Fishing Fort Patrick Henry Lake
AKA: Ft Patrick Henry Lake Reservoir
Popular Fish Species Fort Patrick Henry Lake, TN
Crappie Fishing
Patrick Henry Lake continues to be a very good crappie fishing lake, as it has been for some time. The lake has good populations of both black crappie and white crappie. Crappie fishing can be found in varying size schools, hanging around brush, vegetation, wood or other cover. Using a fish finder any time of year can help locate these crappie schools, which tend to stack vertically around cover. Live bait and small jigs are the most common method for crappie here. In spring and fall focus on the 8 to 12 foot range. The best time to catch crappie tends to be at dawn and dusk. As the crappie move deep in summer and winter, follow points out deep, as well as find ledges near channels, especially areas with brush or timber in deeper water.
Rainbow Trout Fishing
Thanks to annual stockings, fishing for rainbow trout in Patrick Henry Lake continues to be very productive for local anglers. Fish for rainbow trout here with worms, salmon eggs, prepared baits, small spinners, spoons, jerkbaits and small crankbaits in vibrant colors to mimic their preferred prey. Additionally, floating or sinking flies, such as nymphs, streamers, or dry flies, are popular choices for fly anglers targeting rainbow trout. Trolling with lures or flies behind a boat, casting near shoreline structures, or still fishing with bait can all yield success. Adjusting lure size, color, and retrieve speed can enhance chances of enticing these colorful and spirited fish.
Largemouth Bass Fishing
Patrick Henry Lake offers quality fishing for largemouth bass, as it has for several years now. Thorough fisheries management by the Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency has maintained a quality bass fishery providing both quantity and quality for anglers. Smallmouth bass and spotted bass also reside here in good numbers. Recent results by locals, and bass fishing tournament participants, attest to the fact that fishing for largemouth bass has been quite rewarding lately. A significant number of larger bass also roam these waters, so there is always the potential for catching a lunker. Bass often move shallow and become fairly aggressive when they are in a feeding mood. If you find them shallow, and they seem disinterested in your presentations, try slowing down and use smaller, lighter baits. Use shallow crankbaits around rip rap. Around grass use worms, jigs, topwater and spinnerbaits. In deeper water, big worms, jigs and spoons are three good options. In winter, spend your time fishing Patrick Henry Lake on deeper structure where the bass spend much of their time. Fishing for largemouth bass can range from fair to very good here, year round.
Fish species to fish for...
Guide to fishing for largemouth bass, smallmouth bass, spotted bass, channel catfish, flathead catfish, black crappie, white crappie, rainbow trout, brown trout, bluegill, redear sunfish, rock bass, warmouth, white bass, striped bass and hybrid striped bass at Fort Patrick Henry Lake in Tennessee.
Fort Patrick Henry Lake Fishing Video
Located on the southeast outskirts of Kingsport, TN, Fort Patrick Henry Reservoir is home to a laundry list if freshwater species. This 872-acre lake is easily accessible off I-81, and has several boat launch ramps at Warrior's Path State Park. The park also has camping an RV spots, as well as day use picnic areas. Shoreline fishing is available at the park and at numerous other places around the lake. While bass boats and other larger fishing boats are ideal, this winding, river lake is ideal for kayak and canoe fishing. Smallmouth bass and rainbow trout are featured species here. In addition the lake has largemouth and spotted bass, crappie, catfish, sunfish, white bass, striped bass, and others. Shallow cover of brush, trees and boat docks generally hold fish in spring and fall. River channels and ledges off these channels are ideal targets for most species, especially in summer and winter.
Fort Patrick Henry Lake, located in northeastern Tennessee, offers anglers a serene fishing experience, boating opportunities, and a chance to immerse themselves in the natural beauty of the area. This 872-acre reservoir, formed by the South Fork Holston River, provides a variety of fish species, making it a popular spot for fishing enthusiasts.
Fort Patrick Henry Lake is known for its excellent bass fishing. Largemouth bass and smallmouth bass are the primary targets for anglers, and the lake's structure, including submerged logs, brush piles, and rocky areas, provides ideal habitats for these species. Anglers can employ various techniques such as casting with jigs, crankbaits, and soft plastics to entice these predatory fish. The lake's relatively smaller size allows for a more intimate fishing experience, with the opportunity to explore various fishing spots easily.
In addition to bass, Fort Patrick Henry Lake supports other popular fish species. Crappie fishing is also productive, with both black and white crappie available for anglers to target. These tasty panfish can be found near submerged structures, such as brush piles and fallen trees. Other fish species found in the lake include bluegill, catfish, and sunfish, providing anglers with diverse fishing options.
While Fort Patrick Henry Lake may not be as well-known as some of the larger reservoirs in Tennessee, it offers anglers a peaceful and intimate fishing experience. Whether you're casting for bass, crappie, or other fish species, enjoying a leisurely boat ride, or camping by the lakeside, Fort Patrick Henry Lake provides a tranquil and enjoyable environment for fishing and outdoor enthusiasts.
Primary fish species residing in Fort Patrick Henry Lake
Click images for fishing tips and details about each species.
Fort Patrick Henry Reservoir Amenities
Marina: YES
Boat Rental: NO
Boat Launch Ramp: YES
Campgrounds: YES
RV Hookups: YES
Lodging: NEARBY
Convenience Store: NO
Bait & Tackle: NO
Restaurant: YES
Today's Weather & Forecast
Boating is a popular activity on Fort Patrick Henry Lake, with its calm waters and scenic surroundings. Anglers and boating enthusiasts can launch their boats from the lake's public ramps and enjoy leisurely cruises, water sports activities, and exploration of the lake's various coves and inlets. The lake's smaller size makes it ideal for kayaks, canoes, and small motorized boats.
Public Boat Launch Ramps & Landings
Cooks Valley Ramp TVA
Located in the northwest corner of the lake, north side, off Cooks Valley Road, this is a one-lane, concrete ramp with limited, gravel parking.
TVA Boat Ramp at Beulah Bridge
Located in the southern section of the lake, west side, just north of the Beulah Bridge, this is a one-lane, gravel ramp with gravel parking.
Warriors Path State Park Boat Ramp
Located mid lake, west side, at the end of Warrior Drive, this is a one-lane, concrete ramp with a dock and gravel parking.
Fishing Guides On Fort Patrick Henry Lake
If you offer fishing guide services on this lake, please contact us for a free listing, to be posted here.
Fishing License
Click here for a Tennessee Fishing License.
Camping facilities are available near Fort Patrick Henry Lake, allowing visitors to extend their stay and fully immerse themselves in the natural surroundings. Campgrounds provide amenities such as campsites, picnic areas, and restroom facilities. Camping near Fort Patrick Henry Lake offers a peaceful experience, with the opportunity to enjoy the tranquility of the lake and its surrounding woodlands.
Campgrounds & RV Parks Nearby
Warrior's Path State Park Campground - 423 239-8531
Fort Patrick Henry Lake Map - Fishing & Camping Areas
Contact Information
Fort Patrick Henry Lake
Warrior's Path State Park
490 Hemlock Rd,
Kingsport, TN 37663
423 239-8531
Fishing lakes in each state.
070124
Fort Patrick Henry Reservoir in Tennessee.
TENNESSEE
Prime smallmouth bass and rainbow trout fishing in northeast TN.