5. Hiwassee River
One of the premier waterways for fly fishing in southeast Tennessee is a 55-miles stretch of the Hiwassee River. The remote fishing environment is one of the most naturally beautiful in Tennessee. You will not see roads, houses, cars, or many people while navigating this river system.
The Hiwassee River is known for its large rainbow and brown trout, plenty of bugs to attract fish, and comfortable wading conditions. If you are fishing by boat, it is important to know that the river has many drop-offs and ledges formed by the bedrock, so it requires skilled rowing.
Inexperienced fly fishing anglers should consider hiring a guide for this waterway. There are several towns where you can hire a guide and find lodging and restaurants, including Benton, Athens, Etowah, Decatur, and Cleveland.
6. West Prong Stream
The West Prong Stream has many things going for it, including being one of only eight streams in the Great Smoky Mountain National Park where it is legal to catch and keep brook trout. The stream has large populations of brook and rainbow trout. It is located at a high elevation, with cold and rocky water, so it is an excellent stream to visit during hot summer days.
Some sections of the stream can be strenuous due to the large boulders and plunge pools in the waterway. This stream is easily accessed from the Newfound Gap Road in the park. Inexperienced anglers will want to hire a local guide to navigate sections of the stream. You can find guides and lodging in nearby Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge.
