Fishing Cave Run Lake

AKA: Cave Run Reservoir

By AA-Fishing Staff Writers

Popular Fish Species Cave Run Lake, KY

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Largemouth Bass Fishing

Locals and tournament anglers enjoy success fishing for largemouth bass at Cave Run Lake. The lake is full of a wide variety of prey, and the bass grow fat and healthy. Fishing for largemouth bass is good virtually any time they are shallow - in spring, mornings in summer, and during warm Fall afternoons. Use shallow crankbaits around rip rap. Around grass use worms, jigs, topwater and spinnerbaits. In deeper water, big worms, jigs and spoons are three good weapons. In winter, spend your time on deeper structure. Smallmouth bass and spotted bass also reside here in good numbers.

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Crappie Fishing

Both black crappie and white crappie inhabit the waters of Cave Run Lake, and crappie are a very popular species this year. Crappie fishing is on the rise and they can be found in sizeable schools. Black crappie tend to run larger, as well as outnumber, white crappie. Crappie always like cover and structure, so locate brush and vegetation. Using a fish finder can help locate schools of crappie, which tend to stack vertically around cover. Live bait and small jigs are the most common method for crappie here. In spring and fall focus on the 8 to 12 foot range. As the crappie move deep in summer and winter, follow points out deep, as well as find ledges near channels in deeper water.

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Muskie Fishing

Cave Run Lake is a trophy Muskie lake, with plenty of big fish to catch. The lake abounds with forage fish and muskies eat well here. Giant musky roam these waters and are aggressive eaters. Muskie fishing can bring some exciting moments to your fishing day, as big muskies are spectacular, and strong fighters. Use a strong rod in medium- to medium-heavy action, with heavy line - 20# or heavier. Because of their sharp teeth, steel leaders are highly recommended. Muskie have a big mouth so use big baits, same baits you would use for bass but in larger sizes. Topwater, spinnerbaits, crankbaits and jerkbaits all work well for hungry muskie. The best time of year to chase these big fish is Spring, and then again in Fall as the water temperature starts cooling.

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Cave Run Lake Fishing Video

Fish species to fish for...

Guide to fishing for largemouth bass, smallmouth bass, spotted bass, black crappie, white crappie, bluegill, white bass and muskie at Cave Run Lake in Kentucky.

Famous for monster muskie, Cave Run Lake also has crappie, bass, bluegill and white bass. This 8,300-acre lake in the northeast part of the state, immediately southeast of Farmers, KY has over 200 miles of shoreline creating plenty of places to fish.

Cave Run Lake, situated in northeastern Kentucky, is a premier destination for fishing, boating, and camping. This expansive reservoir covers over 8,000 acres and offers abundant opportunities for outdoor recreation in a picturesque setting.

Fishing at Cave Run Lake is a major draw for anglers. The lake is renowned for its trophy-sized muskellunge (muskie) population, attracting anglers from far and wide seeking the thrill of landing these powerful and elusive fish. In addition to muskie, Cave Run Lake is also home to a variety of popular fish species, including largemouth bass, smallmouth bass, crappie, and catfish. Anglers can target these species using various techniques such as casting lures, trolling, or fishing with live bait. Whether you're a seasoned angler or a novice, Cave Run Lake offers a diverse fishery that promises excitement and rewarding catches.

Cave Run Lake is also known for hosting various fishing tournaments and events throughout the year, attracting anglers from competitive circuits as well as recreational fishermen. These events showcase the lake's outstanding fishing opportunities and provide a platform for anglers to test their skills against fellow fishing enthusiasts.

Whether you're casting your line, cruising the waters in a boat, or enjoying a camping getaway, Cave Run Lake offers a captivating outdoor experience in the heart of Kentucky. Its excellent fishing, boating opportunities, and scenic beauty make it an ideal destination for anglers, boaters, and nature lovers alike. So pack your fishing gear, launch your boat, or set up camp along the lakeshore, and immerse yourself in the wonders of Cave Run Lake.

