TENNESSEE FISHING REPORTS

Last Updated: January 23, 2026

Tennessee offers a wide range of angling opportunities, with popular destinations including the tailwaters of the South Holston and Watauga rivers, as well as the lakes of the Cumberland Plateau. Anglers can expect to catch a variety of species, including trout, bass, crappie, and catfish.

The best times of year to fish in Tennessee vary depending on the species targeted. Spring and early summer are great for trout fishing, while summer and fall are ideal for bass and catfish. Average seasonal temperatures range from the mid-40s to mid-50s in winter to the high 80s in summer.

Anglers can find success using a variety of baits and lures, including live bait, spinners, and jigs. When targeting trout, fly fishing is a popular technique.

Interesting fishing facts about Tennessee include that the state is home to the world record brown trout, caught in the Little Tennessee River in 1988, weighing 42 pounds and 2 ounces. The state is also home to numerous fishing tournaments, including the Bassmaster Classic and the FLW Tour.