- Dale Hollow Lake: This lake is located on the Kentucky-Tennessee border and is considered one of the best fishing spots in Tennessee. It is famous for its smallmouth bass fishing and has a reputation as one of the best places to catch trophy-sized smallmouths. In addition to smallmouth bass, the lake is also home to several other species of fish, including largemouth bass, spotted bass, crappie, and catfish. Tackle to bring: Smallmouth bass anglers should bring spinning gear or a baitcasting setup, with 8-10 lb test line and 3/0-4/0 hooks. For catfish, use a heavy-duty rod and reel with 20-30 lb test line and a large hook (5/0-7/0) baited with cut bait or live bait.
- Chickamauga Lake: Located in Southeast Tennessee, Chickamauga Lake is another popular fishing destination. It is well known for its large numbers of spotted bass and is also a good place to catch largemouth bass and smallmouth bass. Tackle to bring: For spotted bass, bring a fast-action spinning rod with 6-8 lb test line and small crankbaits or jigs. For largemouth bass, bring a heavy-duty rod and reel with 10-15 lb test line and large plastic worms or topwater lures.
- Cherokee Lake: This lake is located in East Tennessee and is one of the largest reservoirs in the state. It is a popular destination for both fishing and boating, and is home to several species of fish, including largemouth bass, smallmouth bass, crappie, catfish, and more. Tackle to bring: For largemouth bass, bring a medium-heavy rod and reel with 10-15 lb test line and plastic worms or topwater lures. For crappie, use a light-action rod and reel with 2-4 lb test line and small jigs or minnows.
- Norris Lake: This lake is located in East Tennessee and is a popular destination for fishing and boating. It is well known for its large population of smallmouth bass, but is also home to several other species, including largemouth bass, crappie, catfish, and more. Tackle to bring: For smallmouth bass, bring a fast-action spinning rod with 6-8 lb test line and crankbaits or jigs. For crappie, use a light-action rod and reel with 2-4 lb test line and small jigs or minnows.
- Old Hickory Lake: This lake is located in Middle Tennessee and is a popular destination for fishing and boating. It is known for its large populations of both largemouth bass and catfish, and is also a good place to catch crappie and bluegill. Tackle to bring: For largemouth bass, bring a medium-heavy rod and reel with 10-15 lb test line and plastic worms or topwater lures. For catfish, use a heavy-duty rod and reel with 20-30 lb test line and large hooks (5/0-7/0) baited with cut bait or live bait.
The Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency (TWRA) is responsible for enforcing fishing regulations in the state of Tennessee. You can find information on the state’s fishing laws and regulations on the TWRA website.
This website provides comprehensive information on fishing regulations, including size and creel limits, fishing seasons, and special regulations for specific bodies of water. You can also find information on fishing licenses, permits, and other requirements, as well as information on fishing-related programs and events. Additionally, you can contact the TWRA directly for more information or to ask any questions you may have about fishing regulations in Tennessee.
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