Fishing in The Smoky Mountains

The Great Smoky Mountain National Park is the perfect place for fishing. Fisherman come from all over to fish in the streams of the Smokies. Over 2,000 miles of streams wind around the Park and is home for many different species of fish. There are several different species of bass, sunfish, chub, minnows, dace, darters and trout. A complete list of all species of fish that can be found in the streams of the Smokies can be found here.

Fishing is permitted throughout the year. There is no off season. Those with permits can fish any time between a half hour before sunrise and a half hour after sunset. Everyone who plans to fish in the streams of the Smoky Mountains must have a valid fishing license from Tennessee or North Carolina. Fisherman 13 years and older must have a fishing license. There is a daily possession limit for brook, rainbow or brown trout, smallmouth bass or any combination of those species must not exceed 5. There is a limit to 20 rock bass as well. There is no minimum size for rock bass but there is a 7 inch minimum for brook, rainbow and brown trout and smallmouth bass.

To keep the ecosystem natural certain lures are not prohibited. Fisherman may not use minnows (alive or preserved), corn, cheese, bread, salmon eggs, worms, or scents of any kind. Natural bait found along streams is also not allowed. One artificial flies and lures with a single hook are allowed. Releasing fish back into their habitat is encouraged. Be humane when releasing a fish and keep it in water as much a possible.

Be a courteous fisherman and clean up after yourself. Protect the ecosystem for those to enjoy after you’ve gone. Also exercise safety and remember to take care of yourself while fishing. Monitor water level and remember not to wade into quickly moving currents. Do not climb on rocks near the water and do not dive or jump in. Beware of hypothermia.

Remember to take a camera to remember your fishing trip in the Great Smoky Mountain National Park. Visit again and possibly try your luck with a different stream.