Lake levels are at 358 ft early this week, but TVA is predicting a fall to 357 ft by weeks end. Water temps remain in the mid to upper 80’s, and are expected to stay around that temp this week. Flow rates have picked up, with TVA trying to get the water levels down towards winter pool, flow rates will be more consistent. Current rates are holding around 40,000 cfs.
Fishing has been tough this week, with hot humid weather in place, it’s keeping most fishermen in cooler venues. Those heading out, are doing so early morning, and finding a few fish. Bass have pulled out of shallow cover, and are on the points and humps in the bay and on the river. Some good fish are being found in the cool creek water where fishermen can access. Blue gill continue to be caught, but are now in around 4-5 ft of water. Crappie fishermen have mostly been absent from the fishing scene of late, but as soon as the water starts cooling down, expect the bite to pick up. Catfish continue to be the fish that continues to bite, with the best catches still coming form the river drops in 25-35 ft depths.
Hunting seasons are just around the corner, with squirrel and velvet deer hunting coming soon. The velvet hunt starts on Friday August 27th, and squirrel hunting begins on Saturday August 28th. As always , consult the most current hunting guide or go to TWRA’s web site Tnwildlife.org for more information.