Where’s All the Water?

It’s no secret that area lakes are a source of life and recreation around East Tennessee. With summer ending, you might begin asking yourself where some of the lake water has gone? According to TWRA, water levels around the area tend to fluctuate a great deal, and the winter draw down can be relatively scarce. As of September 7th, the Watts Bar Report explains that reservoir conditions are summer normal with an elevation of 740.5. The average winter elevation is usually set at 736. Ft. The current water surface temperature is 84 degrees.

Area lake levels appear to be staying constant for the time being. According to TVA, Douglas Lake has a reservoir elevation (behind the dam) at 973. 92. The tail water elevation below the dam is sitting at 876.41. In comparison, as of September 6th, the Reservoir Elevation was 974. 58 and the Trail Water Elevation was at 876.62.

Lake levels at Cherokee Dam also appear to be staying constant. TVA lake levels of Cherokee Dam are currently reported as follows: reservoir elevation (behind the dam) is 1053.10 and the trail water elevation is currently at 925.60. This can be compared with levels taken on September 6th, at reservoir elevation at 1053.32 and trail water elevation at 926.04.

Even though the summer might be over, you don’t have to put up the fishing pole just yet. Douglas Lake hosts a variety of fish for enthusiasts to sink their hook into. According to TWRA, Douglas Lake has one of the biggest largemouth bass fisheries in East Tennessee, due to excellent reproduction and outstanding growth rates. Crappie fish appear to be very popular with Douglas Lake fishers, but the TWRA wishes to remind anglers that their population has declined over the past couple of years.

Walleye and sauger are great for spring fishing on Douglas Lake, as that is usually the fishes’ spawning season. They are prized for their taste, and very few of these fish are usually released back into the water. This is opposed to white bass, which typically appear in the winter. White bass are a short-lived species, so those wishing to catch one will have to be especially careful. Lastly, there’s one of the more well-known species surrounding our area: catfish. There are 3 specific types of catfish that can be found in Douglas Lake including channel, blue, and flathead.

Lakes and fishing around the area are still in full swing. Although it may seem that our lake days are over, it is safe to say that fishing and water activities may continue for at least the next few weeks.