Fishing

Dale Hollow Lake offers unique opportunities to all of the fishermen that visit. With a diverse population of game fish that is maintained annually, anglers can always enjoy fishing with a wide range of tactics. Some of the primary fish species of Dale Hollow Lake include smallmouth bass, largemouth bass, walleye, musky, lake trout, rainbow trout, white bass, crappie, bluegill, channel catfish, and flathead catfish.

Smallmouth bass are a very common species that can be found along the shoreline of Dale Hollow Lake. Fishermen have frequently caught smallmouth bass in the 4 to 6 pound range. When targeting smallmouth bass, it is necessary to use light tackle such as spinners, jigs, and topwater lures.  Good places to target smallmouth include the coves near Ashburn Creek, Jouett Creek and near Long Branch.

Largemouth bass are also prevalent throughout this reservoir. Many trophy size largemouth bass are caught annually, which makes this the ideal location for serious sport fishing. In Dale Hollow Lake, fishermen should target largemouth bass during the mornings and afternoons for optimal results. Anglers seeking largemouth bass should equip a medium weight rod with crankbaits or spinnerbaits. This species can be found on the edges of weed beds and near drop offs.  Great areas to target include Irons Creek and the area surrounding the State Park.

The walleye is a species that can be found throughout the entire year in 5 to 7 pound range. Trophy walleye weighing in beyond 10 pounds have also been captured. In order to catch a walleye, fishermen should target deep waters near the middle of the lake. Live bait, jigs and crankbaits are the best options available. Some fishermen have also had successful catches by trolling for walleye. Use your electronics to find drop-offs and deep structure which might be holding fish.  

The muskie is a premier trophy fish that is stocked and also naturally reproduces in Dale Hollow Lake. This species is a very popular target that grow beyond 45 pounds in weight. It is an excellent fighter and provides a difficult challenge to even the most experienced of fishermen. Anglers will find that trolling at speeds of 3 to 6 miles per hour is the best speed when targeting muskie. Large spoons, spinnerbaits, and crankbaits are all successful tackle options. A heavy rod with a line of at least 15 to 20 pounds of test should be used if planning to pull in a trophy muskie.  Target all the main lake points and deeper creek enterances.  Also try trolling the islands in the middle of the lake.

For individuals that enjoy fly fishing, there are many species of trout in Dale Hollow Lake. These can be found near streams, creeks, and the turbulent waters of the dam between Dale Hollow Lake and the Obey River. 

Crappie fishing is often best near the Wolf River Arm of Dale Hollow Lake.

Facilities

Dale Hollow Lake has boat ramps, marinas, fueling stations, lodging, tackle shops, piers, and other accommodations that will ensure a trip that is easy to plan.

The Lake

This is a large reservoir. It has an area of 43 square miles. This lake's total shoreline measures out to 620 miles. Dale Hollow Lake is 130 feet at its deepest point, but this can fluctuate as much as 20 feet throughout the year. 

This is the perfect fishing location who enjoy targeting many different species while enjoying a quiet day on the water.

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