Guide To Fishing At Paintsville Lake

AKA: Paintsville Lake State Park

Paintsville Lake State Park is a great place for a weekend family camping trip or extended vacation. It is located on the shoes of Paintsville Lake, a 1,140-acre lake in northeast Kentucky.

Available Fish Species
Amenities
Today's Weather & Forecast
Boat Launch Ramps
Campgrounds & RV Parks
Map
Lake Video
Contact Info

Paintsville Lake, located in northeastern Kentucky, is a delightful destination for fishing enthusiasts, boaters, and campers. This serene reservoir offers a picturesque setting surrounded by rolling hills and lush forests, providing a perfect backdrop for outdoor adventures.

Fishing at Paintsville Lake is a popular activity, drawing anglers in search of various fish species. The lake is known for its populations of largemouth bass, smallmouth bass, crappie, catfish, and bluegill. Anglers can cast their lines from the shoreline, fish from boats, or explore the lake's hidden coves and channels. Paintsville Lake's diverse fishery ensures that anglers of all skill levels have the opportunity to enjoy a rewarding day of fishing.

Boating on Paintsville Lake is a favored pastime, thanks to its calm waters and scenic beauty. Boaters can cruise along the lake, marveling at the tranquil surroundings and taking in the panoramic views. Whether you're paddling a kayak, steering a pontoon boat, or cruising in a powerboat, Paintsville Lake provides a peaceful and enjoyable boating experience. The lake offers boat ramps and marinas, ensuring easy access for boaters to launch their vessels and make the most of their time on the water.

Camping at Paintsville Lake offers visitors a chance to embrace the tranquility of the area and immerse themselves in nature. The lake provides campgrounds and RV parks that cater to different camping preferences, from tent sites to full RV hookups. Campers can relax amidst the peaceful ambiance, enjoy campfire evenings, and take advantage of amenities such as picnic areas, playgrounds, and hiking trails. Paintsville Lake's campgrounds provide a serene and family-friendly atmosphere, making it an ideal destination for outdoor enthusiasts.

Nature lovers will appreciate the natural wonders surrounding Paintsville Lake. The area is home to a variety of wildlife, and visitors can explore nearby hiking trails, go birdwatching, or simply enjoy the peacefulness of the forests.

Whether you're casting a line, exploring the lake by boat, or spending a night under the stars at a campsite, Paintsville Lake offers a serene and scenic escape in the heart of Kentucky. Its diverse fish populations, calm waters, and natural beauty make it an ideal destination for fishing, boating, and camping adventures. So pack your fishing gear, launch your boat, or set up camp near the lakeshore, and immerse yourself in the tranquility and splendor of Paintsville Lake.

The meandering river, now a lake, creates 57 miles of shoreline which is home to bass, trout, walleye, sunfish, catfish and perch. Paintsville Lake Marina rents pontoon boats and fishing boats, has a fishing pier and boat launch ramp...all open year round. Most often, good fishing can be expected for crappie, hybrid striped bass and rainbow trout. Bass and walleye can be good at times, and there is generally good bluegill fishing for the kids. Access for fishing from the bank can be found at numerous places around the lake.

What to fish for...

Fishing for largemouth bass, smallmouth bass, channel catfish, walleye, rainbow trout, bluegill, white bass and yellow perch at Paintsville Lake in Kentucky.

Primary fish species residing in Paintsville Lake

Click images for fishing tips and details about each species.

Paintsville Lake Amenities

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

Today's Weather & Forecast

Public Boat Launch Ramps & Landings

Paintsville Lake Campground Boat Launch Ramp
Located in the southwest section of the lake, off Marina Road, this is a four-lane, concrete ramp with docks and paved parking.

Patoker Road Boat Launch Ramp
Located in the northeast section of the lake, off Open Fork Road, this is a two-lane, concrete ramp with gravel parking.

Click here for a Kentucky Fishing License.