Fishing at Dale Hollow Lake

World-Class Fishing

Dale Hollow Lake is renowned not only for its water purity but also for its fishing. Having yielded the IGFA world-record smallmouth bass, and the second and third place runners-up as well, Dale Hollow is without a doubt the most famous body of water for producing massive smallmouth. However, the lake has produced many outstanding catches of other fish as well. A little known secret is that Dale Hollow also has one of the largest populations of Walleye in the South! The Walleye fishing begins annually in April, running through spring and summer until October. You can troll or fish under the lights at night and you can also do bottom bouncing worm trips during the days.

Dale Hollow Lake is located on the Kentucky-Tennessee border and covers portions of Clay, Pickett, and Overton Counties in TN as well as the KY counties of Cumberland and Clinton. Recently voted among the "top five" most beautiful lakes in the world, Dale Hollow covers 27,700 acres with 620 miles of shoreline along crystal clear waters loaded with big fish of all kinds, including "monster" musky, trout, crappie, and largemouth bass. Come see why so many call it their favorite lake in the world!

Fishing Licenses

Fishing licenses are required in both Kentucky and Tennessee. A reciprocal fishing agreement provides for sport fishing licenses from either state to be valid in the Wolf River, including Illwill Creek, beginning at the state line as it crosses the Wolf River at its mouth where it joins the Obey River. Creel limits and other regulations of the state where the license was issued will apply. Special permits are required in each state for trout fishing. Check state laws for complete information. Licenses may be purchased at County Clerk’s offices, marinas and many other commercial establishments in each state.