Largemouth Bass

Watauga, Tennessee, offers some excellent largemouth bass fishing, primarily centered around Watauga Lake. This TVA reservoir is known for its clear, deep water and rocky structure, creating a challenging but rewarding bass fishery. Spring and fall are peak seasons. During the spring prespawn, focus on the shallows and coves with crankbaits, spinnerbaits, and soft plastics. As the water warms, bass move deeper, where Carolina rigs and deep-diving crankbaits become effective. Fall sees a resurgence of shallow water activity as bass feed aggressively before winter. A local tip: be aware of the thermocline during the summer months, as bass will often congregate above it. The lake has numerous boat ramps, including the popular Watauga Point Recreation Area, providing good access to different sections of the lake. Watauga bass tend to be relatively healthy and can reach impressive sizes, making it a worthwhile destination for serious bass anglers.