Tennessee Fly Fishing Reports
River Reports - Click a river below
Clinch River – above Tazewell
Duck River – Shellbyville
Little Pigeon River – Sevierville
Little River – above Townsend
Little River – Maryville
Nolichucky River – Lowland
South Fork Cumberland River – Leatherwood Fork
Tellico River – Tellico Plains
Watauga River – Elizabethton
West Prong Little Pigeon River – Gatlinburg
Duck River – Shellbyville
Little Pigeon River – Sevierville
Little River – above Townsend
Little River – Maryville
Nolichucky River – Lowland
South Fork Cumberland River – Leatherwood Fork
Tellico River – Tellico Plains
Watauga River – Elizabethton
West Prong Little Pigeon River – Gatlinburg
State overview
Fly fishing in Tennessee offers an exceptional experience, thanks to its scenic rivers and abundant trout waters. The state is home to the South Holston River, renowned for its sulfur hatches and large trout, setting it apart as a top destination for anglers. With diverse aquatic environments from mountain streams in the Smokies to the tailwaters of the Cumberland, Tennessee provides a year-round fly fishing adventure.
Fishing Regulations
- License Requirements: All anglers aged 13 and older must have a valid Tennessee fishing license. These are available for residents and non-residents and can be purchased online.
- Special Permits: Certain areas, like the Clinch River or Tellico River, require additional permits due to specific management practices aimed at sustainability and conservation.
- Free Fishing Day: Tennessee offers a free fishing day annually, typically in early June, where anyone can fish without a license, encouraging new anglers to try fishing.
- Trout Stamp: If you plan to fish for trout, a special trout stamp is required in addition to the standard fishing license.
For detailed information on regulations and to purchase a license, visit the official Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency website.
Conservation Efforts
- Tennessee Trout Unlimited (TU): With several chapters across the state, TU focuses on stream restoration, pollution control, and educational programs. These efforts help ensure healthy trout populations and clean waters for future generations. Learn more about their projects and how to get involved at Tennessee Trout Unlimited.
- The Clinch River Chapter is particularly active, working on the Clinch River to improve habitats and organize cleanup events. More information can be found at Clinch River Chapter.
- Tennessee Wildlife Federation: This group leads multiple conservation initiatives, including habitat protection and water quality improvements, which directly benefit fly fishing environments. Discover their work at Tennessee Wildlife Federation.