Top 5 Places to Go Fishing in the Smoky Mountains

The Smokies are home to some of the best creeks, rivers, and lakes in the South! Filled with bass, trout, bluegill, and more, you’re sure to catch all kinds of fish when you cast your rod in the Smokies. Whether you’re an advanced fisherman or just taking your kids on their first fishing trip, you’ll love the locations the Smoky Mountains have to offer. Here are the top 5 places to go fishing in the Smoky Mountains:

1. Abrams Creek

If you’re in the Cades Cove area, make sure to swing by Abrams Creek. One of the most popular spots along the creek is Horseshoe, where fishermen are known to catch all kinds of fish, including small and largemouth bass. If you don’t mind getting a little wet, this creek may be perfect for you. Horseshoe is known to require some wading to get to the sweet spots. With a tranquil environment and beautiful views, you can’t beat the fishing experience at Abrams Creek.

2. Douglas Lake

Rent a pontoon for the day and enjoy hours of fishing while relaxing and spending time with your friends and family! Douglas Lake offers some of the best fishing in the Smokies. With over 60 miles of fish-filled waters, you’ll be reeling in a new catch on every cast. You can expect to catch fish like trout, crappie, bluegill, and bass at Douglas Lake.

3. LeConte Creek

If you don’t feel like going deep into the park to fish, you should try out LeConte Creek. Located just past the National Park office, LeConte Creek is filled with brown and rainbow trout. This creek is a great spot for all ages and skill levels. You won’t have to worry about getting in the water, so leave your waders at home!

4. Middle Prong of the Little River at Tremont

Calling all fly fishermen! Tremont is one of the most popular angling spots in the Smokies, with excellent casting room, narrow runs, and low fishing pressure. For the best fishing, visit Tremont anytime from mid-March to late October to see the most brook and rainbow trout. The farther upstream you go, the fewer anglers you’ll encounter, so if you're looking for seclusion, this spot is for you.

5. Herbert Holt Park

Herbert Holt Park is a “children’s only” fishing spot and is perfect for your little ones! Teach your kids the lessons and fun of fishing and make memories they won’t forget! Herbert Holt Park is also the only handicap accessible fishing pier in the park and is perfect for anyone who may have trouble getting to the more secluded fishing spots. With accessibility of all, it’s no wonder Herbert Holt Park is one of the best places to go fishing in the Smoky Mountains.

Things to Know About Fishing in the Smokies

Before you head out on your fishing adventure, make sure you have a valid fishing license from either Tennessee or North Carolina. You can’t get a license in the park, so you’ll have to go to an outside town to obtain one beforehand, or you can purchase one online . If you are visiting and don’t want to purchase a license, you can purchase daily passes, instead. Make sure you’re following all the fishing rules and regulations before attempting to fish in the park.

You’ll love reeling in some awesome catches when you check out the best places to go fishing in the Smoky Mountains. Want to know what else you can do in the Smokies? Check out other Gatlinburg attractions and start planning your next vacation today! We look forward to seeing you!