Tenkiller Fishing Report: Clear Skies, Ideal Conditions for Bass, Catfish, and Spotted Bass

# Artificial Lure's Lake Tenkiller Fishing Report - December 4th, 2025

Well folks, it's your boy Artificial Lure here with today's Lake Tenkiller report. We're looking at some solid conditions out there on the water right now.

First, let me break down what Mother Nature's giving us. The water levels are sitting pretty good—the Army Corps of Engineers shows our conservation pool is 95.94% full, which means we've got plenty of water to work with. The Illinois River, which feeds into our lake system, is flowing at about 393 cubic feet per second, running about 38% of normal, so it's a bit lower than usual but still fishable.

Weather-wise, we're looking at clear skies today with calm winds becoming southwest around 5 mph. That's about as good as it gets in early December. You couldn't ask for better conditions if you tried.

Now, here's where it gets interesting. The fishing forecast shows we're sitting at an average bite right now. The water's clear, which means you'll want to focus on structure and deeper drops. Bass are definitely in the lake system—the Illinois River downstream holds smallmouth, channel catfish, and spotted bass. Lake Tenkiller itself has been a solid producer.

For your tackle box, you'll want to bring some versatile options. Work topwater early if you can get out there at first light, then transition to crankbaits and soft plastics as the sun climbs. The clear water conditions we're seeing mean your baits need to look natural. Live shiners are always money if you can get them, and don't sleep on crawdads for the bottom structure.

Two hot spots I'd recommend: First, work the area around Tenkiller Ferry Dam where the current breaks from the release. Second, focus on the rocky points and coves where the Illinois River feeds the main lake body—those transition zones are where the fish congregate.

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This content was created in partnership and with the help of Artificial Intelligence AI