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Tennessee River

Boat Ramps
1
Access Points
1
Species
39

The Tennessee River offers one of the most diverse and prolific freshwater fishing experiences in the United States. Spanning 652 miles through Alabama, Kentucky, and Tennessee, this mighty waterway is home to over 230 species of fish, making it one of the most biodiverse river systems in North America. From trophy largemouth bass and monster catfish to smallmouth bass and various other game fish, the Tennessee River attracts anglers from across the country. The river's ecosystem is transformed by multiple impoundments creating reservoirs and lakes, each with its own unique fishing characteristics. Whether you're fishing from shore, kayak, or boat, the Tennessee River provides year-round fishing opportunities that cater to beginners and experienced anglers alike.

Fishing spots, boat ramps & amenities

Learn how to get on Tennessee River. Uncover great fishing access points, boat ramps, and all the facilities you need for an unforgettable day on the water. Some locations shown may border or include private property. Always check property boundaries and applicable regulations before visiting. onWater's Public & Private Land layer can help you plan your access with confidence.

Ijams River Landing Access

Ijams River Landing Access

Access Point

Volunteer Landing Park Access

Access Point

Know where you can legally fish on Tennessee River

See public and private land boundaries along the water, turn on private parcels with owner details to know where permission is required, and find land-trust parcels that offer permitted fishing access.

Tennessee licenses and regulations

Tennessee Boating Regulations

When using any type of watercraft to access a body of water, it is important to follow all federal, state, and local rules and regulations. These rules and regulations include boat permitting and licensing, invasive species inspections and stamps, life jacket and PFD rules, motor size and horsepower restrictions, noise limitations, restrictions on personal watercraft, and many more. Visit the web link below for the most current rules and regulations for this body of water.

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Tennessee Fishing License

No Fishing License Needed If: You are under 13 years of age (resident or nonresident). A type 022 supplemental license is required for anglers targeting trout. State-wide creel limit 7 trout.

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Tennessee Fishing Regulations

This river has a variety of species and regulations, including potential floating and/or watercraft restrictions. Because this river is specially managed for species, seasons, angling methods, and watercraft, it is strongly encouraged you check all federal, state, and local regulations before fishing. Visit any of the links below, inquire locally, or contact a local fly shop to learn current regulations and restrictions.

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Tennessee Stream Access Laws

On any river or stream that’s capable of floating a craft, the public has rights to passage, hunting and fishing. The question of streambed use on designated non-navigable rivers, however, is less clear, and probably not legal.

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Take Tennessee River with you

The onWater Fish app keeps this water's access points, species and conditions in your pocket, with the tools you use once you're there.

  • Use the map without signal

    Download the map around Tennessee River to use it offline when coverage drops.

  • Log your catches here

    Keep a private fishing journal for Tennessee River to find where and when fish are biting for you.

Get the onWater Fish app

Free on iOS and Android

Water and weather conditions (10 day forecast)

See the best times to fish Tennessee River and check the forecast before you go.

TENNESSEE RIVER AT FLORENCE AL

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Dam releases

Scheduled releases and generation forecasts from the dams on Tennessee River.

Nickajack Dam

Tennessee River · Below Nickajack Dam · National Weather Service

25,900 cfs now

Next 48 hours

Today
6:00 PM CST to 5:00 PM CST
25,900 cfs
National Weather Service on water.noaa.gov

Forecast updated today at 12:38 PM CST. Schedules can change, so check the operator's page before you go.

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