Fish both lakes. Start in the neighborhood.

On the water

Mike’s fishing notes

Crappie

Crappie are Mike’s favorite fish and one of the reasons he chose property in the Blue Springs area. The bay offers flats, creek channels, ledges, brush piles, and a range of depths that can produce fish throughout the year.

In early March, Mike starts by spider rigging in roughly 15 to 20 feet of water, then works shallower as fish stage ahead of the mid-to-late April spawn. He uses double-minnow rigs and also keeps single jigs with soft plastics ready.

After the spawn and into summer and fall, he likes trolling crankbaits along deeper ledges and creek channels. Bandit, Arkie, and Pico are his usual choices.

Bluegill and redear

Late April into early May is Mike’s favorite window. Look for grass showing through the water toward the backs of creeks. An ultralight rod, small bobber, and red worms or wax worms are his preferred setup.

Catfish and bass

Catfish are commonly caught along the banks during spring, often with jugs or noodles. Largemouth and smallmouth bass are also present throughout Little River and the Blue Springs area. Check current Kentucky regulations and tournament schedules before your trip.

Boat access

Three useful launch options

Blue Springs community ramp

The neighborhood public-use ramp is roughly 60 to 80 seconds from the loft by truck or golf cart. There is no courtesy dock. Mike usually beaches his boat in the gravel beside the ramp while parking in the grass field.

Lake Barkley State Resort Park

About four miles away, the state park has a larger public ramp, courtesy facilities, and a seasonal full-service marina. Fuel and services may be limited outside the April-to-September season.

Fenton on Kentucky Lake

The Fenton ramp in Land Between the Lakes is about 15 minutes west on US 68/80. It sits just south of the bridge and offers spacious parking. Kenlake State Resort Park is nearby with a full-service marina.

Mike’s table

Where to eat around the lakes

These are Mike’s picks, organized by what each place does best. They range from quick breakfasts in Cadiz to an easy meal with a marina view. Hours change, especially near the water, so check the current listing before you leave.

More easy options in Cadiz

Stock up

Groceries, drinks, bait, and tackle

Bait and tackle

Mike recommends bringing specialty tackle from home because nearby shops carry a smaller selection and live-bait hours are seasonal. Buy early-morning bait the night before whenever possible.

Off the water

Things to do between lake days

Spend an afternoon antiquing in Cadiz

Cadiz draws antique shoppers from across the region. Mike’s three stops are close enough to combine into an easy Main Street afternoon.

Take the scenic route to Grand Rivers

Follow KY 453, The Trace, north through Land Between the Lakes. Before reaching Grand Rivers, take the Canal Scenic Loop by car, then continue to the shops around Patti’s 1880’s Settlement. Mike calls out Pink Tractor Boutique and River Birch Mercantile, with the Badgett Playhouse nearby for a live show.

Visit Patti’s 1880’s Settlement  See Badgett Playhouse shows

Plan for the Country Ham Festival

The 50th Trigg County Country Ham Festival is scheduled for October 9–10, 2026, in downtown Cadiz. Expect live music, vendors, arts and crafts, carnival rides, a parade, and the ham-and-biscuit eating contest.

Three easy plans