Thread: Chickamauga Lake 5-3-2015 Crappie

We blasted off around 7:30 am and fished until noon. The water temp. was 65*. Yesterday it was only 63*. The water is warming up.

We thought with the warmer water we would prospect for some Bluegill and Shellcrackers. Bombed out. No luck. Began to cast around and low and behold we found some Crappie.

We only had one stringer but managed to fill it up! What fun.

Mr. 3 lb'er is showing off the "catch of the day". Most of the Crappie came out of 6' fow.

Originally Posted by rcp

Looks like some good fish. Is Chickamauga a lake I could make a trip to and have a chance at success using standard tactics (spider rig or long lining or float and fly)? I've watched you all post some good size fish pics and I am studying the lake map desiring to make the drive from Knoxville. Are there blowdowns and natural structure on bottom or do you fish mostly manmade structure. Thanks.

Yes to your first question. Not very many spider rig, but have rod holders for sitting in one place or long lining. There are a lot of trees blown down in the lake. We fish them starting at the bank out to the tree top (perhaps up to 25'-30' deep).

Last month during the spawn we trolled some and used a small trout float and fished the banks. The fish were very shallow. Right now the fish are relocating to the docks and trees (don't forget bridge supports). At least that is where we are having the most luck. We usually single pole fish.

Good luck planning your trip. Let me know when you will be here. Perhaps we could fish together. KF