Fishtrap Lake, Kentucky: Fishing Spots and Seasons

• Overview

  Fishtrap Lake belongs to Pike County, Kentucky. Elevation runs to 735 feet. This is sizeable water at about 1,038 acres, and a boat opens up most of it. Pikeville at 11 miles is the nearest place to stop. After that come Coal Run Village at 14 miles and Williamson at 19 miles. The nearest boundary is a fair way off. It suits a short session as much as a full day.

• Where to Fish on Fishtrap Lake

  Without a survey to go on, judge depth from how the bank falls away. Points where the flooded channel swings in are the reliable ones. Standing timber shows when the level drops, and fish sit against it. Records held for Pike County cover dusky darter, fantail darter and greenside darter. The county figures include rivers and lakes alike. Fishtrap Lake gives up its fish to patience rather than distance.

• Seasonal Patterns

  July runs about 74°F on average, January about 34°F. In milder years the surface never sets. It is not guaranteed from one year to the next. November and March are the quiet, comfortable months to be out. Fishtrap Lake runs to that rhythm year in and year out. The first warm week of the year changes everything here.

• Tackle & Baits

  The paperwork position is blank for this one. Nothing built is recorded close to the bank here. One rod, a handful of hooks and floats, and a few small lures are enough for this water. Sort the permit out before you load the car. Rules for boats are stricter than rules for the bank in many places. Laurel Lake sits 8.8 miles off and takes the overflow. Check the position on Fishtrap Lake before loading the car.