Temperatures into the 90s over the past week have pushed the water temperatures at Kentucky and Barkley lakes into the mid-80s and higher. The fish have responded by moving to the deep, main lake dropoffs and ledges to stay in their temperature comfort zone.

Reports indicate that the fish are coming off their deepwater habitat after dark to stalk baitfish on shallow main lake points and bars, and nighttime anglers are taking advantage of the movement to catch them, especially smallmouth bass.

The nighttime anglers are catching their fish with deepdiving crankbaits, spinnerbaits and pig-n-jig combos.

Daytime bass anglers are fishing the main lake dropoffs and ledges with deepdiving crankbaits, large spoons, Tennessee and Alabama umbrella rigs, Carolina-rigged worms and lizards, along with 10-inch Texas-rigged worms, to catch their fish. The heat can be almost unbearable, but it is worth it when a good fish takes the lure.