Watts Bar Lake Fish Species

Common Questions

What fish are in the Tennessee River ?

The Tennessee River in Watts Bar Lake is home to a variety of fish species, including Blue Catfish, Flathead Catfish, Striped Bass, Smallmouth Bass, Largemouth Bass, Crappie, and Sauger. At Tennessee Fishing Excursions, we specialize in catfish fishing charters, targeting some of the largest Blue and Flathead Catfish near the Chickamauga and Watts Bar Dams.

What is the biggest fish in the Tennessee River?

The biggest fish in the Tennessee River are Blue Catfish, which can grow well over 100 pounds. Flathead Catfish also reach impressive sizes, with some exceeding 60 pounds. On a Watts Bar fishing charter with us, you’ll have the chance to land a true trophy catfish in these waters.

Where is the best place to fish in Watt Bar Lake?

Some of the best fishing spots on the Tennessee River include Chickamauga Dam, Watts Bar Dam, Nickajack Lake, and the river's deep channels. We guide our clients to the prime fishing locations for trophy Blue Catfish, Flathead Catfish, and Striped Bass, ensuring a productive and exciting experience.

What is the best time of year to fish in the Tennessee River?

Fishing in the Tennessee River is excellent year-round, but the best time for trophy catfish fishing is from fall through early spring when the big fish are more active. Striped Bass fishing is at its peak in spring and summer, particularly near the Chickamauga and Watts Bar Dams where baitfish are abundant.

Are there alligator gars in the Tennessee River near Watts Bar Lake?

No, Alligator Gar are not commonly found in the Tennessee River near Watts Bar Lake. However, there are Longnose Gar, which can grow up to four feet long and put up a great fight. While we specialize in catfish fishing, you may encounter gar while fishing for bait near the dams.

What type of catfish are in the Tennessee River?

The Tennessee River is home to three main types of catfish: Blue Catfish, Flathead Catfish, and Channel Catfish. At Tennessee Fishing Excursions, we focus on catching monster Blue and Flathead Catfish, as they are the largest and most sought-after species in these waters.

Can you eat fish from the Tennessee River?

Yes, you can eat certain fish from the Tennessee River, but we always recommend checking the Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency (TWRA) advisories for any consumption warnings. Many anglers prefer to catch and release trophy catfish while keeping smaller fish like Crappie, Sauger, and Bass for eating.

How do you catch big catfish in the Tennessee River?

Catching big catfish in the Tennessee River requires the right location, bait, and technique. At Tennessee Fishing Excursions, we use fresh-cut bait like Skipjack Herring and Shad, along with top-tier electronics to locate and target trophy Blue and Flathead Catfish near deep holes and structure.

Are there Striped Bass in the Tennessee River?

Yes, Striped Bass are found in the Tennessee River, especially near Chickamauga and Watts Bar Dams, where they chase baitfish in fast-moving currents. While we specialize in catfish fishing, we often catch Striped Bass when collecting fresh bait for our charters.

What is the Tennessee state record for Blue Catfish?

The Tennessee state record for Blue Catfish is 112 pounds, caught in the Cumberland River. While this record-breaking fish wasn’t from the Tennessee River, Watts Bar Lake waters consistently produce Blue Catfish over 80 pounds, and we give our clients a real shot at landing a trophy fish of a lifetime!

A Tennessee Fishing Excursions Guided Fishing Trip targets the top Watts Bar Lake Fish species including Blue Catfish, Largemouth Bass, Smallmouth Bass, Striped Bass (Also Called Striper ), White Bass, White Catfish. We primarily Fish the Watts Bar Lake, the Tennessee River, Lake Chickamauga, Watts Bar Lake.