Brought to you by: Fishtale Lodge
Steve McCadams'
Kentucky Lake Fishing Report for:
November 7th, 2003
Kentucky
Lake’s fall fishing scene had a weather change late this week but no one
can complain as anglers have had unusually nice weather for the last
several weeks. In fact, up until midweek there were record high
temperatures on some days making it feel more like summer.
Surface
temperatures this week have been in the 64 to 68 degree range, which is
quite warm for this time of year. That will change as cooler
temperatures have arrived for the weekend but it has had some bearing on
the behavior of both bass and crappie.
Observed
lake elevation in the Paris Landing area has been around 354.4 this
week. The low lake levels really change the appearance of Kentucky
Lake’s shoreline and overall fishing picture.
While
the lake levels have been relatively stable, clear water continues to
dominate the shallow water fishing scene.
Crappie
continue to hit good with a variety of depths producing. I found a lot
of fish in the 7 to 12 foot zones this week. The fish were relating to
structure and holding tight most days as the bait had to be right nose
of the fish, so it seemed.
A few
cloudy days helped increase action in shallow areas. The fish seem to
have a comfort zone when cloudy cover is present but take on a finicky
mood when the bright sun and high skies dominate.
Stakebeds and brushpiles producing best have been those on ledges or
adjacent to some deeper water.
Vertical
presentations of chartreuse jigs, along with some unpainted leadheads
and sliver or clear skirts sporting sparkles have worked well. Although
several dull colors have also produced, it seems the fish prefer a jig
tipped with a minnow.
The
deeper ledges of the main lake continue to produce a few fish too.
Working the submerged stumps and brush along the sandbars in depths of
15 to 20 feet with live minnows and jigs has been worth the effort,
although fish there are not concentrated.
A lot of
baitfish are working the shallow flats and large bays. And, several
white bass have been on the ambush too, busting the surface on feeding
frenzies.
It’s a
good time to toss a small spinner such as a Rooster Tail. In addition to
white bass you’ll find some largemouth mixed in there too, along with an
occasional rock fish.
Largemouth and smallmouth have been hitting good on shallow running
crankbaits in the Tennessee Shad and chrome colors. And, pitching a worm
or jig and pork combo is still working around docks.
Surface
action was still part of the menu this week as the warm water prolonged
topwater action of bass anglers using floating worms and various jerk
baits around rocky banks and structure.
Rattle
traps have produced when tossed over open water flats where shad are
present.
The
overall fall fishing scene has been a good one for Kentucky Lake
anglers. A little cool weather and rain may dampen the scene for a day
or two but look for both bass and crappie action to resume soon.
And,
don’t forget those rainy days can be great times to catch fish. Those
low pressures work in your favor. That is, if you remember to pack along
the raingear and extra coat.
For The Lake Barkley Report
Click Here
Also check out our past:
Kentucky Lake Fishing Reports
Steve McCadams
Steve McCadams is one of the nation's best known Crappie fishermen
and a full time resident of Paris Tennessee. Steve is also a
professional hunting and fishing guide here in the Paris Landing area.
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