Last Updated on October 2, 2023 by Kyle Whitley
Nashville, Tennessee, is known for its vibrant music scene, delicious food, and beautiful parks. However, it is also a great place for fishing enthusiasts, especially those looking to catch trout. Let’s take a look at the best trout fishing near Nashville.
With numerous rivers, lakes, and streams in and around Nashville, there are plenty of options for anglers of all levels.
Some of the best trout fishing spots near Nashville include Long Hunter State Park, Harpeth River State Park, and J. Percy Priest Reservoir. These locations offer a variety of fishing experiences, from fly fishing to bait casting. Anglers can catch various trout species, including rainbow, brown, and brook trout. Whether you are a seasoned angler or a beginner, there is something for everyone in Nashville’s fishing scene.
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Trout Fishing in Nashville
Nashville is known for its vibrant music scene, but it also offers some of Tennessee’s best trout fishing spots. With several rivers, streams, and lakes in the area, anglers can enjoy a variety of fishing experiences. Here are some top trout fishing spots and information on fishing licenses in Nashville.
Top Trout Fishing Spots
- Buffalo River: This is a popular spot for trout fishing, especially the first 15 miles below the Center Hill Dam in the Buffalo Valley. Anglers can expect to catch rainbow, brown, and brook trout. The river offers plenty of public access so you won’t feel crowded.
- Harpeth River: This river is a great option for those who prefer fly fishing. The Harpeth River is stocked with rainbow and brown trout, making it a popular spot for trout fishing enthusiasts.
- Duck River: Located near Normandy Dam, the Duck River is a great spot for trout fishing. Anglers can expect to catch rainbow, brown, and brook trout. The river is also known for its scenic beauty.
Best Rivers for Trout Fishing
Regarding trout fishing near Nashville, several rivers stand out as the best places to catch these elusive fish. Among them are the Duck River, Caney Fork, and Harpeth River.
Duck River
The Duck River is a popular destination for trout fishing and for good reason. This river is considered a cold water stream for the first couple of miles beneath the Normandy Dam, making it an ideal habitat for trout. The Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency (TWRA) stocks the river with brown and rainbow trout, providing ample opportunities for anglers to catch their limit.
Caney Fork
The Caney Fork River is another great spot for trout fishing. This river is known for its clear, cold water and abundant rainbow and brown trout. The Caney Fork is one of the few rivers in Tennessee that supports a wild trout population, making it a must-visit destination for serious anglers.
Harpeth River
The Harpeth River is a popular spot for trout fishing, particularly in winter when the water is cold, and the fish are most active. The river is stocked with rainbow and brown trout by the TWRA, and several access points along its length make it easy for anglers to find a good spot to fish.
These three rivers offer some of the best trout fishing near Nashville. Whether you’re a seasoned angler or just starting, you will surely find plenty of opportunities to catch your limit and enjoy the great outdoors.
Lakes for Trout Fishing
Trout fishing is a popular activity in Nashville, and there are several lakes where anglers can try their luck. Here are three lakes that are known for their trout fishing opportunities:
Marrowbone Lake
Marrowbone Lake is a 60-acre lake in Joelton, Tennessee, just 20 minutes from downtown Nashville. The lake is stocked with rainbow trout each winter, making it a prime spot for trout fishing. Anglers can fish from the bank or a boat, but using boats with gasoline-powered motors is prohibited.
Old Hickory Lake
Old Hickory Lake is a 22,500-acre lake in Hendersonville, Tennessee, just 25 minutes from downtown Nashville. The lake is home to several species of fish, including rainbow trout. Anglers can fish from the bank or a boat; several boat ramps and marinas are on the lake.
Center Hill Lake
Center Hill Lake is an 18,220-acre lake in Smithville, Tennessee, about an hour and a half from downtown Nashville. The lake is stocked with rainbow trout each winter, and several areas are popular for trout fishing. Anglers can fish from the bank or a boat; several boat ramps and marinas are on the lake.
Trout fishing at these lakes requires a valid Tennessee fishing license, which can be purchased online or at various retailers throughout the state. Anglers should also be aware of any regulations or restrictions on the lakes, such as bag limits or size limits for trout. Overall, these lakes offer excellent opportunities for trout fishing near Nashville.
Fly Fishing for Trout
Nashville, Tennessee, is home to excellent fly fishing opportunities for trout. Anglers can choose from various rivers and streams in the area, each with its unique characteristics and challenges.
The Caney Fork River is one of the most popular destinations for fly fishing for trout near Nashville. This tailwater river is stocked with rainbow and brown trout and offers plenty of opportunities for anglers to catch fish. The river is accessible by wading or by boat, and several guide services in the area can provide expert advice and assistance.
Another great option for fly fishing for trout near Nashville is the Harpeth River. This river is home to both smallmouth and largemouth bass and rainbow and brown trout. Anglers can fish the river year-round, although spring and fall are the best times to target trout.
Fly fishing for trout in Tennessee requires the right equipment and techniques. Anglers should use lightweight fly rods and reels and choose flies that match the hatch of the local insect population. It’s also important to practice proper casting techniques and to be patient and persistent when fishing.
Overall, fly fishing for trout near Nashville is a rewarding and challenging experience for anglers of all skill levels. With the right gear, knowledge, and techniques, anglers can enjoy some of the best fly fishing in the region.
Fishing Licenses
Anglers who are 13 years and older are required to have a valid fishing license in Tennessee. Fishing licenses can be purchased online, at a local retailer, or by phone. Here are some types of fishing licenses available in Tennessee:
- Resident Fishing License: This license is available to Tennessee residents and allows them to fish in all public waters in the state.
- Non-Resident Fishing License: This license is available to non-residents and allows them to fish in all public waters in the state.
- One-Day Fishing License: This license is available to residents and non-residents and allows them to fish for one day in all public waters in the state.
It is important to note that there are specific regulations for trout fishing in Tennessee, including size and bag limits. Anglers should familiarize themselves with these regulations before heading out to fish.
Nashville offers some of the best trout fishing spots in Tennessee. Anglers can enjoy a variety of fishing experiences in the area’s rivers, streams, and lakes. Just remember to have a valid fishing license and follow all regulations for trout fishing in Tennessee.
Summing it Up: Best Trout Fishing Near Nashville
In conclusion, Nashville and its surrounding areas offer a variety of excellent trout fishing spots for both novice and experienced anglers. From the Harpeth River to J Percy Priest Reservoir, there are plenty of opportunities to catch trout and enjoy the beautiful scenery.
For those looking for a more remote fishing experience, the Duck River and Elk River are located in remote areas of Middle Tennessee. These rivers offer a more secluded and peaceful fishing experience but may require a longer drive to reach.
Additionally, local fly fishing clubs and guidebooks are available for those who want to improve their skills or learn more about the best fishing spots in the area. The Tennessee Boat and Fishing Expo is also a great resource for fishing enthusiasts, offering a chance to meet other anglers and learn about the latest gear and techniques.
Fishing in Tennessee is a popular pastime for locals and visitors alike. With its abundant rivers, lakes, and reservoirs, there is no shortage of opportunities to catch various fish, including trout. So grab your fishing gear and head to one of the many great fishing spots near Nashville for a memorable day on the water.
