For years, the Great Smoky Mountains National Park has been known to anglers as one of the most beautiful areas for fishing. There are approximately 53 species of fish that occupy the waters of the park. These fish consist primarily of forage fishes (minnows, darters, sculpins). But game fishes such as the rainbow trout, brown trout, small-mouthed bass and rock bass are also present.

As a service to visitors, the Pigeon Forge Department of Tourism is pleased to provide the following information to visitors interested in fishing the streams of the Great Smokies:

Fishing Regulations

• License -- Persons possessing a valid Tennessee or North Carolina license may fish all open park waters. A license is required of all persons 13 years of age and over and must be displayed on demand.
  (Except exempted senior citizens)
• Size Limit -- All trout or bass caught less than the legal length shall be immediately returned unharmed to the water from which taken.
  Trout and Bass (except Rock Bass): Minimum Length 7"
  Rock Bass: No Size Limit
• Possession Limit -- the possession of any brook trout is prohibited. Five trout, bass, rock bass (redeye) or a combination of these, each day or in possession. A person must stop fishing immediately after obtaining the limit.
• Fishing is permitted year-round in open waters
• ½ hour before official sunrise and ½ hour after official sunset
• Only artificial flies or lures with a single hook may be used
• The use of any double treble, or gang hook is prohibited
• The use or possession of any form of fish bait or liquid scents other than artificial flies or lures on or along any park stream is prohibited
• Fishing is permitted only by use of one hand-held rod