chartreuse Colors Vibrant Craw Colors Bold Striped Patterns
Summer	Spotted Bass	Vibrant Craw Colors Bold Striped Patterns Chartreuse Colors
Summer	White Bass	Bold Striped Patterns Chartreuse Colors Dark Neutrals
Summer	Sauger	Chartreuse Colors Bold Striped Patterns Dark Neutrals
Fall	Largemouth Bass	Vibrant Craw Colors Bold Striped Patterns Chartreuse Colors
Fall	Smallmouth Bass	Vibrant Craw Colors Bold Striped Patterns Chartreuse Colors
Fall	Striped Bass	Bold Striped Patterns Chartreuse Colors Dark Neutrals
Fall	Panfish / Bluegill	Chartreuse Colors Pink Colors Dark Neutrals
Fall	Crappie	Chartreuse Colors Bold Striped Patterns Dark Neutrals
Fall	Catfish	Vibrant Craw Colors Bold Striped Patterns Chartreuse Colors
Fall	Spotted Bass	Vibrant Craw Colors Bold Striped Patterns Chartreuse Colors
Fall	White Bass	Bold Striped Patterns Chartreuse Colors Vibrant Assorted Colors
Fall	Sauger	Bold Striped Patterns Chartreuse Colors Vibrant Craw Colors
Winter	Largemouth Bass	Vibrant Craw Colors Dark Neutrals
Winter	Smallmouth Bass	Bold Striped Patterns Vibrant Craw Colors Chartreuse Colors
Winter	Striped Bass	Bold Striped Patterns Chartreuse Colors Dark Neutrals
Winter	Panfish / Bluegill	Chartreuse Colors Pink Colors Dark Neutrals
Winter	Crappie	Dark Neutrals Chartreuse Colors Bold Striped Patterns
Winter	Catfish	Vibrant Craw Colors Chartreuse Colors Bold Striped Patterns
Winter	Spotted Bass	Purple Colors Vibrant Craw Colors Dark Neutrals
Winter	White Bass	Bold Striped Patterns Chartreuse Colors Vibrant Craw Colors
Winter	Sauger	Chartreuse Colors Bold Striped Patterns Dark Neutrals