Did you know that Kentucky is a hidden gem for kayak fishing enthusiasts? With its abundance of lakes, rivers, and creeks, this state offers some of the country’s best places to kayak fish. (Shocking Statistic or Fact) In fact, there are over 1,000 public boat ramps scattered across Kentucky’s waterways, providing easy access for kayakers and experienced paddlers alike.
Kayak fishing has gained immense popularity in recent years due to its accessibility and tranquility. Unlike traditional boat fishing, kayaks allow you to navigate shallow waters and reach secluded spots where motorized boats cannot go. (Shocking Statistic or Fact) Studies have shown that being surrounded by nature and engaging in outdoor activities like kayak fishing can have numerous mental and physical health benefits.
Whether you’re an avid angler or just looking to try something new, Kentucky’s diverse waterways offer a variety of fish species to target. From crappie to smallmouth bass, there’s no shortage of opportunities to reel in a big catch while enjoying the serenity of nature.
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7 Best Kayak Fishing Spots In Kentucky
Kentucky is a paradise for kayak fishing enthusiasts, offering an array of stunning locations that cater to all skill levels. Whether you’re a seasoned angler or just starting out, the state’s diverse options are sure to satisfy your fishing cravings.
From serene lakes to meandering rivers, the top seven spots in Kentucky promise exceptional kayak fishing experiences. Whether you prefer lakes, rivers, or reservoirs, here are some of the best places to kayak fish in Kentucky:
#1. Green River
| Green River | Features |
|---|---|
| Description | A Tranquil River known for Smallmouth Bass and Catfish, is open year-round with spring and fall prime. |
| Fish Species | Tranquil River known for Smallmouth Bass and Catfish. |
| Best Time to Fish | Year-round, spring and fall. |
Kentucky is famous for its beautiful outdoor scenery and lots of rivers and lakes. This makes it a great place for people who love to go kayaking and fishing. One of the really awesome places in Kentucky for this is Green River.
Green River is incredibly beautiful. When you’re kayaking on its calm waters, you’ll be amazed by all the lush green plants around you. The peacefulness of the river makes it a really calm and relaxing place. You can completely enjoy being in nature while doing what you love.
The river has lots of different kinds of fish, which is great news for people who love fishing. You can find lots of smallmouth bass here, and they’re known for being really energetic and fun to catch. There are also catfish and muskies, so there are plenty of chances for anglers to show off their skills and catch some big fish.
Green River has some exciting whitewater rapids, which are like fast and bumpy parts of the river. They make kayaking here really adventurous. Whether you’re really good at kayaking and want an exciting time or you’re just starting and want to try something challenging, going through these rapids will definitely get your heart racing with excitement.
In addition to its beautiful nature, Green River has some extra things that make it even better for people who love kayaking and fishing. The city of Bowling Green is a great place to stay while you’re exploring this area. When you’re done kayaking for the day, you can check out the lovely downtown area of Bowling Green. There, you’ll find lots of tasty restaurants and interesting cultural stuff to enjoy.
For those who enjoy exploring beyond the riverbanks, numerous water trails along the Green River allow you to venture further into its breathtaking surroundings. These trails offer diverse landscapes and wildlife encounters that add excitement and exploration to your kayaking adventure.
It’s important to note that Green River is also used to generate electricity from water, which is called hydroelectric power. This shows how important the river is and adds an interesting aspect to your kayaking trip. While you’re paddling, you can pause for a moment to think about how nature and technology are working together here.
#2. Elkhorn Creek
| Elkhorn Creek | Features |
|---|---|
| Description | Scenic creek with Smallmouth Bass and Muskie, great for year-round kayak fishing. |
| Fish Species | Smallmouth Bass, Muskie. |
| Best Time to Fish | Year-round, especially summer. |
Elkhorn Creek is known as one of Kentucky’s top places to catch smallmouth bass, which is a popular fish. People who love kayaking and fishing come from all over to visit this beautiful creek. It’s unique because the water is really clear, and you can see a lot of wildlife. This makes it a perfect place for an amazing adventure if you enjoy kayak fishing.
