Where to Go Fishing Near Gatlinburg
The Great Smoky Mountains National Park and Gatlinburg area are paradise for those looking to cast a line. While Gatlinburg has several incredible fishing spots, the park itself is home to over 2,900 miles of picturesque streams teeming with wild trout and bass. Ready to break out your rod and don your waders? Consider this your guide to fishing near Gatlinburg and Great Smoky Mountains National Park.
The Horseshoe at Cades Cove
Dedicated anglers will be thrilled with the sheer amount of rainbow trout at the Horseshoe at Cades Cove. Although this fishing spot requires a bit of off-the-beaten-path wandering, the serene surroundings and top-notch fishing make it well worth it.
Little River at Elkmont
For catching rainbow and brown trout, take the 2-mile hike up the Little River Stream Trail at Elkmont until you reach where the Little River and Fish Camp Prong meet. A serene setting and ample fish make this the perfect spot to cast a line.
LeConte Creek
For a more leisurely fishing excursion in the Smokies, head to LeConte Creek right outside of Gatlinburg. After a short walk from the parking area, you'll find plenty of good-sized rainbow trout and rock bass.
Dudley Creek
To fish in an often-overlooked area near Gatlinburg, pack up your fishing supplies and make your way to Dudley Creek. Anglers have been known to hook various species of trout here, including rainbow and skamania trout, as well as smallmouth bass.
Where to Get Fishing Supplies
If you’ve left your rod at home or are new to the sport of fishing, there are plenty of places to rent or purchase gear nearby. Check out and support some of our local businesses to prepare for your angling adventure:
- Stop into the Smoky Mountain Angler at 466 Brookside Village Way in Gatlinburg for gear rentals, guides, or classes.
- Greenbrier Grocery at 2406 East Parkway in Gatlinburg is an excellent spot to get your bait and tackle.
- Check out Nantahala Outdoor Center at 1138 Parkway in Gatlinburg for all of your outdoor and fishing gear needs.
Know Before You Go
In Gatlinburg and the Smoky Mountains, it's important that you fish responsibly. Here are a few things to know before you set out on your next fishing adventure:
- In the state of Tennessee, both residents and non-residents over the age of 13 are required to have a fishing license. Licenses can be acquired both online and in person at various retailers in the area.
- In Great Smoky Mountains National Park, fishing is allowed in all streams year-round, from half an hour before sunrise to half an hour after sunset.
- There is a total daily possession limit of five fish for rainbow trout, smallmouth bass, brown trout, and brook. For rock bass, the daily possession limit is 20 fish in addition to the aforementioned limit.
- For additional information on the regulations surrounding the size of the fish and lures, bait, and fishing gear allowed in the national park, visit the official national park website.