I live in NKY too and fish the downtown area quite a bit, but mainly in warmer months. I've found this area to be better for big flat-heads but I've caught my fair share of big blues from here too so I know they are there. I don't get a chance to fish in the winter much so I don't know any great spots in the down-town area (winter) or I'd fill you in. The big blues I'm talking about were weighed in at a tourney out of Madison. I believe the fish were caught about 40 miles downstream from the dam. Pending any soaking rain from now till this weekend the water at Markland is great right now. If I could fish this weekend I'd put in at VeVay and fish from there to the dam. You've got the right bait. Keep in mind VeVay can be difficult to launch from when the water is low and you are by yourself so if that's the case you may want to launch at Craigs Creek and lock through. Good luck and let me know how you do.