There are a number of launch sights on Barkley. Some are close together, some are 25 miles apart. Barkley is a big lake, with part of it in Tenn, but most is in Ky. Most of the motels are on the north end of the lake. The Land Between the Lakes, has a number of camping sights. Kentucky/Barkley lakes are very popular. And so they can be crowded. You do not need to register your boat, unless you move here. Then you have 90 days, to get it done. Small mouths should be biting in April. Along with loud mouths. The two lakes are conected by a canal, near the dams. I can't give you much info on bass fishing. As I mainly fish for catfish, and stripers. If I were not from the area. I would check with the local bait shops. Swannie is on Ky 62 near the dam. It has a bait shop, where a lot of bass fishermen hang out. That would be a good starting spot. There is also a motel there, that has a lot of bass fishermen. Good luck with your trip. Maybe someone else will give you some more info.
Life member since 04/05/1989. Samuel J.