Fresh Lenoir City Fishing Reports

The end of Summer / Fall White Bass run has started! Each year in the Spring and in the Fall the White Bass like to run up to our dams to feed! It makes an excellent time to have FUN on the water or catch some fish for a fish fry if the waterway is clean enough! It's like the changing of the guard as the Striped Bass and the Freshwater Drum leave the area and the White Bass come in. I fully believe White Bass (and Drum) are more fun to catch than watching a balloon float around for hours which is what most Striper guides do! Check out my guide service if you are interested in this type of trip or others!

On June 17, 2024, we had a successful day on the waters of Tellico Lake, targeting blue catfish. We explored a shallow backwater area where the water was around 5 feet deep and found that the anchor bite was more productive than dragging, especially in a shady spot near a choke point. We landed two large blue catfish showing signs of the spawning season, along with several smaller ones. This area would be great for setting out jugs and filling coolers with these catches. Tellico Lake is unique in East Tennessee as it's the only lake where the smaller catfish are not contaminated. They removed the transformers that were poisoning the lake, making the catfish safe to eat. If you're interested in a trip where you can actually enjoy the catfish you catch, feel free to contact me for more information!

As the season turns and spring begins to assert its influence, the Striped Bass migration is in full swing along our local rivers. Anglers are reporting exciting opportunities as these prized fish either stage or make their way upriver. What makes this season particularly thrilling is the proximity of prime live bait to where the Striped Bass are congregating. Anglers are finding some of the most best bait species close to the staging areas of the Striped Bass. Catching this bait adds an extra layer of excitement to the fishing experience! One of the key advantages of this setup is the ability to swiftly transport the live bait to the desired fishing spot. With the Striped Bass often found just a mile or so upriver from where the bait is caught, anglers are maximizing their chances of success by ensuring the bait is as fresh and lively as possible. It's essential for anglers to confirm with their chosen captains that they have the capability to procure and maintain this specialized live bait. Additionally, ensuring compliance with newer Coast Guard regulations, including the presence of Type 1 Personal Flotation Devices (PFDs) aboard the vessel, is paramount for a safe and enjoyable fishing experience. As the Striped Bass season continues to unfold, anglers are encouraged to seize the opportunity to combine the thrill of catching lively bait with the exhilarating challenge of reeling in some of the strongest fighting fish in our waterways. Tight lines and happy fishing to all! Tight lines and happy fishing!

Today marked an extraordinary adventure on the water, where every cast held the potential of a river monster. The day began with the exhilarating capture of a 40-pound Striped Bass, setting the tone for what was to come. As if in response to the challenge, a massive 46-pound Flathead Catfish joined the fray, igniting an epic battle that left us in awe. Our success was no stroke of luck but a result of careful planning and strategy. Fresh cut bait proved to be the magic ingredient, enticing these formidable creatures from their depths in less than 20 feet of water. Timing was crucial, with springtime providing the perfect window as the breeders voraciously feed before the spawn. Navigating the river's currents, we positioned ourselves strategically, anticipating the movements of these elusive giants. The Flathead Catfish, in particular, tested our patience and skill, requiring considerable time and effort to bring to the boat. Fortunately, our clients had booked a full-day excursion, allowing us the opportunity to conquer this monumental challenge. As the day unfolded, each catch was a testament to the thrill of angling and the sheer power of nature's inhabitants. Whether it's the adrenaline-pumping fight of a Striped Bass or the relentless tug-of-war with a Flathead Catfish, moments like these remind us why we return to the water time and again. Until next time, tight lines and tight bonds await those who dare to cast their lines into the depths, where river monsters lurk and epic tales are born.