Nashville needs no introduction. But the “Music City” isn’t just a haven for country and western enthusiasts. It’s a dream destination for anglers, too. Beyond guitars and neon lights, Tennessee’s capital’s rivers and lakes are brimming with prized fish. The pride of the Volunteer State offers a unique blend of urban and nature, making fishing in Nashville an adventure you won’t want to miss.
Anglers can find their paradise in the heart of Tennessee. From the impressive Cumberland River to the peaceful retreats of nearby lakes, every catch here is a story worth telling. Along with rhythmic music as a backing track, the main sound will be the occasional splash of a fish. Sounds appealing, right?
In this guide, we’ll dive deep into the world of fishing in Nashville. We’ll hook you up with the best fish, techniques, and more. Read on to find out exactly what lies in store in this famous city!
Best Fish to Catch in Nashville
Nashville is known in the angling world as a place where records are made and broken. While local anglers often set their sights on game fish like Bass and Trout, the list doesn’t end there. Let’s get into more detail:
Largemouth Bass
Largemouth Bass are true celebrities in these parts. Their popularity isn’t just because of their size or ability to put up a fight, but also their widespread presence. Bass enthusiasts should have their tackle boxes filled with shakey heads, shallow-diving crankbaits, and hard jerkbaits – the tried and tested tools of the trade.
The average size of Largemouth Bass in Nashville is typically between 2 and 5 pounds. They hang out in quieter, less disturbed parts of rivers and lakes, and the art of landing one lies in understanding their seasonal patterns. In the warmer months, they lurk in shaded areas or around structures to escape the heat, ideal for dawn or dusk fishing. As the weather cools, they move to shallower waters, giving anglers more opportunities throughout the day.
Smallmouth Bass
Not to be overshadowed by their large-mouthed cousins, Smallmouth Bass offers a different kind of excitement in Nashville. These feisty fighters live in cooler, deeper waters, and range from 1.5–4 pounds. They’re also widespread across the state, with the Cumberland River offering some of the best action.
Smallmouth Bass fishing in Nashville often comes with a touch of unpredictability. These fish have a preference for a range of habitats. You’ll often find them in areas with mixed depths and structures, like rocky areas or sudden drop-offs. That just adds to the fun, though, and explains why Smallies star in many local fishing competitions!
Striped Bass
The Bass fishing menu isn’t over yet. Striped Bass, imported to Nashville long ago, are like the city’s own troubadours. Targeting “Stripers” is a favorite pastime for local anglers, who respect their powerful runs and the sheer excitement of the chase.
Striped Bass in Nashville, particularly in the Cumberland River and nearby reservoirs, can vary significantly in size. On average, you can expect to catch Stripers weighing anywhere from 5 to 20 pounds. However, some larger specimens exceed 30 pounds, especially in deeper, cooler, well-oxygenated waters.
Crappie
Though smaller than Bass, Crappie are no less significant in the eyes of local anglers. Crappie fishing in Nashville is a favorite family activity, as they’re pretty small and very abundant. These fish are great for introducing the younger generation to the joys of angling, where the reward is as much in the shared experience as it is in the catch itself.
Catching these Panfish is a lesson in finesse. Crappie are known for their light bites, requiring you to be attentive and gentle in your technique. This makes fishing for them an excellent way to hone your skills in precision and patience! Oh, and if you come during their spawning season in the warmer months, you’re in for big, delicious fish fillets for dinner!
Trout
While the city itself is not known for Trout fishing, Nashville’s proximity to some of the best Trout fisheries in the region makes it a great base for fly fishers. We’ll talk about spots a little later, but the wider region is home to Rainbow, Brown, and Brook Trout.
Rainbows and Brownies average around 1–3 pounds, while Brook Trout are smaller, typically around 1 pound or less. But it’s not about the size here. As you wade in the tailwaters or cast from the riverbank, you’ll see why Trout fishing in Nashville is like a religion. Anglers come here from all over the state to explore the swift rivers and still lakes, trying their hand at different strategies and techniques. You’re welcome to experiment too!
How to Go Fishing in Nashville
Just as the list of potential catches in Nashville is nothing short of interesting, the catalog of fishing methods makes the area even more alluring. There are various ways you can cast your line here, from wading into flowing rivers to setting sail on a guided charter or paddling out in a kayak. Let’s explore the different ways of reeling ’em in in Music City!
Shore Fishing in Nashville
Shore fishing in Nashville is a that’s a real treat, especially when spring rolls in or during the crisp days of fall. This is when the fish cozy up closer to the shore, waiting for your line. Take the Cumberland River that cuts right through Nashville’s heart. It’s a gem for shore anglers with spots like Shelby Park and Riverfront Park perfect for setting up your day camp.
Look for submerged structures like brush and fallen trees, as these provide ideal hiding spots for Crappie. Keep an eye out for surface disturbances like boils and breaks, too. Start by casting close to the bank and gradually work your way outwards. If you’re not getting a bite, switching baits or trying a new spot can turn your luck around!
Fly Fishing in Nashville
Wanting to chase Trout with a fly rod? The Caney Fork River is the place to be. It’s got it all! From parts where the current’s got some pep to it to spots where it’s deeper and more laid-back. It’s not just about tossing your line in, though. Fly fishing in Nashville is about reading the river. Are you going with nymphs, or is it a streamers kind of day? Maybe dry flies will do the trick. It’s all about matching matching the hatch.
Local wisdom says to keep an eye on the insect activity and adjust your flies to match. Early mornings and late evenings are the prime times for fly fishing, especially when the weather warms up and Trout are more active. Also, understanding the river’s flow – where the calmer waters meet the faster currents – can lead you to the perfect spot.
