Fishing Season: Year Round

Cumberland River - KY

Fishing Outlook & Conditions

Water Temp:

54

Dane Law's Tip of the Week

One more week and we should be fishing here. Heavy rains and flows are now moderating. We expect to be on the water here soon for the season opener. We will be concentrating all efforts here from July through October.

Directions open in app

Map of Cumberland River

5-Day Outlook as of 6/30/25

Plenty of rain lately. Summertime southeastern tailwater flyfishing! flows are really shaping up. If the weather trend continues we will begin trips here at the end of the month. 06/30/25 Call Dane 770-655-9210

Techniques & Tips as of 6/30/25

Nymphs with indicators. Streamer fishing is good, especially on darker days.

Local Species Available Year Round

  • Fish Icon

    Rainbow

  • Fish Icon

    Brown

  • Fish Icon

    and Brook trout

Dane Law's Recommended Fly Patterns

"Must-have" fly fishing patterns in descending order of importance:

Name: Colors: Size(s):
Bead Head Brassie™ Green 18
T.H. Soft Hackle Caddis Pupa Green 14
Bead Head Woolly Bugger Streamer white 8
Hoppers Varies varies
Wooly Bugger Varies varies
guides choice N/A

Bead Head Brassie™

Image Not Found

Item #0957

Buy Now

Dane Law's Recommended Gear

Description: About Cumberland River

The Cumberland River tailwater begins at Wolf Creek Dam on Lake Cumberland in south central Kentucky and flows for 70 miles before it reaches the Tennessee state line. It is the longest coldwater tailrace we fish. The Cumberland is the best trout fishery in Kentucky. Drift and jet boat fly fishing is the best way to cover the water here.

Nearest Airport:

Bluegrass International Airport, Lexington KY

Hatches:

Midges, several mayfly species, caddis, stoneflies, terrestrials. Dry flies and dry droppers right now. Streamers on higher water. Our guides have the flies dialed in.

Best Time to Fish:

Morning

Best Stretch:

Any area with low water

Best Access:

Public access points below Wolf Creek Dam Wolf Creek dam, Helm's landing, Burkesville.