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About CastMates
CastMates is a community platform for Tennessee anglers to connect with fellow fishermen. Post catches, check conditions, find professional guides, marinas, tournaments, restaurants, and lodging across Dale Hollow, Center Hill, Percy Priest, and Old Hickory. Live chat with other anglers on any of our lakes, real time.
Share fishing updates, post weather concerns, publish fishing conditions, reviews, and access real-time information to make the most of every outing. List boats you're selling in our marketplace to connect with buyers across Tennessee.
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Latest Fishing Reports
Cumberland River Fishing Report - Late July 2026
Current conditions on the Cumberland River indicate that fishing is best during the early morning hours or on overcast days to avoid the mid-day heat. Surface water temperatures are generally in the mid-to-low eighties, though cooler temperatures can be found upstream near tailwater releases. Recent reports suggest an uptick in current, which has improved fishing success, particularly for those targeting areas below the dams. Anglers are finding the most success using live bait, such as shad or skipjack, positioned on or adjacent to the current. For those fishing further downriver, targeting deeper holes in the main channel with live or cut bait has proven effective. Catfish are currently in a post-spawn stage and are moving into deeper water, making them a primary target for many anglers during this period.
🎣 Recommended Gear
Gamakatsu Live Bait Hook with Ring
Rapala DT Series Deep Diving Crankbait
Zoom Trick Worm (Texas Rig)
Whisker Seeker Tackle Catfish Rig
Orvis Encounter Fly Rod Outfit
Garmin Striker Vivid 7sv with Sonar
Team Catfish Meaty Fish Chunks
Strike King Pro-Model Series 6 Crankbait
Mustang Survival Elite 28 Inflatable PFD
Given the recent tragic drowning incidents on Tims Ford and Percy Priest lakes, a high-quality, comfortable PFD is essential for all anglers, especially those in paddle craft.
Humminbird HELIX 7 CHIRP GPS G4 Fish Finder
With reports indicating that fish on Percy Priest need to be hunted with quality equipment, this fish finder helps locate suspended fish in deeper water during summer heat.
Rapala DT Series Deep Diving Crankbait
Deep cranking is a proven, effective technique for targeting aggressive bass along the Tennessee River channel during the hot summer months.
Huk Pursuit Performance Long Sleeve Shirt
Protection from the sun is a must for summer fishing in Tennessee; this performance apparel provides UPF protection to keep you safe during long days on the water.
The latest news from across Tennessee's lakes — fishing, weather, tournaments, events, and more.
SUV pulled out of Cumberland River in Clarksville
Clarksville Fire Rescue removed an SUV and a boat trailer from the Cumberland River near the Trice Landing Park boat ramp. No injuries were reported during the incident.
TWRA confirms body found in Percy Priest Lake
The Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency confirmed that the body of a missing Nashville boater was recovered from Percy Priest Lake following a multi-day search.
Major fishing tournament gets underway on Lake Cumberland this week
The High School Fishing World Finals and National Championship is taking place on Lake Cumberland this week. Tourism officials have highlighted the event as a significant gathering for the community.