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Expert Guided Fly Fishing on Tennessee River
- Published Date: July 17, 2025
- Fishing
- Pickwick Dam-Tennessee River RV Park, 2785 Wharf Rd, Savannah, TN 38372, United States
- $350 - $500 price range
Summary
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River Fly Action
Ooltewah TN fully equipped fishing charter
Just another successful fishing day in Ooltewah.
That feeling of reeling in every after cast.
Monster fish? We know where!
Tennessee never disappoints on snappers
Handled Snook like a champ on Tennessee River
Redfish in Ooltewah, TN. Bigger than average.
Looking for Snook, they're here in Ooltewah!
Snook honeyhole in Ooltewah, TN just found
Great day for fishing in Ooltewah, TN.
Ooltewah TN fully equipped fishing charter
Just another successful fishing day in Ooltewah.
That feeling of reeling in every after cast.
Monster fish? We know where!
Tennessee never disappoints on snappers
Handled Snook like a champ on Tennessee River
Redfish in Ooltewah, TN. Bigger than average.
Looking for Snook, they're here in Ooltewah!
Snook honeyhole in Ooltewah, TN just found
Great day for fishing in Ooltewah, TN.
Ooltewah TN fully equipped fishing charter
Just another successful fishing day in Ooltewah.
That feeling of reeling in every after cast.
Monster fish? We know where!
Fly Fishing Heaven on the Tennessee River
Hey there, fellow anglers! Ready to test your skills on one of the South's premier fly fishing destinations? Our 4-6 hour guided trip on the Tennessee River is calling your name. We're talking world-class smallmouth action, hard-fighting largemouth, and the chance to tangle with some monster freshwater drum. Bring your favorite rod and flies, and let's hit the water for some serious action!
What's the Deal?
Picture this: You're standing in the bow of our boat, fly rod in hand, as we drift past towering bluffs and lush riverbanks. The Tennessee River's got a personality all its own, and we know just where the big boys are hiding. Whether you're a seasoned pro or still perfecting your double haul, we've got the spots and the know-how to put you on fish. We're talking about targeting smallmouth bass in rocky runs, tempting largemouth from submerged timber, and maybe even hooking into a bruiser freshwater drum that'll make your reel sing.
Fly Fishing 101
Alright, let's talk shop. On this trip, you'll be bringing your own gear, so dust off that 5 or 6-weight rod and load up on some killer flies. We're big fans of poppers and streamers for bass, but don't forget some crayfish patterns – those river smallies can't resist 'em. We'll be using a mix of techniques, from stripping streamers along drop-offs to delicately presenting dry flies in quiet eddies. The Tennessee River's got a bit of everything, so be ready to switch it up. And don't worry if you're still working on your cast – we'll give you some pointers to dial in your technique and put more fish in the net.
Why Anglers Can't Get Enough
Look, I could tell you about the scenery or the peacefulness of being on the river, but let's be real – you're here for the fish. And boy, does the Tennessee River deliver. We've had days where the smallmouth action is so hot, you'd swear the fish were jumping in the boat. There's nothing quite like the rush of a big bass crushing your topwater fly, or the bulldogging fight of a freshwater drum that decides to take you for a ride. Plus, with the variety of species we target, every cast is a mystery – will it be a acrobatic smallie, a bruiser largemouth, or maybe even a bonus walleye or striper?
Fish You'll Want to Hook
Smallmouth Bass: These bronzebacks are the crown jewels of the Tennessee River. Known for their explosive strikes and acrobatic fights, smallies in the 2-4 pound range are common, with the occasional 5+ pounder mixed in. They love fast water and rock piles, so be ready to make quick, accurate casts. Spring and fall are prime time, but we catch 'em year-round.
Largemouth Bass: While their cousins get more press, don't sleep on the Tennessee River's largemouth population. These bucket-mouths lurk around submerged timber, weed edges, and deep holes. They're suckers for big, flashy streamers and can top 8 pounds. Summer evenings can be magic for topwater action.
Freshwater Drum: Also known as "sheepshead," these silver bruisers are the unsung heroes of fly fishing here. They fight like freight trains and can grow over 20 pounds. Look for them in deeper holes and along current seams. They'll test your tackle and your stamina – get ready for some serious pull!
Striped Bass: While not as common as our other targets, when you hook into a Tennessee River striper on the fly, you're in for a treat. These powerful fish can top 20 pounds and will make long, scorching runs. We target them around bait schools and in deeper channels, especially in the cooler months.
