Bluegill

If you're looking for some panfish action near Nashville, bluegill are a great bet. These feisty little fish are abundant in many of the area's ponds, lakes, and slower-moving rivers. Spring and early summer are prime times, as they move into shallow water to spawn. Look for them around weed beds, lily pads, and submerged timber. Simple setups like a bobber, hook, and worm are incredibly effective. For a real challenge, try using small poppers or dry flies on a light fly rod. Percy Priest Lake and Old Hickory Lake both offer excellent bluegill fishing, but don't overlook smaller community ponds – they can often hold some surprisingly large fish. Remember to check local regulations on size and bag limits, and practice catch-and-release to help maintain healthy populations.