Tennessee Fishing: Everything You Need To Know

Anglers may spend their time in Tennessee year-round at one of the many fish farms, stocked ponds, or beautiful lakes. Tennessee's 500,000 acres of lakes and 50,000 miles of streams and rivers provide a picture-perfect setting for a day of boating and relaxation in addition to your fishing trip. So, for your next fishing adventure, here is all the information you need for your Tennessee fishing trips.

Tennessee Boasts an Abundance of Fish Species​

There are more than 300 kinds of freshwater fish to reel in, but only a few can claim to be true classics. Here are some of the state's most iconic fish you can't miss if you're visiting Tennessee for the first time.

1. Striped Bass

Among freshwater game fish, Stripers in Tennessee are among the most sought. When caught, these fierce males put up a ferocious battle and grow to impressive proportions. They are, with catfish, the biggest fish in the state that can be targeted. Striped bass fishing is good year-round but heats up in the spring and summer.

2. Smallmouth Bass

Tennessee has designated the smallmouth bass as its state fish, and the Dale Hollow Reservoir is home to at least three Smallmouth world records. Smallmouth bass fishing is at its best in the summer and on the coldest days of winter.

3. Largemouth Bass

It's no surprise that Bass fishery flourishes in Tennessee, given the state's reputation as a fishing mecca. Largemouth bass may be caught in many lakes, weighing between two and eight pounds. You may go for largies any time of year, but the optimum months to do so are May through September.

4. Trout 

The state of Tennessee is known for its excellent trout fishing. For those anglers searching for “trout fishing Knoxville TN” or “trout fishing near Knoxville TN,” here’s your answer! The abundance of swift-moving streams and rivers, ideal for trout, makes this not surprising. Rainbow trout, brook trout, and brown trout are all available for anglers on their fishing trips in Tennessee, especially during spring.

5. Crappie

For anglers looking for crappie fishing trips, then Tennessee is ideal for you! The state's "bread and butter" fish is the crappie. They're easy to get, can have a good fight, and have a delicious flavor. March and April are prime periods for catching them.

6. Catfish

Catfish are one of the most common species caught by anglers in Tennessee. Flathead catfish, channel catfish, and blue catfish are always looking for prey in the lakes all year round.

7. Muskellunge 

A musky is an excellent choice to capture a fish that will give you the battle to remember. Pickerel are also common in lakes; like bass, they are fierce and insatiable eaters.

Explore the Best Fishing Spots in Tennessee

Tennessee's many lakes, rivers, and streams provide excellent fishing opportunities. Pickwick Lake is a rare gem because it combines the qualities of three separate lakes into one, making it possible to fish for Bass year-round. Because of its exceptional natural beauty, ultra-clear water, and pristine coastline, Dale Hollow Lake is considered one of the best bass fisheries in the United States.

West Tennessee

One of the "Natural Wonders of the World" and a haven for ducks and bald eagles, Reelfoot Lake is a beautiful place to visit. Bass fishing and competitions can be found on Kentucky Lake throughout the year, making it a popular destination for anglers. If you're an angler searching for a wide variety of fish, Maple Creek Lake is a decent bet.

Middle Tennessee

Just to the northeast of Nashville, on the Cumberland River, lies Old Hickory Lake, a popular fishing spot. Williamsport Lake is a collection of four fishing lakes, one of which (Whippoorwill) is specifically designed with kids in mind. Many species, from Bass to Trout, may be found at Center Hill Lake. Crappie, largemouth and white bass, catfish, sauger, and bluegill all thrive in Lake Barkley. You can easily include a fishing trip—enjoyed by anglers of all ages and skill levels—into your holiday plans because Percy Priest Lake's convenient location is only 15 minutes from Nashville's bustling downtown.

East Tennessee

The white Bass in the South Fork Holston River makes an annual migration in the spring. Douglas Lake is consistently ranked in the top five for crappie fishing and is frequently placed in the top ten for largemouth bass fishing. Watauga Lake has the most breathtaking mountain scenery of any lake in Tennessee. Chattanooga's River Gorge, commonly known as "Tennessee's Grand Canyon," offers an unparalleled vista of the surrounding landscape and historical landmarks. Last but not least, the reservoir fish populations of Cherokee Lake are said to be higher than at other water sources. The lake is flanked by agriculture and undulating hills. If you are an angler looking for fishing spots in Tennessee, you might have seen "Knoxville TN" in your recent searches. Knoxville's proximity to several lakes and its moderate environment generate fishing that is exciting anglers from all over the nation, including a nice catch on the bank of the Tennessee River just across from Neyland Stadium.

An Angler’s Dream: Chartering in Tennessee Waters

You may feel overwhelmed trying to decide where to start fishing in a state with hundreds of lakes. Here's when hiring a professional fishing guide may be a game-changer. If you want to fish from a boat, it's best to hire a guide to take you to the best spots.

You won't have any trouble looking for fishing charters in Tennessee. BRD Outdoors Guide Service in Pickerel is available. Aunt Bee Sportfishing in Wilmington and Old North State Fishing in Stumpy Point are nearby fishing charters. Sunrise Charters is another option in Gulf Shores.