Guide To Fishing At Rough River Lake

AKA: Rough River Reservoir

Catfish, bass, hybrid stripers and crappie fishing can be excellent at Rough River Lake, a 5,000-acre lake in the west-central part of the state, at Falls Of Rough. Many, many coves and fingers create over 250 miles of shoreline for boating and fishing.

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

Rough River Lake, located in western Kentucky, is a beloved destination for fishing, boating, and camping. This scenic reservoir offers a picturesque setting surrounded by rolling hills and dense forests, providing an idyllic backdrop for outdoor enthusiasts.

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

Boating on Rough River Lake is a favored pastime, thanks to its calm waters and scenic beauty. Boaters can navigate the lake's tranquil expanse, taking in the panoramic views and embracing the serenity of the area. Whether you're paddling a kayak, piloting a pontoon boat, or cruising in a speedboat, Rough River Lake provides a delightful boating experience. The lake offers boat ramps, marinas, and rental services, ensuring easy access and convenience for boaters.

Camping at Rough River Lake allows visitors to fully immerse themselves in the natural beauty of the area. The lake provides campgrounds and RV parks that cater to different camping preferences, including tent sites and 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. Rough River Lake's campgrounds offer a family-friendly atmosphere, making it an ideal destination for outdoor enthusiasts.

The surrounding landscape of Rough River Lake adds to its charm. The area is dotted with wooded hills, offering opportunities for hiking, birdwatching, and wildlife spotting. Visitors can explore nearby nature trails, enjoy scenic views, or simply unwind in the tranquil atmosphere of the forested surroundings.

Whether you're casting a line, exploring the lake by boat, or spending a night under the stars at a campsite, Rough River 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 Rough River Lake.

The setting is stunning and the fishing is awesome at times. Anglers can target multiple fish species in a single day, and find success with most. Marinas, boat launch ramps, rental boats, camping, bait, stores and restaurant are all close at hand to enhance your trip here. Cruise the whole lake by pontoon boat, pleasure craft or fishing boat, or pick a cove and enjoy the day paddling a canoe or kayak. Either way, you'll find beauty, serenity and some good fishing.

What to fish for...

Fishing for largemouth bass, smallmouth bass, spotted bass, channel catfish, black crappie, white crappie, bluegill and hybrid striped bass at Rough River Lake in Kentucky.

Primary fish species residing in Rough River Lake

Click images for fishing tips and details about each species.

Rough River 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

Fishing Boat Rentals

Nick's Boat Dock
Rentals: Pontoon boats
270 257-8955

Public Boat Launch Ramps & Landings

Axtel Boat Launch Ramp
Located in the northeast section of the lake, off Kentucky Highway 79, this is a two-lane, concrete ramp with a dock and paved parking.

Eveleigh Boat Launch Ramp
Located in the southeast section of the lake, off Kentucky Highway 259, this is a one-lane, concrete ramp with paved parking.

Cave Creek Boat Launch Ramp
Located in the southwest section of the lake, off Cave Creek Lane, this is a one-lane, concrete ramp with a dock and paved parking.

Laurel Branch Boat Launch Ramp
Located mid lake, east side, off Laurel Branch Road, this is a one-lane, concrete ramp with a dock and paved parking.

Nick's Boat Dock & Launch Ramp
Located in the northeast section of the lake, off Kentucky Highway 79, this is a one-lane, concrete ramp with a dock and paved parking.

North Fork Boat Launch Ramp
Located in the northeast section of the lake, off Kentucky Highway 259, this is a two-lane, concrete ramp with a dock and paved parking.

Peter Cave Boat Launch Ramp
Located in the southeast section of the lake, off Peter Cave Ramp Road, this is a two-lane, concrete ramp with docks and paved parking.

Rough River Lodge Road Boat Launch Ramp
Located mid lake, west side, off Rough River Lodge Road, this is a multi-lane, concrete ramp with docks and paved parking.