I'm heading out to Dale Hollow to fish for smallies in about 2 wks. I will be staying in the Holly Creek area and have heard that night time is best for smallies. I've never been on this lake or even to this area of the country before. I've heard that this is one of the best smallmouth lakes to fish. I'd like some idea of what to expect and what baits to bring. Is there a lot of down timber on the shores to fish or is it more open water where you should expect to fish deep? Thanks.

I have never fished there but the WR smallmouth came out of that lake.  I believe that lake is on the KY/TN border, which part are you fishing?  

You might try asking in one of the regional forums, I know there are some central and eastern KY people ther.

I wasn't much help but good luck on your trip

Holly Creek is in Tenn.

I was there mid may when you could still catch them during the day.  Now that summer has come night fishing is the only way to catch them.  Jigs and spinnerbaits are the way to go.  Try and get a guide they will put you on fish.  I got lucky and made friends with a group of fisherman that fish there the same week every year, they took me out and showed me around.  I caught my PB there 4.7lb on a white spinnerbait.  It is a huge lake and its very easy to get lost out there especially at night.  Also go to smalljaw.com they have a forum and it deals with all things Dale.  Good luck.

I haven't been in years but my previous experience is that it can be very good or very tough. I would get a guide for the first day or two.