Excellent Striped Bass & Hybrid Striper Fishing In Tennessee

Guide to fishing for stripers and hybrids in local lakes.

Tennessee offers thrilling striped bass fishing opportunities, attracting anglers with the chance to hook into these powerful and highly sought-after game fish. In addition to the native striped bass, Tennessee is known for its abundant population of hybrid stripers, a crossbreed between striped bass and white bass. Both species provide exciting angling experiences and can be found in major lakes throughout the state.

One of the premier destinations for striped bass and hybrid striper fishing in Tennessee is the Cumberland River. This scenic river is home to some of the state's largest striped bass, with fish weighing over 40 pounds not uncommon. Anglers can target these impressive fish by trolling, casting, or drift fishing in various sections of the river. Spring and fall are particularly productive seasons for striped bass fishing on the Cumberland River, as the fish become more active and migrate to spawn.

Another popular striped bass fishery in Tennessee is the Cherokee Reservoir. Located in the east of the state, this expansive lake is known for its thriving population of striped bass and hybrid stripers. Anglers can enjoy trolling or casting techniques to target these fish, which can reach substantial sizes in Cherokee Reservoir. The lake also holds the state record for striped bass, a testament to the potential for trophy-sized catches in this fishery.

Douglas Lake, located in the foothills of the Great Smoky Mountains, is another notable striped bass fishing destination. This reservoir provides excellent habitat for stripers, with deep channels, points, and submerged structures that attract and hold these fish. Anglers can use a variety of fishing methods, including trolling with large crankbaits or live bait presentations, to entice striped bass in Douglas Lake. Spring and fall are prime seasons for targeting these fish, as they are more active and feeding heavily during these times.

Tennessee's state records for striped bass and hybrid stripers demonstrate the potential for exceptional catches in the state. The current state record for striped bass is an impressive weight, while the hybrid striper record is equally remarkable. These records highlight the quality of striped bass and hybrid striper fisheries in Tennessee and the opportunity for anglers to land true trophy fish.

Whether targeting striped bass or hybrid stripers, Tennessee's major lakes and reservoirs offer incredible fishing experiences for anglers seeking the thrill of battling these hard-fighting fish. With the potential for trophy-sized catches and the picturesque landscapes surrounding these fisheries, Tennessee is a top destination for striped bass enthusiasts.

Striped Bass Lakes

Boone Lake, Center Hill Lake, Cheatham Lake, Cherokee Lake, Chickamauga Lake, Cordell Hull Lake, Dale Hollow Reservoir, Douglas Lake, Fort Loudoun Lake, Fort Patrick Henry Reservoir, J Percy Priest Lake, Kentucky Lake, Lake Barkley, Melton Hill Lake, Nickajack Lake, Norris Lake, Old Hickory Lake, Percy Priest Lake, Pickwick Lake, Reelfoot Lake, Tellico Reservoir, Tims Ford Lake and Watts Bar Lake all have quality schools of stripers.

Click the images and links above for species details.

Cordell Hull Reservoir turned out the state record striped bass.

The Stones River served up the state hybrid striped bass.

Fishing for Stripers in Tennessee

When fishing for stripers concentrate on the deeper waters in the lake. If you can locate schools of shad, stripers are often close by. When the baitfish are shallow over the deep water, you can catch stripers on crankbaits or by swimming spoons at appropriate depths. Check Tennessee fishing reports for current striper information. And for the ultimate thrill try large topwater baits if you see any surface feeding action. When the stripers are deep, jigs and jigging spoons work well. Live and cut bait will also take striped bass when they are in medium to deeper water. Fish nearby or in the river channel if it is a defined depth change. Trolling is also an excellent way to fish for stripers. Use flashy lures in bigger sizes.

While stripers are native to salt water, they naturally migrate into fresh water streams to spawn. Their eggs must remain in motion in order to hatch so the fresh water rivers and streams become the ideal spawning grounds for stripers. Landlocked stripers then populate the lakes.

Striper Fishing Video

Learn the basics for catching striped bass.

Striped bass fishing information, by state.