Tennessee · Fishing
Fishing in Benton, Tennessee
Benton sits in the Cherokee National Forest corridor of Polk County, and the fishing options here reflect that setting — a mix of still water and moving water within a short drive of each other.
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Benton sits in the Cherokee National Forest corridor of Polk County, and the fishing options here reflect that setting — a mix of still water and moving water within a short drive of each other. McKamy Lake is the local go-to for lake fishing, offering a quieter alternative to the bigger TVA reservoirs nearby. The Hiwassee River runs through this stretch of the county, and Quinn Springs Pavilion gives you direct access to river fishing with a pavilion setup that works well as a staging point for a longer day on the water. Over at Chilhowee, both the campground and the group camp area list surf fishing, which in this inland context typically means bank or shoreline fishing on the lake there rather than ocean-style casting. All four spots are accessible without a boat, which makes Benton a reasonable destination if you're traveling light or bringing kids. Tennessee fishing licenses are required for anyone 13 and older, and Cherokee National Forest access rules apply at the campground and pavilion sites. The Hiwassee is a tailwater fishery, so water releases from upstream dams affect conditions — checking TVA water release schedules before a river trip is worth the five minutes it takes.
Frequently asked questions
What kind of fish can I expect to catch around Benton?
The Hiwassee River near Quinn Springs Pavilion is a tailwater that supports trout along with smallmouth bass. McKamy Lake and the Chilhowee area are more typical warmwater fisheries where you can expect bass, bream, and catfish. The supplied listing data doesn't designate any of these as gold medal or wild trout waters, so manage expectations for the trout fishing accordingly.
Do I need a boat to fish these spots?
No. All four listed locations — McKamy Lake, Quinn Springs Pavilion, Chilhowee Campground, and Chilhowee Group Camp — are accessible for bank or shoreline fishing. Quinn Springs Pavilion in particular is set up as a walk-in access point along the river.
What's the best time of year to fish in Benton?
Spring and fall are generally the most productive seasons for both the river and lake fishing here. Summer mornings before 9 a.m. are worth targeting on McKamy Lake before heat pushes fish deeper. On the Hiwassee tailwater, cooler water from dam releases can keep trout active even in summer, but you need to check TVA release schedules because high-flow release days make wading dangerous and fishing difficult.
What gear should I bring for river fishing at Quinn Springs Pavilion?
A medium-light spinning rod handles most situations on the Hiwassee — small spinners, soft plastics, and live bait all work depending on what you're targeting. If you're after trout, bring a few nymphs or small streamers if you fly fish, or inline spinners if you're spinning. Wading shoes with felt or rubber soles are useful since the riverbed is rocky, and a wading staff isn't overkill on higher-flow days.
Are there any regulations I should know before fishing at the Chilhowee or Cherokee National Forest sites?
A valid Tennessee fishing license is required for anyone 13 and older, available online through the Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency. The Chilhowee sites are within Cherokee National Forest, so day-use or camping fees may apply for site access separate from your fishing license. Check current TWRA regulations for any size or creel limits specific to the Hiwassee River, as tailwater trout fisheries sometimes carry special rules.
