Fishing Calderwood Lake

AKA: Calderwood Reservoir

Popular Fish Species
Calderwood Lake Fishing Video
Available Fish Species
Amenities
Today's Weather & Forecast
Boat Launch Ramps
Local Fishing Guides
Fishing License
Campgrounds & RV Parks
Map
Contact Info

Calderwood Reservoir, TN

Popular Fish Species Calderwood Lake, TN

Calderwood Lake Popular Fish - Smallmouth Bass

Smallmouth Bass Fishing

Smallmouth bass are the most sought-after species at Calderwood Lake, with fish over 3 pounds very common. Largemouth bass also reside here in good numbers. Smallmouth bass fishing is particularly good when they move to shallow water. Use shallow spinnerbaits, buzzbaits, crankbaits, tube baits and jerkbaits around any sort of rip rap. Around grass, use worms, jigs, topwater and spinnerbaits. Other times, focus your time on deeper structure with drop-shot rigs, small worms, jigs and spoons. Rock piles and points are prime areas for smallmouth as these areas are also home to crawfish.

Calderwood Lake Popular Fish - Black Crappie

Black Crappie Fishing

A nice population of black crappie resides in Calderwood Lake. Crappie tend to run in schools, and once a school is located, there is a good chance for catching significant numbers. Crappie fishing is easy and requires simple, basic gear. Virtually any fishing pole, reasonably small line and crappie jigs or small hooks baited with live bait, creates the ideal setup. Add a bobber and you can set the depth you prefer the bait to maintain. The best time to catch crappie tends to be at dawn and dusk. Live bait and small jigs are the most common method for crappie here. Because crappie prefer cover and structure, locate brush and vegetation in appropriate water depths. Using a fish finder can help locate schools of crappie, which tend to stack vertically around cover. In spring and fall focus on the 8 to 12 foot range. As the crappie move deep in summer and winter, follow points out deep, as well as find ledges near channels in deeper water.

Calderwood Lake Popular Fish - Rainbow Trout

Rainbow Trout Fishing

Fishing for rainbow trout at Calderwood Lake can be effective using worms, salmon eggs, prepared baits, small spinners, spoons, jerkbaits and small crankbaits in vibrant colors to mimic prey. Use the lightest fishing line for the best possible results, based on conditions. Annual stocking by the Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency has helped to maintain a good population of rainbow trout. While fishing from a boat is often the preferred method, plenty of trout are caught here by anglers fishing from the bank. Additionally, floating or sinking flies, such as nymphs, streamers, or dry flies, are popular choices for fly anglers targeting rainbow trout. Trolling with lures or flies behind a boat, casting near shoreline structures, or still fishing with bait can all yield success. Adjusting lure size, color, and retrieve speed can enhance chances of enticing these colorful and spirited fish.

Fish species to fish for...

Guide to fishing for largemouth bass, smallmouth bass, spotted bass, channel catfish, flathead catfish, black crappie, white crappie, walleye, rainbow trout, bluegill, redear sunfish, rock bass, warmouth, white bass and sauger at Calderwood Lake in Tennessee.

Calderwood Lake Fishing Video

Nestled in the southeastern corner of the state, Calderwood Lake is half in Tennessee, and half in North Carolina. This 514-acre reservoir is a cold-water fishery which is ideal for trout, walleye and smallmouth bass. The lake is also home to crappie, catfish, white bass, sunfish and sauger. There is a canoe and kayak portage near the Calderwood dam, and the only boat launch is located in NC on the east side of the lake off Tapaco Road. Anglers fishing from a boat can fish the entire lake with a NC or TN fishing license. Fishing from shore requires a license for the state in which you are located.

Calderwood Lake, nestled in the mountains of eastern Tennessee, is a hidden gem for anglers seeking a peaceful and rewarding fishing experience. This scenic reservoir, located on the Little Tennessee River, offers excellent fishing opportunities, boating adventures, and camping options.

Calderwood Lake is known for its thriving population of smallmouth bass, making it a paradise for bass anglers. These feisty fish can be found throughout the lake, particularly near rocky shorelines, submerged structures, and deep pools. Anglers can enjoy casting with a variety of lures, including crankbaits, jigs, and soft plastics, to entice the aggressive strikes of smallmouth bass. Calderwood Lake is renowned for producing trophy-sized smallmouth bass, offering anglers the chance to land impressive catches.

In addition to smallmouth bass, Calderwood Lake also supports populations of largemouth bass, crappie, catfish, and sunfish. Largemouth bass can be found in the lake's shallower areas, while crappie fishing is productive around submerged brush piles and standing timber. Catfish enthusiasts can target channel catfish and flathead catfish, which are known to inhabit the deeper sections of the lake. Sunfish, such as bluegill and redear sunfish, provide additional angling opportunities for those looking for some fun panfishing action.

Calderwood Lake's combination of outstanding fishing opportunities, scenic beauty, and peaceful surroundings make it a must-visit destination for anglers and nature lovers. Whether you're targeting trophy smallmouth bass, exploring the lake by boat, or enjoying a relaxing camping trip, Calderwood Lake offers a serene and rejuvenating experience in the heart of Tennessee's natural splendor.

Primary fish species residing in Calderwood Lake

Click images for fishing tips and details about each species.

Calderwood Reservoir Amenities

Marina: NO
Boat Rental: NO
Boat Launch Ramp: YES
Campgrounds: Primitive
RV Hookups: NO
Lodging: NO
Convenience Store: NO
Bait & Tackle: NO
Restaurant: NO

Today's Weather & Forecast

Boating is a popular activity on Calderwood Lake, with its serene waters offering ample opportunities for exploration. Anglers can launch their boats from the lake's public access points and navigate the picturesque waterway. Boaters can cruise along the shorelines, search for productive fishing spots, or simply enjoy the breathtaking scenery that surrounds the lake.

Public Boat Launch Ramps & Landings

Magazine Branch Boat Ramp
Located mid lake, on the north side of the lake, this is a single-lane, concrete ramp with a dock and gravel parking.

Fishing Guides On Calderwood Lake

If you offer fishing guide services on this lake, please contact us for a free listing, to be posted here.

Fishing License

Click here for a Tennessee Fishing License.

Camping facilities are available near Calderwood Lake, allowing anglers and outdoor enthusiasts to extend their stay and immerse themselves in the tranquil environment. Campgrounds provide various amenities, including campsites, picnic areas, and restroom facilities, ensuring a comfortable camping experience. Camping near Calderwood Lake allows anglers to wake up to the sounds of nature, ready to embark on another day of fishing or outdoor adventures.

Campgrounds & RV Parks Nearby

Limited, primitive camping - 423 587-7037