The Top 30 Fishing Lakes in Kentucky Ranked

If you’re looking for a great place to fish in Kentucky, this list is a good place to start. I’ve spent time fishing across the state, but I didn’t put this list together on my own. I also reached out to local anglers and asked for their input. To get even more opinions, we asked our followers on social media to share their favorite fishing spots too.

Some of these lakes are popular for bass or crappie, while others are known for catfish or trout. A few of them have easy access and family-friendly spots. Others take a little more effort to get to, but the payoff is usually worth it. Whether you’re new to fishing or have been doing it for years, there’s something on this list that should work for you.

Of course, everyone has their own favorite spot, so you might not agree with every choice here—and that’s fine. The goal was to put together a solid mix of well-known lakes and local favorites. Keep reading to see if your go-to spot made the list, or maybe find a new one to try this weekend.

30. Lake Reba

Lake Reba sits in Richmond, Kentucky, and it’s a solid spot for anglers who want a simple, easy-to-reach fishing lake. It’s about 75 acres and stocked regularly with bass, catfish, and bluegill. The lake’s layout is beginner-friendly but still keeps experienced fishers busy, especially when the bass start biting in warmer months. You’ll find a fishing dock, boat ramp, and shore access all around. No gas motors allowed, which helps keep things quiet. It’s managed by the Kentucky Department of Fish and Wildlife, so the fish populations stay healthy. If you’re nearby, it’s a good place to cast a line.

29. Wilgreen Lake

Wilgreen Lake sits just outside Richmond, Kentucky, and covers around 169 acres. It’s a solid spot if you’re into fishing for largemouth bass, bluegill, or channel catfish. The lake has a quiet, laid-back feel and is easy to access, which makes it popular with locals. There’s a boat ramp and plenty of shoreline, whether you’re casting from the bank or heading out on the water. It’s managed by the Kentucky Department of Fish and Wildlife, so the fish population is regularly stocked and monitored. If you’re looking for a place to spend a few peaceful hours fishing, it fits the bill.

28. Kincaid Lake

Kincaid Lake is a solid choice for fishing in northern Kentucky. It’s part of a state park, so it’s easy to get to and has plenty of space to cast a line. The lake covers about 183 acres and is stocked with largemouth bass, crappie, bluegill, and catfish. You’ll find fishing from the shore or boat both work well here. There’s also a marina and ramp if you’ve got your own setup. It’s not too crowded most days, which makes it a great spot if you want something relaxed but reliable. Great for a weekend outing or a short trip.

27. Beaver Lake

Beaver Lake is a quiet spot tucked away in Anderson County, Kentucky. It’s a 158-acre lake known for solid bass fishing and regular trout stockings. The lake’s size makes it easy to fish from the bank or by small boat. You’ll find largemouth bass, bluegill, catfish, and rainbow trout depending on the season. There’s a ramp if you’re bringing a boat, but no high-speed motors are allowed. It’s managed by the Kentucky Department of Fish and Wildlife, so the fish population is kept in check. If you’re looking for a calm place to fish without a lot of noise, it works.

26. Shanty Hollow Lake

Shanty Hollow Lake sits just north of Bowling Green and is a small but interesting spot for fishing in south-central Kentucky. The lake stretches about 135 acres and is known for bass, crappie, and bluegill. It’s surrounded by hills and woods, which keeps it quiet and less crowded. There’s a short trail leading to a small waterfall nearby, which makes the trip feel a little more rewarding. If you’re fishing from the shore or by kayak, the calm water gives you plenty of access. It’s not huge, but it’s a solid choice if you like laid-back spots with good bites.

25. Elmer Davis Lake

Elmer Davis Lake is a 149-acre lake in Owen County, Kentucky, built specifically for fishing. It’s known for having solid populations of largemouth bass, bluegill, and channel catfish. The lake has plenty of coves and standing timber, which give fish places to hide and anglers spots to target. There’s also a launch ramp and bank access for folks who prefer to fish from shore. It’s a quiet place where locals go when they want good fishing without a crowd. The lake is managed by the Kentucky Department of Fish and Wildlife.

24. Wood Creek Lake

Wood Creek Lake sits just outside London, Kentucky, and offers a quieter fishing spot compared to some of the bigger lakes. It’s about 672 acres and known for holding the state record for largemouth bass. Anglers come here mainly for bass, crappie, catfish, and bluegill. The lake has several fingers and coves, giving you a chance to fish away from the main boat traffic. There’s a ramp for public access and plenty of shoreline for bank fishing. It’s not overly crowded, which makes it easier to find your spot and settle in for a long day on the water.

