Kimsey Run Lake, located in the eastern panhandle of West Virginia, is a beautiful 183-acre lake that provides excellent opportunities for fishing. Surrounded by picturesque scenery and offering a variety of fish species, Kimsey Run Lake is a popular destination for both seasoned anglers and those new to the sport.
In this article, we'll explore the unique characteristics of Kimsey Run Lake and the techniques and strategies that can help you catch some of the lake's most sought-after fish.
Kimsey Run Lake was created in the mid-1970s by damming up Kimsey Run, a small stream that flows through the area. The lake has a maximum depth of 40 feet and an average depth of 15 feet. The lake's shoreline is lined with trees and brush, providing excellent cover for fish.
The lake is stocked annually with a variety of fish species, including largemouth bass, bluegill, crappie, channel catfish, and rainbow trout. In addition to the stocked fish, the lake also has a healthy population of native fish, including smallmouth bass and sunfish.
Largemouth Bass Fishing
Largemouth bass are one of the most sought-after fish species in Kimsey Run Lake, and for good reason. The lake has a healthy population of largemouth bass, with many fish weighing in at over 5 pounds.
When fishing for largemouth bass, it's important to understand their behavior and feeding habits. Largemouth bass are ambush predators, hiding in cover and waiting for prey to swim by. They will often strike at anything that looks like food, so it's important to use lures that mimic the fish they commonly feed on.
One of the most effective techniques for catching largemouth bass in Kimsey Run Lake is to fish with soft plastic lures, such as worms or grubs, rigged on a Texas-style rig. This allows the lure to sink slowly through the water column, mimicking the natural movement of a worm or other prey item.
Another effective technique is to fish with topwater lures early in the morning or late in the evening, when the water is calm and the fish are more active. Topwater lures, such as poppers or buzzbaits, create a commotion on the surface of the water that can attract the attention of hungry bass.
Smallmouth Bass Fishing
Smallmouth bass are another popular fish species in Kimsey Run Lake. These fish are typically found in rocky areas and near drop-offs, and they can be caught using a variety of techniques.
When fishing for smallmouth bass, it's important to use lures that mimic the natural prey items found in the lake, such as crayfish or minnows. One effective technique is to fish with a crankbait or jerkbait, which imitates the erratic movements of a wounded baitfish.
Another effective technique is to fish with a jig and pig. This involves rigging a rubber skirt and pork trailer onto a jig head and bouncing it along the bottom of the lake. This technique can be particularly effective when fishing near drop-offs or other structure.
Bluegill and Sunfish Fishing
Bluegill and sunfish are two of the most abundant fish species in Kimsey Run Lake, and they can be caught using a variety of techniques. These fish are typically found in shallow water near weed beds or other cover.
When fishing for bluegill and sunfish, it's important to use small hooks and light tackle. A simple bobber rig with a small hook and a piece of worm or a small piece of bread can be very effective for catching these fish.
Another effective technique is to fish with small jigs or spinners. These lures can be cast into weed beds or other cover and retrieved slowly, mim
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icking the movement of small insects or other prey items that bluegill and sunfish commonly feed on.
Crappie Fishing
Crappie are another popular fish species in Kimsey Run Lake, and they can be caught using a variety of techniques. These fish are typically found in deeper water near structure, such as submerged trees or brush piles.
When fishing for crappie, it's important to use light tackle and small jigs or minnows. One effective technique is to fish with a small jig tipped with a piece of live bait, such as a minnow or a piece of worm. This allows the lure to imitate the natural movement of a small prey item, which can be very effective for enticing crappie to bite.
Another effective technique is to fish near submerged structure, such as trees or brush piles. Crappie will often congregate near these structures, so fishing near them can increase your chances of catching a fish.
Channel Catfish Fishing
Channel catfish are a popular game fish in Kimsey Run Lake, and they can be caught using a variety of techniques. These fish are typically found in deeper water near structure, such as submerged logs or rocks.
When fishing for channel catfish, it's important to use heavy tackle and strong line. These fish can put up a strong fight, so it's important to have the right equipment to bring them in.
One effective technique is to fish with live bait, such as nightcrawlers or chicken liver. These baits can be fished on the bottom using a sinker to keep them in place.
Another effective technique is to fish near submerged structure, such as logs or rocks. Channel catfish will often congregate near these structures, so fishing near them can increase your chances of catching a fish.
Rainbow Trout Fishing
Rainbow trout are stocked annually in Kimsey Run Lake, and they can provide excellent sport fishing opportunities. These fish are typically found in deeper water near the center of the lake.
When fishing for rainbow trout, it's important to use light tackle and small lures or baits. One effective technique is to fish with small spinners or spoons, which can imitate the natural movement of a small fish or insect.
Another effective technique is to fish with live bait, such as worms or minnows. These baits can be fished using a bobber or a sinker to keep them in place.
Fishing Regulations
Before fishing in Kimsey Run Lake, it's important to familiarize yourself with the fishing regulations. The lake is managed by the West Virginia Division of Natural Resources, and fishing regulations are designed to ensure the sustainability of fish populations.
Some important regulations to keep in mind include:
A valid West Virginia fishing license is required to fish in Kimsey Run Lake.
The daily bag limit for largemouth bass is 5 fish, with a minimum size limit of 12 inches.
The daily bag limit for channel catfish is 6 fish, with no size limit.
The daily bag limit for rainbow trout is 6 fish, with a minimum size limit of 14 inches.
All other fish species have a daily bag limit of 15 fish, with no size limit.
Conclusion
Kimsey Run Lake is a beautiful and productive fishing destination that provides excellent opportunities for anglers of all skill levels. Whether you're targeting largemouth bass, smallmouth bass, bluegill, crappie, channel catfish, or rainbow trout, there are a variety of techniques and strategies that can help you catch more fish.
By understanding the unique characteristics of Kimsey Run Lake and following the fishing regulations, you can enjoy a safe and rewarding fishing experience in one of West Virginia's most beautiful lakes.