Camping and Fishing at Fishtrap Lake: A Pike County Adventure

Nestled in the rugged hills of Pike County, Kentucky, Fishtrap Lake offers a perfect escape for anyone craving a mix of serene camping and top-notch fishing. This 1,130-acre reservoir, framed by steep mountains and dense Appalachian forests, isn’t just a pretty sight—it’s a playground for outdoor lovers looking to pitch a tent, cast a line, and soak in the natural beauty of Eastern Kentucky. Whether you’re a seasoned angler or a weekend camper, Fishtrap Lake delivers an experience that’s equal parts peaceful and thrilling. Here’s why you should plan your next trip to this hidden gem.

The Lay of the Land

Fishtrap Lake was born out of necessity, created in 1968 when the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers dammed the Levisa Fork of the Big Sandy River to control flooding. The result? A long, narrow lake stretching 16.5 miles, with 40 miles of shoreline and depths reaching up to 84 feet near the dam—the highest in Eastern Kentucky at 195 feet tall. Located just seven miles south of Pikeville, it’s an easy drive into the heart of Appalachia, where the air feels crisp and the landscape tells stories of coal country and pioneer history.

The lake sits within Fishtrap Lake State Park, a relatively new addition to Kentucky’s park system established in 2003. It’s a place where nature reigns supreme, with deer, raccoons, and grouse often spotted along the trails and shores. For campers and anglers, the park offers a mix of convenience and wilderness that’s hard to beat.

Camping at Fishtrap Lake

When it comes to camping, Fishtrap Lake keeps it simple but satisfying. The primary spot is the Grapevine Campground on the north side of the lake, near Grapevine Creek. Here, you’ll find sites for both RVs and tents, complete with amenities like electric hookups, potable water, restrooms, showers, and a dump station. Some sites even come with fire rings or grills, perfect for roasting hot dogs under the stars. Pets are welcome too—just keep them leashed.

The campground’s proximity to the water makes it a dream for anglers who want to roll out of their sleeping bags and hit the lake at first light. Picnic shelters and a playground add a family-friendly vibe, while the forested lakeshore and mountain views provide that classic Appalachian ambiance. If you’re here in the fall, the severe drawdown to winter pool (dropping 32 feet from summer levels) might limit boat access, but it concentrates fish in the lower sections—more on that later.

Reservations are a smart move, especially during peak seasons like spring and summer. Check Recreation.gov for availability, or call the Corps of Engineers project office at (606) 437-7496 to get the latest on site conditions. Pro tip: Pack for variable weather—March mornings can dip into the 40s, while afternoons might climb to the 60s this time of year.

Fishing Fishtrap Lake

Fishtrap Lake’s reputation as one of Kentucky’s finest fishing lakes is well-earned. Its clear, mesotrophic waters support a diverse lineup of fish, including largemouth and smallmouth bass, black and white crappie, channel catfish, bluegill, and even walleye. The Kentucky Department of Fish and Wildlife Resources keeps things interesting with regular stockings, like the 10,000 rainbow trout dropped into the tailwaters each spring and fall.

For smallmouth bass, Fishtrap is a sleeper hit. The population’s been on the rise, with fish up to 22 inches reported. Winter and early spring—right around now—are prime times to target them, especially in the lower lake from Hurricane Creek to the dam. The drawdown concentrates baitfish like shad, and the smallmouth follow. Try a 3-inch pearl Slider grub on a ¼-ounce ball head, counting it down over sloping points until you hit the feeding zone. Slow and steady retrieves work best when the water’s hovering around 50-60°F.

Largemouth bass and crappie haunt the brush reefs and submerged Christmas tree piles near Jonican Branch and Miller’s Creek. A Kentucky fishing license is a must (check regulations at fw.ky.gov), and watch for size limits—15 inches for bass, 9 inches for crappie. Boat ramps at Fishtrap Marina, Grapevine, and Lick Creek make launching easy, though a $5 fee applies at some ($40 for an annual pass). Shoreline fishing’s an option too, especially near the dam’s outflow.

One heads-up: Zebra mussels have made their way here, so clean your gear thoroughly to avoid spreading these invasive critters. It’s a small price to pay for a lake this bountiful.

Beyond the Tent and Tackle

Fishtrap Lake isn’t just about camping and fishing—it’s a gateway to Pike County’s outdoor offerings. Hikers can explore trails around the park, soaking in views of the lake and surrounding peaks. Boaters enjoy the no-wake zones near the marina, ideal for kayaking or canoeing. And if you’re into history, the area’s rich past—from Native American fish traps to the Hatfield-McCoy feud—adds depth to every outing. Downtown Pikeville, 20 minutes north, offers a dose of civilization with breweries, theaters, and ATV-friendly trails if you need a break from the lake.

Plan Your Trip

Getting to Fishtrap is straightforward: from Pikeville, head 12 miles east on U.S. 460, then 2 miles east on State Route 1789 to the project office. The recreation areas close from 10 PM to 7:30 AM, except for campers and anglers. Pack a first-aid kit, check the weather (March can be unpredictable), and bring a camera—those mountain sunrises are worth capturing.

Fishtrap Lake blends the best of Appalachia: wild beauty, quiet nights, and fish that keep your rod bending. Whether you’re here for a weekend or a week, it’s a spot that’ll leave you plotting your return before you’ve even packed up the tent. So grab your gear, hit the road, and discover why Fishtrap’s a Pike County treasure.

Let me know if you plan on going to Fishtrap in the comments below!