When you paddle your way along Elkhorn Creek, you’ll be greeted by crystal-clear waters that make it ideal for sight fishing from a kayak. The clarity of the water allows you to spot fish lurking beneath the surface, making it easier to target them with precision. As you glide through the creek on your kayak, keep an eye out for smallmouth bass darting among the rocks and vegetation.
A part of Elkhorn Creek called the Buffalo Trace stretch is especially good for kayak fishing. In this section, you have great chances to catch smallmouth bass and other fish like rock bass and sunfish. This area has deep spots, fast-moving water areas called riffles, and things underwater that the fish like to hide in, making it a really good place to find these fish.
The Buffalo Trace section of Elkhorn Creek is known for its diverse array of wildlife. While casting your line from your kayak, take a moment to appreciate your surroundings and observe nature at its finest. You may spot great blue herons gracefully wading along the banks or turtles basking in the sun on fallen logs. Keep an ear out for the melodic songs of various bird species that call this area home.
Elkhorn Creek has a trail called the Buffalo Trace Trail for people who want more adventures aside from kayaking and fishing. This trail goes along the creek and is great for hiking or biking. You can enjoy the beautiful natural surroundings while exploring Kentucky’s wilderness either on foot or on a bike. It’s a peaceful place to experience nature.
#3. Lake Barkley
| Lake Barkley | Features |
|---|---|
| Description | Vast lake offering Largemouth Bass and Catfish fishing, with submerged structures, suitable year-round. |
| Fish Species | Largemouth Bass, Catfish. |
| Best Time to Fish | Year-round, with spring and fall peaks. |
Lake Barkley is a fantastic spot in Kentucky for kayaking and fishing. It’s big, has lots of different types of fish, and has good facilities for kayakers. This lovely lake covers over 58,000 acres, so there’s plenty of room for kayakers to paddle around and do some fishing.
Lake Barkley has many different kinds of fish you can catch. You’ll find popular game fish like largemouth bass, crappie, and bluegill here. These fish are fun to catch and make for exciting challenges whether you’re a pro or just starting out with fishing
One cool thing about Lake Barkley is that it’s close to the Land Between the Lakes National Recreation Area. This big area of protected land gives outdoor lovers more chances to enjoy nature, not just for fishing. If you’re kayaking, you can paddle along the edge of the lake and see amazing views of the nearby national forest and park areas.
If you want to really dive into the experience, there are state parks like Barren River Lake State Resort Park nearby. They have camping spots where you can spend the night under the stars after a day of kayaking. This lets people who love fishing and kayaking stay longer and have an even better adventure.
Lake Barkley has things that are great for kayakers. There are special spots where you can start your kayak adventure, made just for small boats like kayaks. This makes it really easy for people who want to go fishing on their kayaks. You can find many places where you can easily start your kayak adventure because there are several boat ramps around the area. So, getting your kayak into the water is a breeze.
To enhance your fishing trip further, consider exploring different sections of Lake Barkley that are known for specific fish populations or unique angling experiences. For example:
- Explore rocky structures: Go to places with rocks in the water, like rocky shores or underwater rocks where largemouth bass like to hang out.
- Target brush piles: Crappies often seek shelter near brush piles in deeper sections of the lake.
- Focus on shallow areas: Bluegill is abundant near shallow coves and sunken vegetation.
Don’t forget to bring the right stuff with you. You’ll need a fishing kayak, life jackets, fishing rods, and tackle boxes. Also, make sure you know the fishing rules here and get the right permits before you go on your kayak fishing trip at Lake Barkley.
#4. Salt River
| Salt River | Features |
|---|---|
| Description | Quiet river with Catfish and Smallmouth Bass, perfect for year-round fishing, with peak action in spring and fall. |
| Fish Species | Catfish, Smallmouth Bass. |
| Best Time to Fish | Year-round, with prime in spring and fall. |
The Salt River in Kentucky is a fantastic place for people who love kayak fishing. It’s a beautiful river with limestone cliffs and wooded areas that make your fishing trip really special.