Walleye: These tasty predators are a bonus catch on our trips. They prefer cooler water, so spring and fall are your best bets. We find them along rocky points and deep ledges. Their subtle take can be tricky to detect, but the fight is all business once they realize they're hooked.
Time to Wet a Line
Listen, I could go on all day about the Tennessee River's fly fishing potential, but there's only one way to really experience it – by being out there on the water. Whether you're looking to scratch that fishing itch, improve your fly casting, or just enjoy a day surrounded by nature (with the bonus of potentially landing some trophy fish), we've got you covered. Our 4-6 hour trips are the perfect length to get into some serious action without wearing you out. So grab your gear, tie on your favorite flies, and let's make some memories on the Tennessee River. The fish are waiting – are you ready to join them?
Learn more about the species
Freshwater Drum
Freshwater drum, also known as "gaspergou" or "sheepshead," are an often-overlooked species that can provide great action. In the Tennessee River, they typically run 2-5 pounds, but can reach over 20 pounds. You'll find drum near the bottom in areas with current, often around rocky structure or shell beds. They feed primarily on crayfish and mollusks, using their strong pharyngeal teeth to crush shells. Summer is prime time for drum fishing, but they can be caught year-round. Simple bottom rigs with nightcrawlers or cut bait work well. A local tip: if you're catching smaller drum, try upsizing your bait - big drum often prefer a larger meal. While not known as a premier game fish, drum put up a good fight and can be quite tasty when prepared properly. Their nickname "thunder pumper" comes from the grunting sound males make during spawning season.
Largemouth Bass
Largemouth Bass are the heavyweights of the bass world, typically ranging from 2-8 pounds but can grow much larger. You'll find them lurking around structure like fallen trees, weed beds, and dock pilings. These ambush predators are most active in the warmer months, especially during low light periods at dawn and dusk. Anglers love targeting largemouth for their aggressive strikes and acrobatic fights. In the Tennessee River, we often find them in shallow bays and coves with plenty of cover. A local trick is to use large, noisy topwater lures early in the morning - that explosive surface strike is hard to beat! While not known as a prime eating fish, many still enjoy largemouth for the table. Just be sure to check local regulations on size and limits before keeping any.
Smallmouth Bass
Smallmouth bass are pound-for-pound one of the hardest fighting fish in freshwater. In the Tennessee River, they typically run 1-4 pounds, with some topping 5 pounds. You'll find these bronze beauties around rocky points, rip-rap banks, and current breaks. They love cool, moving water, so focus on areas with good flow. Spring and fall are prime seasons, but smallmouth can be caught year-round. These aggressive predators will hit a variety of lures, from small crankbaits to soft plastics. Fly anglers have great success with streamers and poppers. A local tip: when the water's high and fast, try fishing a heavy jig right along the bank - smallmouth often tuck in close to shore in these conditions. The fight of a smallmouth and their reputation as excellent table fare make them a favorite target for many anglers.
Striped Bass
Striped bass, or "stripers," are hard-fighting fish that can really test your gear. In the Tennessee River, they typically range from 5-20 pounds, with some topping 30 pounds or more. These open-water predators often chase schools of shad, so finding bait is key. Look for stripers in deeper channels and around large underwater structure, especially during summer when they seek cooler water. Spring and fall are prime seasons as stripers move up into tributary rivers to feed. Trolling with live bait or casting large topwater lures can be very effective. One local trick: watch for diving birds, which often signal feeding stripers pushing bait to the surface. Stripers are prized for their firm, white meat and put up an incredible fight, making them a favorite among anglers looking for a challenge.
Walleye
Walleye are a favorite target for many anglers, known for their tasty white fillets and hard-fighting nature. These golden-olive fish average 2-5 pounds but can reach over 10 pounds in the Tennessee River system. You'll find walleye hanging out near rocky points, underwater humps, and along drop-offs, especially in 15-30 foot depths. They're most active in low light conditions, so early mornings and evenings are prime times. Spring and fall are peak seasons as walleye move shallower to feed. Trolling crankbaits or jigging minnows near the bottom are go-to techniques. One local tip: focus on areas with current breaks, as walleye like to rest behind structure and ambush passing bait. The "walleye chop" - a light chop on the water surface - often signals great walleye fishing conditions.
About the Big Easy
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Vehicle Guest Capacity: 9
Manufacturer Name: Suzuki
Maximum Cruising Speed: 54
Number of Engines: 1
Horsepower per Engine: 250
