Great Trout Fishing In Tennessee

Guide to fishing for rainbow, cutthroat, brook, brown and lake trout in local lakes and streams.

By AA-Fishing Staff Writers

Tennessee offers fantastic opportunities for trout fishing, with a variety of trout species and abundant fishing locations throughout the state. Anglers can enjoy pursuing rainbow trout, brown trout, and brook trout in Tennessee's lakes and rivers, with each species providing its unique angling experience. The purpose of this page is to share basic information about trout fishing and identify trout fishing waters in the state.

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Fishing For Rainbow Trout

Rainbow trout are one of the most fished for trout species in the state, and can be found in numerous Tennessee lakes and rivers. Known for its tasty pink flesh, rainbows are a favorite among the vast majority of trout anglers in the state. It also appeals to the fly fisherman as it can be caught on flies as well as other small baits and lures. It feeds on small insects, minnows, crustaceans and worms. It is ideal for both sport and dining pleasure. These vibrant fish can be found in numerous lakes and rivers, including the Caney Fork River, the Clinch River, and the Hiwassee River. Rainbow trout are known for their acrobatic fights and willingness to strike a variety of baits and lures. Tennessee's stocked rainbow trout fisheries provide ample opportunities for anglers to land these beautiful fish, with spring and fall being prime seasons for trout fishing. More...

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Fishing For Cutthroat Trout

Cutthroat trout call the Pacific northwest home, however they are also stocked in many lakes. Cutthroat trout fishing holds a cherished place among anglers. While fly fishing reigns supreme as the preferred method, these prized fish are also susceptible to various artificial lures mimicking minnows or grubs, as well as live bait presentations. Cutthroat trout fishing is renowned for the spectacular battles while landing. More...

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Fishing For Brook Trout

Brook trout, with their stunning colors and willingness to bite, can be found in remote mountain streams and creeks across the state. These small but feisty fish can provide an exciting fishing experience for those willing to explore Tennessee's more secluded and scenic locations. The primary food source of brookies is small insects, mollusks, crustaceans and other small fishes. In lakes where brook trout are stocked, shade over shallow cover is a great place to start. Brook trout, the only native trout species to Tennessee, can be found in select streams and high-elevation areas of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. These fish inhabit remote and pristine waters, providing anglers with a unique angling experience in a picturesque setting. More...

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Fishing For Brown Trout

Brown trout, another prized trout species, can be found in select Tennessee lakes and rivers. Many of these fisheries are attracting anglers from near and far. These elusive and wary fish offer a challenge to anglers, requiring stealthy presentations and precise casting to entice a bite. Brown trout feed on worms, minnows, insects and crustaceans. Larger browns can be taken on jerkbaits, small crankbaits and spinners. These fish are known for their elusive nature and can be challenging to catch, making them a favorite among seasoned anglers. Tennessee's cold-water rivers and streams, such as the South Holston River and the Watauga River, offer excellent habitats for brown trout. These fisheries require anglers to employ stealthy approaches and precise presentations to entice these wary fish. Brown trout fishing is particularly productive in the early morning or late evening hours. More...

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Fishing For Lake Trout

Lake trout are by far the largest of the trouts. They live in deep, cold lakes and feeds on virtually all forms of flesh which exist in its home waters. It's rich flaky flesh makes it a tasty table favorite. During early spring, lake trout can often be found in the shallows of lakes, readily taking dry flies, wet flies, and other slow-moving presentations. As surface temperatures rise, these trout typically migrate to deeper waters, prompting anglers to employ trolling with heavier tackle as the primary technique using spoons and baitfish-imitating lures. More...

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Trout Waters

Boone Lake, Calderwood Reservoir, Center Hill Lake, Chilhowee Lake, Cordell Hull Lake, Dale Hollow Reservoir, Fort Patrick Henry Reservoir, Norris Lake, Ocoee Lake, Parksville Reservoir, South Holston Lake, Tellico Reservoir and Watauga Lake are major lakes in Tennessee with quality populations of trout. Other smaller lakes, rivers and ponds are stocked with trout or have small sustained populations of trout as well.

Click the images and links above for species details.

Select the best trout lures and baits

Trout spinners, crankbaits and jerkbaits work well for shallow, reasonably active fish. Salmon eggs, worms and prepared baits will work at virtually all depths.

Tennessee Record Trout

The state record rainbow trout was taken from a pond in Polk County.

The Obey River was home to the state record cutthroat trout.

The Caney Fork River turned out the state record brook trout.

The state record brown trout was pulled out of the Clinch River.

The state record lake trout came out of Watauga Reservoir.

The 5 primary trouts are the rainbow, brook, brown, cutthroat and lake trout. Browns are considered the most difficult to catch and brookies are the easiest. Pure cold water is key to survival of the trouts.

Visit the Tennessee Wildlife Resources website for information on trout stockings in Tennessee.

Watch trout fishing videos to see trout anglers in action.

Additional trout information

Trout Unlimited

Trout locations and info, by state.

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