Tellico Trout Festival Highlights TWRA’s Ongoing Commitment to Tennessee’s Trout Fisheries

The 2026 Tellico Trout Festival was held in downtown Tellico Plains drawing more than 5,000 attendees to celebrate the region’s thriving trout industry. This annual event continues to bring anglers, outdoor enthusiasts, and families together for a day of education, entertainment, food, and outfitter services, all while promoting public awareness of trout management in East Tennessee.

The Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency has played an integral role in the festival since its inception in 2021, and this year’s participation further demonstrated the agency’s dedication to serving Tennessee’s angling community. Fisheries biologists and staff from across the state collaborated to engage with stakeholders, answer questions, and provide insight into trout conservation and management efforts.

A major attraction for visitors was the TWRA fisheries educational aquarium, which featured live Rainbow, Brown, and Palomino Trout from the Tellico Hatchery. The display offered a unique opportunity for the public to observe these species up close and learn more about the hatchery’s role in supporting recreational fishing opportunities.

Overall, the 2026 festival was a resounding success, showcasing the hard work of TWRA employees and reinforcing the Agency’s commitment to maintaining and enhancing the state’s exceptional trout fisheries.

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