Fishing Charters in Tennessee
Browse fishing charters in Tennessee that can help you catch catfish.
Scenic City Fishing Charters
Fishing Guide Service in Chattanooga, Tennessee specializing in catching trophy catfish, largemouth bass, smallmouth bass, walleye and crappie on the Tennessee River.
Tennessee River Monsters Fishing Guide Service - Striper & Catfish
Tennessee Striper, Catfish, and Largemouth fishing guide service and charter! Looking to catch a big fish? Get in touch with Tennesseerivermonsters.com/
Medley Fishing School
Trout Fishing Guide Service, also Crappie, Giant Catfish, Walleye, Sauger, Shellcrackers & great fishing, Gardening Tips. 4 bedroom Lodge just .25 miles from Edgar Evins State Park, & .80 mile from the Caney Fork River and Center Hill Dam and Lake. Customer Lodging and full family reunions available. Fall Foliage tours available until end of November. Music venue for your birthday party. Real Estate Appraiser. Cooking Tips for wildgame.
Donald Hedge Fishing Guide Service
Donald Hedge is the premier pickwick lake fishing guide. For over 30 years Donald has fished Pickwick Lake and the Tennessee River below the dam targeting trophy smallmouth, largemouth, striped bass, catfish, and white bass.
Best Time to Catch Catfish
Catfish can be caught year-round in Chattanooga. Right now in February, activity is low.
Seasonal Activity Chart
Catfish
Chattanooga's proximity to the Tennessee River and its impoundments creates a catfish haven. Targeting catfish in Chickamauga Lake and Nickajack Lake can be incredibly rewarding. Blue, channel, and flathead catfish all thrive here. The key is understanding their seasonal patterns. Spring and early summer are excellent for targeting spawning catfish in shallow, protected areas. As the water warms, focus on deeper holes and channels near the main river run. Cut bait, live shad, and prepared catfish baits are all effective. A key local tip is to use your electronics to locate submerged timber and rock piles, as these areas often hold catfish. Also, be aware of the strong currents in the Tennessee River, especially below dams. The catfish here can grow to impressive sizes, so be prepared for a fight!
How to Catch Catfish
Catfish Fishing Regulations in Tennessee
Open Season
Year-round
Daily Bag Limit
No limit on catfish 34 inches and less in length. Only one catfish over 34 inches in length may be harvested per day.
Size Limit
No size limit on catfish 34 inches and less in length.
License Required
Tennessee Fishing License
Some lakes and rivers may have site-specific regulations; consult the TWRA fishing guide for details.
⚠️ Always verify current regulations with the Tennessee state wildlife agency before fishing.
Related Species in Tennessee
Frequently Asked Questions
Are there any limits on catfish size or quantity in Tennessee?
There is no limit on the number of catfish you can catch that are 34 inches or less in length. You can only harvest one catfish over 34 inches in length per day.
What's the best bait for catching catfish in the Chattanooga area?
Catfish in Chattanooga respond well to a variety of baits, including nightcrawlers, chicken liver, stink baits, and cut bait. Experiment to see what works best on a given day.
Where are some good spots to fish for catfish near Chattanooga?
The Tennessee River and its tributaries are excellent places to fish for catfish. Look for them near deep holes, submerged structure, and current breaks.
Do I need a special license to fish for catfish in Tennessee?
No, you just need a valid Tennessee fishing license to fish for catfish. Be sure to check the TWRA website for any specific regulations on the body of water you plan to fish.
More Catfish Fishing in Tennessee
Other Species to Fish in Chattanooga
Ready to Catch Catfish in Chattanooga?
Book a trip with an expert guide who knows the best local spots and techniques.