Where to Fish

Boating and Fishing  Access Maps

This map is intended as a guide only, and its content is subject to change without notice.  The map is intended to reflect the approximate location of water access generally available for the use of sportsmen/sportswomen.  It should not be interpreted as representing publicly held lands (i.e. marinas).   If you see potential errors please contact the appropriate regional office.

The sites depicted are generally open to the public; however, public use restrictions may apply due to public safety or ownership changes.  See the current TWRA Fishing Guide for all fishing regulations.  

TWRA has made a reasonable effort to assure the accuracy of the map; nevertheless, some information contained therein may not be accurate.  TWRA does not warrant or make any representations as to the accuracy of the content of the map, and TWRA is not liable for any improper or incorrect use of this map or for any direct or indirect damages suffered related to the use of this map.  It is every user’s responsibility to know the land ownership of and regulations pertaining to the area which he or she intends to use for recreational purposes.

CLICK ON  IMAGE BELOW  TO VIEW INTERACTIVE MAP     

Zoom into the area you are interested in and click the Print button.  This will only print the area on the screen. 
It will not have a legend or map name. We will be expanding this application to have more layers and better print capabilities in the near future.  

Click on the link below for directions on how to view this application on a smart phone.  If you are using a smart phone and have the gps/location services on, you will be able to see where you are within the state.

DISCLAIMER: The information presented on the maps has been compiled from many sources and is considered reliable. TWRA makes no warranties either expressed or implied, concerning the accuracy, completeness, reliability, or suitability of this data for any use other than display. The maps and information contained on the maps may periodically change and may or may not be incorporated in any new version. TWRA assumes no liability for the use or misuse of the information contained in these maps. Please contact the TWRA GIS Manager if you discover any discrepancies with the online maps.

TVA Lakes

From trophies worthy of hanging on the wall to the simple joys of bluegill on a little girl’s line, TVA lake fishing creates memories that cross generations.

Forty-nine reservoirs stretch across the Tennessee Valley like a string of pearls. And for those who love to fish, those lakes are just as valuable. Whether it’s bass, crappie, walleye, or catfish, whether for sport, food, or just fun, you can find world-class lake fishing only hours away from any spot in the Tennessee Valley. From more than 11,000 miles of shoreline or while floating on more than 700,000 acres of water, residents and visitors will quickly learn why this area is considered one of the best fishing destinations in the U.S. and, some would say, the world. But, for many, the triumph of hauling in record-setting trophy is far less important than those that accompany you on the journey.“All my life, I’ve been lucky to have people to take me fishing,” said Shannon O’Quinn, a TVA water resources specialist. “My uncle and father always took me to the lake as a little kid. ” In many ways, those experiences on the water when I was young is why I do what I do today, and it’s still important in my family. To this day, I meet my brother one or two times a year to go fishing, and it’s often the only time we get together.”It’s a family tradition that Shannon is passing on to the next generation “My five-year-old daughter has her own Disney princess fishing rod and she loves to get out on the water. She probably got those genes from me.”Regardless of what he catches himself, Shannon knows that there’s nothing like sharing in his daughter’s excitement when she catches bluegill. From South Houston and Watauga in the northeast to Fontana and Blue Ridge in the south and for a full 652 miles from Knoxville to Huntsville and on to Paducah, the opportunity to start your own family traditions awaits.

10 Family-Friendly Fishing Destinations on TVA Shores, to learn where the fish—and memories—are waiting for you, check out this list of family-friendly fishing piers and berms on TVA lakes. Located on reservoirs from one end of the Valley to the other, these are great places to cast a line, alone or with a kid or two in tow.

Find Your Own Fishing Hole

Fishing from the shore can be restful and rewarding—and anyone can do it. All you need is a little intel about how to find a spot where the fish might be biting. Here are a few tips for successful shore fishing from the Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency: Fish are often swimming near the shore in the spring and fall. If you’re fishing from the shore in the heat of summer, do it in the evening or early morning—or even after dark. Fish near-unique features such as docks, logs, trees, rocks, or rocky areas; aquatic vegetation; or places where creeks enter the water. When fishing in moving water, look at the surface for boils and breaks—this means there is some underwater structure blocking the current, which could be the perfect hiding place for fish. Begin fishing (casting) close and parallel to the bank, then work your way outward (fan casting) toward deeper water.  If you don’t get any bites, try switching baits. If this doesn’t work, move to another hole. Wear polarized sunglasses so you’ll be able to see fish as well as submerged objects more clearly. (Your eyes will also be protected from the tackle.)

Corp of Engineers Lakes

The Army Corps of Engineers is the steward of the lands and waters at Corps water resources projects. Its Natural Resources Management mission is to manage and conserve those natural resources, consistent with the ecosystem management principles while providing quality public outdoor recreation experiences to serve the needs of present and future generations.

As America confronts the challenges of Coronavirus disease (COVID-19), protecting the health and safety of the recreating public, volunteers and our government personnel is our highest priority. USACE is maintaining access to our projects by keeping day-use facilities and lake access areas open such as boat launches, picnic areas, fishing piers, and viewing areas. These areas are, however, subject to evolving conditions related to COVID-19 and decisions may have to be made locally to close specific areas. For more information on the current status of USACE recreation area closures, visit https://corpslakes.erdc.dren.mil/visitors/visitors.cfm, to see the current status of the USACE lake or river project before your visit. We appreciate your patience and understanding during this unprecedented time.

TWRA Community Fishing Lakes

Visit gofishtennessee.com

Check out Tennessee's Family Fishing Lakes

Tennessee State Park Fishing Lakes