Fishing

From cascading streams in the mountainous highlands to the tributaries, reservoirs, and tailwaters of the Tennessee River, Southeast Tennessee is endowed with incredibly diverse fish habitats. In fact, Tennessee is home to more species of freshwater fish than anywhere in North America, and nowhere else within the state is the diversity of habitat more pronounced or accessible than in the Chattanooga region. No matter if you’re a first-timer seeking information on how to get started in the sport or a seasoned angler seeking information on where to catch the big one, this page will connect you with the best places to go fishing in the greater Chattanooga region and so much more! Click on any of the pictures to get more information about the location or scroll to the bottom of this page to find a list of resources and guide services.

All anglers ages 13-64 must have a Tennessee fishing license, issued by the Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency. Fishing regulations also apply in Georgia and Alabama. Many of the fishing streams in the Chattanooga region are dam controlled by the Tennessee Valley Authority (TVA) or affected by dam release stream flows. For information about reservoir levels, water release schedules from dams, and stream flows visit TVA or call (423) 751-2264.