Lake Barkley (Kentucky)

Barkley Lake:

Lake Barkley fishing is one of the most popular tournament attractions in western Kentucky and Tennessee. Lake Barkley, a 58,000-acre reservoir located across Livingston County, Lyon County, and Trigg County in Kentucky and extending into Stewart County and Houston County in Tennessee, was impounded by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers in 1966 upon completion of Barkley Dam.

Lake Barkley is a mainstem reservoir on the Cumberland River, forming a 57,920-acre system, with 41,775 acres located in Kentucky. Water levels typically fluctuate about five feet between summer and winter pools. Winter pool level reaches 354 ft above mean sea level (msl) by December 1, and water levels begin rising on April 1 to reach summer pool levels of 359 ft msl by May 1. These seasonal fluctuations play a key role in shaping Lake Barkley fishing patterns throughout the year.

Fish habitat in Lake Barkley includes limited aquatic vegetation, standing timber, and tree stumps remaining from pre-impoundment creek channels. During periods of increased water clarity, aquatic vegetation expands and creates productive feeding areas that significantly improve Lake Barkley fishing conditions, particularly for largemouth bass. The Kentucky Department of Fish and Wildlife Resources has also enhanced habitat by installing brush piles, stake beds, and artificial spawning structures to improve long-term bass recruitment.

Lake Barkley is widely recognized as a premier fishing destination in Kentucky, known for its abundant largemouth bass and year-round opportunities around submerged structures, creeks, and the dam area. Whether fishing recreationally or competing in regional tournaments, Lake Barkley fishing offers diverse opportunities for both novice and experienced anglers. Anglers fishing bordering waters must hold a valid fishing license and follow the regulations of the state in which they are fishing.

BOATING REGULATIONS:

All provisions of the Kentucky Boat Registration and Safety Act will be enforced. Boats must carry containers for litter disposal and must not anchor within 25 feet of buoys or buoy lines. Anchor lights and running lights are required after sundown. No one under the influence of alcohol may operate a boat on Barkley Lake. Personal flotation devices must be worn at all times when the boat is moving above idle speed. These guidelines help ensure safe and successful Lake Barkley fishing tournaments.

Tips & Techniques

Try Texas-rigged Lizards, swimbait jigs, chatterbaits, or spinnerbaits, while focusing on structure to maximize success during Lake Barkley fishing events.

Proper Bass Handling

Tournament anglers participating in summer bass tournaments should be aware of proper bass handling needs. KDFWR recommends that all anglers review the B.A.S.S. manual “Keeping Bass Alive.” Maintain livewell temperatures 5–10°F cooler than lake water, run aeration continuously, and exchange water halfway through the tournament when holding 10 pounds of bass or more. Minimizing the time bass spend out of water helps protect the fishery and ensures sustainable Lake Barkley fishing condition

Lodging / Campgrounds:

Information to be announced Early Spring

Tournament Information:

This is an Open Event.  

This is an open event. Members of Tri-State Finest Fishing (TSFF) and the Indiana Armed Forces Fishing League (IAFFL) will accrue seasonal points during this Lake Barkley fishing tournament.

Entry Fee: $120.00 Per Boat

Non-members surcharge: $30 per team (waived after participation in three events)
Armed Forces Fishing League members are exempt from the surcharge

All fees will be collected at the boat ramp unless paid in advance as part of the check-in.  Everyone must check-in even if paid in advance.  Cash Only

Big Fish Optional Pot:  $30.00 per team

Day 1:  Big Fish 30%

Day 2: Overall Big Fish 70%

Payouts are calculated by (TOURNAMENT PAYOUT CALCULATOR) youts.firebaseapp.com

Tournament Payout Breakdown:

1 Payout per 4 Boats, Minimum of 2 places paid.

90% – For Payouts

10% – To the (TSFF)

Check-in: 6:00AM at the Check Station next to the Boat Ramp located at: To be announced

Lines In: 06:30AM

Lines Out: 2:30PM

Weigh In: 2:45PM – 3:15PM

2 anglers per boat maximum (single angler allowed)

Fish Limit 15” Minimum, Per-bag/boat

Dead Fish: will not count, and you will be penalized an additional 8oz