Several area campgrounds, a marina, convenience stores, fishing tackle, restaurants and a dozen boat ramps welcome visitors to the area. Boat rentals at the lake include both pontoon boats and fishing boats.

Primary fish species residing in Cave Run Lake

Click images for fishing tips and details about each species.

Cave Run Lake Amenities

Marina: YES
Boat Rental: YES
Boat Launch Ramp: YES
Campgrounds: YES
RV Hookups: YES
Lodging: YES
Convenience Store: YES
Bait & Tackle: YES
Restaurant: YES

Today's Weather & Forecast

Boating enthusiasts will find plenty to enjoy on Cave Run Lake. The lake provides ample space for recreational boating, water skiing, and tubing. Boaters can explore the lake's numerous coves, submerged structures, and open waters, all while surrounded by the scenic beauty of the Daniel Boone National Forest. Multiple boat ramps and marinas ensure easy access to the water, allowing boaters to make the most of their time on Cave Run Lake.

Fishing Boat Rentals

Scott's Creek Marina
Rentals: Jon boats and pontoon boats
606 784-9666

Public Boat Launch Ramps & Landings

Bangor Boat Launch Ramp
Located in the southeast section of the lake, north side, off Bangor Boat Dock Road, this is a two-lane, concrete ramp with a dock and paved parking.

Claylick Boat Launch Ramp
Located mid lake, east side, off Clay Lick Road, this is a two-lane, concrete ramp with a dock and paved parking.

Leatherwood Creek Boat Launch Ramp
Located in the southwest section of the lake, off Boat Ramp Road, this is a two-lane, concrete ramp with a dock and gravel parking.

Longbow Boat Launch Ramp
Located in the southwest corner of the lake, off Long Bow, this is a two-lane, concrete ramp with a dock and paved parking.

Poppin Rock Boat Launch Ramp
Located in the southeast section of the lake, north side, off State Road 519, this is a two-lane, concrete ramp with a dock and paved parking.

Scott Creek Boat Launch Ramp
Located in the northwest corner of the lake, east side, off FD 1278 Road, this is a two-lane, concrete ramp with a dock and paved parking.

Stoney Cove Boat Launch Ramp
Located in the northwest section of the lake, south end of the dam, off Daniel Boone National Forest Road, this is a two-lane, concrete ramp with a dock and paved parking.

Twin Knobs Boat Launch Ramp
Located in the northwest corner of the lake, east side, off Twin Knobs, this is a two-lane, concrete ramp with a dock and paved parking.

Warix Run Boat Launch Ramp
Located mid lake, east side, off Warix Run Boat Dock Road, this is a two-lane, concrete ramp with a dock and paved parking.

Zilpo Boat Launch Ramp
Located mid lake, west side, off Boat Ramp Road, this is a two-lane, concrete ramp with a dock and paved parking.

Marinas

Scott's Creek Marina
Scott's Creek Marina Rd KY-801
Morehead, KY 40351
606 784-9666

Fishing Guides On Cave Run Lake

Kentucky Muskie Charters - muskie

If you offer fishing guide services on this lake, please contact us for a free listing, to be posted here.

Fishing License

Click here for a Kentucky Fishing License.

Camping at Cave Run Lake is a popular choice for those looking to immerse themselves in nature. The lake features several campgrounds and RV parks that offer a range of camping options, including both tent camping and RV hookups. These campgrounds often provide amenities such as picnic areas, playgrounds, and hiking trails, allowing visitors to fully enjoy the natural surroundings of Cave Run Lake. Whether you prefer a lakeside campsite or a secluded spot in the forest, camping at Cave Run Lake offers a peaceful retreat.

Campgrounds & RV Parks Nearby

Twin Knobs Campground - 606 784-8816

Zilpo Campground - 606 768-2701

Outpost RV Park & Campground - 606 683-2311

Longbow Marina Campground - 606 768-2929

Cave Run Lake KY Map - Fishing & Camping Areas

Contact Information

Cave Run Lake
Cave Run Marina
4325 KY-801
Morehead, KY 40351
606 784-9666

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