Tennessee Trout Fishing?

[DaddyO]

I'm going to be going to Spencer, TN in a few weeks. It is about 3hrs from the Smokey Mountains. I've noticed that there are lots of rivers and streams that are supposed to be stocked with trout. Have any of you guys ever fished this area of the country? If so, do you have any recomendations on rivers, flies to use, etc..?

[vanven]

I was just in Nashville for work last week and didn't take my rod. There were several tailwaters withing driving distance of Nashville.

[Knot Head]

DaddyO, I lived in the Smokies right on the edge of the national park for over ten years. I'm not sure where Spencer is but the closer you get to the park area the more info. I could offer up. Are you going to be in that area as well?

[ness]

The Smokies are gorgeous, and if you do get over there and have time to fish there are tons of opportunities -- from lower elevation stockers (rainbows & browns) to higher elevation native brook trout. If I was three hours away I would definitely make the time. If you love beautiful scenery and fishing for trout in medium-sized to tiny streams, give it a serious look.

[Knot Head]

O.K. DaddyO, I checked out your destination and I've been in that area. As far as trout go, your closest and best bet will probably be trying to catch a period of low generation on the Caney Fork River which you will cross at least 3 times (maybe 4) as you go east on I-40. It's the tailwater of Center Hill Lake if I recall. It's a well known trout fishery and can be real productive, but there has been some kind of issue on the river since I left at the end of 2008. Something to do with a construction project that has had a negative effect on the fishing. You would just have to look into it, as I have not really followed it closely.

Another option, (not so trout related) is a VERY beautiful state park called Fall Creek Falls State Park. It's not far from where you will be and IMO would be well worth visiting. We camped at alot of State Parks in TN. and that one would most likely be my favorite. There is a 350 acre lake and there are no private boats allowed or gas motors allowed on it. If you take a trolling motor and battery you can rent a boat at the state park. They also rent canoes. The current state record catfish (don't remember what species) and bluegill were caught there.

There are also several small creeks that are open to fishing and might even hold trout but I'm not sure since I've only fished the lake. You would need a TN non-res license and park permit. Let me know if you're thinking about heading toward the smokies.

[DaddyO]

Guys, thanks for the info. I'll actually be staying in Fall Creek Falls State Park and will be open to any fishing opportunity. I'll check into the Caney situation and I'm not opposed to traveling to the Smokies. I just don't know if the family will want to make that drive with me just to watch me fish.

[ness]

Guys, thanks for the info. I'll actually be staying in Fall Creek Falls State Park and will be open to any fishing opportunity. I'll check into the Caney situation and I'm not opposed to traveling to the Smokies. I just don't know if the family will want to make that drive with me just to watch me fish.

Go to the park, grab your stuff, give them the keys and turn 'em loose. Everybody's happy.

[Knot Head]

What Ness said. Can't imagine any of the family would regret making the trip once they got there. As pretty as it is around Fall Creek and the Cumberland Plateau, it pales in comparison to the Smokies and the national park. Good luck and P.M. me if you want some first hand info. on where to fish and include everyone in the outing.