23. Martins Fork Lake

Martins Fork Lake sits in southeastern Kentucky, tucked in the mountains near Harlan. It’s not huge, but it offers solid fishing year-round. Anglers come here mainly for bass, crappie, and catfish. The lake’s clear water and quiet shoreline make it easy to focus on the fishing without much distraction. There’s a boat ramp and shoreline access, so you don’t need fancy gear to get started. Locals say early mornings are best for bass, especially in spring and fall. While it’s not the most talked-about spot, Martins Fork is consistent—and sometimes, that’s exactly what you want in a fishing lake.

22. Guist Creek Lake

Guist Creek Lake in Shelby County is one of the better-known fishing spots in central Kentucky. It stretches about 317 acres and is stocked with a variety of fish, including largemouth bass, crappie, catfish, and hybrid striped bass. Anglers like it for the size of its bass and the steady fishing throughout the year. The lake has a marina, boat rentals, and bank fishing areas, so it works for both boaters and folks who prefer to stay onshore. Early mornings and cooler months tend to bring better bites. It’s a solid pick if you’re after consistent, relaxed fishing without the crowds.

21. Lake Beshear

Lake Beshear is a 760-acre lake tucked inside Pennyrile Forest State Resort Park in western Kentucky. It’s known for clear water and steady fishing action. Anglers come here mainly for largemouth bass, but you can also catch crappie, bluegill, and catfish. The lake isn’t as busy as some of the larger ones, which makes it easier to fish without much boat traffic. There are no big marinas, just a few ramps and a quiet shoreline. It’s a solid spot if you like fishing from a kayak or small boat. The wooded backdrop gives it a peaceful, natural feel.

20. Paintsville Lake

Paintsville Lake sits in eastern Kentucky and stretches about 1,139 acres. It’s a solid choice for anglers who like a mix of bass, catfish, and crappie. The lake’s long, narrow shape gives bank fishers plenty of access, while boaters can roam deep pockets and hidden coves. Surrounding hills block a lot of wind, making it easier to fish on calm water. There’s a marina, and the state park nearby makes it convenient to turn a fishing trip into a weekend. If you’re looking for a lake that doesn’t get too crowded but still has great fishing, this one works.

19. Lake Malone

Lake Malone is a quiet spot tucked into south-central Kentucky, surrounded by tall sandstone bluffs and thick woods. It’s not a huge lake—about 788 acres—but that’s part of what makes it a good place for fishing. You’ll find largemouth bass, crappie, catfish, and bluegill here. The water is clear, and the shoreline has plenty of coves and cover where fish like to hang out. It’s not overly crowded, even on weekends, which makes it easier to focus on the fishing. There’s also a state park nearby if you want to turn your trip into a weekend plan.

18. Carr Creek Lake

Carr Creek Lake in eastern Kentucky is a solid choice if you’re looking for a quieter fishing spot with good variety. It’s about 710 acres and known for steady action with crappie, largemouth bass, and channel catfish. The lake’s layout includes a bunch of coves and inlets that make it easy to find your own corner to fish. Shore access is decent, but having a boat gives you more options. There’s a marina for gear and boat launches, so it’s pretty convenient. Overall, it’s a calm place to spend the day, and the fishing usually holds up year-round.

17. Grayson Lake

Grayson Lake sits in a quiet part of northeastern Kentucky and offers solid fishing without a lot of noise. The lake spreads out over 1,500 acres, with plenty of rocky spots, sunken trees, and shallow coves that attract fish. Largemouth bass are a top catch here, but anglers also reel in crappie, catfish, and bluegill. Spring and fall usually bring the best action, especially near the shoreline. There’s a marina, boat ramps, and good bank access, so it’s easy to get on the water. If you want a steady place to fish with good variety, Grayson Lake is worth the trip.

16. Fishtrap Lake

Fishtrap Lake sits in the mountains of eastern Kentucky and covers around 1,130 acres. It’s a flood-control lake, so the water levels can shift, but that doesn’t keep people from coming out to fish. The lake is known for its largemouth and smallmouth bass, along with plenty of crappie and catfish. There are deep channels, rocky points, and plenty of brush for fish to hang around. You can launch a boat or fish from the bank if that’s more your style. It’s not flashy, but it’s steady—and sometimes that’s all you need for a good day on the water.

