COLD TEMPS PUT BRAKES ON FISHING SCENE

Kentucky Lake 1/15/26
By Steve McCadams, Professional Guide/Outdoor Writer (stevemc@charter.net)

Falling temperatures and nasty north winds have put the brakes on the winter fishing scene on Kentucky Lake. It’s a sharp contrast to the previous week when above average temperatures had fishermen out in force enjoying unusually mild weather and light winds. Conditions have kept anglers close to the fire for the last few days and the cold is expected to linger for quite a spell. Temps may moderate by last next week, but the long-range forecast indicates a chance of frozen mix down the road. Most anglers are riding it out inside and waiting for better days. January weather has a reputation for drastic changes on short notice.

Meanwhile, lake levels are still hanging out in the low elevation range of 354.9. That’s the winter pool range. Also, the release rates are low through Kentucky Dam as low rainfall continues to deliver diminished runoff. Discharge rates were around 27,000 cubic feet per second last week and increased slightly due to heavy rains that descended across middle Tennessee but dodged west Tennessee.

Watercolor remains clear. Surface temps have dropped due to the very cold nights and are now around the mid to upper 30’s in most areas. By next week anglers can expect minor moderation in temps.

Crappie anglers had been scoring some pretty good stringers prior to the cold fronts. Bass fishermen were catching a few smallmouth and largemouth too.

The bite will resume soon once the weather stabilizes and returns to more tolerable ranges.

Check Out KOA Weekend Events 2026

 Check out 2026 #ParisKOA Campground events - book early for all year....all dates are open now! https://koa.com/campgrounds/paris-landing/

— at Paris Landing / Kentucky Lake KOA Holiday.

Monthly Meeting

 The monthly meeting of the Paris Landing Tourism League (PLTL) will be held Tuesday, January 13th, at 6 pm at the Senior Center inside the Paris Landing Emergency Complex.

Hope to see you there!

Over The River Run

 

Hike At Camp Hazlewood

 Great photo from the New Year's Day hike at Camp Hazlewood.

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