On January 1, 2010, the elevation of Kentucky Lake was 354.7 feet and the surface water temperature was 41 degrees. The elevation of Lake Barkley was 354.7 feet and the surface water temperature was 40 degrees. Summer pool for both lakes is 359 feet and winter pool is 354 feet. (To check daily elevations and projected levels of Kentucky Lake call 1-800-238-2264, lake #33.)

CRAPPIE: Crappie fishing is fair on both lakes. Some crappies have been taken on Kentucky Lake using jigs fished on main lake brush piles in 10 to 20 feet of water. Lake Barkley crappie can be taken at the ends of fallen trees near shore. Trees that have their tops in, or very near, deep water are the most productive.

BASS: Smallmouth fishing is fair on Kentucky Lake using jigs or crawfish colored crank baits fished at creek mouth or main lake points. Largemouth fishing is fair to good on both lakes using suspending jerk baits on main lake and creek points.

WHITE BASS: White bass fishing is fair to good on both lakes. Some whites are taken on humps at creek mouths in 8 to 15 feet of water. White Rooster Tails fished near the bottom have been productive.

BLUEGILL: Bluegill fishing is slow to fair using red worms fished around boat docks or fallen trees.

SAUGER: Sauger fishing is fair on Kentucky Lake using live minnows fished on the bottom in 15 to 25 feet of water at creek mouths.

CATFISH: Catfish fishing is fair on both lakes using cut bait fished on the bottom at creek mouths in 20 to 35 feet of water.

FISHING TIP: Jerk bait fishing has been very productive on the main lake points for bass. During times of heavy current, these fish will go just inside the creeks and continue to feed while avoiding the swift water.

NOTES: A taped telephone report is available by dialing (270) 924-2000. A weather forecast is available by dialing 270-744-6331.

Mention of specific products in this report does not represent an endorsement by the USDA Forest Service.