Fishing in the Smokies

Trout season is year round in the Smokies and with over 700 streams in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, anglers of all ages will find this a fishing paradise.  You can fish from the side of the road or from a secluded stream deep within the park.

 

The native brook trout is protected and must be released if caught but, rainbow trout are abundant and a great fishing day is almost always guaranteed.   You can find great fishing at Abrams Creek near Cades Cove; at Big Creek near I-40 at the park's northeastern end; and Little River, near Elkmont Campground in the north-central section of the park.

For those interested in reeling in bass, Fontana Lake on the southern border of the park is the place to be.  Smallmouth and rockbass will provide great action and days to remember.

Fishing Regulations

     *  Fishing is permitted year-round in open waters.

               *   Fishing is allowed within the park from sunrise to sunset.

               *   Pull off the road or park only at designated places.

     *  Persons 13 years and older (16 years and older in NC) need a            valid Tennessee or North Carolina fishing license to fish in the            Park.

               *   The Park does not sell fishing licenses

               *   Fishing licenses are available at nearby sporting goods
                    stores. 

     *  Trout stamps are not required.

Daily Possession Limits

     *  Any combination of fish totaling 5.

               *   Rainbow trout, brown trout, smallmouth bass.

     *  20 Rockbass

     *  Possession of brook trout is illegal.

     *  You must stop fishing once you reach the limit.

Size Limits

     *  Rainbow and brown trout: 7 inches minimum.

     *  Smallmouth bass: 7 inches minimum.

     *  Rockbass: no minimum size.

     *  All brook trout must be immediately returned to the water.

     *  Any fish below the minimum must be immediately released.

Lure and Bait Regulations

     *  Only one hand held fishing rod may be used.

     *  Single hook only.

     *  Use of any kind of bait is illegal.

                *   Bait must be 100% artificial.

     *  Liquid scents are prohibited.

     *  All equipment is subject to inspection by authorized Park staff.

Fishing regulations vary from area to area and you can find a complete list of rules and regulations at any visitor center or ranger station.