Taking Kids Fishing In Tennessee

Ideas and locations to take kids fishing in TN.

Tennessee offers numerous opportunities for kids to experience the joys of fishing and connect with the outdoors. With a variety of fish species and accessible urban fishing locations, children can embark on exciting fishing adventures and create lasting memories.

Several fish species are well-suited for kids' fishing experiences in Tennessee. Largemouth bass, bluegill, redear sunfish, and catfish are among the popular species often stocked in urban fishing areas, providing ample opportunities for young anglers to reel in their first catches. These fish are known for their willingness to bite and can be easily targeted using simple fishing gear such as a small rod and reel combo.

Urban fishing locations in Tennessee offer convenient and family-friendly environments for kids to cast their lines. The Nashville Recreation Fishing Program maintains several urban lakes in the city, including Lake Sevier and Lake Graham, where children can try their hand at fishing. In Memphis, Tom Lee Park and Hyde Lake at Shelby Farms Park are popular urban fishing spots for families. These locations often have fishing piers, stocked ponds, or easily accessible shorelines, providing a safe and enjoyable fishing experience for young anglers.

To enhance the kids' fishing experience, Tennessee offers several events and programs specifically designed for young anglers. The Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency hosts youth fishing rodeos, where kids can learn about fishing techniques, fish identification, and conservation practices while enjoying a day of fishing. These events often provide loaner fishing equipment, ensuring that all children have access to the necessary gear.

When introducing kids to fishing, it's important to prioritize their safety and provide appropriate guidance. Adult supervision, life jackets, and sun protection are essential considerations. Teaching children about catch and release practices and the importance of respecting the environment and fish populations will instill a sense of responsibility and conservation values.

Tennessee's commitment to youth fishing and the abundance of fish species in urban fishing locations make it an ideal destination for kids to learn and enjoy fishing. With a variety of species, family-friendly environments, and educational programs, Tennessee provides the perfect setting for young anglers to develop their fishing skills, foster a love for the outdoors, and create cherished fishing memories with their families.

Fishing and the great outdoors offers kids an alternative to many influences they encounter in their busy lives today. A single fishing trip could be the turning point in a young life, and we encourage you to invest the time in Tennessee kids. The rewards are endless and it takes so little effort.

Places in Tennessee to take kids fishing

Consider these small lakes, ponds, creeks and urban fishing locations as places to take a kid fishing in the Volunteer State.

Bluff City
- Boone Lake

Chatanooga
- Booker T. Washington Park
- Harrison Bay State Park
- East Lake Park
- Ross's Landing Park

Memphis
- Lake McKellar
- Mud Island River Park
- Shelby Farms Park

Nashville
- J Percy Priest Lake
- Shelby Lake Park

Knox
- Caswell Park
- Fort Dickerson Park
- Fort Loudon Lake
- Fountain City Park
- Island Home Park
- Lakeshore Park
- Lonsdale Park
- Sequoyah Park
- Volunteer Landing Park

Pegram
- Cheatham Lake

Roan Mountain
- Roan Mountain State Park

Top 3 tips for taking kids fishing in TN

1. Make sure that the goal is to have fun. Catching fish is a bonus.

2. Keep it simple. Simple tackle, techniques and locations.

3. Keep the focus on the kids. Be a hero by helping them enjoy the day.

Click here for additional tips to create a successful day of fishing for kids.

Kids, fishing and smiles naturally go together. Take a kid fishing and you just might change the course of their life. Then take pictures and send us one of them holding their prized catch. We will happily post it here.