Experience Fishing in the Smokies in Gatlinburg

One of the most alluring aspects of fishing in the Smokies is that it's a year-round affair. Unlike many other destinations where fishing is seasonal, in the Smoky Mountains, you can cast your line regardless of the calendar month. Whether you're a seasoned angler or a novice, the opportunity to commune with nature while trying your luck in these pristine waters is an experience not to be missed.

Trout fishing in the Smokies is nothing short of spectacular. The cold, clear streams that meander through the mountains provide the perfect habitat for these prized fish. The streams are primarily home to three species of trout: rainbow, brown, and brook. Each offers a unique challenge and a different flavor of satisfaction to the discerning angler.

For many, the epitome of fishing in the Smoky Mountains is fly fishing. The art of casting a delicate fly onto the water's surface and watching as it drifts naturally downstream, enticing trout to strike, is a form of angling that borders on poetry. Galtinburg offers a canvas for fly fishing that few other places can match. The rhythm and precision required are balanced by the sheer joy of being immersed in the stunning scenery.

Now, the all-important question: where are the best places to fish in the Smokies? Here are a few gems to consider:

Little Pigeon River

Gatlinburg is home to something truly unique - the only municipally-owned trout facility in all of Tennessee! This vibrant city goes the extra mile to make sure our waters are teeming with fish to catch. The tributaries of the West Prong that are also included in Gatlinburg's fishable waters include Roaring Fork Creek, and LeConte Creek. Fish reared at the facility, specifically rainbow trout, are transported and deposited into the West Prong of the Little Pigeon River every Thursday. Thursdays are the only day that fishing is not allowed in Gatlinburg-managed streams and rivers.

Herbert Holt Park

We firmly believe fishing should be enjoyed by all and that is why the waters around Herbert Holt Park are designated for children and people with mobility challenges. In fact, this is the first fast-water handicap fishing pier in the state. Of course, even in this special section, there are a few guidelines to keep things fair and fun. You can keep up to two fish, but remember, the thrill of the catch is half the excitement!

Mynatt Park

Along the scenic LeConte Creek, in Mynatt Park, there's another "children only" section for fishing fun. The special fishing sections begins at the Great Smoky Mountains National Park Boundary, at the beginning of the Historic Motor Nature Trail and extends downstream for about a quarter mile from Mynatt Park. 

Before you embark on your fishing adventure in the Smokies, make sure you're properly equipped. Quality gear and a bit of local knowledge can make all the difference. Whether you're into fly fishing in the Smokies or trying your hand at traditional angling, the experience of fishing in the Smoky Mountains is bound to leave you with cherished memories and a newfound appreciation for nature's bounty.

So, grab your rod and reel, and head to Gatlinburg for a fishing trip that promises serenity, challenge, and a connection with the untamed beauty of the Smoky Mountains. Happy fishing!