It takes no more than a cast to see that fishing in Tennessee is a spectacular affair. Boasting pretty much every type of freshwater fishing under the sun, Tennessee is home to some truly legendary angling grounds. The Volunteer State is a unique fishery in more ways than one, so it makes sense that there isn’t just one Tennessee state fish.
Commercial State Fish of Tennessee
The commercial state fish of Tennessee is a whiskered bottom feeder that’s becoming increasingly popular among recreational anglers. We’re, of course, talking about the Channel Catfish, a tasty critter that’s also one of Tennessee’s premier commercially stocked fish.
Channel Catfish got their state fish designation in 1988, but were an important catch for fish farmers a lot earlier than that. The reason isn’t just because they’re tasty – Channel Catfish can get very big, too!
And by big we mean that 20-pounders are pretty much a regular sight. In fact, these fish can top out at an impressive 40 pounds! The largest Channel Catfish landed in Tennessee was a whopping 41-pounder caught back in 1982.
Every year, thousands of anglers flock to the large, slow moving rivers of Tennessee to catch these guys. They don’t just catch them with the old line and reel, mind you. Catfish have become a very popular catch among bowfishing enthusiasts.
And then there are those who like a more “hands-on” approach. Catfish noodling isn’t for everyone, but for some Volunteer State fishers, it’s the best fishing technique out there.
Sport State Fish of Tennessee
Tennessee’s official sport fish doesn’t need an introduction. As one of the most popular game species in the nation, Smallmouth Bass could be a rightful symbol of any state. Even so, there would be no doubt that Tennessee is the best Smallmouth fishery in the country.
Few fish have as strong a claim to the state throne as Smallmouths do. How about this? Four of the 10 Smallmouth World Records were set precisely in Tennessee. In fact, the two largest Smallies ever were caught in The Volunteer State.
Smallies in the 3–4 pound range are commonplace, but you can often hook into a much larger specimen. The world’s largest Smallmouth, caught in 1955 at Dale Hollow Reservoir, weighed in at a cool 11 pounds and 15 ounces!
If you want to have a go at these guys, you won’t have to look far. From the legendary Dale Hollow Reservoir to the Great Smokies, Smallmouths inhabit most streams and lakes in central and eastern Tennessee.
Smallies will go for a variety of lures and baits. If you’re up for a challenge, get yourself an experienced guide, and try catching one on the fly.
Two Fish, One Incredible Fishery
The two state fish of Tennessee offer plenty of reasons to wet the line. Whether you’re in it for a tasty dinner or for the thrill of the catch, Tennessee offers you plenty of opportunities to do either. All you need is a fishing license, and it’s off to the races!
So there you have it. Did you ever catch one of the two Tennessee state fish? What’s your favorite thing about them? Drop your thoughts in the comments below!
