Fishing Charters in Tennessee
Browse fishing charters in Tennessee that can help you catch bowfin.
Harbor Town Fly Fishing
Hermitage, Tennessee
Hosting & Booking Fly Fishing Trips of a Lifetime!
Trophy Fishing Tn
Smithville, Tennessee
Tennessee Fly Fishing Guide specializing in Trout, Striper, and Bass, on the <b>CANEY FORK</b> and <b>Cumberland River<b/>. We serve the <b>Nashville Area </b> and specialize in <b> Fly Fishing TN</b>. Hire One of <b>Tennessee's</b> premiere <b>Caney Fork River Guides</b> for a Trophy <b>Trout<b/> Fishing trip of a lifetime or if your really up for some trophy hunting we'll tackle 30 pound plus <b> Cumberland River Striper</b> with a long time<b>Cumberland River Trophy Striper Fly Fishing Guide</b>.
Jw Fly
Allons, Tennessee
JW Fly Co is the premier fly fishing guide in Tennessee, providing floats and/or walks of the Caney Fork River, the Obey River, and Dale Hollow Lake.
Tri Star Outfitters
Tellico Plains, Tennessee
Tri-Star Outfitters Fly Fishing Guide Service - Hunting Guide Service
Watauga Lake Fishing Adventures
Elizabethton, Tennessee
Experience the thrill of Watauga Lake Fishing Adventures with our expert fishing guide. Book your fishing trip today!
Kincades Llc Guide Service And Outfitter
Hornbeak, Tennessee
Have some fun and hunt some ducks, catch some fish, and see some eagles with Kincade's Guide Service at Reelfoot Lake!
Open Water Guide Service
Tiptonville, Tennessee
My name is Shane Walley and I am the head guide for Open Water Guide Service. I offer guided crappie and bluegill fishing trips on Reelfoot Lake in Northwest Tennessee.
Elliotts Guide Service
Greenfield, Tennessee
Licensened Guide on Kentucky/Barkley Lakes for all your fishing needs. Elliott's Guide Service
Reelfootlakefishingguide
Hornbeak, Tennessee
Reelfoot lake fishing guide, reelfoot lake crappie guide, fishing guide, crappie guide.
Tn River Guide Service Llc Fishing Charter
Jasper, Tennessee
Striperfun Guide Service Cherokee Lake
Available Lodging! Whether you are coming fishing with us, or just looking to get away near the water for a day or a week, we have wonderful lodging options for you for the waterways below: • Lake Cumberland in KY • Cumberland River in TN • Dale Hollow Lake in…
Southeastern Anglers
Southeastern Anglers Tennessee fly fishing guides on the Hiwassee River, fly fishing the Holston River, Clinch River flyfishing Cumberland River, Toccoa River fly fishing Tellico River
Best Time to Catch Bowfin
Peak season: May, June. Also good: April, July, August. Right now in February, activity is poor.
Seasonal Activity Chart
Bowfin
Chattanooga, Tennessee, might not be the first place that comes to mind for bowfin, but the Tennessee River and its tributaries hold a surprising number of these fish. Chickamauga Lake, known for its bass fishing, also has a decent bowfin population lurking in its weedy backwaters and creek mouths. Spring and summer are your best bets, as the water warms up and the fish become more active. Target areas with thick vegetation or submerged timber. A local tip is to use brightly colored soft plastics, such as worms or lizards, rigged weedless. Bowfin in this region tend to be smaller than those found in the Deep South, but they still offer a challenging fight on light tackle. Access to the river is plentiful, with numerous boat ramps and public access points available. Check local fishing reports for current water conditions and fish activity.
How to Catch Bowfin
Detailed fishing techniques coming soon for Bowfin in Chattanooga.
Bowfin Fishing Regulations in Tennessee
Open Season
Year-round
Daily Bag Limit
No limit
Size Limit
No size limit
License Required
Fishing License
Bowfin are generally considered non-game fish in Tennessee.
⚠️ Always verify current regulations with the Tennessee state wildlife agency before fishing.
Related Species in Tennessee
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best spots to catch bowfin near Chattanooga?
Bowfin can be found in various water bodies around Chattanooga, including rivers, creeks, and swamps. Focus on areas with dense vegetation and slow-moving water. Nickajack Lake and the Chickamauga Reservoir are worth exploring.
What is the best bait for bowfin in Chattanooga?
Bowfin are aggressive predators and will strike a variety of baits. Live bait like shiners or nightcrawlers work well, as do artificial lures like spinnerbaits, crankbaits, and soft plastics. Focus on presentations that mimic their natural prey.
Do I need a license to fish for bowfin in Tennessee?
Yes, you need a valid Tennessee fishing license to fish for bowfin and other species in Tennessee. Make sure to check the TWRA website for the most current license requirements and regulations.
Are there any size or bag limits for bowfin in Tennessee?
No, there are currently no size or bag limits for bowfin in Tennessee. You can harvest bowfin year-round without restriction.
Other Species to Fish in Chattanooga
Ready to Catch Bowfin in Chattanooga?
Book a trip with an expert guide who knows the best local spots and techniques.