Old Hickory Lake fishing destination located just outside of Nashville, Tennessee. Stretching across over 22,000 acres, this reservoir on the Cumberland River is a hotspot for anglers of all levels. With a diverse fish population, scenic surroundings, and year-round fishing opportunities, Old Hickory Lake attracts both locals and tourists eager to cast their lines in its rich waters.
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll dive deep into everything you need to know about fishing at Old Hickory Lake. From the best times to fish, the species you can expect to catch, and tips for fishing success, this blog post will cover it all. Whether you’re a seasoned angler or just getting started, this guide will help you make the most of your fishing trip to Old Hickory Lake.
Introduction: Why Fish at Old Hickory Lake?
Old Hickory Lake is a gem for anglers in the southeastern United States. Nestled in the heart of Tennessee, it offers a blend of scenic beauty, diverse fishing opportunities, and easy access. Whether you’re looking to reel in a trophy bass, catch crappie, or enjoy a peaceful day on the water, Old Hickory Lake delivers.
This man-made reservoir, created by the Old Hickory Lock and Dam on the Cumberland River, provides a habitat for a wide range of fish species. The lake’s varying depths, vegetation, and structure make it ideal for different types of fishing, from bass fishing in the coves to trolling for striped bass in deeper waters.
Best Fishing Seasons at Old Hickory Lake
Fishing at Old Hickory Lake can be a rewarding experience year-round, but certain seasons offer better opportunities for specific species. Here’s a breakdown of the best times to fish:
- Spring (March to May): Spring is one of the best seasons for fishing at Old Hickory Lake. As the water warms up, fish become more active and start to spawn. This is prime time for targeting largemouth and smallmouth bass, as well as crappie. The shallow areas of the lake are particularly productive during this time.
- Summer (June to August): Summer brings warmer temperatures, which can make fishing more challenging. However, early mornings and late evenings are great times to fish, especially for bass. Striped bass and catfish are also popular targets during the summer months. Night fishing can be particularly effective for catfish.
- Fall (September to November): Fall is another excellent time for fishing at Old Hickory Lake. As the water cools, fish become more active again, feeding heavily before winter. Bass fishing is strong in the fall, and crappie fishing picks up as well. This is a great time to explore different areas of the lake.
- Winter (December to February): While winter can be slower for fishing, Old Hickory Lake still offers opportunities for hardy anglers. Crappie and catfish can be caught during the colder months, and bass fishing is possible if you know where to find them. Look for deeper waters and structure during the winter.
Targeted Fish Species at Old Hickory Lake
Old Hickory Lake is home to a variety of fish species, making it an attractive destination for anglers with different preferences. Here’s a look at the most popular species you can target:
Largemouth Bass
Largemouth bass are one of the most sought-after species at Old Hickory Lake. Known for their aggressive strikes and fighting ability, largemouth bass are plentiful in the lake’s shallower areas, especially near submerged vegetation, points, and docks. Spring and fall are the best seasons to target largemouth bass, with soft plastics, crankbaits, and topwater lures being effective choices.
Best Tips for Largemouth Bass Fishing:
- Fish early in the morning or late in the evening when bass are more active.
- Focus on areas with structure, such as fallen trees, rocks, and docks.
- Use natural-colored lures in clear water and brighter colors in murkier water.
Smallmouth Bass
Old Hickory Lake also boasts a healthy population of smallmouth bass. These bronze-colored fighters are often found in the deeper, rocky areas of the lake. Smallmouth bass prefer cooler water, so targeting them in the early spring and fall is ideal. Jigs, swimbaits, and spinnerbaits work well when fishing for smallmouth bass.
Best Tips for Smallmouth Bass Fishing:
- Look for rocky areas, ledges, and points where smallmouth bass like to hide.
- Use lures that mimic baitfish or crawfish, which are common prey for smallmouths.
- Fish deeper waters during the day, especially in the summer.
Crappie
Crappie fishing at Old Hickory Lake is excellent, particularly in the spring and fall when these fish are schooling near brush piles, submerged trees, and docks. Both black and white crappie are abundant in the lake. Live minnows, jigs, and small soft plastics are popular choices for crappie anglers.
Best Tips for Crappie Fishing:
- Target crappie around structure, especially in coves and creek channels.
- Use light tackle to feel the delicate bites of crappie.
- Vary your jigging speed and depth to find where the crappie are biting.
Striped Bass
For anglers seeking a challenge, striped bass (also known as stripers) are a top target at Old Hickory Lake. These powerful fish can reach impressive sizes and are known for their strong, fast runs when hooked. Striped bass are often found in the deeper, open waters of the lake, especially near the dam.
