Fishing in the Smokies

On the eastern side of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park flows the Pigeon River. An out-of-the-way spot few anglers know about. Here the smallies hit with the power of an ALL-SEC linebacker. Pack your ultra-light gear and prepare for the battle.

Fishing in the Smokies offers you a chance to fish the deep holes these bronze-back fighters love. Shore fisherman soon learn, that access to these areas are the key to a day of fun on the river. We are going to take you to where the fish are waiting.

Using an oar-rig, the guide moves the raft where you want to go!

Your 5-mile trip begins at the outpost. The river varies from 75 to more than several hundred yards wide. Bring your polarized sunglasses and look for deep holes where the bass hide from the current and watch for tasty treats to float by – including your offering!

Sit back, relax and take in the breath-taking scenery as you work your crank bait or grub and wait for the action!

You’ll drift along one of the oldest rivers in the world surrounded by the unspoiled beauty of the Cherokee National Forest. The river is about 1100 feet above-sea-level. Around you are mountains that climb thousands of feet higher. This creates a deep gorge concentrating the fish right where you are.

Some folks (here in Eastern Tennessee, we say you’ins) use fly-fishing techniques, others prefer traditional bass-fishing lures and baits. Whatever your choice, you’ll find a little slice of heaven right here in the Smoky Mountains.

Tennessee Fishing Regulations

If you take fish or attempt to take fish (including crayfish) by any method or if you assist someone else to do so, you must have a valid fishing license. So that means the non-fishing guide needs a license. All participants must wear a PFD at all times while fishing from a boat on all Tennessee waters.