One of the best things about the Salt River is that the water is calm, which is perfect for kayaking and fishing. As you paddle, you’ll see tall sandstone cliffs along the river, and it’s an amazing view. The peaceful atmosphere lets you enjoy nature while having fun catching fish.
The Salt River is known for being a great place to catch channel catfish. These catfish are strong and put up a good fight, so you’ll have an exciting time trying to catch them. It doesn’t matter if you’re a pro angler or just getting started; there are lots of channel catfish here, so you’ll always have some action on your fishing line.
If you want to go fishing here, there are special spots along the Salt River where you can easily start your kayak adventure. These launch sites make it super simple to get into the water and begin your fishing trip without any trouble. Some popular access points include:
- Taylorsville Lake State Park: Taylorsville Lake State Park is a great place to start your adventure on the Salt River. They have parking and restrooms to make your trip more convenient.
- Guist Creek Marina: Located near Shelbyville, this marina allows kayakers to launch directly into the Salt River.
- Lockport Boat Ramp: Situated just below Lockport Dam, this boat ramp grants easy entry onto the river for both motorized boats and kayaks.
Once you’re in the water, don’t rush. Take your time exploring different parts of the river. The winding path of the Salt River gives you lots of chances to cast your fishing line and find new great spots for fishing. You can also go to the quieter, less busy areas because they often have cool surprises for anglers.
While you’re paddling on the calm water and looking at the tall sandstone cliffs along the river, keep an eye out for other animals that live here. You might see eagles flying above you or turtles sitting on logs in the sun. The peaceful environment here is a perfect break from your everyday busy life.
#5. Red River
| Red River | Features |
|---|---|
| Description | Picturesque river for Smallmouth Bass and Catfish, fish near rocky areas year-round, with spring and fall being excellent. |
| Fish Species | Smallmouth Bass, Catfish. |
| Best Time to Fish | Year-round, with peak action in spring and fall. |
If you’re really good at kayaking and want an exciting adventure, you should check out the Red River in Kentucky. This river is famous for its rough and tough terrain, with fast-moving water and challenging rapids. It’s the perfect place if you want an adrenaline rush while kayaking.
The Red River is known for its rapids, which is why experienced kayakers love it. The quick water and rocky area make it a thrilling ride. When you’re going through these rapids, you’ll feel the excitement as your kayak goes over waves and maneuvers around obstacles. But be careful, because these rapids are quite tough. If you’re a beginner, it’s better to find an easier place to kayak.
The Red River is not just about its exciting rapids; it’s also a great place for trout fishing. Lots of people come here to try this unique fishing experience. Whether you’re a pro angler or a beginner, fishing in these clean waters is sure to give you some great catches. Being in the peaceful nature while catching a trout is an amazing experience that will make you want to come back for more.
Like any outdoor activity, it’s important to know the rules and special things to consider when kayaking on the Red River. Even though there aren’t specific rules just for kayakers, it’s really important to be respectful to the animals and their homes while you’re here. Also, always be careful about the weather and water levels before you start your trip.
If you’re thinking about exploring more rivers in Kentucky, not just the Red River, you might want to check out Rough River Lake. It’s another cool place to visit. This big lake has lots of water to explore and is great for fishing and boating. There are lots of nooks and crannies to discover, so you’ll have a ton of fun at Rough River Lake.
#6. Lake Cumberland
| Lake Cumberland | Features |
|---|---|
| Description | A reservoir known for Striped Bass and Crappie, excellent for trolling, with year-round fishing and prime in spring and fall. |
| Fish Species | Striped Bass, Crappie. |
| Best Time to Fish | Year-round, especially during spring and fall. |
Lake Cumberland is a fantastic place in Kentucky for people who love to kayak and fish. It’s really big and has deep water, which makes it perfect for having a great fishing experience.
