Smallmouth Bass Fishing in Tennessee
Where, when, and how to catch smallmouth bass in Tennessee — plus local guides and current regulations.
Featured Smallmouth Bass Guides
Expert captains ready to take you on your next adventure in Tennessee.
Tightlines Tennessee
Tightlines Tennessee is a fly fishing guide service offering float and wade/walk trips for a variety of species including: rainbow, brown, and brook trout, large and smallmouth bass, musky, carp, and striped bass.
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.
Seasonal Activity Chart
Smallmouth Bass
Smallmouth Bass fishing in TN: focus on seasonal forage and water conditions near Knoxville. Use natural presentations and adjust depth with temperature and current.
How to Catch Smallmouth Bass
Smallmouth Bass Fishing Regulations in Tennessee
Open Season
Year-round
Daily Bag Limit
5 per day
Size Limit
18-inch minimum on Dale Hollow Lake; 16-inch minimum on South Holston Reservoir; No length limit on Center Hill Lake; statewide 1 per day between 16-21 inches
License Required
Fishing License
Check specific lake and river regulations as some areas may have different limits or be catch and release only.
⚠️ Always verify current regulations with the Tennessee state wildlife agency before fishing.
Frequently Asked Questions
When is the best time to catch Smallmouth Bass in Tennessee?
The best months for Smallmouth Bass in Tennessee are March, April, May, October, November.
What are the Smallmouth Bass fishing regulations in Tennessee?
In Tennessee, the season is year-round, the daily bag limit is 5 per day, the minimum size is 18-inch minimum on Dale Hollow Lake; 16-inch minimum on South Holston Reservoir; No length limit on Center Hill Lake; statewide 1 per day between 16-21 inches. Regulations change throughout the year, so confirm current rules with the Tennessee wildlife agency before fishing.
Do I need a fishing license to catch Smallmouth Bass in Tennessee?
Fishing License. On a guided charter, anglers are often covered under the captain's license — confirm with your guide when booking.
Which charters target Smallmouth Bass in Tennessee?
Smallmouth Bass charters in Tennessee include Tightlines Tennessee, Scenic City Fishing Charters. Compare captains, reviews, and rates above.