Big fish in the boat!
April 02, 2023 Lenoir City 2 photos
Catfish
Catfish
Bass (Striped)
Bass (Striped)

Trip Summary

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.
William Clabough
Lenoir-city, Tennessee, United States
Tennessee River Valley Fishing Guide Service thumbnail
If you’re staying in East Tennessee and you’d like to spend a day on a lake or river, Captain William Clabough will make your wish come true. Surrounded by beautiful nature, you’ll spend several hours fishing rich freshwater grounds and ...

Other reports from this charter

Spring 2025 Flathead Catfish Fishing Rep
Spring 2025 Flathead Catfish Fishing Rep
April 20, 2025
As spring progresses and water temperatures rise, Flathead Catfish (Pylodictis olivaris) are becoming increasingly active in rivers and reservoirs. With longer days and warming waters—typically above 60°F—Flatheads emerge from their winter dormancy to feed aggressively in preparation for spawning. This seasonal shift marks an excellent opportunity for anglers targeting trophy-sized fish. On a recent guided trip, a guest landed two impressive Flathead Catfish, showcased in the photos for this report, at an underwater creek mouth—a prime staging area as these fish prepare to migrate upstream in rivers to spawning sites like logjams or undercut banks. This exciting catch demonstrates the potential for big fish during the pre-spawn season, even on standard trips. For the best results, target structure-rich areas such as creek mouths or deep holes with live baits like bluegill, shad, or crawfish, which Flatheads eagerly pursue. Night fishing is particularly effective, given their nocturnal feeding habits. With Flatheads feeding voraciously to prepare for spawning (typically at 70–80°F), now is the perfect time to hook a fish of a lifetime. Join the action and experience the thrill of Flathead Catfish fishing! Book your guided trip with Captain Billy on FishingBooker.com and let’s target those big cats together. Check local regulations and water conditions, as spawning timelines may vary. Tight lines!
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