Percy Priest Lake Fishing Report
Location: Percy Priest Lake, Davidson County, TN
Current Water Temperature: 63°F
7-Day Weather Forecast
| Date | Condition | Max Temp (°F) | Min Temp (°F) | Precip. Chance (%) | Wind Speed (mph) | Moon Phase |
|————|—————-|—————-|—————-|———————|——————-|————————-|
| Nov 5 | Partly Cloudy | 77.5 | 61.7 | 32 | 23.3 | Waxing Crescent |
| Nov 6 | Rain | 76.6 | 66.0 | 75 | 9.8 | Waxing Crescent |
| Nov 7 | Thunderstorms | 73.9 | 61.0 | 61 | 7.7 | Waxing Crescent |
| Nov 8 | Thunderstorms | 72.3 | 57.1 | 46 | 10.4 | Waxing Crescent |
| Nov 9 | Rain | 72.1 | 57.5 | 59 | 12.1 | First Quarter |
| Nov 10 | Thunderstorms | 71.1 | 57.6 | 62 | 12.6 | Waxing Gibbous |
| Nov 11 | Rain | 69.3 | 52.2 | 43 | 7.0 | Waxing Gibbous |
| Nov 12 | Rain | 71.6 | 53.8 | 30 | 8.1 | Waxing Gibbous |
Fish Behavior Analysis
Trout
- Activity Levels: With the forecasted warmer temperatures and the upswing in rainfall, trout will likely be more active, particularly in the mornings and late afternoons.
- Preferred Locations: Look to deeper areas near underwater structures such as rocky points or submerged logs, especially on the margins of channels where they can take advantage of current and forage.
- Behavioral Insights: Trout tend to react favorably to rainfall as it generally enhances their feeding, especially mornings following storm systems due to increased dissolved oxygen levels and stirred up food sources.
Bass
- Activity Levels: Bass will exhibit varying degrees of activity, primarily feeding just before the rain begins and right afterward when water temperatures are stable. Mid-afternoon during cloudy periods could also provide good opportunities.
- Preferred Locations: Watch for bass along windblown points and near emerging vegetation as they seek baitfish, particularly in the southeastern sections of the lake.
- Behavioral Insights: Changes in barometric pressure associated with incoming storms often lead to increased feeding activity, making the days before and after rain ideal times to target bass with reaction-style lures like chatterbaits or lipless crankbaits.
Perch
- Activity Levels: Perch are likely to remain active, schooling particularly more on overcast days or following rain events when they seek sheltered environments.
- Preferred Locations: Focus on areas around docks, submerged trees, and rocky structures where perch often congregate, particularly on the shady side.
- Behavioral Insights: Perch are susceptible to activity around the spawning season; thus, expect schools to be close to shallow shorelines after warm rain events.
Actionable Hotspot & Technique Advice
- Location Recommendations: Target the eastern shorelines and coves after rain. Bass will often push baitfish up during these events, making them more accessible.
- Technique Suggestions:
- Bass: Try using spinnerbaits and swimbaits during the peak feeding times early morning and late evening.
- Trout: Employ small spoons or spinners in deeper waters.
- Perch: Use small jigs or live bait around sunken structures.
- Lure Recommendations:
- Bass: Chartreuse cranks or lipless crankbaits are effective in murky water following rain.
- Trout: Small, shiny spoons or realistic bait imitations work well in stained water.
- Perch: 1/16 oz jigs tipped with grubs or minnows are particularly effective.
Optimal Fishing Windows
- Daily Timeframes:
- Best Times: November 5-6, expect increased activity around dawn and dusk.
- Weather Impact: Generally, morning and evening post-rain will see heightened activity due to stable temperatures and feeding patterns.
Lure Pattern Suggestions
- Sequential Lure Strategy: Start with a topwater frog early in the morning, then transition to a crankbait or spinnerbait by mid-morning if surface action is low. Adjust depending on water clarity.
- Adaptation Tips: If the initial pattern isn’t producing, switch to slower presentations like creature baits or finesse techniques as the day warms up.
Water Temperature Insights
- Temperature-Based Strategies: As the current water temperature remains around 63°F, expect good activity for trout and bass. Focus efforts near warm inflows or shaded areas in hot weather, as warm waters can lead to quick metabolism spikes.
- Technique Modifications: Shallow water approaches or suspending over midday depth changes are recommended, adjusting baits according to temperature fluctuation impacts.
Weather Considerations
- Rain: Fish near calm waters or sheltered areas post-rain.
- Wind: Favor fishing on the windward side of points or during front-facing winds where baitfish are more active.
- Post-Storm: Seek clear patches where feeding activity rebounds first.
Tackle Recommendations
- Species-Specific Tackle:
- Bass: Medium-heavy rods paired with 10-12 lb braided line for optimal distance.
- Trout: Light-action spinning rods with 4-6 lb fluorocarbon line for sensitivity.
- Perch: Light spinning rods with 6 lb test line complete with a light action to cater to smaller baits.
Additional Fishing Information
Local Regulations and Guidelines
- Fishing Seasons: Year-round for bass and perch, check local regulations for trout.
- Size and Catch Limits: Generally, 5 bass (12″ min), up to 15 perch, adhere to local guidelines for trout.
- Licensing Requirements: Obtain a valid Tennessee fishing license from local authorities or online.
Access Points and Facilities
- Boat Launch Locations: Several public ramps, including the Norway and Fate Sanders Marina.
- Shore Access Points: Use the shoreline off Couchville Lake and the adjacent hiking trails for easy access.
- Amenities: Facilities available at Fate Sanders Marina, including restrooms and picnic areas.
Historical Fishing Data
- Past Fishing Success: Locations like the rocky edges near Station Camp and popular coves consistently yield good results for bass.
Maps and GPS Coordinates
- Detailed Maps: Available at local bait shops or online, featuring hotspots and access points.
- GPS Coordinates: (36.1450° N, 86.6079° W) for crucial locations.
Safety Reminders
- Stay aware of the forecasted weather changes, wear a life jacket, and keep safety gear on hand.
- Always familiarize yourself with local regulations and practice catch and release whenever applicable.
Closing Thoughts
Wishing you an enjoyable and successful fishing excursion at Percy Priest Lake! Don’t forget to check the daily updated fishing reports to stay informed of changing conditions. Happy Fishing!
