FISHING

Monroe County, TN, is home to some of the best fishing spots in East Tennessee.
Anglers from all over the United States visit for our incredible trout and bass fishing, with local waters home to more than fifty fish species. From the calm waters of Tellico Lake, known for its excellent bass fishing and local tournaments, to the rushing currents of the Tellico River, a favorite for fly fishing and trout anglers, there’s a fishing experience for everyone. For those seeking a peaceful mountain retreat, Citico Creek offers a more secluded setting surrounded by scenic wilderness. No matter your style — casting, trolling, or fly fishing — Monroe County offers the perfect blend of challenge, beauty, and relaxation for every angler.

Monroe County may be landlocked but our lakes are great places to enjoy water sports such as boating, jet skiing, paddleboarding, wakesurfing, and wakeboarding. You can also go Fishing, Rafting and Canoeing, Snorkeling, and Tubing. Two places to check out are Tellico Lake and Indian Boundary.

Before you take to the water, make sure you understand boat safety. A Boating Education Certificate is required for anyone born after January 1989. Sadly, classes are not taught by a pufferfish.

Click this map to see all sites to go boating.

A map of sites to go boating or fishing.

Cherokee Outdoor Resort and Tellico Marina are both located in Vonore and have everything you need for a great day on the lake including docks and launch ramps, a supply store, a restaurant, restrooms, showers, mechanics, and so much more. Boats can be rented at Cherokee Outdoor Resort.

Jet skis, ski boats, and pontoon boats can also be rented at JBeez Watercraft.

Printable version of this page here.

Fish the Lake. Cast the River. Escape to the Creek!

Tellico Lake

Fishing is a big sport on Tellico Lake, located in Vonore, TN, with fifty-one different species of fish being found swimming in the pristine waters. Some of the most popular sport fish include largemouth bass, smallmouth bass, spotted bass, striped bass, bluegill, black crappie, white crappie, rainbow trout, and many more.

Citico Creek

For the outdoorsman who enjoys getting off of the beaten trail, Citico Creek is a great trout stream that is stocked weekly by the state.

Tellico River

Nationally recognized as a premier trout stream, the Tellico River is a free stream located within the heart of the Cherokee National Forest. Its headwaters begin in North Carolina and flow for almost twenty miles to Tellico Plains. The main stream of the river is heavily stocked by the state and requires a special permit to fish.

Tellico’s Tributaries

Often forgotten are the incredible wild trout fishing opportunities hidden within Tellico’s scenic tributaries. The North and Bald Rivers, two of Tellico’s largest feeders, offer an authentic mountain fishing experience, managed exclusively as wild trout waters. Cast your line for vibrant rainbow and brown trout, or head upstream where the cool, clear waters are home to native brook trout — a true East Tennessee treasure

Indian Boundary Lake

This 96-acre lake is a favorite spot for anglers, featuring largemouth bass, catfish, bluegill, and crappie. Visitors can take advantage of the boat launch for trolling or cast a line from the easily accessible fishing pier. Bait and tackle are available at the on-site general store for added convenience.

Green Cove Pond

Green Cove offers 5 acres of still water fishing specifically set aside for the people with disabilities, children under 12, and adults over 65. This small lake is stocked to the brim weekly with brown and rainbow trout.

*** CLOSED FOR RENOVATIONS ***

Experience Fishing the Monroe County Way

Cast a line in the crystal-clear waters of the Tellico River with guided trips and fishing clinics, or reel in big fun at exciting bass tournaments on Tellico Lake. Celebrate the catch of the season at the annual Trout Festival, where fishing meets festivity. And before you hit the water, gear up in style with local fishing apparel that’s as ready for action as you are.