The Best Bass Fishing Lakes in Tennessee
Largemouth, smallmouth, and striper bass are some of the most popular freshwater gamefish in Tennessee, and for good reason. Tennessee ranks as one of the top states when it comes to bass fishing. While many bodies of water in Tennessee produce their share of big bass every now and then, the ones listed below are known for consistently kicking out numbers of sizeable bass, which is why they're listed as the best bass lakes in Tennessee.
- Chickamauga Lake holds both smallmouth and striper bass, but is best known for its hefty largemouth bass. Trophy bass exceeding 10 pounds are routinely caught every year, and 5-fish limits often weigh more than 30 pounds. If you want big fish action, Chickamauga is a definite "must" for serious bass anglers.
- Kentucky lake, straddling the Kentucky-Tennessee border, contains a healthy population of largemouth and smallmouth bass. This legendary fishery hosts non-stop action for bass in the 2-6 pound class, with a real shot at bigger lunkers.
- Dale Hollow Reservoir in Northern Tennessee is known best for producing the world record smallmouth bass, and that was no accident. Dale Hollow produces many trophy largemouth, smallmouth, and spotted bass every year, making it one of the best bass fishing lakes in the country.
- Pickwick Lake along the Alabama-Tennessee border is best known for its trophy smallmouth fishing, but also has a healthy largemouth bass population too. For decades, Pickwick has been kicking out big bass on a regular basis, despite heavy fishing pressure. The climate and habit combine to create an ideal environment for growing giant bass.
- Percy Priest Lake is chock full of stiper, largemouth and smallmouth bass. This amazing fishery located near Nashville hosts numerous bass tournaments every year, and is a popular destination for serious bass enthusiasts due to the larger-than-average size fish.
Tennessee Fishing Licensing Information
1-888-814-TWRA (8972)