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 Nashville. Right now in February, activity is low.
Seasonal Activity Chart
Catfish
Nashville offers some fantastic catfishing opportunities, particularly in the Cumberland River and its tributaries. The key here is understanding the seasonal movements of their forage. Spring and early summer, when the river swells and shad are spawning, can be explosive, especially around current breaks and submerged structure. As the water warms, catfish tend to move deeper, so adjust your presentation accordingly. Natural baits like cut shad, chicken liver, and nightcrawlers are always reliable. A local tip: check out the areas around Percy Priest Lake's tailwaters – the discharge creates consistent current and attracts baitfish, drawing in hungry catfish. Be mindful of the regulations regarding size and creel limits on the Cumberland. Also, consider fishing at night during the hotter months for increased success.
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
What is the best bait for catfish in Nashville?
Popular choices include nightcrawlers, chicken liver, and stink baits. Experiment to see what the catfish are biting on that day.
Are there size limits for catfish in Tennessee?
There is no size limit for catfish 34 inches and less in length. You can only keep one catfish over 34 inches per day.
How many catfish can I keep in Tennessee?
There is no limit on catfish 34 inches and less in length. Only one catfish over 34 inches in length may be harvested per day.
Can I fish for catfish year-round in Tennessee?
Yes, catfish fishing is open year-round in Tennessee.
More Catfish Fishing in Tennessee
Other Species to Fish in Nashville
Ready to Catch Catfish in Nashville?
Book a trip with an expert guide who knows the best local spots and techniques.