15. Yatesville Lake

Yatesville Lake, tucked into the hills of eastern Kentucky near Louisa, is a solid choice for anglers who like a little room to breathe. It covers about 2,300 acres, with long fingers of water stretching through wooded valleys. This setup gives you a lot of shoreline to work with—perfect if you prefer bank fishing or want to get away from crowded ramps. The lake is known for its healthy populations of largemouth bass, crappie, and catfish. Spring and early summer are usually best for bass, while crappie action picks up near brush and submerged cover. There’s a marina, a few boat ramps, and spots to camp if you’re staying the weekend. It’s not the busiest lake in the state, which some folks prefer. If you’re looking for a low-pressure place to fish with good structure and peaceful surroundings, Yatesville is definitely worth putting on your list.

14. Buckhorn Lake

Buckhorn Lake sits in the hills of eastern Kentucky and stretches across parts of Perry and Leslie counties. It covers about 1,230 acres and offers a mix of deep water and rocky shorelines. Anglers come here mainly for muskie, which this lake is known for, but you’ll also find largemouth bass, crappie, and catfish. Spring and fall are popular times to fish, especially early in the morning when the water’s cool and quiet. The lake was built for flood control and water supply, but it’s become a steady favorite for folks who enjoy a slower pace on the water. Boat ramps are easy to find, and there’s plenty of room for casting off the bank. Whether you’re trolling for muskie or fishing with the kids from shore, Buckhorn has a way of making the trip worth it—especially if you’re patient and know where the fish like to hide.

13. Rough River Lake

Rough River Lake is a go-to spot in central Kentucky for people who like fishing with a side of quiet. It’s a 5,100-acre reservoir with a good mix of open water and quiet coves. Anglers come here mainly for largemouth bass, crappie, and catfish. Spring and early summer are the busiest times, especially for bass tournaments and families hitting the banks. The lake’s mix of shallow areas, rocky points, and submerged brush gives fish plenty of cover and keeps things interesting. There’s a dam at the east end that attracts a lot of bank fishing, too. While boating is popular, you don’t need one to catch something here. Local bait shops usually know what’s working if you’re not sure where to start. Whether you’re here for a weekend or just a few hours, Rough River Lake offers enough variety to keep you coming back with your tackle box.

12. Laurel River Lake

Laurel River Lake sits in the heart of southern Kentucky and covers about 5,600 acres. It’s well known for its deep, clear water and healthy fish population. Anglers come here looking for bass, crappie, catfish, and even rainbow trout in the cooler months. The lake is tucked into the Daniel Boone National Forest, which keeps things peaceful and gives you plenty of shoreline to fish from. You’ll find both boat ramps and bank access around the lake, so it works whether you’ve got a boat or not. The structure under the water—like rock ledges, submerged timber, and coves—gives fish lots of places to hide, which makes it a fun challenge. Fishing is good year-round, but spring and fall are usually the best times to catch something big. If you’re looking for a clean, well-kept spot with a variety of fish, Laurel River Lake is definitely worth checking out.

11. Taylorsville Lake

Taylorsville Lake is one of the go-to fishing spots in central Kentucky. Spanning about 3,050 acres, it’s stocked with a wide variety of fish like largemouth bass, crappie, catfish, and hybrid striped bass. It’s especially known for its crappie fishing, which draws in a lot of anglers throughout the year. The lake has a lot of standing timber and underwater structures, making it a solid place for casting near the shoreline or trolling in deeper sections. Water levels can fluctuate, so it helps to check before heading out. There are several boat ramps and plenty of shoreline access, so it works whether you’re in a kayak or just walking down from a parking lot. It’s not the most remote place, which makes it easier for day trips and weekend outings. If you’re planning a fishing trip in Kentucky, Taylorsville Lake is definitely worth putting on your list.

10. Herrington Lake

Herrington Lake is one of Kentucky’s deepest lakes, which makes it an interesting spot for fishing year-round. It stretches about 2,335 acres and reaches depths of more than 200 feet in some areas. You’ll find species like largemouth bass, spotted bass, crappie, catfish, and even white bass. Because of the deep, clear water, fish often move differently than they do in shallow lakes, so it keeps things interesting if you like a bit of a challenge. There are plenty of spots to fish from a boat, and a few good bank access points too. The lake was created back in the 1920s by damming the Dix River, and it’s still used for power generation. If you’re planning a trip, it’s smart to bring gear for both deep and shallow fishing, depending on the season. Whether you’re local or visiting, Herrington gives you a solid mix of fishing and history.