Kayak Fishing in Nashville
Kayak fishing in Nashville is the real deal. Imagine just slipping through the water, getting into those secret nooks and crannies where the big boats can’t reach… It’s just you in your kayak, chilling with the fish, in the middle of nature. Whether you’re navigating the twists of the Cumberland River or cruising around Percy Priest Lake, your kayak will bring you up close and personal with the likes of Largemouth and Smallmouth Bass, not to mention Crappie and Sunfish.
You’ll want a kayak that’s steady as a rock and has room for all your fishing gear. A comfy seat is also a game-changer. Not a kayak pro yet? Local outfitters have got your back. They can hook you up with the right gear, some pro tips, and even guided tours. And if you’re in the mood for some shallow water action, check out the Harpeth River. It’s just a hop and a skip west of Nashville and is a real gem for kayak fishing.
Nashville Charter Fishing
Booking a Nashville fishing charter is perfect for those looking to explore the angling scene more deeply. With a charter, you get more than just a boat ride. You gain access to a professional angler’s expertise. These guides equip you with everything necessary – the right gear, the best baits, and most importantly, the knowledge of where the fish are biting.
Charter captains in Nashville are seasoned pros, familiar with every current and hidden spot in places like Old Hickory Lake and the Cumberland River. A charter trip suits all types of anglers, whether you’re going at it alone, with family, or with a group of friends. It’s not just about the catch, but the experience – learning new techniques and enjoying the Music City safely.
Nashville Fishing Spots
Nashville boasts an amazing blend of state parks, rivers, and lakes which just screams “angler’s paradise!” Whether you’re all about the peace and quiet of a park, love the challenge of a river, or are drawn to the beauty of a vast lake, there’s a spot for you. Let’s take a little tour through some of the top fishing destinations in and around Nashville:
- Radnor Lake State Park. Known for its tranquility and excellent fishing, this park is a picturesque spot among Nashville’s natural beauty.
- Cumberland River. Flowing right through Nashville, this river is a hub for diverse fishing, offering species like Bass and Catfish.
- Old Hickory Lake. Just a short drive from town, this lake is the go-to for Bass, Catfish, and Crappie enthusiasts.
- Caney Fork. A haven for Trout fishing, this body of water is perfect for those pursuing Brook, Brown, and Rainbow Trout, with ample fly fishing opportunities.
- Center Hill Lake. Situated about 70 miles east of Nashville, this lake is a hotbed for Bass, Catfish, Walleye, Bream, and Crappie.
That isn’t all. Keep going and Dale Hollow Lake – around 100 miles away – is a prime Bass, Trout, and giant Musky spot.
The city itself boasts several urban fishing spots, such as Lake Watauga in Centennial Park, offering a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle. For a small fee, Old Hickory Beach and Anderson Road Recreation Area provide excellent lakeside fishing experiences. Likewise, the Two Rivers Park Lake, Sevier Lake, Elm Hill, Hamilton Creek, and Vivrette Creek areas, along with Willow Pond all hide solid action beneath the water.
Lastly, the Stones River, with its three major forks, entices anglers with the prospect of catching Bass, Catfish, Bluegill, and more, making it a rewarding choice for a day out fishing.
When to Go Fishing in Nashville
In Nashville, each fishing season sings its own tune. Spring means a Bass bonanza, with Largemouth and Smallmouth heading to the shallow waters for spawning. Meanwhile, Crappie fans should check out Marrowbone Lake. There’s plenty for fly fishing aficionados, too, with Caney Fork River in bloom.
When summer rolls in, it’s all about early mornings and late evenings, especially if you’re on the hunt for Catfish and Bluegill. Percy Priest Lake and the Stones River are perfect for summer fishing, while Center Hill Lake is the place to be for chasing Walleye. Kayak fishing season also takes off, offering a serene way to explore hidden nooks.
Come fall, the fish get even more active. Radnor Lake State Park and the Stones River are prime spots for Bass and Crappie. For Musky hunters, Dale Hollow Lake is perfect as winter nears. Even in winter, Nashville’s angling scene keeps going strong with Striped Bass proving that the fishing never really takes a break in the Music City!
Nashville Fishing Tournaments
Nashville’s tournament scene is something you’ve got to check out. Old Hickory Lake has some awesome Bass tournaments, for instance. Keep an eye on local listings or check with the Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency (TWRA) on upcoming events. And don’t forget about the Kayak Bass Fishing Tournaments – they’re a whole different kind of fun.
Nashville Fishing Regulations
Before we let you go – and before you hit the water in Nashville, or anywhere else in Tennessee – you’ve got to get your fishing license sorted. You can grab one online from the TWRA, at local sporting goods stores, or sometimes right at your chosen fishing spot. And remember, there are also size and bag limits.
Now, there are a few more things to keep in mind. There are specific rules on what bait and tackle you can use, how you can fish, and where and when you can fish for certain species. Some spots are strictly catch-and-release, especially for protected species. The TWRA website has all the latest info, so you can stay in the know. Or just simply ask your guide!
Fishing in Nashville: Urban Hooks and Country Looks
It’s clear that Nashville offers more than just a legendary musical backdrop. Fishing in Nashville is an experience that resonates with the soul of every outdoor enthusiast. So book a trip and explore the fishing opportunities of the Music City yourself. And remember, the next big adventure – and catch – is just a cast away!
Have you ever been fishing in Nashville? What’s your favorite spot? What about your biggest catch? Share your stories in the comments below!
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