Introduction
Cherokee Lake in Talbott, Tennessee, is a renowned fishing destination, attracting anglers from
all over the country with its diverse fish population and stunning natural beauty. Whether you’re
a seasoned angler or a beginner looking to cast your first line, Cherokee Lake offers something
for everyone. In this guide, we’ll explore the best fishing spots on Cherokee Lake, provide tips
for a successful trip, and highlight the types of fish you can expect to catch. So grab your gear,
and let’s dive into the top spots and strategies for fishing this beautiful lake.
Overview of Cherokee Lake: A Fisherman’s Paradise
Cherokee Lake spans over 30,000 acres and boasts more than 400 miles of shoreline, making it
one of the most expansive and diverse fishing lakes in Tennessee. Located in the foothills of the
Great Smoky Mountains, the lake is fed by the Holston River and offers a mix of shallow and
deep waters, perfect for a variety of fishing experiences. Known for its abundant fish
populations, including bass, crappie, catfish, and more, Cherokee Lake is a true fisherman’s
paradise. Whether you prefer fishing from a boat, the shore, or one of the many docks, you’ll
find plenty of opportunities to reel in a big catch.
Best Fishing Spots for Bass
Bass fishing is one of the most popular activities on Cherokee Lake, with anglers flocking to the
lake year-round in pursuit of largemouth, smallmouth, and striped bass. Here are some of the top
spots to try your luck:
German Creek: Located in the northern part of the lake, German Creek is known for its
excellent bass fishing, especially during the spring and fall. The area’s deep channels and
submerged structures provide ideal habitats for largemouth and smallmouth bass.
Fall Creek: This spot is a favorite among local anglers for its consistent bass activity.
The creek’s shallow waters and abundant vegetation make it a prime location for
largemouth bass, particularly in the early morning and late afternoon.
The Dam Area: The area near Cherokee Dam is another hotspot for bass fishing,
especially for striped bass. The deep waters and strong currents attract large schools of
bass, making it an excellent spot for trolling or casting.
Tips for Bass Fishing:
Early Morning and Late Evening: These are the best times to catch bass, as they are
most active during cooler parts of the day.
Use Topwater Lures: Early in the morning or late in the evening, topwater lures can be
particularly effective, especially in shallow waters.
Target Submerged Structures: Bass often congregate around submerged trees, rocks,
and other structures, so focus your efforts in these areas.
Top Spots for Crappie Fishing
Crappie is another sought-after species at Cherokee Lake, known for its delicate flavor and
challenging catch. Here are some of the best locations for crappie fishing:
Holston River Inlet: The inlet where the Holston River feeds into Cherokee Lake is a
prime spot for crappie, particularly in the spring when they move into shallower waters to
spawn. The area’s calm waters and abundant cover make it ideal for catching both black
and white crappie.
Cove Creek: Located on the western side of the lake, Cove Creek is known for its
excellent crappie fishing, especially during the fall. The creek’s sheltered waters and
submerged brush piles provide perfect hiding spots for crappie.
Douglas Lake Overflows: Near the overflow areas where Douglas Lake feeds into
Cherokee Lake, crappie are known to gather, particularly in late winter and early spring.
These areas offer both deep and shallow water options, making it a versatile spot for
crappie fishing.
Tips for Crappie Fishing:
Use Small Jigs: Crappie are more likely to bite on small jigs, especially those in bright
colors like chartreuse or pink.
Fish in Shallow Waters During Spring: Spring is the best time to catch crappie as they
move into shallow waters to spawn. Focus on areas with plenty of cover, such as
submerged brush or docks.
Consider Night Fishing: Crappie are often more active at night, so consider fishing after
dark with a light to attract them.
Catfish Hotspots
For those who enjoy the challenge of reeling in a big catfish, Cherokee Lake offers several
excellent spots:
Muddy Creek: As the name suggests, Muddy Creek is known for its murky waters,
which are ideal for catfish. The creek’s slow-moving currents and deep pools provide
perfect habitats for channel and flathead catfish.
The Lower End of the Lake: The southern part of Cherokee Lake, near the dam, is
another great spot for catfish, particularly in the summer months. The deep waters here
are home to some of the largest catfish in the lake.