9. Barren River Lake

Barren River Lake is one of Kentucky’s top spots for serious fishing. It stretches across parts of Allen, Barren, and Monroe counties, with around 10,100 acres of water. The lake is well-known for bass—especially largemouth—and also supports crappie, catfish, and hybrid striped bass. Spring and fall are especially good times to catch fish, thanks to mild weather and active feeding. The lake’s structure, with plenty of coves, points, and ledges, gives anglers plenty of options whether you’re fishing from a boat or the bank. There’s a healthy mix of deep and shallow areas, which makes it easier to try different techniques. Boat ramps are easy to find, and the nearby state park makes it convenient to stay for a full weekend. Barren River Lake isn’t just popular—it earns its reputation by producing quality catches year after year. If you’re planning a fishing trip in Kentucky, this one’s worth checking out.

8. Nolin River Lake

Nolin River Lake in south-central Kentucky is a solid pick for anglers looking for variety. It stretches across parts of Edmonson, Grayson, and Hart counties, covering about 5,795 acres. Bass fishing is a big draw here—largemouth, smallmouth, and spotted bass are all common. You’ll also find crappie, catfish, and bluegill. The lake has a mix of rocky banks, coves, and shallow flats, which makes it good for different fishing styles. Water levels can change depending on the season, so planning ahead helps. There’s a state park along the lake with boat ramps, campgrounds, and picnic spots, making it easy to make a full day or weekend of your trip. Locals and out-of-towners both use this spot, but it usually doesn’t feel too crowded. If you’re looking for a reliable fishing lake with solid access and decent variety, Nolin River Lake is worth putting on your list.

7. Cave Run Lake

Cave Run Lake, in eastern Kentucky near Morehead, is known for its strong muskie fishing. It’s one of the top places in the state to catch this hard-fighting predator, and local anglers take that seriously. The lake covers around 8,270 acres and also holds crappie, largemouth bass, catfish, and white bass. Spring and fall are usually the best times to go after muskie, while summer is great for crappie and bass near structure. There’s plenty of bank access, boat ramps, and even a marina if you need supplies or a place to launch. Because it’s in the Daniel Boone National Forest, the scenery adds something extra to the day, especially if you’re out early or late. Whether you’re new to fishing or more experienced, Cave Run gives you room to spread out and try different techniques. It’s a solid stop for anyone wanting a full day on the water.

6. Lake Barkley

Lake Barkley stretches across western Kentucky and is known for its solid fishing scene. It’s packed with crappie, bass, catfish, and bluegill, making it a go-to spot year-round. Spring and fall are especially good if you’re after crappie or largemouth bass. The lake is part of a big reservoir system connected to Kentucky Lake, so there’s plenty of water to cover. A mix of rocky points, submerged brush, and shallow bays gives fish plenty of places to hide, which keeps things interesting for anglers. Boat ramps and fishing piers are easy to find, and there’s enough shoreline access if you’re staying on foot. Whether you’re after a quiet solo trip or just want a shot at landing a big one, Lake Barkley gives you plenty of chances to do both. It’s one of those spots that’s just reliable without needing to show off. Good water, good fish, no drama.

5. Cedar Creek Lake

Cedar Creek Lake is a newer fishing spot in central Kentucky, but it’s already made a name for itself. Built in 2002, it’s one of the state’s few lakes designed with anglers in mind. At just around 784 acres, it’s easy to get around, whether by boat or from the bank. The lake was stocked with largemouth bass, bluegill, and channel catfish—and it didn’t take long for the fish to grow. You’ll find some solid bass here, with regulations that help keep the population healthy. The structure and layout of the lake—like underwater points, brush piles, and shallow coves—give fish plenty of places to hang out, which makes fishing more interesting. There’s also a no-jet-ski rule, so it stays calmer than some bigger lakes. If you’re looking for a spot that balances convenience with good fishing, Cedar Creek is a solid choice. Just pack your gear and give it a shot.

4. Green River Lake

Green River Lake is a favorite spot in central Kentucky for folks who enjoy fishing without a lot of fuss. The lake stretches across parts of Taylor and Adair counties, covering about 8,210 acres. It’s known for its mix of bass, crappie, catfish, and bluegill, so there’s something biting most of the year. The shoreline has plenty of spots to fish from the bank, but boat anglers have lots of room too. The water’s fairly clear, and the lake has a lot of coves, which helps keep the wind down and gives fish places to hang out. Locals say spring and fall are best for crappie, while summer’s solid for night fishing catfish. There’s a marina, bait shops, and a few campgrounds close by if you’re planning to stay longer. It’s not flashy, but it gets the job done if you’re looking for a solid place to catch fish in Kentucky.

