The Best Trout Fishing in Tennessee
Anglers looking for a diverse range of trout species and fishing opportunities should look no further than Tennessee. With the abundant fisheries, such as the South Holston River and Watauga River in East Tennessee, it has become a hotspot for anglers who want to experience some of the best trout fishing in the country, including fly fishing for rainbow trout and brown trout.
Tennessee boasts three different trout species: rainbow, brown, and brook trout, all of which thrive in the state’s many waterways. Rainbow trout, known for their distinctive red stripe along their sides, can be found in many of Tennessee’s rivers and streams. Brown trout, which are known for their fighting ability and elusive nature, can also be found in many of Tennessee’s waters, particularly in its larger rivers. Lastly, brook trout, which are the only native trout species to the state, are found in the upper reaches of many of the state’s streams.
This article is meant to help you discover why Tennessee offers the best trout fishing opportunities in the nation!
Types of Trout Found in Tennessee
Tennessee is home to three distinct species of trout: rainbow, brown, and brook trout. Each species has unique characteristics that make them special. Anglers in Tennessee have the opportunity to fish for all three!
Rainbow Trout
Rainbow trout are perhaps the most common type of trout found in Tennessee, and can be found in many of the state’s waterways. These fish are known for their distinctive pink or red stripe along their sides, as well as their silver-colored bodies. Rainbow trout are also prized by anglers for their fighting ability, making them a popular target for fly fishermen.
Rainbow trout can be found in a variety of habitats in Tennessee, including cold, clear mountain streams and larger rivers. They are typically stocked by the Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency, making them a popular target for both experienced and novice anglers.
Brown Trout
Brown trout are another popular species of trout found in Tennessee. These fish are known for their elusive nature and their ability to put up a tough fight when caught. Brown trout can be found in many of Tennessee’s larger rivers and streams, particularly in the tailwaters of dams.
Brown trout are typically brown or greenish in color, with black or red spots along their sides. They are also known for their distinctive shape. With their long, sleek body it makes them well-suited for life in fast-moving water.
One of the best places to fish for brown trout in Tennessee is the South Holston River. The SoHo is known for its large population of wild browns. Anglers can also find browns in many of the state’s other rivers and streams, particularly those with colder water temperatures.
Brook Trout
Brook trout are the only native species of trout found in Tennessee. They are generally only found in the upper reaches of many of the state’s streams. These fish are typically smaller than rainbow or brown trout, but they are still prized by anglers for their beauty and the challenge they present.
Brook trout are typically brown or greenish in color, with red or orange spots on their sides. They are also known for their distinctive markings, which include a white leading edge on their pectoral fins.
Because brook trout are native to Tennessee, they are often subject to special regulations designed to protect their populations. Anglers should be aware of any regulations in place before fishing for brook trout in the state.
Best Trout Fishing Destinations in Tennessee
Tennessee is home to some of the best trout fishing destinations in the country. With a wide variety of rivers, streams, and lakes to choose from, here are some of the top destinations to consider:
Great Smoky Mountains National Park
The Great Smoky Mountains National Park is one of the most popular trout fishing destinations in Tennessee. The park is home to over 2,000 miles of streams that are teeming with rainbow, brown, and brook trout. The park also offers a variety of fishing opportunities, from small mountain streams to larger rivers and tailwaters.
Anglers looking to fish in the park should be aware of the specific fishing regulations in place. For example, fishing is only allowed during certain times of the year in some areas. Generally there are restrictions on the number and size of fish that can be caught.
South Holston River
The South Holston River is another popular destination for trout fishing in Tennessee. This river is known for its large population of brown and rainbow trout, as well as its stunning scenery. The river flows through a scenic gorge and offers plenty of fishing opportunities for anglers of all skill levels.
The SoHo is also subject to specific fishing regulations. Anglers should be sure to familiarize themselves with the rules before they go.
Caney Fork River
The Caney Fork River is another excellent destination for trout fishing in Tennessee. This river is located just outside of Nashville and is home to a variety of fish species, including rainbow, brown, and brook trout. The river is known for its clear water and scenic surroundings. This makes it a popular destination for anglers who want to combine their love of fishing with a peaceful outdoor experience
The Caney Fork River is also stocked regularly with trout by the Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency. This ensures that there are plenty of fish for anglers to catch for years to come.
Norris Lake
For anglers who prefer to fish in lakes, Norris Lake is one of the top destinations in Tennessee. This lake is one of the largest reservoirs in the state. It is home to a large population of rainbow and brown trout as well. Anglers can fish here from a boat or from the shore if they choose. There are plenty of public access points around the lake for both.
The Watauga River
The Watauga River is another excellent destination for trout fishing in Tennessee. This river flows through northeastern Tennessee and western North Carolina. It is known for its large population of rainbow, brown, and brook trout. The river’s clear water and mountain surroundings make it a wonderful place to enjoy a day of fishing.
