Smoky Mountain National Park offers a diverse array of fishing opportunities, with over 2,115 miles of streams within its boundaries. To ensure a safe and enjoyable fishing experience, it’s essential to familiarize yourself with the park’s fishing regulations. This comprehensive guide will cover the key details you need to know before casting your line in the Smokies.
Fishing Licenses
Anglers visiting the Smoky Mountain National Park must possess a valid fishing license. The license requirements vary based on your residency status:
| Residency | License Type | Cost |
|---|---|---|
| Tennessee Resident | One-day fishing license | $11.50 |
| Annual all species license | $22.00 | |
| 3-day fishing all species | $40.50 | |
| 10-day fishing all species | $61.50 | |
| Tennessee Non-Resident | One-day fishing license | $11.50 |
| Annual all species license | $20.00 | |
| 3-day fishing all species | $40.50 | |
| 10-day fishing all species | $61.50 | |
| North Carolina Resident | One-day fishing license | $11.50 |
| Annual all species license | $36.00 | |
| 3-day fishing all species | $40.50 | |
| 10-day fishing all species | $61.50 | |
| North Carolina Non-Resident | One-day fishing license | $11.50 |
| Annual all species license | $36.00 | |
| 3-day fishing all species | $40.50 | |
| 10-day fishing all species | $61.50 |
Fishing Season and Time
- Season: Fishing is permitted year-round in open waters within the Smoky Mountain National Park.
- Time: Anglers are allowed to fish from 30 minutes before official sunrise to 30 minutes after official sunset.
Daily Possession Limits
The Smoky Mountain National Park has specific daily possession limits for various fish species:
- Trout and Smallmouth Bass: Anglers can keep up to five (5) rainbow or brown trout, smallmouth bass, or a combination of these, with a minimum size of 7 inches.
- Brook Trout: The possession of brook trout is prohibited, and any caught must be immediately returned unharmed to the water.
- Rock Bass: There is no size limit for rock bass, and anglers can keep up to 20 in addition to the trout and smallmouth bass limits.
Lures, Bait, and Equipment
The Smoky Mountain National Park has specific regulations regarding the use of lures, bait, and fishing equipment:
- Rod: Fishing is permitted only with one hand-held rod.
- Lures: Only artificial flies or lures with a single hook are allowed.
- Bait: The use or possession of any form of fish bait or liquid scent other than artificial flies or lures is prohibited.
- Hooks: Double, treble, or gang hooks are not allowed.
Additional Information
- Safety: Anglers should be cautious of swift water currents and slippery rocks while fishing in the Smoky Mountain National Park.
- Clean Angling: Anglers are responsible for disposing of fish remains and other waste responsibly.
- Brook Trout Restoration: The park is actively working to restore the threatened brook trout population.
- Closed Waters: Some streams within the Smoky Mountain National Park are closed to protect and study the brook trout.
Resources
If you need further assistance or information, consider the following resources:
- Ranger Stations and Visitor Centers: Stop by these facilities to obtain advice and maps.
- Sporting Goods Stores and Outfitters: Local stores and outfitters can provide valuable advice and equipment.
- Online Resources: Visit the park’s official website and other online guides for detailed information on fishing regulations and tips.