Calling all fishing enthusiasts! Looking for the ultimate fishing destination? May we suggest Gatlinburg, Tennessee, near the Great Smoky Mountains National Park.
Nestled in the heart of the Great Smoky Mountains, this charming town offers stunning scenery, abundant wildlife, and pristine streams teeming with trout. While outdoor activities like hiking and whitewater rafting may be in high demand, fishing in and around the Great Smoky Mountains has become a popular activity for visitors and locals alike.
From fly fishing in park streams to deeper river waters, Gatlinburg is the perfect home base for all kinds of fishing excursions. Book your stay with us at Treehouse Grove and get ready for the fishing trip of a lifetime.
Trout Fishing in the Great Smoky Mountains
While you can fish in the Smokies year-round, the best time for trout fishing is during the spring and fall.
Spring is the peak season for activity, offering the most consistent hatches and ideal water temperatures for trout fishing. April offers arguably the most ideal conditions, but May remains a good time for dry fly fishing.
If you’re planning a summer trip, be sure to get out there in the early mornings, as this is the only time trout will be out during warm months. You’ll have more luck at higher elevations.
The fall weather brings more consistent activity after the summer, offering experienced wranglers looking to catch a large brown trout the perfect fishing conditions.
Fishing Regulations
To get started trout fishing in Gatlinburg, you will need a valid fishing license. Everyone over the age of 13 must have a license to fish in Tennessee, but those aged between 13 and 15 can use junior permits.
You can purchase a license online or at any of the local bait and tackle shops, which is where you can also rent or buy gear. Be sure to choose an all-species license that includes trout.
Once you have your license, you can start fishing, but familiarize yourself with local regulations. Tennessee has a daily limit of seven trout per person, and only two in that catch may be Lake Trout.
However, local areas have special regulations to protect stocks, so check before heading out. Some regions have limits on the size of the trout you may keep, and many have limits that are lower than the state limits.
In Gatlinburg, for example, you cannot catch and keep trout throughout the year. Between December 1 and March 31, it’s catch-and-release season. You cannot use bait, and only artificial lures with a single hook are permitted.
In open season, April 1 through November 30, you can catch up to five trout per person in the general streams and up to two per person in the children’s streams. Check the full regulations before you start fishing.
Throughout the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, you can only fish with a single hand-held rod. Be sure to use barbless single hooks and artificial lures. Rainbow and brown trout must be at least 7 inches, and you can only catch up to five trout per day.
Trout Species Near Gatlinburg, TN
Photo Credit: Abramov Michael
Here are the species you can expect to see in the waterways around Gatlinburg.
Brook Trout
These native trout are known for their vibrant colors and elusive nature. They are the only salmonid species that are native to the Smoky Mountains. They thrive in cold, high-elevation waters that typically require hiking into the forest.
The native brook trout is a popular target for anglers of all skill levels.
Rainbow Trout
These stocked trout are the most common of trout populations in the Smokies. They are known for their aggressive nature and vivid colors.
They are highly accessible at many access points, including Little River, Abrams Creek in Cades Cove, and Deep Creek.
Brown Trout
These introduced trout have established themselves as a thriving population in the area. They can be a challenge to catch, but they are a rewarding fish to land.
They prefer lower elevation and slow-moving streams, offering a completely different fishing experience than brook trout. They can be found in many park waters throughout the entire park.
Other Fish
If you are fishing for other species beyond trout, you’re in luck. The Smokies are also full of smallmouth bass and rock bass to satisfy your desire for variety.
Smallmouth bass can be found in lower elevations, such as the west prong of the Little Pigeon River. Rock bass thrive in slow-moving pools such as Little River.
Best Fishing Spots Near Gatlinburg
Photo Credit: Chselp
There are fishing opportunities throughout the Smokies, but here are the best places to fish for trout near Gatlinburg.
Little Pigeon River
Little Pigeon River is one of the premier spots nearby for fishing. The west prong flows straight through Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge, making it a convenient fishing location for those staying with us at Treehouse Grove.
This popular river is stocked regularly with rainbow and brown trout, making it a great option for both beginners and experienced anglers. The river is also accessible from multiple points near the towns, including Patriot Park and the Riverwalk Greenway. Be sure to take a stroll along the Riverwalk trail after your fishing adventures.
Pro tip: The Middle Prong of the Little Pigeon River (Greenbier) is another excellent fishing location. The waters are clean and pristine, making it a beautiful place to spend a day fishing.
Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail
This scenic trail offers a unique fishing experience in the midst of the Smoky Mountains. The stream parallels the hiking trail, offering the ability to both hike and fly fish at the same time.
The Roaring Fork stream is home to wild trout, providing a more challenging fishing experience; this is not for the faint of heart but is absolutely worth it.
Abrams Creek
Located in Cades Cove, Abrams Creek is one of the most popular places to fish in the Smoky Mountains. Be sure to fish Abrams Creek in the fall or spring season, as that offers the best fishing conditions.
Abrams Creek is known for its dense wild rainbow trout population, but it is also a great place to go smallmouth bass fishing.
Fly Shops and Fishing Guides
Photo Credit: Zadorozhnyi Viktor
If you’re looking for fishing gear or want a tour from a local expert, here’s where to go.
Little River Outfitters
This local shop offers a wide selection of fishing gear, from rods and reels to bait and clothing. The staff can provide valuable insights into local fishing techniques and the best spots to try. They also provide recommendations for local guides.
The Smoky Mountain Angler
The Smoky Mountain Angler is the oldest authorized fishing guide service in the area, well-known for its quality service. The team offers half-day and full-day trips, with full-day trips including lunch.
All the gear you need is included with your trip. Clients are limited to three per guide, so keep that in mind when booking.
The guides are based out of a shop that offers gear rentals and is well-stocked with all your angling essentials. They also sell fishing licenses for both residents and non-residents.
Maggie Valley Fly Shop
If you want to take a little trip to the Western North Carolina side of the Smokies, you’ll find incredible fishing opportunities there.
Maggie Valley Fly Shop is known for its high-quality guided fly fishing trips, offering half-day and full-day wading trips and float trips. They will tailor the trip to your skill level and interests, offering plenty of guided options within the Smoky Mountains National Park.
Go Fishing in Gatlinburg, TN
Gatlinburg is a truly special place to go trout fishing. The Great Smoky Mountains offer some of the best trout fishing in the Eastern United States, and Gatlinburg is the perfect home base to get out there and fish.
With its pristine waters, abundant wildlife, and stunning scenery, this charming town offers an unforgettable fishing experience for anglers of all skill levels.
So, what are you waiting for? Book your stay at Treehouse Grove, grab your fishing gear and get ready to catch some trout in Gatlinburg today.
