Fishing Dewey Lake
AKA: Dewey Reservoir
Popular Fish Species Dewey Lake, KY
Crappie Fishing
Crappie anglers can fish for both black crappie and white crappie at Dewey Lake. These two species tend to school separately. However, once located around cover, you may catch both species, as they often use the same cover. For best results when fishing for crappie, light line and small hooks are key, especially when fishing live or prepared baits. Crappie jigs are also productive her in a wide variety of colors. Dewey Lake is a good place to catch good quantities of nice, fat slabs. Crappie fishing can be found in varying size schools, hanging around brush, vegetation, wood or other cover. Using a fish finder any time of year can help locate these crappie schools, 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, especially areas with brush or timber in deeper water. The best time to catch crappie tends to be at dawn and dusk.
Largemouth Bass Fishing
Dewey Lake is a popular bass tournament for local anglers. Weekend and tournament anglers find the fishing to be slow at time, yet pretty good at other times. Fishing for bass can be quite rewarding, with an occasional bass over 4 pounds being caught. Anglers can also catch smallmouth bass, which reside here in decent numbers. Bass often move shallow and become aggressive when they are in a feeding mood. Use shallow crankbaits around rip rap. Around grass, use worms, jigs, topwater and spinnerbaits. In deeper water, drop shot rigs, big worms, jigs and spoons are good options. In winter, spend your time fishing deeper structure where the bass spend much of their time.
Muskie Fishing
Fishing for muskellunge in Dewey Lake could provide a trophy fish on any given cast. A 40-inch minimum length has been an important factor in establishing giant musky, which roam these waters. 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.
Fish species to fish for...
Guide to fishing for largemouth bass, smallmouth bass, channel catfish, blue catfish, black crappie, white crappie, bluegill, white bass, hybrid striped bass and muskie at Dewey Lake in Kentucky.
Dewey Lake Fishing Video
Rental boats, a marina, boat launch ramps, lodging, camping and shopping are all close at hand when you visit Dewey Lake, an 1,100-acre lake in eastern Kentucky. Anglers can explore over 50 miles of shoreline by boat, or much of it for fishing from the bank.
Dewey Lake, located in eastern Kentucky, is a hidden gem for fishing enthusiasts, boaters, and campers. Nestled amidst the rolling hills and lush forests of the region, Dewey Lake offers a serene and picturesque setting for outdoor adventures.
Fishing at Dewey Lake is a favorite pastime for both locals and visitors. The lake is home to a variety of popular fish species, including largemouth bass, crappie, catfish, bluegill, and muskellunge. Anglers can cast their lines from the shoreline or venture out onto the calm waters in boats to target their desired species. Dewey Lake's diverse fishery provides ample opportunities for anglers of all skill levels to experience the thrill of reeling in a prized catch.
Dewey Lake is also known for its family-friendly atmosphere, making it an ideal destination for a weekend getaway or a longer vacation. The lake offers picnic areas, playgrounds, and nature trails, ensuring that visitors of all ages can enjoy a variety of recreational activities during their stay.
Whether you're casting a line, exploring the lake by boat, or unwinding at a campsite, Dewey Lake provides a peaceful and scenic escape in the heart of Kentucky. Its diverse fishery, calm waters, and natural beauty make it a hidden paradise for fishing, boating, and camping enthusiasts. So pack your fishing gear, launch your boat, or pitch your tent by the lakeshore, and immerse yourself in the tranquility of Dewey Lake.
Monster muskies draw a lot of the fishing attention, but the lake also has good bass, crappie, hybrid stripers, catfish and sunfish fishing. Jenny Wiley State Resort Park is a great place to headquarter. Bring or rent a canoe or kayak and spend a day enjoying the naturally beauty of this fertile fishery.
Primary fish species residing in Dewey Lake
Click images for fishing tips and details about each species.
Dewey 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 is a fantastic way to explore the scenic beauty of Dewey Lake. Boaters can navigate the lake's calm waters, taking in the breathtaking views of the surrounding forests and rolling hills. Whether you're cruising along the shoreline, water skiing, or simply enjoying a leisurely ride, Dewey Lake offers a peaceful and enjoyable boating experience. The lake provides boat ramps for easy access, allowing boaters to make the most of their time on the water.
Public Boat Launch Ramps & Landings
Gobel Branch Boat Launch Ramp
Located mid lake, west side, off Water Gap Road, this is a three-lane, concrete ramp with a dock and limited, paved parking.
Jenny Wiley Boat Launch Ramp
Located in the southwest section of the lake, off Jenny Wiley Drive, this is a three-lane, concrete ramp with docks and paved parking.
Road Branch Boat Launch Ramp
Located in the northwest section of the lake, west side, off Water Gap Road, this is a two-lane, concrete ramp with paved parking.
Stratton Branch Boat Launch Ramp
Located mid lake, southwest side, off Tom Wiley Road, this is a four-lane, concrete ramp with a dock and paved parking.
Fishing Guides On Dewey Lake
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 Dewey Lake is a popular choice for those seeking a tranquil retreat. The lake features several campgrounds and RV parks that offer a range of camping options, including both primitive tent sites and RV hookups. Camping in the area allows visitors to fully immerse themselves in the natural beauty of Dewey Lake and its surroundings. Campers can enjoy the sounds of nature, go hiking on nearby trails, or simply relax around a campfire, creating cherished memories in the great outdoors.
Campgrounds & RV Parks Nearby
Jenny Wiley State Resort Park Campgrounds - 606 889-1790
German Bridge Campground - 606 874-1150
US Army Corps of Engineers Campground - 606 886-6709
Dewey Lake KY Map - Fishing & Camping Areas
Contact Information
Dewey Lake
Jenny Wiley State Resort Park
Camp Ground Rd
Prestonsburg, KY 41653
606 889-1790
Fishing lakes in each state.
090524
Dewey Lake in KY
KENTUCKY
Fishing for largemouth, smallmouth and hybrid striped bass in eastern KY.