Lake levels have increased as of last Friday, with levels in the New Johnsonville area staying between 365 and 366ft. Flow rates have been in the “strong” category, with averages around 130,000cfs over the weekend. I do expect the flow to diminish by early week If we don’t see additional rainfall in the Tennessee valley. Water temperatures have dropped from last week, with averages in the mid 40’s. Water color is slightly stained due to the rainfall and ice melt.
Fishing continues to be tough due to the cold and wind this past week. I have talked to a few fishermen that did find time to go, and they did find a few crappie. Most were taken in water about 12-15ft deep on drops with some current present. Baitfish in the vicinity is a good thing, as when fish are feeding, they will always be near their food source. I did see a few social media posts of local fishermen with some good Bass catches, although I don’t know the details of where and how they were taken. Catfish continue to be taken both by sports fishermen and commercial fishermen, most have been just outside the strong river current influence inside the bays. No word on the Sauger bite, as the current has been too strong for most fishermen to try catching them. A few were being taken further upstream around Tom’s Creek to Lady’s Bluff. Trout stocking will begin in local creeks at the end of the month, and will continue through April.
Now that the duck season is over, and I’ve heard a few good reports from local “pits” that they had a good ending to the season, but some of the local WMA’s didn't do as well. Goose season will continue through February 12th, and the ‘light goose’ season will start on the 13th of February and continue through March 20th. A few other seasons will continue through this month, including; squirrel, rabbit and quail and Snipe. And there are a good number of seasons open all year including; Beaver, Coyote, Skunk and Armadillo.
TWRA is having the Elk Quota Hunt Application period now, it will be open through Feb 22nd. Applications are available and accepted at any TWRA regional offices, license agents and online at gooutdoorstennessee.com or via the TWRA mobile App. There are a total of 14 permits available, seven for archery and six for the gun hunt and one youth permit. There is no application fee for Sportsman and Annual Senior Citizen license holders, for all other applicants, there is an non-refundable $12 application fee plus a $1 agent fee. The TWRA is having a ‘Free Trapper training camp to be held a Buffalo ridge refuge (here in Humphreys Co) on Feb 24-26th. The event is free, but is limited, preregistration is required to attend, visit TWRA’s web site TnWildlife.org to register.