Discover the Best Fishing Spots in Tennessee

Tennessee is a hidden gem for anglers, offering diverse lakes, rivers, and streams that cater to both recreational and competitive fishing enthusiasts. Whether you’re casting a line in search of trophy bass or simply relaxing by a tranquil lake, Tennessee’s waterways provide countless opportunities for all types of fishing experiences.

The state’s waterways stretch across various landscapes, from the rolling hills of East Tennessee to the flatlands of the Mississippi Delta in the West. With more than 30,000 miles of streams and rivers and over 100,000 acres of lakes, Tennessee is an angler’s paradise. Each location has its own unique characteristics, providing everything from serene fishing spots to those perfect for more challenging, competitive events.

What Are Tennessee’s Best Lakes for Fishing?

Tennessee’s lakes offer incredible fishing experiences, each with its own unique appeal. The vast variety of species found in these waters is part of what makes fishing in the state so special.

Chickamauga Lake is known for its trophy-sized bass and is a favorite destination for competitive fishing tournaments. The lake spans over 36,000 acres and is often featured in national bass tournaments due to its rich fish population and ideal fishing conditions. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced angler, this lake provides plenty of opportunities to reel in largemouth bass, crappie, and bluegill.

Another prime location is Pickwick Lake, a 53,000-acre body of water that stretches across three states. Known for its abundance of smallmouth bass and largemouth bass, Pickwick offers diverse habitats, including rocky outcroppings and deep-water holes, perfect for anglers looking for a challenge. The lake also offers great catfishing and striped bass opportunities, making it a well-rounded spot for all types of anglers.

Center Hill Lake, situated in the central part of the state, is another favorite among Tennessee anglers. It’s well-known for its clear waters and scenic views, providing anglers with both beauty and great fishing conditions. Here, you’ll find an abundance of smallmouth bass, largemouth bass, and walleye, alongside a rich population of trout in the deeper sections.

Best Rivers for Competitive and Recreational Fishing

Rivers in Tennessee offer a range of fishing opportunities for both competitive and recreational anglers. These flowing waters are rich in fish species and provide anglers with diverse experiences.

The Cumberland River is one of Tennessee’s most famous rivers for both recreation and competition. Spanning across the state, it’s known for its consistent flow and high population of smallmouth bass. Anglers often target these smallmouths, but the river is also home to large populations of largemouth bass, walleye, and catfish. This river is perfect for competitive events due to its variety of fishing conditions, ranging from deep pools to rocky rapids.

Another excellent river for fishing in Tennessee is the Tennessee River, which winds through the heart of the state. It offers year-round fishing opportunities, from catfish to bass, and is popular among competitive anglers due to its large size and variety of fishing spots. With its access to numerous creeks, tributaries, and flatwater regions, the Tennessee River caters to a wide range of fishing techniques, making it a versatile location for anglers at all skill levels.

The Hiawassee River, located in East Tennessee, is a great spot for those looking to experience fishing in more tranquil surroundings. This river is known for its trout fishing, particularly in its upper stretches. It offers an excellent challenge for fly-fishing enthusiasts and is a serene place for a peaceful day on the water.

Why Is Fishing in Tennessee So Special?

What sets Tennessee apart as a fishing destination is the sheer variety and accessibility of its fishing locations. From the vastness of the Tennessee River to the quiet streams nestled in the Appalachian Mountains, the state offers something for every type of angler. Tennessee’s fishing season spans year-round, with opportunities for both freshwater and migratory fish species.

For recreational anglers, the state offers numerous public access points, boat ramps, and scenic locations perfect for a weekend fishing trip. If you’re a more competitive angler, Tennessee’s lakes and rivers host a number of prestigious fishing tournaments, bringing professional anglers from across the country to showcase their skills. These events often feature substantial cash prizes and attract thousands of spectators, adding to the excitement and prestige of the state’s fishing community.

The state is home to a range of fishing organizations and tournaments that cater to all levels of expertise. From Bassmaster events to local fishing derbies, anglers have plenty of opportunities to compete, network, and sharpen their skills. Tennessee’s combination of public and private access, competitive events, and abundant fish species ensures that it remains a top-tier destination for anglers nationwide.

What Fish Species Can You Find in Tennessee?

Tennessee’s lakes and rivers are home to a variety of fish species that make the state one of the best fishing destinations in the U.S. Anglers can find both cold-water and warm-water species, allowing them to enjoy diverse fishing experiences throughout the year.

In lakes and rivers, bass dominate the fishing scene. Largemouth bass are common throughout most of the state, particularly in reservoirs like Chickamauga and Pickwick. Smallmouth bass are abundant in rivers like the Cumberland and Tennessee rivers, with some of the best populations found in the state’s more rocky, deeper sections.

If you’re interested in catfish, Tennessee offers some of the largest populations in the country. The state is home to blue catfish, channel catfish, and flathead catfish, which thrive in the river systems. Walleye and crappie are also found in abundance in many of Tennessee’s lakes, providing plenty of action for anglers.

For those who enjoy trout fishing, East Tennessee offers prime conditions, especially in the Hiawassee and Little River. The state is home to rainbow trout, brown trout, and brook trout, which thrive in the cooler waters and mountain streams of the region.