3. Dale Hollow Lake

Dale Hollow Lake sits on the Kentucky-Tennessee border and is one of the best places in the region for smallmouth bass fishing. The lake is big, deep, and clear, which gives fish plenty of space to grow and anglers lots of options. It’s especially known for producing record-breaking bass, including one of the largest smallmouths ever caught. The water stays cool most of the year, and the structure below the surface—like rock ledges, points, and drop-offs—makes it perfect for serious fishing. If you’re going after bass, early mornings and evenings are your best bet. Besides bass, the lake also has crappie, walleye, catfish, and bluegill. Whether you’re in a boat or casting from shore, there’s always a good chance you’ll get something worth talking about. Dale Hollow is well-known to locals, but even if it’s your first visit, it doesn’t take long to see why anglers keep coming back.

2. Lake Cumberland

Lake Cumberland is one of the largest reservoirs in the eastern U.S., and it plays a big role in Kentucky’s fishing scene. Spanning about 65,530 acres, it’s deep and wide, with plenty of coves and stretches of open water. That makes it a great spot for anglers looking for striped bass, crappie, catfish, and largemouth bass. The lake is stocked regularly and has a solid reputation for producing big fish, especially trophy-size stripers. The shoreline runs for hundreds of miles, so there’s room to spread out whether you’re fishing from a boat or the bank. Water levels change seasonally, but that actually helps the habitat and keeps the fish moving. Local marinas offer gear, bait, and ramps, making access pretty simple. If you’re serious about freshwater fishing in Kentucky, Lake Cumberland should be on your list. It’s reliable, productive, and has enough space for just about any fishing style.

1. Kentucky Lake

Kentucky Lake is one of the largest manmade lakes in the U.S., and it’s packed with fishing opportunities. Stretching across the western part of the state, this lake is around 160,309 acres of water and more than 2,300 miles of shoreline. That’s a lot of space for casting a line. Anglers come here for bass, crappie, catfish, and bluegill, especially during spring and fall. The lake is also known for producing trophy-sized catches, especially when it comes to largemouth bass and crappie. With its deep channels, shallow bays, and underwater structures, there’s a good mix of spots for different fishing styles. Boat ramps, marinas, and fishing guides are easy to find around the lake, making it beginner-friendly too. Whether you’re fishing from the bank or in a boat, Kentucky Lake offers serious variety without the pressure of a crowded scene. It’s a solid pick if you want results and room to move.

More Info & FAQ: Top 30 Fishing Lakes in Kentucky

Whether you’re chasing bass, crappie, catfish, or bluegill, Kentucky’s lakes offer plenty of options. From big-name spots like Kentucky Lake and Lake Barkley to smaller lakes that are easier to access, there’s a range of choices depending on how you like to fish.

If you’re new to fishing in the state, check out the Kentucky Department of Fish and Wildlife Resources. They post regular stocking schedules, fishing forecasts, and access maps, which can help you plan better.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a fishing license in Kentucky?
Yes. Anyone 16 and older needs a fishing license to fish in public waters. You can buy a day pass, annual license, or combo licenses online at fw.ky.gov.

When’s the best time to fish in Kentucky?
Spring and fall are usually the best times for bass and crappie. Catfishing tends to heat up in the summer, especially at night. Winter fishing is slower but still possible in deeper lakes.

Can I fish from the shore or do I need a boat?
Many lakes have solid shoreline access, piers, and bank fishing areas. Some lakes are boat-friendly with ramps, while others are electric-motor-only or even no-boat zones. Check local rules before heading out.

What kinds of fish can I expect to catch?
Most lakes offer a mix: largemouth bass, smallmouth bass, crappie, bluegill, channel catfish, and sometimes walleye or trout. The exact mix depends on the lake and season.

Are there any lakes that are better for families or beginners?
Yes. Places like Kincaid Lake, Greenbo Lake, and Taylorsville Lake have good shore access, picnic spots, and rental options. They’re solid picks if you’re bringing kids or trying to keep things simple.

Are there limits on what I can keep?
Yes. Most lakes follow statewide size and creel limits, but a few have special rules. Always check the lake-specific regulations before you start fishing.

Where can I rent a boat or gear?
Several of the larger lakes like Kentucky Lake, Lake Cumberland, and Barren River Lake have marinas with rentals. Smaller lakes near state parks may offer canoes, kayaks, or jon boats.