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Featured Species - Smallmouth Bass, Largemouth Bass, Striped Bass, Crappie

Other Species - Spotted Bass, Hybrid Striped Bass, Bluegill, Sauger, Redear Sunfish, Catfish

Smallmouth bass recruitment and natural reproduction is good, resulting in strong year-classes. The average size fish is from 1 to 2 pounds with fish up to 5 pounds taken regularly.

The naturally reproducing largemouth population exhibits good levels of recruitment and strong year classes. The average fish is in the 2-to 4-pound class with fish up to 9 pounds taken regularly.

The crappie population is abundant in Wilson Lake. These fish average 1-pound and average lengths are from 9 to 11 inches. Natural reproduction and high levels of recruitment make this a robust fishery.

In recent years the lake has become infested with zebra mussels. This exotic species has begun to change the lake by eliminating aquatic vegetation and depleting oxygen levels. Every boater is encouraged to wash their boat before and after using the lake in order to prevent the spread of this detrimental species.

Seasonal Movements - Spring and fall find smallmouth bass moving into tailwater areas. Largemouth bass will be found seeking out shallow bedding locations for their spring spawn. Sauger can be found congregating in tailwater areas during the late winter period from January through March.

Forage - Threadfin shad and gizzard shad provide the majority of the forage base for predatory fish. Juvenile panfish supplement the shad base.

Treatment - Several fish attractors have been placed throughout the lake by the TVA. A size and creel limit has been imposed on all black bass species and it is recommended to check with local authorities or bait and tackle shops for current regulations.

It is illegal to possess any Smallmouth Bass less than 14 inches in total length.

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