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Damn Good Tennessee Fishing Guides

Check real-time availability and compare rates on Tennessee fishing trips. Confidently book your next day on the water.

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Recently Booked Fishing Guides In Tennessee

Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

River, Lake Fishing Trip in Greenback

TN Striper & Catfish Trip

NEW
26 ft 1 - 5 People From $300
Bucket List
The Captain Experiences team chose this trip as one for the bucket list.
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

River, Lake Fishing Trip in Knoxville

Tennessee Musky Fishing

100% (1)
17 ft 1 - 3 People From $350
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

River, Lake Fishing Trip in Knoxville

Tennessee Musky Fly Fishing

100% (1)
17 ft 1 - 2 People From $350
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

River Fishing Trip in Buffalo Valley

Caney Fork River And Elk River - Fly Fishing Trips

NEW
16 ft 1 - 2 People From $400
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Lake Fishing Trip in Normandy

Guided Walleye Fishing - Normandy Lake

100% (1)
21 ft 1 - 2 People From $275
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

River Fishing Trip in Johnson City

Tailwater Trout

NEW
15 ft 1 - 2 People From $450

Top Cities in Tennessee

Top Types of Trips in Tennessee

“Our Damn Good Guides go above and beyond, and we’ve handpicked every single one. We’re passionate about the outdoors and look forward to getting you out on the trip of a lifetime, every time.”

Jonathan and Attison   |   Co-founders   |   Austin, Texas

More Fishing Guides In Tennessee

Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

River Fishing Trip in Johnson City

Tailwater Trout

NEW
15 ft 1 - 2 People From $450
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Lake Fishing Trip in Normandy

Guided Walleye Fishing - Normandy Lake

100% (1)
21 ft 1 - 2 People From $275
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

River Fishing Trip in Buffalo Valley

Caney Fork River And Elk River - Fly Fishing Trips

NEW
16 ft 1 - 2 People From $400
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

River, Lake Fishing Trip in Knoxville

Tennessee Musky Fly Fishing

100% (1)
17 ft 1 - 2 People From $350
Bucket List
The Captain Experiences team chose this trip as one for the bucket list.
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

River, Lake Fishing Trip in Knoxville

Tennessee Musky Fishing

100% (1)
17 ft 1 - 3 People From $350
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

River, Lake Fishing Trip in Greenback

TN Striper & Catfish Trip

NEW
26 ft 1 - 5 People From $300
See All Trips in Tennessee

Other Trips in Tennessee

Bucket List
The Captain Experiences team chose this trip as one for the bucket list.
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

River, Lake Fishing Trip in Knoxville

Tennessee Musky Fishing

100% (1)
17 ft 1 - 3 People From $350
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

River, Lake Fishing Trip in Knoxville

Tennessee Musky Fly Fishing

100% (1)
17 ft 1 - 2 People From $350
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

River Fishing Trip in Johnson City

Tailwater Trout

NEW
15 ft 1 - 2 People From $450
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Lake Fishing Trip in Normandy

Guided Walleye Fishing - Normandy Lake

100% (1)
21 ft 1 - 2 People From $275
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

River, Lake Fishing Trip in Greenback

TN Striper & Catfish Trip

NEW
26 ft 1 - 5 People From $300
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

River Fishing Trip in Buffalo Valley

Caney Fork River And Elk River - Fly Fishing Trips

NEW
16 ft 1 - 2 People From $400

Need a Place to Stay?

Everything to Know About Booking a Fishing Guide in Tennessee

What are the best fishing trips in Tennessee?

Why should I book a fishing trip in Tennessee with Captain Experiences?

Our Damn Good Guides currently offer 7 trips in Tennessee, and the most popular trips in the area are TN Striper & Catfish Trip guided by Anthony, Tennessee Musky Fishing guided by Steven, and Tailwater Trout guided by Ellis.

Our guides in Tennessee are rated a 5 out of 5 based on 3590 verified reviews on Captain Experiences.