The Watauga River tailwater is also stocked regularly by the Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency. Like many of the states fisheries, certain sections have tighter restrictions than others. Be sure to read those regulations before heading out to fish.
The river is known for its diverse fishing opportunities. From fishing for brookies in the headwaters to targeting larger fish in the tailwater, it has it all. The most popular style of fishing here is by boat. But, there are plenty of wade access points as well.
When planning a trout fishing trip to Tennessee, it’s important to consider the time of year you’ll be visiting. Different seasons and weather conditions can have a significant impact on fishing success, and anglers should plan accordingly. It’s also important to familiarize yourself with any specific fishing regulations that may be in place in the area you plan to fish. This ensures that you’re following the rules and helping to protect Tennessee’s natural resources.
Tips for Successful Trout Fishing in Tennessee
To increase your chances of success when trout fishing in Tennessee, it’s important to come prepared with the right gear and techniques. Here are some tips to help you make the most of your next trout fishing trip in Tennessee:
Come Prepared with the Right Gear
Trout fishing in Tennessee requires specific gear, including rods, reels, and tackle/flies. Anglers should make sure that they come equipped with a rod and reel that are suitable for the type of fishing they plan to do. Fly fishing is a popular method for catching trout in Tennessee, and anglers should come prepared with the right flies, leaders, and tippets to match the hatch. Especially on those bright days, 6x tippet is your best friend.
Spin fishing can also be effective, particularly for larger trout in the state’s lakes and tailwaters. When spin fishing, anglers should use light or ultralight rods and reels, and choose lures and bait that mimic the natural prey of the trout.
Fish at the Right Time of Day
Trout are typically more active during certain times of the day, and anglers should plan their fishing trips accordingly. Early morning and late afternoon are generally the best times to fish for trout in Tennessee, as these are the times when the fish are most likely to be feeding. Anglers should also pay attention to weather conditions, as trout may be more active on cloudy or overcast days.
Learn to Read the Water
Trout are often found in specific areas of a river or stream, and anglers should learn to read the water to increase their chances of catching fish. Look for areas where the current slows down or where there is cover, such as under rocks or in deeper pools. Trout also tend to congregate around areas where there is a change in water depth, such as riffles and drop-offs.
Use Stealth to Your Advantage
Trout are often spooked by noise and movement, so anglers should use stealth to their advantage when fishing for them. Move slowly and quietly, and avoid making sudden movements or loud noises that could scare the fish away.
Practice Catch and Release
Conservation is important when trout fishing in Tennessee, and anglers should practice catch and release whenever possible. This helps to protect the trout population and ensures that there will be plenty of fish for future generations to enjoy. Anglers should also be aware of any specific fishing regulations in place in the area they plan to fish, and follow these rules to help protect Tennessee’s natural resources.
Get The Correct Fishing License
Before trout fishing in Tennessee, anglers are required to obtain a fishing license + a trout stamp. These licenses can be purchased online or at a variety of locations throughout the state. Make sure to carry your license with you at all times when fishing, as failure to do so can result in a fine.
By following these tips, anglers can increase their chances of success when trout fishing in Tennessee. Whether you’re fly fishing in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park or spin fishing on Norris Lake, coming prepared with the right gear and techniques can help you catch more fish and have a more enjoyable experience.
Conclusion
Tennessee is home to some of the best trout fishing in the country, with a wide range of rivers, streams, and lakes that offer excellent fishing opportunities. From rainbow and brown trout to the native brook trout, Tennessee has something to offer for anglers of all skill levels and interests.
When planning a trout fishing trip to Tennessee, it’s important to come prepared with the right gear and techniques. Fly fishing is a popular method for catching trout in Tennessee, and anglers should come equipped with the right flies, leaders, and tippets to match the hatch. Spin fishing can also be effective, particularly for larger trout in the state’s lakes and tailwaters.
Trout are often found in specific areas of a river or stream, and anglers should learn to read the water to increase their chances of catching fish. They should also use stealth to their advantage, as trout are often spooked by noise and movement. Finally, anglers should practice catch and release whenever possible to help protect the trout population and ensure that there will be plenty of fish for future generations to enjoy.
Tennessee is home to many excellent trout fishing destinations, including the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, the South Holston River, and Norris Lake. Anglers should be aware of any specific fishing regulations in place in the area they plan to fish, and follow these rules to help protect Tennessee’s natural resources.
In conclusion, if you’re looking for some of the best trout fishing in the country, Tennessee is an excellent destination to consider. With its diverse range of trout species and fishing opportunities, there’s something to satisfy every angler’s needs. So, grab your gear and head out to explore the best trout fishing in Tennessee today!