Shoreline Areas Near Docks: Many anglers have success fishing for catfish near the
numerous docks around the lake. The structures provide shelter for catfish, making them
good spots to try your luck, especially at night.
Tips for Catfish Fishing:
Use Live Bait: Catfish are more likely to go after live bait such as shad, minnows, or
nightcrawlers. Stink baits and chicken liver are also popular choices.
Fish at Night: Catfish are nocturnal feeders, so fishing at night can increase your
chances of a successful catch.
Target Deep Holes: During the day, catfish often retreat to deep holes or channels, so
focus your efforts in these areas.
Tips for Fishing from the Shore
Not everyone has access to a boat, but that doesn’t mean you can’t have a successful day of
fishing at Cherokee Lake. Here are some tips for shore fishing:
Cherokee Park: This park offers several excellent spots for shore fishing, with easy
access and plenty of space to cast your line. The park’s piers and docks are particularly
good for catching crappie and bass.
Panther Creek State Park: This park is another great location for shore fishing, with
numerous spots along the shoreline that provide access to deep and shallow waters. The
park’s trails also lead to more secluded fishing areas.
Shallow Flats: Look for shallow flats near the shoreline where fish are likely to
congregate, especially during spawning seasons. These areas are often rich with
vegetation, providing cover for fish.
Shore Fishing Tips:
Use Longer Rods: A longer rod will help you cast farther from the shore, giving you
access to deeper waters where fish may be hiding.
Pack Light: When shore fishing, it’s important to be mobile. Bring only the essentials so
you can move to different spots if needed.
Fish Early or Late: As with boat fishing, the early morning and late evening are the best
times to fish from the shore.
Best Times of Year to Fish Cherokee Lake
Timing your trip to Cherokee Lake can significantly impact your fishing success. Here’s a
breakdown of the best times to fish for different species:
Spring (March-May): Spring is the best time for bass and crappie fishing as these
species move into shallow waters to spawn. The warmer temperatures also make for
comfortable fishing conditions.
Summer (June-August): While the lake can be busier in the summer, it’s an excellent
time for catfish and striped bass fishing, especially in deeper waters.
Fall (September-November): Fall offers another great opportunity for bass and crappie
fishing, with cooler temperatures and less boat traffic. The fall foliage also makes for a
beautiful backdrop.
Winter (December-February): Winter is the quietest time on the lake, but it can still be
productive for fishing, especially for those targeting catfish or deep-water bass.
Fishing Regulations and Licensing Information
Before you head out to fish at Cherokee Lake, it’s important to familiarize yourself with local
fishing regulations and ensure you have the necessary licenses:
Fishing License: All anglers aged 13 and older are required to have a valid Tennessee
fishing license. You can purchase a license online through the Tennessee Wildlife
Resources Agency (TWRA) website or at local retailers.
Regulations: Make sure to review the current fishing regulations for Cherokee Lake,
including size and creel limits for different species. These regulations are enforced to
help maintain the lake’s fish populations.
Catch and Release: While it’s legal to keep certain species, consider practicing catch
and release to help preserve Cherokee Lake’s fishing resources for future generations.
Why Stay at Our Talbott Property?
If you’re planning a fishing trip to Cherokee Lake, our Talbott property offers the perfect base
for your adventure. Located just minutes from some of the best fishing spots on the lake, our
property provides convenient access to the water, as well as comfortable accommodations where
you can relax after a long day of fishing. With amenities like secure storage for your gear, a fully
equipped kitchen, and a spacious deck overlooking the lake, the Talbott property is designed with
anglers in mind.
Consider Our Dandridge Property for Your Fishing Trip
For those looking to explore other nearby lakes or seeking a different setting, our Dandridge
property is another excellent choice. Situated close to Douglas Lake and within easy reach of
Cherokee Lake, this property offers a cozy, comfortable space to unwind after a day on the water.
Whether you’re planning a solo fishing trip or a getaway with friends, the Dandridge property
provides the perfect combination of convenience and comfort.
Conclusion
Cherokee Lake is a premier fishing destination that offers a wide variety of opportunities for
anglers of all skill levels. Whether you’re targeting bass, crappie, or catfish, the lake’s diverse
habitats and abundant fish populations make
