Fishing Charters in Tennessee
Browse fishing charters in Tennessee that can help you catch flathead catfish.


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 Flathead Catfish
Flathead Catfish can be caught year-round in Bristol. Right now in May, activity is Excellent.
Seasonal Activity Chart

Flathead Catfish
Bristol, Tennessee, offers excellent opportunities to tangle with flathead catfish. The South Holston and Watauga Rivers, along with Boone Lake, are prime locations. These waterways provide the deep holes and structure that flatheads prefer. Summer and early fall are the best times to target them, as they become more active in warmer water. Live bait is key – bluegill, bullheads, or even large shiners are all effective. Focus on areas with current breaks, submerged logs, or rocky outcroppings. For a local tip, try fishing at night, as flatheads are primarily nocturnal predators. Be sure to use heavy tackle, as these fish can reach impressive sizes. The flathead population in this region is healthy, offering the potential for landing a true trophy.
Plan a Trip to Bristol
See what's biting in Bristol, find top-rated guides, and estimate charter costs.
How to Catch Flathead Catfish
Detailed fishing techniques coming soon for Flathead Catfish in Bristol.
Flathead Catfish Fishing Regulations in Tennessee
Open Season
Year-round
Daily Bag Limit
5 per day
Size Limit
No size limit
License Required
Freshwater fishing license
Only one flathead catfish over 34 inches may be harvested per day.
⚠️ Always verify current regulations with the Tennessee state wildlife agency before fishing.
Related Species in Tennessee
Frequently Asked Questions
What's the best way to target Flathead Catfish near Bristol, TN?
Flathead Catfish are predators, so live bait like bluegill or shad is very effective. Fishing near submerged logs and deep holes is also a good strategy.
What is the daily bag limit for Flathead Catfish in Tennessee?
You can keep up to 5 Flathead Catfish per day in Tennessee.
Is there a size limit for Flathead Catfish in Tennessee?
No, there is no minimum size limit for Flathead Catfish in Tennessee, meaning any size can be kept.
Do I need a license to fish for Flathead Catfish in Tennessee?
Yes, a valid freshwater fishing license is required to fish for Flathead Catfish in Tennessee.
More Flathead Catfish Fishing in Tennessee
Other Species to Fish in Bristol
Ready to Catch Flathead Catfish in Bristol?
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