Smallmouth Bass

Chasing smallmouth bass around Lenoir City means understanding the nuances of the Tennessee River and Watts Bar Lake. Spring and fall are prime times, as the water temperatures become ideal and the smallies move into shallower areas to feed or spawn. Focus your efforts around rocky points, submerged timber, and current breaks. During the warmer months, fish deeper with crankbaits or Carolina-rigged lizards. A local tip: Pay close attention to the Clinch River arm of Watts Bar. It often offers clearer water than the main channel, which can be a game-changer when targeting these sight-feeding predators. Be aware that smallmouth in this area can be particularly picky, so experiment with different lure colors and retrieves until you find what they want. The smallmouth population here is healthy, with opportunities for both numbers and trophy-sized fish if you put in the time.