All guides on Captain Experiences are vetted by our team. You can access their reviews, click through trip photos, read bios to get to know them, and preview trip details like species, techniques, group sizes, boat specs and more.

Looking for kid friendly guides / fishing lessons in Tennessee? Check out our beginner and family friendly guides in Tennessee.

What types of fishing trips are common in Tennessee?

River fishing is the most popular type of fishing in Tennessee as well as lake fishing.

The most commonly sought after species in Tennessee are: 1. muskie, 2. brown trout, 3. rainbow trout, 4. brook trout, and 5. striped bass.

The most common fishing techniques in Tennessee are fly fishing, drift fishing, and light tackle fishing but artificial lure fishing and sight casting are popular as well.

How much does a Tennessee fishing trip cost?

Prices in Tennessee can range anywhere from about $345 to $578, but the average price for a half day trip in Tennessee is $358. The average price for a full day trip in Tennessee is $507.

Is booking a fishing guide worth the money?

Hiring a guide provides a number of benefits and many choose to book a fishing guide for a combination of experience, local knowledge, convenience, and cost-effectiveness.

Working with experienced fishing guides who know the best local spots and techniques can dramatically increase your odds of a great day. Having someone who is on the water every day and knows the area like the back of their hand is going to give you the best chances of success.

Booking a guide is also more cost effective, especially if you only get out a handful of times per year. When you consider all of the costs you would incur on your own such as the price of a boat, maintenance, insurance, gas, high-quality gear and tackle, repairs, and more, you’ll find that DIY is sometimes not worth the expense.

Even if you’ve got a great setup already in your home waters, booking a guide also provides a great opportunity to experience new techniques, new locations, or even a chance at a new target species to knock off the bucket list.

What month is best for fishing in Tennessee?

The most popular season for fishing in Tennessee is summer, and most anglers book their trips 50 days in advance.

Do I need a Tennessee fishing license and what are the bag limits in Tennessee?

See here for more information on fishing licenses in Tennessee, bag limits for target species, and fishing season regulations in Tennessee. When in doubt, your fishing guide will always know the right rules and regulations in Tennessee.

What is fishing in Tennessee about?

Fishing in Tennessee is a beloved pastime, thanks to its diverse waterways and abundant fish species. One of the prime fishing destinations in the state is the Tennessee River, which spans over 650 miles and offers excellent opportunities for catching largemouth and smallmouth bass, catfish, and crappie. The river’s numerous reservoirs, like Kentucky Lake and Chickamauga Lake, are particularly popular among anglers for their trophy bass potential. These waters are well-stocked and host numerous fishing tournaments, making them a hotspot for both recreational and competitive fishing.

Another gem in Tennessee's fishing scene is Dale Hollow Lake, renowned for its clear waters and impressive smallmouth bass. Located on the border with Kentucky, this reservoir holds the world record for the largest smallmouth bass ever caught. In addition to bass, Dale Hollow is also home to walleye, trout, and a variety of panfish. The lake's scenic beauty and tranquil environment provide a perfect backdrop for a relaxing fishing trip, whether you're fishing from the shore, a boat, or a kayak.

For a more mountainous fishing experience, the streams and rivers of the Great Smoky Mountains are ideal. These waters are teeming with trout, including brook, brown, and rainbow trout, making them a favorite among fly-fishing enthusiasts. The Little River, flowing through the national park, offers excellent trout fishing opportunities, especially in the spring and fall. The park's pristine environment and diverse aquatic habitats provide a unique and rewarding fishing experience, where anglers can enjoy the natural splendor of the Smokies while casting their lines.

What are the most popular months to go fishing in Tennessee?

Fishing in Tennessee offers year-round opportunities, with each season bringing its own unique advantages and challenges. Spring is one of the best times to fish in Tennessee, as warmer temperatures trigger spawning behaviors in many species. Largemouth and smallmouth bass are particularly active during this time, making them easier to catch. Anglers also find success with crappie and bluegill, which move into shallow waters to spawn. The rejuvenation of plant life and the abundance of insects provide ample food sources for fish, enhancing their activity levels and making spring an exciting season for fishing.