Best Tips for Striped Bass Fishing:
- Trolling with live bait, such as shad or herring, is a common technique for catching striped bass.
- Look for schools of baitfish on your fish finder, as stripers are usually nearby.
- Fish deeper waters during the day and shallower areas during low-light conditions.
Catfish
Old Hickory Lake is a catfish angler’s paradise, with plenty of channel catfish, blue catfish, and flathead catfish to be caught. These bottom-dwelling fish are active year-round, but night fishing during the summer is especially productive. Chicken liver, stink baits, and cut bait are popular choices for catfish.
Best Tips for Catfish Fishing:
- Fish near the bottom using a slip sinker rig to keep your bait in place.
- Look for areas with slower-moving water, such as coves and the mouths of creeks.
- Be patient – catfish can take some time to find your bait, but the wait is often worth it.
Fishing Locations and Hotspots at Old Hickory Lake
Old Hickory Lake offers a variety of fishing locations, each with its own unique features. Here are some of the top hotspots to explore:
- Drakes Creek: Drakes Creek is a popular area for bass and crappie fishing, with plenty of structure and shallow water to target. The creek is also a good spot for catfish, especially near the creek mouth.
- Station Camp Creek: This area is known for its productive crappie fishing, particularly in the spring and fall. The creek’s brush piles and submerged trees provide excellent habitat for crappie.
- Old Hickory Dam: Fishing near the dam can be very productive, especially for striped bass and catfish. The deeper water and strong current attract fish looking for baitfish and other prey.
- Shutes Branch: This cove is a great spot for largemouth bass fishing, with plenty of submerged vegetation and docks to target. It’s also a good place to find crappie during the spring.
- Cedar Creek: Cedar Creek offers excellent fishing opportunities for a variety of species, including bass, crappie, and catfish. The creek’s winding channels and structure-rich environment make it a favorite among local anglers.
Fishing Regulations and Licensing
Before you hit the water at Old Hickory Lake, it’s essential to be aware of Tennessee’s fishing regulations and licensing requirements. Here’s what you need to know:
- Fishing License: All anglers over the age of 13 are required to have a valid Tennessee fishing license. Licenses can be purchased online, at local retailers, or through the Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency (TWRA) app.
- Species Regulations: Different species have specific size and bag limits, so it’s crucial to familiarize yourself with these regulations before fishing. For example, largemouth and smallmouth bass have a minimum length limit of 15 inches, with a daily creel limit of 5 fish combined.
- Fishing Seasons: While most species can be caught year-round, some species, such as striped bass, may have seasonal restrictions or specific slot limits. Always check the latest regulations before planning your trip.
FAQs About Old Hickory Lake Fishing
1. What is the best time of year to fish at Old Hickory Lake?
The best time to fish at Old Hickory Lake depends on the species you’re targeting. Spring and fall are generally the best seasons for bass and crappie fishing, while summer is excellent for catfish and striped bass.
2. Do I need a boat to fish at Old Hickory Lake?
While fishing from a boat provides access to more areas of the lake, shore fishing is also possible at Old Hickory Lake. Many coves, creeks, and piers offer excellent fishing opportunities for those without a boat.
3. Are there any fishing tournaments held at Old Hickory Lake?
Yes, Old Hickory Lake is a popular destination for bass fishing tournaments. Various local and regional tournaments are held throughout the year, attracting competitive anglers from across the Southeast.
4. What types of fishing gear should I bring to Old Hickory Lake?
The gear you bring depends on the species you’re
targeting. For bass fishing, medium to heavy-action rods with baitcasting reels are popular choices. Light spinning gear is ideal for crappie, while heavier tackle is necessary for catfish and striped bass.
5. Are there any fishing guides available at Old Hickory Lake?
Yes, several fishing guides operate at Old Hickory Lake, offering both half-day and full-day trips. Hiring a guide can be especially helpful for first-time visitors, as they can provide local knowledge and tips for catching fish.
Conclusion: Planning Your Fishing Trip to Old Hickory Lake
Old Hickory Lake is a premier fishing destination in Tennessee, offering anglers the chance to catch a wide variety of fish species in a beautiful and accessible setting. Whether you’re fishing for bass, crappie, catfish, or striped bass, this lake has something for everyone.
By planning your trip around the best seasons, targeting the right species, and exploring the lake’s hotspots, you can enjoy a successful and memorable fishing adventure at Old Hickory Lake. So grab your gear, get your fishing license, and head out to experience one of Tennessee’s top fishing destinations!
