I usually launch at Buzzard Rock or Mineral Mounds if I'm fishing Barkley. It's a good boat ride from Barkley, through the canal, and over to Kentucky Lake to Little or Big Bear Bay. So, if you're wanting to fish KY Lake, I'd recommend launching over at Moors or Kentucky Dam Marina. There are plenty of bays to fish for bass on Barkley. But, if you want to chase crappie first, I'd recommend spending the day on KY. The guys here all say KY is better for crappie.

For bass, try a Baby Brush Hog Carolina rigged in Watermelon Red. Had some for sale at The Cabin Shop in Kuttawa this past weekend. I'll be down again next Saturday if you're still in town. Hope this helps.