Hidden Gems: Underrated Creeks for Fishing in Eastern Kentucky
Left Beaver Creek, Floyd County Kentucky
Eastern Kentucky is a treasure trove of fishing opportunities, with its rugged terrain, dense forests, and countless streams often overlooked by anglers chasing the bigger, more famous lakes and rivers. In my humble opinion, here are some of the most underrated creeks for fishing in Eastern Kentucky that deserve more attention. These spots offer a mix of species, solitude, and natural beauty, making them hidden gems for those willing to explore.
Triplett Creek (Rowan County)
Why It’s Underrated: Tucked near Cave Run Lake, Triplett Creek often gets overshadowed by its larger neighbor, known for muskie fishing. However, this creek quietly supports a diverse fishery.
What You’ll Find: Smallmouth bass thrive here, along with sunfish and the occasional largemouth bass. It’s also an underrated spot for muskellunge, especially closer to where it feeds into the Licking River.
Fishing Tips: Wade fishing with small spinners or crankbaits works well for smallmouth. For muskies, try larger in-line spinners near deeper pools or woody cover. Access is available near Morehead, but much of the creek runs through private land, so seek permission where needed.
Appeal: Its proximity to Cave Run Lake means it’s often ignored, yet it offers a peaceful, less-pressured alternative with solid fishing potential.
Beaver Creek (Knott and Floyd Counties)
Why It’s Underrated: Located in a remote part of Eastern Kentucky, Beaver Creek flows through the Beaver Creek Wilderness Area, limiting access to foot or horseback only. This keeps fishing pressure low.
What You’ll Find: Rainbow trout are stocked sparingly (about 2,000 every other year), making it a purist’s stream rather than a high-volume fishery. Smallmouth bass and panfish are also present in lower stretches.
Fishing Tips: Light tackle with nymphs or small dry flies works for trout in the upper, clearer sections. Downstream, try casting near boulders and riffles for smallmouth.
Appeal: The wilderness setting and minimal stocking create a wild, untouched feel—perfect for anglers who value solitude over crowded banks.
Dog Slaughter Creek (Whitley County)
Why It’s Underrated: Despite being part of the Cumberland River system, Dog Slaughter Creek flies under the radar compared to nearby Rock Creek or the Cumberland tailwaters.
What You’ll Find: Stocked monthly with rainbow trout from March to June, it holds fish up to 13 inches. Smallmouth bass and sunfish can also be caught in the lower, more open sections.
Fishing Tips: Focus on the lower gorge below the 20-foot waterfall off FS 195. Small spinners or live bait like worms mimic the creek’s natural forage well.
Appeal: The short, scenic gorge and cataracts offer a picturesque setting, and the light angling pressure means fish are less wary.
Laurel Creek (McCreary County)
Why It’s Underrated: Another feeder into the Cumberland River, Laurel Creek is overshadowed by the region’s trout-heavy tailwaters and the Big South Fork’s reputation.
What You’ll Find: Rainbow trout are stocked regularly in spring, with some holdovers surviving into summer. Smallmouth bass inhabit the lower reaches near the Cumberland.
Fishing Tips: Use small streamers or nymphs for trout in the upper stretches. For bass, target rocky pools with soft plastics or crankbaits.
Appeal: Its location in the Daniel Boone National Forest provides pristine water quality and a backcountry vibe, yet it’s rarely highlighted in fishing guides.
Carr Creek (Knott County)
Why It’s Underrated: While Carr Creek Lake gets some attention for walleye, the creek itself—flowing into the lake—sees little fanfare despite its potential.
What You’ll Find: Smallmouth bass, bluegill, and occasional walleye that migrate from the lake. The upper creek may hold stocked trout in cooler months.
Fishing Tips: Fish the deeper pools with jigs or live bait for walleye and bass. Lighter tackle with spinners can yield panfish in shallower areas.
Appeal: Its long, narrow flow through hilly terrain makes it a scenic, quiet spot, often bypassed for the lake’s boat ramps.
Paint Creek (Johnson County)
Why It’s Underrated: Flowing through Johnson County near Paintsville, Paint Creek is often overlooked in favor of nearby Paintsville Lake or the Big Sandy River system.
What You’ll Find: Smallmouth bass dominate, with rock bass and sunfish rounding out the catch. It’s a lesser-known warm-water fishery with consistent action.
Fishing Tips: Target riffles and undercut banks with small crankbaits or live bait like minnows. Kayak access is possible from a few bridge crossings.
Appeal: Its quiet, rural setting and lack of heavy fishing traffic make it a sleeper spot for bass anglers in Johnson County.
Left Fork of Middle Creek (Floyd County)
Why It’s Underrated: Situated near Prestonsburg, this tributary of Middle Creek is rarely mentioned compared to the Levisa Fork or larger regional waters.
What You’ll Find: Smallmouth bass and panfish are plentiful, with occasional stocked trout in the upper reaches during spring. The creek’s rocky bottom supports a healthy fishery.
Fishing Tips: Use light spinning gear with inline spinners or soft plastics near rocky pools and runs. Wade fishing is ideal in shallower sections.
Appeal: Its historical tie to the Battle of Middle Creek (Civil War) adds intrigue, but the light angling pressure keeps it a local secret.
Why These Creeks Stand Out
These creeks are underrated largely due to their remote locations, limited public access, or proximity to more renowned fisheries like Cave Run Lake, Lake Cumberland, or the Cumberland River tailwaters. Eastern Kentucky’s coal country geography—narrow valleys, steep bluffs, and dense forest—keeps many anglers on the beaten path, leaving these streams less explored. They’re ideal for wade fishing or kayak trips, offering a mix of stocked trout and native warm-water species like smallmouth bass, which thrive in the region’s rocky, clear waters.
Practical Notes
Access: Many of these creeks run through private land or national forest areas. Check with the Kentucky Department of Fish and Wildlife Resources (KDFWR) for public access points, or use their Fishing and Boating Access Guide (available online or by calling 800-858-1549). Local knowledge from bait shops or sporting goods stores can also unlock hidden spots.
Regulations: A Kentucky fishing license is required ($20 for residents, $50 for non-residents), plus a $10 trout permit if targeting stocked trout. Minors under 16 and residents on their own land are exempt.
Timing: Spring and fall are prime for trout and bass, while summer offers consistent panfish action. Check KDFWR stocking schedules for trout updates.
These creeks may not boast state records or heavy stockings, but their charm lies in their quiet beauty and the chance to catch fish where few others cast a line. If you’re after an off-the-grid fishing adventure in Eastern Kentucky, these underrated waters are worth a visit. Have you fished any lesser-known creeks in the area? I’d love to hear your picks!