Summer fishing in Tennessee can be both rewarding and challenging due to higher temperatures. Early morning and late evening are the prime times to fish, as many species, including bass and catfish, are more active during these cooler parts of the day. Reservoirs like Kentucky Lake and Chickamauga Lake are popular spots during summer, offering deep, cooler waters where fish seek refuge from the heat. Night fishing also becomes more prevalent, especially for species like catfish, which are nocturnal feeders. Summer is a great time for family fishing trips and enjoying the longer daylight hours on the water.

Fall is another prime fishing season in Tennessee, as cooler temperatures lead to increased fish activity. Bass, particularly smallmouth bass, are on the move, preparing for the winter months, making them more accessible to anglers. Crappie and walleye fishing also improve during the fall, as these species become more active in the cooler waters. The changing foliage provides a stunning backdrop for fishing trips, adding to the overall experience. Fall is often considered one of the most productive and enjoyable times for fishing in Tennessee due to the combination of active fish and pleasant weather conditions.

What types of fishing are popular in Tennessee?

Fishing in Tennessee is as diverse as its waterways, offering a variety of types and techniques suited to different preferences and species. One of the most popular methods is bass fishing, especially for largemouth and smallmouth bass. Techniques such as casting with spinnerbaits, crankbaits, and plastic worms are widely used. Anglers often target areas with underwater structures like fallen trees, rocks, and vegetation where bass are likely to hide. The use of boats equipped with fish finders has also become common, allowing for more precise location of bass hotspots in large reservoirs like Chickamauga Lake and Kentucky Lake.

Fly fishing is another cherished technique, particularly in the trout-rich streams and rivers of the Great Smoky Mountains. This method involves using lightweight rods and artificial flies to mimic the insects that trout feed on. Fly fishing is not just about catching fish but also about enjoying the serene and picturesque environment of mountain streams. Anglers often practice catch-and-release to preserve the trout populations in these pristine waters. The Little River and Tellico River are renowned fly fishing destinations where enthusiasts can hone their skills and enjoy the challenge of enticing trout.

Catfish fishing is a different yet equally popular pursuit in Tennessee, especially in the deeper, slower-moving waters of the Tennessee River and its reservoirs. Techniques like bottom fishing with stink baits, chicken liver, or cut bait are effective for catching catfish, which are bottom dwellers. Night fishing is particularly productive, as catfish are more active during the night. Jug fishing and trotlines are also common methods used for catching these sizable fish. Whether from a boat or the riverbank, catfish fishing provides a relaxing and often fruitful experience, making it a favorite among many local anglers.

What species are popular for fishing in Tennessee?

Fishing in Tennessee offers an exciting variety of species to target, with largemouth and smallmouth bass being among the most popular. Largemouth bass are abundant in many of the state's lakes and rivers, particularly in areas like Chickamauga Lake and Kentucky Lake, where they grow to impressive sizes. Smallmouth bass are equally prized, especially in the cooler, clearer waters of reservoirs like Dale Hollow Lake. These bass are known for their fighting spirit, providing anglers with a thrilling challenge and the reward of a prized catch.

Another sought-after species in Tennessee is the catfish, which thrives in the deeper waters of the Tennessee and Mississippi Rivers, as well as in many of the state's lakes. Channel catfish, blue catfish, and flathead catfish are all commonly found, with blue catfish reaching trophy sizes in places like the Tennessee River. Catfish are often targeted using bottom fishing techniques with baits like chicken liver, cut bait, or commercial stink baits. Their nocturnal feeding habits make night fishing particularly effective, adding a unique element to the angling experience.

Trout fishing is also a major attraction in Tennessee, particularly in the cold, clear streams of the Great Smoky Mountains. Rainbow trout, brown trout, and brook trout can all be found in these waters, with the Little River and the Tellico River being prime locations. Fly fishing is the preferred method for targeting these species, using a variety of flies that mimic the insects trout feed on. The state's trout streams offer both stocked and wild fish, providing a diverse and rewarding experience for anglers who appreciate the tranquility and beauty of mountain fishing.

