Unlock the Great Outdoors
Why limit yourself to public land when there are millions of acres of private land to explore.
Fishing in Tennessee
Tennessee Fishing at a Glance
If you’re looking for an outdoor adventure that combines the thrills of a great catch with the relaxation of nature, then fishing in Tennessee is right up your alley. With its wide range of terrain including rolling hills and high mountains, not to mention its collection of lakes, rivers, ponds and streams all brimming with potential catches, fishing in the Volunteer State is an extraordinary experience. Plus, Tennessee’s mild weather makes it an ideal destination to fish year-round whether you’re a resident or non-resident.
Before hitting the water however, be sure to pick up your valid Tennessee fishing license – purchasable online or at any sporting goods store – so you can make the most of your time on the lake.
When it comes to the types of fish you might come across in these waters; bass, trout and catfish are among the most popular. For day fishing excursions from June through September, early morning and late evening hours tend to yield better results. And for night fishing enthusiasts? June through August would be your best bet for largemouth and smallmouth bass which will help keep fatigue at bay! No matter when you go, large quantities of big fish await those with rod in hand!
Tennessee ranks #19 in the U.S. for fishing licenses per capita and has a good number of local fishing enthusiasts with over 12.58% of the population having fishing licenses.
Key Insights
- If you love fishing and the great outdoors, Tennessee is a must-visit destination with its diverse range of terrain and bodies of water.
- Tennessee’s mild weather makes it an ideal year-round fishing destination for both residents and non-residents.
- Before hitting the water, make sure to obtain a valid Tennessee fishing license.
- Popular fish species in Tennessee include bass, trout, and catfish, and the best time to fish varies by season and location.
- Tennessee ranks #19 in the U.S. for fishing licenses per capita, with over 12.58% of the population holding fishing licenses.
- Just 10.67% of Tennessee’s land is public, ranking the state #23 amongst all states.
- Fishing on private land in Tennessee has advantages over public bodies of water, but access can be difficult to obtain.
- Wing It simplifies land access for fishing, hunting, camping, and more, adding new land every day.
- Top 5 bodies of water for fishing in Tennessee include the Tennessee River, Clinch River, Watts Bar Lake, Douglas Lake, and Center Hill Lake.
Table of Contents
Estimated Fishing Enthusiasts
| Population: | 6,910,840 |
|---|---|
| Fishing Enthusiasts | 869,240 |
| Fishing License % | 12.58% |
| Hunters Rank | 19 |
The state of Tennessee is mostly private land with just 10.67% of acres considered public land -ranking #23 amongst all states.
Land Types (Acres)
| Acres | % | Rank | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Total | 26,380,800 | ||
| Public | 2,814,750 | 10.67% | 23 |
| Private | 23,566,050 | 89.33% | 26 |
| Tribal | 0 | 0.00% | no tribal land |
Tennessee Fishing Licenses & Requirements
For the most accurate and updated information on fishing licenses and requirements, it’s always a good idea to check the Tennessee DNR. We’ve provided their contact information and other helpful information for your convenience here.
Tennessee DNR
P.O. Box 41489
Nashville, TN 37204
- (800) 624-7406
From rainbow trout and brown trout to brook trout, cutthroat trout, golden trout and steelhead trout, there’s something for every angler. But be warned – these fish are notoriously hard to catch and require the utmost skill! However, the reward for the dedicated fishermen out there is great – not only will you have a chance of catching a trophy-sized trout, but you’ll also be able to take in the breathtaking natural beauty of Tennessee’s mountains, forests and rivers. If you’re looking for an adventure that’ll last a lifetime – come fishing in Tennessee.
Unlock the profits in your land
The hassle free way to monetize your acreage.
Unlock the Great Outdoors
We’re working with landowners all across Tennessee to provide private land access for more activities. Add your information below to stay up to date.
Fishing private land in Tennessee
Fishing on private land in Tennessee has some real advantages over public lakes, rivers, streams, and ponds *if you can get access. For instance, there’s nothing like having a quiet lake all to yourself and oftentimes there are simply more fish available to catch, because they haven’t been fished out. There are generally more processes for access private land for hunting than fishing, though some similar methods exist. For instance, you can sometimes join a fishing club in Tennessee or if you have the money, it may be possible to rent some private land for fishing. Another option is to knock on doors or work your contacts in an area to see if a landowner would let you fish for the day or possibly be open to a longer term arrangement.
Fortunately Wing It is simplifying land access for fishing, hunting, camping, and more. We’re adding new land every day and if we have some in your area, you’ll see some great options below.
1. Tennessee River
2. Clinch River
3. Watts Bar Lake
4. Douglas Lake
5. Center Hill Lake
Fishing private land in Tennessee
Fishing on private land in Tennessee has some real advantages over public lakes, rivers, streams, and ponds *if you can get access. For instance, there’s nothing like having a quiet lake all to yourself and oftentimes there are simply more fish available to catch, because they haven’t been fished out. There are generally more processes for access private land for hunting than fishing, though some similar methods exist. For instance, you can sometimes join a fishing club in Tennessee or if you have the money, it may be possible to rent some private land for fishing. Another option is to knock on doors or work your contacts in an area to see if a landowner would let you fish for the day or possibly be open to a longer term arrangement.
Fortunately Wing It is simplifying land access for fishing, hunting, camping, and more. We’re adding new land every day and if we have some in your area, you’ll see some great options below.