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Your Guide to Winter Fishing in the Smoky Mountains

Are you planning a trip to the Smokies this winter and want to go fishing during your vacation? You are in luck! There are plenty of places to catch your next record-breaking fish during your winter vacation! We have made it easy for you and created a guide to winter fishing in the Smoky Mountains:

Where Do You Fish in the Smoky Mountains During Winter?

winter stream smoky mountainsWinter in the Smoky Mountains is actually a great time to cast a line! Fishing in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park during winter is especially a unique experience. The national park is beautiful during this time of year and there are also fewer people around including other fishers. In Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge you will discover even more fishing opportunities. Some of the best places to go fishing in the Smoky Mountains include Little Pigeon River, Mynatt Park, Abrams Creek, Douglas Lake, Herbert Holt Park, and LeConte Creek. 

What Types of Fish Can I Catch?

You may be surprised to hear that there are plenty of opportunities to catch all kinds of fish in the Smoky Mountains. If you are around the Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge area, try casting your line in some of the town’s rivers and nearby lakes. Some fish you may catch during the winter months include white bass, trout, walleye, and sauger. Winter fishing is the way to go! Find very large trout in the waters of the Smoky Mountains during this time of year. Who knows, you might just catch the next record breaking trout on your vacation!

When is the Best Time to Go?

smoky mountain stream winterIf you are wanting only the biggest trout in the area, winter is the best time to go fishing in the Smoky Mountains! The trout are more active during the daytime which provides many opportunities to catch a big trout during your trip this winter. If you are looking to catch some trout during your trip, a winter fishing experience is recommended!  

How Do I Get A Fishing License?

In order to go fishing in the Smoky Mountains, you will need to obtain a Tennessee fishing license. Some of the requirements are that you need to be at least 13 years old, have valid identification, and have your social security number. If you are not a Tennessee resident, you can get either get a fishing license for 1 year, 10 days, or 3 days. The easiest way to get your license is online, but if you wish to get one in person visit a county clerk’s office or TWRA office. Before you know it, you will have your license for fishing in the Smoky Mountains in no time!

Are you excited to go fishing this winter after learning all the tips and tricks from our guide? If you are interested in learning more about fishing in the Smoky Mountains, we have another great guide for you! Take a look at everything you need to know before fishing in the Great Smoky Mountains. We hope you catch a big one!