What are the best places to fish in Tennessee?

Tennessee offers a plethora of excellent fishing locations, each providing unique opportunities for anglers. One of the top spots is Chickamauga Lake, renowned for its outstanding bass fishing. Located near Chattanooga, this reservoir on the Tennessee River is famous for producing trophy-sized largemouth bass, making it a hotspot for competitive fishing tournaments. Besides bass, Chickamauga Lake also hosts a variety of other species, including crappie, catfish, and bluegill, providing a well-rounded fishing experience for anglers of all levels.

Another prime fishing destination is Dale Hollow Lake, situated on the border of Tennessee and Kentucky. This lake is legendary for its clear waters and exceptional smallmouth bass fishing, holding the world record for the largest smallmouth bass ever caught. Dale Hollow's serene environment and scenic beauty make it a favorite for anglers seeking both tranquility and a chance to catch trophy fish. In addition to smallmouth bass, the lake is also home to walleye, trout, and numerous panfish species, offering diverse fishing opportunities.

For those who enjoy river fishing, the Tennessee River is a must-visit. Stretching across the state, this mighty river provides excellent fishing for a variety of species, including catfish, bass, and crappie. Areas such as Pickwick Lake and the stretch near Knoxville are particularly popular. The river's vast system of reservoirs and backwaters creates diverse habitats that cater to different fishing techniques, from deep-water angling to shallow, structure-based fishing. The Tennessee River's accessibility and abundant fish populations make it a premier choice for both local and visiting anglers.

Does Tennessee have good fishing?

Tennessee is a fantastic destination for fishing enthusiasts, offering a diverse range of fishing opportunities across its lakes, rivers, and reservoirs. The state's waterways are home to a variety of fish species, making it a prime location for both freshwater and occasional saltwater fishing. In the western part of the state, the Mississippi River and its tributaries provide excellent fishing for Catfish, Bass, and Crappie. In middle Tennessee, the Cumberland River and Tennessee River are popular spots for anglers targeting Bass, Catfish, and various Panfish species.

East Tennessee is renowned for its picturesque mountain streams and lakes, perfect for Trout fishing. The Great Smoky Mountains National Park alone offers over 2,000 miles of streams filled with Rainbow Trout, Brown Trout, and Brook Trout, making it a paradise for fly fishing enthusiasts. Norris Lake, Cherokee Lake, and Douglas Lake are also well-known for their Bass fishing tournaments and serene settings, attracting anglers year-round with opportunities for boating, shore fishing, and camping.

Tennessee's fishing community is vibrant and supported by a variety of resources and events. The state hosts numerous fishing tournaments and derbies, such as the Bassmaster Classic and the Tennessee Governor's One-Shot Turkey Hunt & Fish Day, which draw anglers from across the country. Local bait shops, marinas, and fishing guides provide valuable assistance and local knowledge to help anglers plan successful fishing trips. Tennessee's commitment to conservation and sustainable fishing practices ensures that its fisheries remain healthy and accessible, preserving the natural beauty and recreational opportunities that make Tennessee a top destination for fishing enthusiasts.

Recent Reviews

  • ★★★★★
    Ryan was a great fishing guide. He knew a lot about the lake and told us his experiences guiding on the lake. We would definitely recommend Ryan to anyone wanting to go walleye fishing on Normandy lake.

    Jesse W. | July 7, 2024

    Trip: Guided Walleye Fishing - Normandy Lake

  • ★★★★★
    What a great day on Melton Hill Lake with Steve. He knows the water like he has been fishing it all his life. Exactly what our group was looking for and he moved things around to make it work for us. Awesome guy and expert Musky guide!

    Jeff L. | October 24, 2020

    Trip: Tennessee Musky Fishing

Top Targeted Fishing Species in Tennessee

Top Fishing Techniques in Tennessee

Top Types of Fishing in Tennessee

How are fishing conditions in Tennessee?

View Tennessee Fishing Reports from our damn good guides.

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