One of the best things about Lake Cumberland is that it’s known for being a top spot to catch striped bass and walleye. These fish are famous for being strong fighters and tasting delicious, so a lot of anglers want to catch them. It doesn’t matter if you’re an expert or just starting out; you’ll have lots of fun fishing here.
There are specific areas and methods that have been proven to be really good for catching fish. If you explore the little hidden parts of the shoreline, like coves and inlets, you can find secret places where fish like to gather. These spots are like their homes, with food and shelter, so you’ll have a better chance of catching big fish there.
To catch more fish in Lake Cumberland, try these tips:
Find Drop-offs and Underwater Structures: Look for places where the water suddenly gets deeper or where there are things underwater like trees or rocks. Fish like to hide in these spots. You can catch them by putting your fishing line near these things and using different fishing techniques like jigging or trolling.
Use the Right Bait: To catch the kind of fish you want, use bait that looks like what they like to eat. For example, striped bass-like things that look like shad or real minnows. Walleye might bite on jigs with nightcrawlers or fake bait that looks like small fish.
Watch the Weather: The weather can make a big difference in how many fish you catch. Pay attention to things like which way the wind is blowing and how warm or cold the water is. In cooler months, walleye usually stay closer to the shore, while striped bass may swim deeper into the middle of the lake.
Following these tips can help you catch more fish when you’re kayaking and fishing in Lake Cumberland.
#7. Taylorsville Lake
| Taylorsville Lake | Features |
|---|---|
| Description | Peaceful lake for Largemouth Bass and Catfish, fish near submerged trees year-round, with spring and fall as prime seasons. |
| Fish Species | Largemouth Bass, Catfish. |
| Best Time to Fish | Spring and fall. |
Taylorsville Lake is an absolute gem for kayak fishing enthusiasts in Kentucky. This picturesque lake offers a stunning backdrop with its wooded shorelines and crystal-clear water, making it a must-visit destination for nature lovers and anglers alike.
One of the highlights of Taylorsville Lake is its diverse fish population. Anglers will be thrilled to find a variety of species thriving in these waters. This lake has it all whether you’re after largemouth bass, crappie, or catfish. The abundance of fish ensures that you’ll have an exciting and rewarding fishing experience each time you set out on your kayak.
Taylorsville Lake isn’t just great for fishing; it’s also set up well for kayakers. They have special spots where you can easily put your kayak in the water without any trouble. These launch areas are spread out all around the lake, so you can explore different parts and find the perfect spot for fishing.
Once you’re on the lake, take some time to enjoy the peaceful beauty around you. The wooded edges of the lake create a calm and quiet feeling as you paddle along. It’s a really peaceful place that’s hard to find anywhere else. The water is really clear, so you can see what’s underwater beneath your kayak, which is pretty cool.
If you’re planning a trip to Kentucky for kayak fishing, take advantage of exploring Taylorsville Lake. Its natural beauty and diverse fish population make it one of the best places to indulge in this thrilling outdoor activity.
Other notable destinations for kayak fishing in Kentucky include Dale Hollow Lake and Mammoth Cave National Park:
- Dale Hollow Lake: This lake is famous for its deep and clear waters, along with its beautiful views. It’s a fantastic spot for kayak fishing and has various fish like smallmouth bass, walleye, and trout. The lake is surrounded by lots of green plants, which makes it a peaceful and immersive place for anglers.
- Mammoth Cave National Park: While most people know this park for its huge cave system, it’s also an awesome place for kayak fishing. The Green River flows through the park, and you can catch fish like bass, catfish, and bluegill there. While you’re paddling on the river, you’ll see amazing cliffs made of limestone and beautiful natural scenery.
Bottom Line
So there you have it – Kentucky’s seven best places to kayak fish! From the serene waters of Green River to the picturesque Elkhorn Creek, these spots offer incredible opportunities for anglers and kayakers alike. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or just starting out, Kentucky’s lakes and rivers provide an abundance of fish species and breathtaking scenery.
