Cherokee Lake is renowned for its incredible scenery, its scope for watersports, boating, and the many activities you can do there as a family or as a group. But it’s perhaps best known for its plentiful and varied fishing. It’s also much more abundant in fish than other areas in Tennessee and rates well nationally too. Whether you prefer angling, fly fishing, boat fishing, or the good old pole and line, this lake has something for you. Here’s everything you need to know about fishing, especially bass, in Cherokee Lake.
About Cherokee Lake
Cherokee Lake is a reservoir operated by the Tennessee Valley Authority (TVA) with over 30,000 acres of water surface. It was originally created during World War II to produce hydroelectric energy.
Located in eastern Tennessee, it’s just a short drive from nearby cities, including Knoxville, Pigeon Forge, Jefferson City, Gatlinburg, and Morristown. Nestled in the foothills of the Great Smoky Mountains and with over 400 miles of picturesque shoreline, the lake offers some spectacular views that you don’t want to miss out on.
Unsurprisingly, there is a lot to do on Cherokee Lake, in addition to fishing. For starters, there are several campgrounds surrounding the lake. The shoreline is dotted with gourmet restaurants, and of course, there are a number of docks and marinas lining the lake where you can rent or charter a boat.
Types of Fish in Cherokee Lake
Cherokee Lake has a very fertile lakebed with a healthy forage base. As a result, it features a much higher density of fish than other comparable reservoirs. It’s most well-known for its abundance of bass, including Smallmouth Bass, Largemouth Bass, White Bass, Striped Bass, Rock Bass, and Spotted Bass. However, Cherokee Lake is about much more than bass fishing; it features a healthy diversity of fish species, including Crappie, Catfish, Paddlefish, Walleye, Bluegill, and Redear Sunfish.
The best times to fish are December through May, but this varies a bit depending on what you’re looking to catch. During the summer, the oxygen levels in the lake typically deplete to the point that they can’t support most fish species. It’s worth noting that reservoir drawdowns are common, owing to power and flood control needs, offering you excellent opportunities for bank fishing.
A number of fish habitats have been constructed over the years in order to make it easier for angler fishing in Cherokee Lake. This includes smallmouth spawning benches, brush piles, reef balls, and stake beds. There are also a number of water-friendly trees, such as willow, swamp oak, and river birch, planted to create additional long-term habitats.
Fishing Regulations
If you’re going to fish in Cherokee Lake, you’re going to need to know how much of each species you’re allowed to catch. It’s important to abide by them in order to ensure the natural rejuvenation of fish habitats.
- Smallmouth and Largemouth Bass: Five per day with a 15-inch minimum length limit
- Striped Bass: Two per day with a 15-inch minimum length limit
- White Bass: 15 per day with no length limit
- Spotted Bass: 15 per day with no length limit
- Crappie: 15 per day with a 10-inch minimum length limit
- Saugeye: 10 per day with a 15-inch minimum length limit
- Paddlefish: One per day with no length limit. Culling is prohibited.
- Bluegill: No creel or length limit
Best Spots to Fish in Cherokee Lake
There are a number of spots across Cherokee Lake that are ideal for fishing. Typically, they’ll feature different species of fish. Here are some of the most visited ones.
- Fall Creek: Local anglers favor this given its shallow waters and abundant vegetation that ensure the spot is teeming with bass.
- Cherokee Dam: This is another great location for bass fishing in Cherokee Lake. You can walk nearly half a mile along the dam and settle down with your gear at any point along the walkway.
- Cove Creek: If you’re looking to fish for Crappies, this is where you should be. The sheltered waters and brush piles are teeming with the species.
- Muddy Creek: The slow-moving current and murky waters here are perfect for catching Flathead and Channel Catfish.
Get Out on the Water Easily With a Boat Rental From Roscoe & Hooch
Can’t wait to get started with bass fishing in Cherokee Lake? Book a pontoon or tritoon from Roscoe & Hooch and make your way out to your favorite fishing spot in no time. We’re located right on the main channel of the lake and our marina is just a short drive away from Knoxville, Gatlinburg, Pigeon Forge, and a number of other areas. All our rental boats are Coast Guard certified for safety, well-equipped, and available for same-day rentals.
