Fishing is an awesome extracurricular activity that just screams of the Smoky Mountain region. Fishing in Gatlinburg is popular because the area and surrounding National Park provide sufficient streams for fishermen of all skill levels! Additionally, the region is considered one of the last surviving wild trout habitats in the eastern United States.

 

Of course, if you’re staying at one of the wonderful Gatlinburg fishing cabins, recreational fishing has a few rules. Check our tips for getting prepared and finding the best fishing around town!

 

Get Licensed

 

As we’ve already mentioned, the Smoky Mountain region is host to one of the last surviving wild trout habitats. As such, the state has strict laws regarding fishing licenses. Plain and simple, you must have one to fish in the park. The good news is the cost to obtain a license is relatively low and anyone over the age of 13 qualifies. There are also flexible licensing terms. You can obtain a one day, three day, 10 day, or an annual license at many locations throughout the region. If you want to obtain your license in advance of your trip, you can order online through a quick and convenient form.

 

Fishing Restrictions

 

There are also some fishing laws you’ll want to note when fishing in Gatlinburg. Fishing is permitted 30 minutes before sunrise and 30 minutes after sundown. Additionally, there is a limit to how many fish you can catch within a day. Lures, bait and equipment also come with several restrictions. You’ll want to research and familiarize yourself with each of these laws prior to hitting the streams!

 

When Fishing in Gatlinburg, Go Where the Locals Go!

 

Smoky Mountain National Park contains a variety of popular streams. The fishing difficulty is usually noted near the stream as well as any areas that are protected and off-limits.  Little Pigeon River is considered prime real estate for fishing. The river contains three forks and runs right through the heart of Gatlinburg. For vacationers lodging in the Gatlinburg fishing cabins, recreational fishing from this river is the perfect plan. Fishermen who frequent this area report trout and smallmouth bass as the most popular catches.

 

Other fishing hotspots in the area include Abrams Creek, Douglas Lake and Hazel Creek. Douglas Lake specializes in bass and crappie and is one of the most frequented spots in the area. The lake has several labeled picnic arenas and boating is encouraged. Access to the lake is a breeze making it a popular pick for families. Abrams Creek and Hazel Creek are a little more difficult to access, but the fishing is terrific! Abrams Creek has extremely good water quality and Hazel Creek is known for fly-fishing. You can’t go wrong with these popular local fishing holes.

Need a Homebase for your Fishing Adventure?

 

When researching Gatlinburg fishing cabins, recreational fishing proximity is usually top of mind. Our cabin selection at Diamond Mountain Rentalsis top-notch with a variety of cabins located close to the park and all the fishing action!

 

Quaint cabins like River Song or My Valentine sit right along a stream so you won’t have to travel far. If you don’t want to be directly on the water, we offer many landlocked cabins as well. Call us today and book a cabin that suits your vacation plans.