Wrapping Up a Windy Florida Season – Ready for Stripers and Big Cats Back in Tennessee!

Trophy Catfish are here! - Tennessee Fishing Report

I have been fishing all my life. I grew up in Virginia fishing the Potomac and Shenandoah rivers for just about everything. Smallmouth bass to giant catfish and Striper. Over the last 9 years, I was a guide in Tampa Bay and in the summers I would guide in Alaska for Salmon and trout. Now I have moved to East Tennessee, North of Chattanooga where my last guiding adventures will begin. There are 2 major Dams in my area. Chickamauga and Watts Bar Dam. Both offer fantastic Fishing and a chance at a fish of a lifetime! You will be fishing from a luxurious 2022 24' SeaArk Big Easy with all new equipment, tackle, and electronics to find and land your trophy. Don’t forget to buy a fishing license before the trip! You will fish the famous TN river in eastern Tennessee in the Chattanooga area for large Blue and Flathead catfish. There are also Striper in the River near the dams where we will catch our bait. After bait is caught we will motor down river to find your new personal best catfish. 4 and 6-hour Charters are available for up to 4 people max. Any legal species you catch throughout the trip can be kept. While there will be free drinks available for your convenience during the tour, you are welcome to bring your own food and/or beverages. Ready for a family vacation? Bring your loved ones to our family-friendly business to join in these experiences. Plan your trip today and go on the water with Tennessee Fishing Excursions!

EPSG:4269

Wintering in Florida is fun and challenging for fishing. Lots of high winds this year and it has affected the fishing season. We got on some nice fish inshore and offshore. We’re heading back to Tennessee in a couple weeks. I’m ready to get on some striper and big cats.


Blue Catfish

Tennessee fishing guides, take note! The Blue Catfish bite at Watts Bar Dam has been excellent in the past week. Despite the relatively cold water temperature, the catfish are actively feeding and can be caught using a variety of techniques. To increase your chances of success, try using the best catfish bait available. Early morning and late evening have been the most productive times to fish for Blue Catfish at Watts Bar Dam, with the bite slowing down as the day heats up. If you want to make the most of your trip, consider charter fishing with a Tennessee fishing guide, who can offer expert advice and take you to the best spots for catching catfish. And don't forget to bring plenty of water and sunscreen to stay hydrated and protected from the intense sun.

Trophy Catfish are here!

A snook measuring 53 inches caught while fishing in TN.

Gag grouper, 24 inches, caught while fishing in TN

Blue Catfish measuring 31 inches caught at Watts Bar Lake

A fisherman with a blue catfish at Watts Bar Lake

Proud angler with a big blue catfish in Tennessee

Explore Tennessee Waters with Experienced Fishing Guides

Don't miss out on the opportunity to create unforgettable memories with Tennessee Fishing Excursions. Book your trip today and let us guide you on your next outdoor adventure.

Tennessee Fishing Excursions offers an unparalleled Watts Bar Lake fishing experience. Our experienced guide provides personalized instruction and support to ensure success for both newcomers to the sport of fishing as well as seasoned veterans. With access to prime lakes like Lake Chickamauga, you'll have the opportunity to catch a variety of Bass, Catfish and more! We value quality above all else, using only top-of-the line equipment designed for a comfortable and enjoyable time on the water. Book a trip today!Fishing out of Watts Bar Lake, Tennessee Fishing Excursions will make your Guided Fishing Trip the best Fishing experience we can provide. We target Blue Catfish, Largemouth Bass, Smallmouth Bass, Striped Bass, White Bass , White Catfish. We fish the Tennessee River, Chickamauga Lake, Watts Bar Dam, and Watts Bar Lake. See the maps below for exact guest meeting locations. We meet our guests at Tennessee Fishing Excursions USA, Tom Fuller Memorial ParkAddress:&nbsp;1360 Pumphouse Rd, Rockwood, TN 37854, USA

Things To Do In Chattanooga 

Give the gift of adventure with Tennessee Fishing Excursions and Guide Sean Signore! A fishing charter is the perfect present for any outdoor enthusiast, offering an unforgettable experience on the scenic Tennessee River in Watts Bar Lake, Tennessee.

Purchase A Tennessee Fishing Excursions Gift Card today!

Tennessee Fishing Excursions The Ultimate Fishing Charter Experience from Chattanooga.

