Fishing Report for Percy Priest Lake, TN – Davidson County
Date: November 17, 2024
Welcome to this week’s fishing report for Percy Priest Lake! I’m excited to share insights to help you have an enjoyable and successful fishing excursion focusing on trout, bass, and perch. The weather conditions are set to significantly influence fish behavior throughout the coming week, so let’s dive in!
Current Conditions
- Water Temperature: 58°F
- Air Temperature: Ranging from 44.46°F to 68.75°F
- Wind: Averages around 15.56 mph, gusts up to 53.34 mph
- Pressure: Around 30.06 inHg
- Current Condition: Clear with a chance of overcast; expect fluctuations in wind direction potentially from the south to southeast this week.
Fish Behavior Insights
Trout
- Activity Levels: Generally slower as water cools but more aggressive on sunny days with warmer temperatures. Expect feeding activity to peak during mid-morning and late afternoon when temperatures rise.
- Preferred Locations: Focus on areas with submerged structures near drop-offs around 8-15 feet deep where trout hide in cooler water.
- Behavioral Insights: Warmer mornings (up to 68°F) can increase aggression as trout become more active. Overcast skies can enhance feeding as they seek baitfish near the surface.
Bass
- Activity Levels: Largemouth and smallmouth will respond favorably to stable temperatures, particularly early morning and evening. Expect a shift with increased activity when winds pick up.
- Preferred Locations: Concentrate in coves and near weed beds in 6-10 feet of water. The west bank offers good cover with recent wind pushing baitfish toward the shore.
- Behavioral Insights: Bass will seek sheltered areas from wind; look for them around structure, particularly on the downwind side.
Perch
- Activity Levels: Increased schooling behavior in mixed sizes; feeding peeks around early dawn and dusk.
- Preferred Locations: Target shallow waters around 5-8 feet, especially near structures or vegetation where they seek shelter from predatory fish.
- Behavioral Insights: Warmer weather trends can stimulate feeding; intermittent rain may also cause them to move into calmer zones within the lake.
Actionable Hotspot & Technique Advice
Location Recommendations
- Bass: Target the western shore near old growth and submerged trees where baitfish gather. Early morning is ideal, especially as winds pick up.
- Trout: Fish near the dam section where currents are slower and fish tend to hunt. Look for eddies or calmer water stretches.
- Perch: Look in bays and around brush piles; crappie fishing spots are often productive for perch too.
Technique Suggestions
- Bass: Utilize spinnerbaits or crankbaits to imitate baitfish. Slow-rolling in the deeper waters during the warmer part of the day will prove effective.
- Trout: Cast small spinners or spoons in gold or silver during warmer days or try using floating cork rigs with live bait when fish are sluggish.
- Perch: Small jigs tipped with minnows or worms will yield better results, particularly in areas they frequent frequently.
Lure Recommendations
- Bass: Strike King Red Eye Shad (lipless crankbait) – Effective in low-light conditions where visibility is reduced.
- Trout: Rooster Tail Spinner in white or chartreuse (1/8 oz.) – Suited for sunny days; mimic small baitfish movement.
- Perch: 1/16 oz. Crappie Magnet in yellow/chartreuse – Great for jigging around structures.
Optimal Fishing Windows
- Best Times: Daily from 6 AM – 9 AM, with another productive time from 4 PM – 7 PM as temperature peaks and fish become more active.
- Weather Impact: Pay attention to wind patterns and overcast conditions, which significantly enhance feeding opportunities.
Lure Pattern Suggestions
- Start with: Topwater frog during calm weather; low-pressure periods (if indicated).
- Switch to: Crankbaits mid-morning if surface action slows, focusing on quieter pockets or deeper water.
Water Temperature Insights
- Lower Temperatures: Trout are active when the water is stable from cold to slightly above 60°F. Use deeper locations paired with lively lures during the coldest parts of the day.
- Strategies in Response: Focus on mobile techniques when temperatures are stable, switching to slower presentations if fish are not actively feeding.
Local Regulations and Guidelines
- Fishing Seasons: Year-round for bass, check local guidelines for trout and other species.
- Size and Catch Limits: Specific limits apply for trout; ensure to check the latest regulations and adhere to them.
Access Points and Facilities
- Boat Launch Locations: Look for ramps near Cupid’s Cove and the Dam area, providing easy access.
- Shore Access Points: Great access along the dam and around several marinas.
Safety Reminders
- Stay updated on weather changes and wear appropriate gear. Adhere strictly to local fishing regulations for a sustainable fishing experience.
With daily updates to the fishing report reflecting any changes surrounding water conditions, I hope this information serves you well. Best of luck on your fishing excursion at Percy Priest Lake. May your lines be tight and your days be filled with joy and success!
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