Fishing Yatesville Lake
AKA: Yatesville Reservoir
Popular Fish Species Yatesville Lake, KY
Largemouth Bass Fishing
Yatesville Lake is considered one of the top bass fishing lakes in the region, as it has been for several years now. Anglers are catching bass in good numbers with largemouth bass in the 4 to 6-pound range showing up with some regularity. A history of careful fisheries management by the Kentucky Department of Fish & Wildlife has helped to maintain a thriving bass fishery. Recent results by bass fishing tournament participants, attest to the fact that fishing for largemouth bass has been quite rewarding, with an occasional bass over 6 pounds being weighed in. In Yatesville Lake, bass often move shallow and become fairly aggressive when they are in a feeding mood. If they seem disinterested in your presentations, try slowing down and use smaller, lighter baits. 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.
White Crappie Fishing
The wooded and brushy areas of Yatesville Lake are loaded with plenty of chunky, white crappie. The fish population is healthy and crappie fishing is good. The best time to catch crappie tends to be at dawn and dusk. Crappie always like cover and structure, so locate shallow brush and vegetation in Spring and Fall focusing on the 8 to 12 foot range. As the crappie move deep in summer and winter, follow points out to as deep as 30 to 35 feet, as well as ledges near channels at these depths. Live bait and small jigs are the most common method for crappie here.
Channel Catfish Fishing
Yatesville Lake has maintained a dependable population of channel catfish for over a decade now. The typical fish weigh a couple of pounds, with larger ones caught frequently. For weekend anglers, most any rod and reel will work for catching channel catfish, as long as the line is strong enough. For serious catfish enthusiasts, using the right equipment enhances success, especially when you hook one of the big boys. A medium action, to medium-heavy action rod is ideal, in the 6' to 7' range. Use a slip sinker or Carolina rig with popular catfish baits on at least 10-pound line. Use sharp hooks with bait holders on the shank, or circle hooks for live bait. The state record channel catfish is over 30 pounds, and Yatesville Lake holds some pretty big ones. Night fishing for catfish often delivers better results than daytime fishing. Fishing for channel catfish is often most productive around any kind of structure in the area. In Spring channel catfish migrate toward incoming water, so stay up river away from the main lake. In early summer look for rocky banks, the bigger the rocks the better. In summer and winter deeper structure is where to look. The river end of the lake is often the area where the bigger catfish are caught. Road beds, creek channels and rocky points are all good places to begin.
Fish species to fish for...
Guide to fishing for largemouth bass, channel catfish, white crappie and bluegill at Yatesville Lake in Kentucky.
Yatesville Lake Fishing Video
Expect excellent to good crappie, bass, catfish and bluegill fishing when you travel to Yatesville Lake, a 2,300-acre lake in the northeast part of the state. Yatesville Lake State Park Marina is a great place to start your adventure.
Yatesville Lake, nestled in the eastern part of Kentucky, is a beloved destination for fishing, boating, and camping enthusiasts. This scenic reservoir offers a tranquil escape amidst the rolling hills and lush forests, providing a perfect setting for outdoor adventures.
Fishing at Yatesville 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 numerous coves and channels. Yatesville Lake's diverse fishery ensures that anglers of all skill levels have the opportunity to enjoy a rewarding day of fishing.
The surrounding landscape of Yatesville 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, Yatesville 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 Yatesville Lake.
Camping options include RV hookup sites, tent sites and 16 boat-in campsites. Where ever you stay, there are over 90 miles of shoreline to explore while boating, sightseeing and fishing. There's boat launch ramps, rental boats, bait shops and lodging at the lake. Appreciate the views, enjoy the fishing and hang onto the memories created at Yatesville Lake.
Primary fish species residing in Yatesville Lake
Click images for fishing tips and details about each species.
Yatesville Lake Amenities
Marina: YES
Boat Rental: YES
Boat Launch Ramp: YES
Campgrounds: YES
RV Hookups: YES
Lodging: YES
Convenience Store: NEARBY
Bait & Tackle: YES
Restaurant: NEARBY
Today's Weather & Forecast
Boating on Yatesville Lake is a favored pastime, thanks to its calm waters and picturesque surroundings. Boaters can navigate the lake's serene waters, taking in the beautiful scenery and embracing the serenity of the area. Whether you're paddling a kayak, piloting a pontoon boat, or cruising in a speedboat, Yatesville Lake provides a delightful 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.
Public Boat Launch Ramps & Landings
Highway 32 Boat Launch Ramp
Located in the southwest section of the lake, east side, off State Route 32, this is a two-lane, concrete ramp with a dock and gravel parking.
Milard Bradley Hollow Boat Launch Ramp
Located in the northwest section of the lake, off State Route 1185, this is a two-lane, concrete ramp with a dock and paved parking.
Yatesville Lake State Park Boat Launch Ramp
Located in the northeast section of the lake, off State Route 3215, this is a two-lane, concrete ramp with docks and massive, paved parking.
Yatesville Lake State Park Marina Boat Launch Ramp
Located in the northeast section of the lake, off Fd-1000, this is a four-lane, concrete ramp with docks and massive, paved parking.
Fishing Guides On Yatesville 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 Yatesville 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. Yatesville Lake's campgrounds provide a serene and family-friendly atmosphere, making it an ideal destination for outdoor enthusiasts.
Campgrounds & RV Parks Nearby
Yatesville Lake State Park Campground - 606 673-1492
Lawrence Co. Campground & Cabins - 606 826-2961
Creekside Cabins & RV Park - 606-686-2915
The Overlook RV Park - 859 429-0087
The Falls Campground - 606-826-0212
Yatesville Lake KY Map - Fishing & Camping Areas
Contact Information
Yatesville Lake
Yatesville Lake State Park
2667 Pleasant Ridge Rd
Louisa, KY 41230
606 673-1492
Fishing lakes in each state.
080124
Yatesville Lake in KY
KENTUCKY
Fishing for catfish, bluegill and bass in northeast KY.