About Captain Sean Signore:Capt Sean grew up fishing the Potomac and Shenandoah Rivers and hunting white-tailed deer, turkey, and bear in the Blue Ridge Mountains of Virginia. At the age of 4, his passion for the outdoors was inspired by his Father, who took him ﬁshing and hunting as much as he could. If his Father was too busy running the family business, Sean would be found down at the local creek catching ﬁsh and snakes. Over the last 38 years, Sean has had many opportunities to ﬁsh all over the nation and parts of Canada, however, his favorite place to fish has always been the Tennessee River. Captain Sean started guiding professionally in Tampa in 2014 and three years ago started guiding in Chattanooga, but his experience fishing in the area extends over the last four decades. In that time he has mastered the art of catching giant Catfish, Walleye, and more in Chattanooga and has become passionate about sharing his love for this fishery with each and every guest he takes out. He is also a USCG licensed captain, insured, certified in CPR, and drug tested. He is committed to providing his clients with a safe, enjoyable, and memorable experience while they fish the inshore flats along the Gulf of Mexico or the waters of Tennessee. Sean and his family currently reside in Rockwood, TN, where they continue to enjoy the great outdoors and the many opportunities it provides. Specialties:Catfish Fishing &amp; River FishingHe is a USCG licensed captain and insured, certified in CPR, and drug tested to ensure the highest standards of safety are met. He is well-known for his expertise in light tackle, heavy tackle, bottom fishing, trolling, drift fishing, and jigging techniques. But it’s Signore’s specialty in catfish fishing that sets him apart from other captains.&nbsp; He has been studying and honing his skills as a catfish angler. He also spends time teaching others about proper techniques for catching these remarkable fish and informing them of the best ways to prepare them once they have been reeled in. Most Suitable Guests:Captain Sean Signore loves having children on his trips. He believes it is important to teach them the joys of fishing, something that reminds him of his grandson. As an experienced captain, he understands that kids are the most suitable guests for a fishing trip due to their natural enthusiasm and excitement for a day out in the open water. He knows firsthand how much fun it can be to teach youngsters about fishing and appreciates the opportunity to share this experience with them. His passion for teaching kids new skills is evident in every adventure that he takes part in. Fish Species You Can Expect:He has a full range of fish species that he can target, depending on the season. In Tennessee, those species include hybrid striped bass, white bass, freshwater drum, catfish, walleye, and bass.&nbsp; He has exclusive access to some of the most fertile fishing spots in Tennessee, ensuring success for his customers no matter the time of year. He also puts in extra effort by using only top-of-the-line equipment and bait to guarantee a successful trip for all fishermen aboard his boat. The Boat:Captain Sean Signore's 24 SeaArk boat is the perfect choice for a Tennessee fishing adventure. This boat can safely take up to four anglers and has all the features needed for a great day of fishing. In addition to providing stability on the water, this boat also comes equipped with an ice box and wireless trolling motor. The ice box allows anglers to easily store their catch or drinks while they are out on the lake, while the wireless trolling motor makes maneuvering around easily without worrying about getting tangled up in wires. Whether you’re a novice or a seasoned angler looking to take your game to the next level, Captain Sean can help you land the catch of your dreams!

The map shows where we fish. The red area is our primary fishing area depending on time of year and fishing conditions. The pins represent guest meeting locations.

Meet Top Rated Tennessee Fishing Charter Captain, Sean Signore And His Boat

Things To Do 

Fishing License

Get Your Valid Tennessee Fishing License 

Catfish Quest

Trophy Catfish Trips on Tennessee River

River Catch

Top-Rated Tennessee River Fishing Adventure

Watts Walleye

Premier Watts Bar Lake Walleye Fishing Trip

TN Fly Cast

Expert Guided Fly Fishing on Tennessee River

Common Questions How much does a fishing charter cost in Watts Bar Lake with Tennessee Fishing Excursions?The cost of a fishing charter in Watts Bar Lake with Tennessee Fishing Excursions depends on the trip duration. Our charter trip starts at $350 up to $500 What types of fishing trips does Tennessee Fishing Excursions offer?Tennessee Fishing Excursions specializes in guided fishing trips on the Tennessee River, targeting trophy catfish and Striped Bass. We offer 4-hour fishing charters, which are great for beginners and families looking for a shorter experience, as well as 6-hour trophy catfish fishing charters for those wanting to target monster catfish. Custom trips can also be arranged upon request for those looking for a unique Watts Bar Lake fishing adventure. What kind of fish can I catch on a Tennessee River fishing charter?Anglers on a Tennessee fishing charter with us will primarily target Blue Catfish, Flathead Catfish, and Striped Bass. The Chickamauga and Watts Bar Dams are known for producing some of the largest catfish in the region, giving you a real chance to land a trophy fish. What is the best time of year to go catfish fishing in Watts Bar Lake?The Tennessee River fishing season offers great opportunities year-round, but the best time for catching trophy catfish is from fall through early spring. Warmer months also provide excellent Striped Bass fishing, particularly near the Chickamauga and Watts Bar Dams, where baitfish are plentiful. What is included in a fishing charter with Tennessee Fishing Excursions?All fishing charters include a professional Tennessee fishing guide, a fully equipped 24' SeaArk Big Easy fishing boat, and top-of-the-line rods, reels, tackle, and bait. Complimentary drinks are provided, and we ensure a fun, educational, and successful experience for anglers of all skill levels. How many people can join a fishing trip?Each fishing charter in Watts Bar Lake can accommodate up to four guests per trip. Keeping the group size small allows for a more personalized experience and ensures every angler gets plenty of time fishing for trophy catfish on the Tennessee River. Do I need a fishing license for a Tennessee River fishing charter?Yes, every angler who is 16 years or older must have a valid Tennessee fishing license before the trip. Fishing licenses can be purchased online through the Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency (TWRA) website or from local retailers. Can I keep the fish I catch?Yes, any legal-sized fish caught during the trip can be kept. However, we encourage catch-and-release for trophy catfish to help preserve the fishery. If you prefer to release your catch, we are happy to assist in taking great photos before safely returning the fish to the water. Where do Tennessee Fishing Excursions trips depart from?Our Tennessee River fishing charters launch from various locations along the Tennessee River, depending on the fishing conditions and target species. Most trips depart near Chickamauga Dam and Watts Bar Dam, which are well-known hotspots for catfish fishing in Tennessee. How do I book a fishing trip with Tennessee Fishing Excursions?Booking a Watts Bar Lake fishing charter with Tennessee Fishing Excursions is easy. Simply call 727-236-1127 or visit our website to reserve your trip. Availability fills up quickly, especially during peak seasons, so be sure to book in advance for the best chance at a trophy Tennessee River fishing experience!