The Tennessee Valley Authority (TVA) created a major navigable reservoir in 1944, when they impounded the Tennessee River with the Kentucky Dam. Kentucky Lake, which spans the western portion of Tennessee and southwest Kentucky, is 184 miles long, and has 2,380 miles of shoreline and 160,300 surface acres of water at summer water levels. This is the largest artificial lake by surface area east of the Mississippi River. Located along a major waterfowl migration route, this lake enjoys more than 450,000 waterfowl during the winter months.

Kentucky Lake provides a source for hydro-electric power and is one of the major tourist attractions in an area known as The Land Between the Lakes. Located between Kentucky Lake and Lake Barkeley, The Land Between The Lakes National Recreation Area was designated a national recreation area by President John F. Kennedy in 1963. Originally, TVA managed this area, but jurisdiction now lies with the U.S. Forest Service.

Fishing

Anglers can enjoy fishing in a lake that holds record catches for largemouth and small mouth bass. Some Kentucky Lake records include:

• 1943: Five-pound white bass
• 2000: Fifty-five pound buffalo
• 2010: One-pound, seven-ounce yellow perch
• 2010: Sixty-four pound bighead carp

Search Kentucky Lake Resources
    Coordinates:
37.0126N -88.2700W
Map It:
Lake Type:
Reservoir
Surface Area:
160,300 acres
Maximum Depth:
60 ft
Elevation:
359 ft
Normal Water Clarity:
3 ft
Major City:
Paducah or Nashville
Airport:
Nashville

Boaters will enjoy the numerous marinas and several access sites located along the lake's 160,000 acres. Most marinas offer full service including boat rentals, accommodations, supplies, fishing tackle, and restaurants. You can enjoy activities on this lake in both states, especially during the summer. Year 'round activities include drag boat races, poker runs, and open regattas. This lake offers recreational water sports for water skiers, swimmers, and PWC owners, as well as a prime spot for fishing. Search the Lake Resource Guide for boating resources.

• TN Fishing Licenses
• TN 2012 Statewide Limits and Regulations
• TN Fish Consumption Advisories
• TN Wildlife Resource Agency