Tennessee is an angler's dream—where mountains with scenic character are joined to quiet lakes, where rivers wind through picturesque woods, with game fish abound.
From the cypress-studded shallows of the northwest to the crystal-clear mountain reservoirs of the east, the Volunteer State delivers fishing experiences that rival anywhere in the country.
Whether you're a bass tournament pro seeking your next trophy or a parent teaching your kids to cast from a quiet bank, Tennessee's waters welcome you with open arms.
The state's diverse geography creates equally diverse fishing opportunities—shallow lakes teeming with crappie, deep reservoirs holding record-breaking smallmouth, and free-flowing rivers where trout rise to perfectly placed flies.
This guide covers the best fishing spots in Tennessee, from legendary trophy waters to hidden family-friendly gems that locals have cherished for generations. So grab your tackle box, double-check that your license is current, and get ready to discover why Tennessee belongs on every angler's bucket list.
We will begin with one of the most famous fishing places in Tennessee, Reelfoot Lake.
It was formed in northwest Tennessee due to a sequence of earthquakes in the early 1800s, ranking it as a well-known natural lake that boasts shallow water, cypress trees and a huge population of fish.
When you are planning your trip, you should not forget to visit the Reelfoot Lake fishing map, which will assist the angler in finding the best places to fish for crappies, catfish, and bluegill.
White crappies are most often found in spring and early summer, and largemouth bass and redear sunfish are exciting fish all year long.
Friendliness to bank fishing and the still easy access to the many fish species give Reelfoot a place on the list of places to visit among the novices and experienced fishermen.
2. Chickamauga Lake
Chickamauga Lake is a legend in the bass fishing world, and it is situated near Chattanooga.
This reservoir on the Tennessee River is famous as a producer of trophy catches, so it is now a favorite fishing Ground among largemouth bass lovers.
The past few years have witnessed numerous record fish being caught here, and as such, will take the excellent deal further as a sure bet when it comes to bass fishing.
You may fish on boats or go kayak fishing in the quiet coves.
Striped bass and crappies can be found mostly during early mornings and even in the late evenings, whereas giant bass will be found in the spring.
Source: iStock.
3. Dale Hollow Reservoir
Dale Hollow Reservoir must be on your bucket list if you are in the pursuit of world records. It is the home of the world record smallmouth bass of 11lb. 15oz that was caught in 1955.
This reservoir is one of the most beautiful, transparent Tennessee lakes, which are found in Tennessee and Kentucky, and are suitable for fly fishing, boat fishing, or shoreland casting.
In addition to the smallmouth bass, there are trout, walleye, and crappies that also flourish here.
The access points are controlled by the Army Corps of Engineers, and boat ramps and picnic sites can be easily located. Dale Hollow never fails to give you that trophy catch or even a relaxing day of fishing.
4. Centre Hill Lake
Located in the southern part of Tennessee, the Centre Hill Lake is a great attraction among the local families and visiting fishers.
It is a scenic reservoir bordered with picturesque cliffs and wooded hills, and some of the best fishing spots in Tennessee for black bass, crappies and catfish.
The crystal-clear water of the lake is good for kayak fishing, and the deeper water contains stripers and white bass.
The Caney Fork River is visible, which gives the area another dimension of river fishing. Gather a picnic basket, hire a boat and spend the whole day in the natural splendor of Tennessee.
5. Percy Priest Lake
Source: iStock.
A minute or so out of Nashville, there is Percy Priest Lake, which is by far the best fishing spot anywhere in the state.
It is under the control of the Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency, which is stocked regularly with bass, crappies and catfish, which gives it great action all through the year.
The combination of shallow flats and deep channels in the lake gives good opportunities for both shore fishing and boat fishing.
The optimal seasons to hook the largemouth and spotted bass are spring and fall, although the hot summer seasons will bring striped bass-seeking fishermen to the environs of the dam section.
6. Pickwick Lake
Pickwick Lake, which cuts across the southwestern part of the state, is an angler's paradise that offers a variety of species.
There are smallmouth bass, catfish, white bass and even carp in this section of the Tennessee River.
It is one of the few Tennessee fishing spots to possess the quantity and quality due to its rapid currents and deep holes.
The best times to go fishing on the boat are in late spring and early summer, and the best fishing with flies is in fall near the tributaries.
Source: Depositphotos.
7. Norris Lake
Norris Lake is a crystal-clear lake, which is situated in East Tennessee with a beautiful view of the mountains.
The lake harbors an extensive variety of game fish, such as walleye, crappie, striped bass and smallmouth.
It is an excellent family holiday place where one can enjoy fishing or other outdoor activities like boating, walking, or swimming.
The low water temperatures and the rocky formation endear Norris as a year-round destination among serious anglers who want to experience a trophy catch.
Source: Depositphotos.
8. Old Hickory Lake
In case you need a fast-fishing getaway in Nashville, Old Hickory Lake does not fail.
Covering over 22,000 acres, it has catfish, sunfish, and various types of bass. The presence of open water and structured covers ensures that it is a viable combination for either shore or boat fishing.
There are also very good family facilities at the lake, including campgrounds, picnic areas and fishing piers. The best season to attack crappies is spring, and the most active season of the great bluegill and channel catfish is late summer.
9. Hiwassee River
To fishermen who enjoy fly fishing, the River Hiwassee in southeast Tennessee cannot be beaten. It is also a well-known, beautiful, free-flowing river populated with healthy trout and smallmouth bass.
The cold waters and easy currents make it the perfect place to wade and fish from the kayak. The river also sustains skipjack herring, red ear sunfish and other smaller species, full of diversity, making it more fascinating.
Source: Depositphotos.
10. Woods Reservoir
Rounding out the list is Woods Reservoir, which is found near Tullahoma in Middle Tennessee. This lake is under the control of the U.S. Air Force, and it provides a very relaxing and serene atmosphere that is suitable for family-friendly fishing.
Catfish, white bass, and largemouth bass are found at any time of the year. Fishing at the docks or boat ramps early in the morning often results in steady bites. It is among the most serene fishing places in Tennessee, with relaxing waters and consistent hunting.
Tips for Planning a Lake Fishing Trip to Tennessee
Source: Unsplash.
With these sensational Tennessee fishing spots in mind. Here are a few tips to help you have an easy, happy time:
Purchase a valid license: All fishermen aged 13 years and above require a valid Tennessee fishing license. One might easily find one at the Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency.
Collect the regulations: Check the current Tennessee fishing regulations on the size limits, closing periods and zoning.
Water levels in the check-up: Different reservoirs, such as Centre Hill Lake and Pickwick Lake, would vary based on the activities of the dams and the amount of rainfall.
Bring the right equipment: Have a combination of both shallow and deep-sea lures. Other items such as polarized sunglasses, sunscreens, and a first aid kit should not be forgotten.
Fish according to the seasons: Spring and fall are the seasons when probably the best fishing in Tennessee is, and the weather and population of fish are kindly influenced.
Be safe: Wear life jackets when out on a boat and be aware of changing conditions such as the weather, particularly on larger lakes.
With the proper equipment, you’ll be productive, and the nearest trip will be memorable to Tennessee lakes and rivers.
Conclusion
Source: Unsplash.
The best fishing spots in Tennessee offer endless adventure possibilities in the old water of Reelfoot Lake to the clear depths of Dale Hollow Reservoir.
Whether you’re chasing smallmouth bass at Chickamauga Lake or hunting for a trophy catch at Pickwick Lake, every part of the state has something to offer the active or laid-back anglers.
Pack up and head out to fish and see why Tennessee is one of the best fishing spots in America.
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