YOUR CHEROKEE LAKE FISHING GUIDE

The East Tennessee Great Smokey Mountains are home for the 28,700 acres of water called Cherokee Lake. This reservoir has an upper section filled with Largemouth Bass and a lower part primed with Smallmouth Bass. It's known incredible topwater fishing in the fall and the surrounding colorful landscape, and almost 400 miles of shorelines provide an excellent backdrop to your fishing photos.

Spotted, Largemouth and Smallmouth Bass fishing on this lake are excellent. Spotted or Kentucky Bass make up the majority of the Black Bass population, and the last we've heard the local fish and wildlife department recommend keeping your limit of these fish.

The Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency is your best source for fishing license requirements and regulations to follow while enjoying this top fishing destination in Tennessee.

Young anglers, under the age of 13, aren't required to possess a valid fishing license. A junior fishing permit is needed for anglers between the ages of 13 and 15 years old. The state allows anglers to purchase an annual or daily fishing license.

For the latest size requirements and bag limits, you can stay up to date online with the state of Tennessee.

The kind of fishing that is best for the species you're after will depend on a variety of factors. For example, this lake is known for its heavily fluctuating water levels and can vary by 30 feet. Anglers will need to stay educated on its current condition before committing to a specific tactic. Below are some fishing tips we have gathered from expert fishing reports.

• Largemouth Bass will begin to move out of the deepwater areas and head to the shallow water areas for the spawn in March and April. So cast in towards the shorelines in about 4-6 feet of water with a buzz bait or spinnerbait.
• Striper Fishing during the summertime is at its peak on the lower section of the lake by the dam. The warmer weather and lower oxygen levels make this a popular fishing spot.
• For anglers chasing Smallmouth Bass, try tying on a soft plastic lizard or Rapalas lure in the spring, for some hard fighting action on the gravel points.
• White Crappie and Black Crappie love structure, and it's no different on this lake. Target the fishing locations with brush piles and artificial attractors. Finding these can be tricky, so we recommend saving yourself the time by cutting to the chase and booking an affordable fishing guide. Your captain can show you hot spots and share their advice from their many years of experience on the lake.

The best time of year for fishing Cherokee Reservoir will depend on the species of fish you're wanting to catch. Local fishing reports recommend Striped Bass fishing on this lake during early spring or late fall.

The FLW Tour hosts annual Cherokee Lake, TN fishing tournaments for Largemouth Bass. When fishing tournaments are scheduled can tell you a lot about when the lake is at its best.