Introduction to the best fishing lakes in Tennessee:

Tennessee is a haven for anglers, boasting a diverse range of fishing spots that cater to both novice and seasoned fishermen alike. From serene lakes nestled in the Smoky Mountains to the expansive reservoirs along the Tennessee River, the state offers an array of fishing experiences. In this article, we’ll explore the top 10 best fishing spots in Tennessee, delving into the depths, fish species, and the unique characteristics that make each location a prime destination for anglers.

Note: I have linked some popular baits that are used at that specific body of water.

Table of Contents: Top 10 Best Fishing Lakes in Tennessee

1. Dale Hollow Lake

Dale Hollow Lake, situated on the Kentucky-Tennessee border, is renowned for its crystal-clear waters and deep, rocky structure. With depths reaching up to 130 feet, this 27,000-acre reservoir is home to trophy smallmouth bass, largemouth bass, crappie, and walleye. Anglers can enjoy both boat and bank fishing, with numerous access points and marinas available.

Location: Kentucky-Tennessee border
Size: 27,000 acres
Depth: Up to 130 feet
Fish Species: Trophy smallmouth bass, largemouth bass, crappie, walleye
Fishing Options: Boat and bank fishing, numerous access points and marinas

Reaction Tackle Dropshot Hooks (50-Pack)

Roboworm Straight Tail Worm Bait

Reaction Tackle Lead Drop Shot Weights

2. Pickwick Lake

Located on the Tennessee River, Pickwick Lake is a 47,500-acre reservoir stretching across three states: Tennessee, Alabama, and Mississippi. Known for its excellent smallmouth and largemouth bass fishing, Pickwick Lake also yields catfish, sauger, and crappie. The diversity of underwater structure, including humps, ledges, and submerged islands, makes this spot a favorite among anglers.

Location: Tennessee River (spanning Tennessee, Alabama, and Mississippi)
Size: 47,500 acres
Fish Species: Smallmouth bass, largemouth bass, catfish, sauger, crappie
Underwater Structure: Humps, ledges, submerged islands

3. Percy Priest Lake

Situated near Nashville, Percy Priest Lake is a 14,000-acre reservoir offering a variety of fishing opportunities. With depths ranging from 40 to 50 feet, anglers can target bass, crappie, catfish, and hybrid striped bass. The lake’s numerous coves and submerged brush piles provide ample cover for fish, making it an ideal destination for both boat and shore fishing

Location: Near Nashville
Size: 14,000 acres
Depth: 40 to 50 feet
Fish Species: Bass, crappie, catfish, hybrid striped bass
Fishing Options: Boat and shore fishing, numerous coves, submerged brush piles

4. Chickamauga Lake

As one of the larger reservoirs along the Tennessee River, Chickamauga Lake spans over 36,000 acres and is famous for its trophy largemouth bass. The lake’s varied structure, including submerged grass, ledges, and rocky banks, creates an optimal habitat for a range of species such as crappie, catfish, and bluegill.

Location: Tennessee River
Size: 36,000 acres
Fish Species: Largemouth bass, crappie, catfish, bluegill
Underwater Structure: Submerged grass, ledges, rocky banks

Wacky rig is a fan favorite down in Lake Chickamauga! Here’s a few options for that presentation:

Gamakatsu Finesse Wide Gap Hook-6 Per Pack

Berkley PowerBait MaxScent Fishing Soft Bait

5. Center Hill Lake

Nestled in the picturesque hills of Middle Tennessee, Center Hill Lake spans approximately 18,000 acres. This reservoir is known for its clear water and diverse fishery, including smallmouth and largemouth bass, crappie, walleye, and striped bass. The lake’s intricate structure, with submerged trees and rock formations, provides a challenging yet rewarding fishing experience.

Location: Middle Tennessee
Size: 18,000 acres
Fish Species: Smallmouth bass, largemouth bass, crappie, walleye, striped bass
Underwater Structure: Submerged trees, rock formations

6. Kentucky Lake

As one of the largest artificial lakes in the United States, Kentucky Lake covers an expansive 160,000 acres, offering anglers a vast playground for fishing. Largemouth and smallmouth bass, crappie, bluegill, and catfish thrive in its fertile waters. With depths reaching up to 60 feet, the lake’s submerged channels, humps, and weed beds create an angler’s paradise.

Size: 160,000 acres
Fish Species: Largemouth bass, smallmouth bass, crappie, bluegill, catfish
Underwater Structure: Submerged channels, humps, weed beds

7. Watts Bar Lake

Watts Bar Lake, located along the Tennessee River, spans over 39,000 acres and is renowned for its diverse fishery. Anglers can target bass, crappie, catfish, sauger, and walleye in its fertile waters. The lake’s extensive shoreline and numerous islands provide countless opportunities for both bank and boat fishing.

Location: Tennessee River
Size: 39,000 acres
Fish Species: Bass, crappie, catfish, sauger, walleye
Fishing Options: Bank and boat fishing, extensive shoreline, numerous islands

8. Old Hickory Lake

Just outside of Nashville, Old Hickory Lake spans 22,500 acres and offers a variety of fishing experiences. Largemouth and smallmouth bass, crappie, catfish, and bluegill are abundant in its waters. With depths ranging from 40 to 50 feet, the lake’s submerged structure, including points, ledges, and brush piles, make it a favorite among local anglers.

Location: Outside Nashville
Size: 22,500 acres
Depth: 40 to 50 feet
Fish Species: Largemouth bass, smallmouth bass, crappie, catfish, bluegill
Underwater Structure: Points, ledges, brush piles

9. Boone Lake

Boone Lake, situated in northeast Tennessee, covers approximately 4,400 acres and is a favorite among bass anglers. Largemouth and smallmouth bass, as well as crappie and catfish, inhabit its waters. Despite its smaller size compared to other Tennessee lakes, Boone Lake’s diverse structure, including points and submerged timber, offers a rewarding fishing experience.

Location: Northeast Tennessee
Size: 4,400 acres
Fish Species: Largemouth bass, smallmouth bass, crappie, catfish
Underwater Structure: Points, submerged timber

10. Cherokee Lake

Nestled in the foothills of the Great Smoky Mountains, Cherokee Lake spans 28,000 acres and provides a scenic backdrop for anglers. The lake is home to bass, crappie, catfish, and bluegill. With depths ranging from 70 to 80 feet, Cherokee Lake offers a mix of submerged structure, including humps, points, and underwater ledges, ensuring a memorable fishing adventure.

Location: Foothills of the Great Smoky Mountains
Size: 28,000 acres
Depth: 70 to 80 feet
Fish Species: Bass, crappie, catfish, bluegill
Underwater Structure: Humps, points, underwater ledges

Conclusion: Best Fishing Lakes in Tennessee

Whether you’re a seasoned angler or a beginner looking to cast your first line, Tennessee’s fishing spots offer a diverse range of experiences. From the clear waters of Dale Hollow Lake to the expansive reservoirs along the Tennessee River, each destination provides a unique blend of scenery and fisheries. Pack your gear, study the depths, and get ready to embark on a fishing journey through the Volunteer State’s top 10 angler’s paradises.