Fishing For Smallmouth: The Best Creeks In Eastern Kentucky

Eastern Kentucky is a hidden gem for anglers, particularly those in pursuit of the feisty smallmouth bass. With its rugged terrain and clear, swift-flowing creeks, this region offers some of the most exhilarating smallmouth fishing experiences you can find. Here’s a rundown of the top creeks where you can cast your line and hopefully reel in a memorable catch.

1. Red River

Starting near the town of Slade, the Red River is renowned not just for its scenic beauty but also for its excellent smallmouth bass population. The stretch through the Red River Gorge offers varied fishing conditions - from deep pools to fast riffles. The smallmouth here are known for their size and fight. Access points are plentiful, but some of the best spots require a bit of a hike, ensuring you'll often have the water to yourself.

2. Cumberland River Tributaries

While the Cumberland River itself is vast, its smaller tributaries like Rock Creek and Beaver Creek in McCreary County are where you'll find the best smallmouth fishing. These creeks are less traveled, often shaded by dense forest, providing a cool, oxygen-rich environment perfect for smallmouth. The streams here are narrow, so lighter tackle and finesse techniques like drop-shotting or using small crankbaits are advisable.

3. Little Sandy River

This creek in Elliott County offers a quieter, more secluded fishing experience. The Little Sandy River is less about the numbers and more about quality; the smallmouth here are often larger than average due to less fishing pressure. Late spring through early fall is prime time here, with the smallmouth bass becoming more aggressive and active.

4. North Fork of the Kentucky River

Near Beattyville, the North Fork offers a mix of shallow and deep sections, ideal for smallmouth. The fish here are known for their vigor, likely due to the constant flow and structure-rich environment. Wading can be tough due to rocky bottoms, but the rewards are well worth the effort. Late afternoons, when the sun dips behind the mountains, often yield the best catches.

5. Cane Creek

Located in Breathitt County, Cane Creek is a lesser-known spot but a favorite among locals. It's a smaller stream, but it harbors a healthy population of smallmouth, thanks to its clear water and numerous rock structures. This creek is excellent for fly fishing enthusiasts, with plenty of opportunities to cast dry flies or streamers to lurking smallmouth.

6. Elkhorn Creek

Located in Franklin County, Elkhorn Creek is a standout for its quality smallmouth bass fishing. It's particularly known for its wadeable sections where you can catch smallmouth in clear, rocky-bottomed waters. This creek is especially popular for fly fishing, but conventional gear works wonderfully too. The smallmouth here are known for their aggressive strikes and spirited fights.

7. Middle Fork of the Red River

Within Natural Bridge State Resort Park in Powell County, this fork of the Red River provides not only scenic beauty but also excellent fishing opportunities for smallmouth. The creek here runs through dramatic limestone cliffs and offers plenty of structure where smallmouth love to hide. It's an ideal spot for a day of fishing combined with hiking or camping.

8. Drakes Creek

Part of the Warren County Blueways, Drakes Creek offers a healthy population of smallmouth bass. This creek stretches through a karst landscape, providing unique fishing conditions with a mix of deep pools and swift runs. It's accessible from several points, making it great for both wading and floating.

9. Gasper River

Also part of the Warren County Blueways, Gasper River is another excellent choice for smallmouth. Known for its clarity, this river offers anglers a chance to sight-fish for smallmouth, especially in the shallower sections where the bass will often be seen cruising the bottom or holding behind rocks.

10. South Fork of the Licking River

This creek in Harrison County is a gem for smallmouth enthusiasts. The transition zones from pool to riffle are particularly productive. The Licking River system, including its South Fork, has a good number of bass in the 12 to 15-inch range, with some larger specimens available for those who read the water well.

BONUS: Check Out The Breaks Interstate Park, KY/VA, and Left & Right Beaver Creeks in Floyd County and Knott County KY.

Additional Fishing Tips:

• Seasonal Variations: Spring and fall are prime times, but don't overlook winter for catching some of the largest smallmouth bass as they tend to be more concentrated.

• Bait and Lures: Smallmouth in these creeks often respond well to crayfish patterns, small swimbaits, or inline spinners. Topwater lures can be incredibly effective during low light conditions or when the water is disturbed.

• Conservation: Always practice conservation by releasing your catch if possible, especially with larger or trophy-sized fish, to maintain the population for future anglers.

• Access and Rights: Some of these creeks flow through private land, so it's crucial to respect property rights, know where you can legally fish, and perhaps get permission where required.

Eastern Kentucky's creeks are not only about the thrill of the catch but also about immersing oneself in the natural beauty of the region. Whether you're a local or a visitor, these waters promise an authentic fishing experience with the possibility of landing some of the best smallmouth bass of your life. Enjoy! Don’t forget to take a kid fishing!!