Tennessee River
7 Fishing Charters
Top Tennessee River Destinations
Top Fishing Charters in Tennessee River
Fishing in Tennessee River
Rules & Regulations
Tennessee River Fishing Seasons
January
January is a great time for targeting Blue Catfish and Musky. Just be sure to dress warmly and pick a knowledgeable guide who knows the best winter spots on the Tennessee River!
February
Catfish and Musky are still putting up a fight in February. These fish are known to tip the scale, so test your skill on light tackle and be sure to bring extra elbow grease!
March
Smallmouth and Largemouth Bass fishing starts to heat up throughout the river. Striped Bass fishing is in full swing as well. Other likely catches include Crappie and Catfish.
April
April provides some of the most pleasant conditions for fishing. The weather is perfect for a full day of fishing, so pick a guide that will take you chasing Stripers or find a hole to target Blue Catfish.
May
This is the peak season for Largemouth Bass. This is a popular time to go fishing on the Tennessee River, so be sure to book your trip well in advance.
June
Night fishing for Smallmouth Bass is known to produce record catches along the river this time of the month. Other top catches include Bluegill, Crappie, and Striped Bass.
July
As the weather starts to heat up, so do your chances of catching multiple fish. Get ready to target Crappie, Bluegill, Catfish, Striped Bass, and many other highly sought-after species.
August
August in Chattanooga is a great time to plan a family trip, combined with fishing and other fun outdoor activities. There are lots of summer events happening throughout the city, so plan your trip in advance and get ready to experience America’s “Scenic City!”
September
September is an excellent time to target Striped Bass. Other key species include Largemouth Bass, Crappie, and Rainbow Trout.
October
Check out the Bluegrass & Country Jam in Chattanooga and experience the true soul of the South. In terms of fishing, you’ll have plenty of opportunities to target Striped Bass, Crappie, Largemouth Bass, and Rainbow Trout.
November
Even as the temperatures cool, you can still head out for a productive day of fishing. Catfish, Stripers, Largemouth Bass, Crappie, and Trout are some of the species actively biting during this time of year.
December
Musky is the number one target this month. You can still go after Striped Bass, Catfish, and Trout as well, so you’ll have plenty of work cut out for you!
Tennessee River Fishing Calendar
What People Are Saying About Tennessee River
"Half day trip"
Hire a person who knows the areas for best fishing.
"This fishing trip made our vacation!"
Worth every penny to have an experienced guide. The float trip was so much nicer than just a wade trip.
"Half day trip on Lake Blue Ridge"
Contact The Fish Slayer and book a morning trip.
"Half day with Captain MIke"
I would start with a guided outing to learn where the fish are and what the fish a biting. When you see it with your own eyes, it is different than reading about it on the internet.
Top Targeted Species in Tennessee River
Rainbow Trout (Steelhead)
- Size 1 to 20lbs
- Food Value Excellent
- Game Qualities Good
- Habitats River, Lake, Inshore
Catfish
- Size 2 to 40lbs
- Food Value Good
- Game Qualities Average
- Habitats River, Lake, Flats, Backcountry
Brook Trout
- Size 0.66 to 6.61 lbs
- Food Value Excellent
- Game Qualities Excellent
- Habitats Lake, River
Bass (Striped)
- Size 10 to 30lbs
- Food Value Good
- Game Qualities Good
- Habitats River, Lake, Inshore, Nearshore
