Largemouth Bass
Largemouth Bass are a common type of fish found in Percy Priest Lake. These fish are identified by their dark greenish color and vertical stripes along their body. They typically range from one to five pounds, although some can reach as much as ten. Anglers often target largemouth bass because they’re known to put up a good fight when hooked. When fishing for largemouth bass, anglers should look for shallow water or cover near deeper areas like points, humps, and submerged vegetation. Popular baits include topwater plugs, crankbaits, spinnerbaits, jigs, and soft plastics.

Crappie
Crappie is one of the most popular and plentiful species of fish found in Percy Priest Lake. The Black Crappie is especially common in the lake, with some specimens reaching up to two pounds. It’s a species of sunfish, which means it likes warm, shallow waters with plenty of cover. Crappie can be found around stumps, fallen trees, weed beds, and rocks, but they’re also sometimes seen swimming in open water.

Fishing for crappie is best done with artificial lures such as jigs and spinners. Minnows are also an effective bait. Many anglers like to use live bait because crappie tend to bite more often when the bait is moving. Crappie is a great game fish and can provide hours of fun for anglers of all skill levels.

Catfish
Catfish can be found in abundance in Percy Priest Lake and range from channel catfish to flathead catfish. The lake has healthy populations of blue, white, and yellow bullhead catfish as well. Channel catfish are the most common and are found mainly in the northern part of the lake. Flathead catfish are typically found in deeper areas of the lake near structure.

Channel catfish tend to feed on minnows, worms, and other invertebrates. Flatheads are ambush predators that prefer live bait such as shad, minnows, frogs, and small crayfish. Bullheads also feed on a variety of prey including aquatic insects, worms, crustaceans, and small fish.

When fishing for catfish, anglers should use appropriate tackle and bait such as worms, cut bait, dough balls, or liver. Fishing for catfish is best done at night when these fish become more active and feed heavily. There is no limit on the number of catfish an angler may keep per day on Percy Priest Lake.

Bluegill
Percy Priest Lake is home to a variety of fish, including bluegill. This species of fish is small, with adults reaching lengths of up to 7 inches. They have an olive-green or bronze back and silver sides, and they can be identified by the dark spot on their operculum (the flap that covers their gills). Bluegill are known for their hard fighting ability and can be found in many areas of the lake. They feed on insects, worms, and small crustaceans and can be caught using various baits such as crickets, worms, and flies. They are also known to congregate in schools and can be found near submerged logs and brush piles. When fishing for bluegill, it is best to use light tackle and small lures or bait. With patience and skill, anglers can expect to catch plenty of bluegill from Percy Priest Lake.

Rainbow Trout
Rainbow trout are a popular sport fish in Percy Priest Lake, and they can be found in many different parts of the lake. They are easily distinguishable by their bright coloration and the characteristic “rainbow” pattern on their back. Rainbow trout can reach up to 20 inches in length and weigh up to five pounds.

The best time to catch rainbow trout is during spring and early summer, when the water is cooler. To catch these fish, anglers should use small spinners, spoons, jigs, or other lures that imitate small insects or baitfish. If you’re fishing for rainbow trout from shore, try to cast close to fallen trees, logs, and rocks as this is where they tend to hide.

Rainbow trout are also known for their delicious flavor, making them a popular choice among local fisherman. When it comes to cooking your catch, you can either bake, fry, or grill the fish. No matter which method you choose, rainbow trout make a tasty meal!