Tennessee · Fishing
Fishing in Collierville, Tennessee
Collierville's fishing scene is quieter than what you'll find along the Mississippi corridor, but that's part of the appeal.
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Collierville's fishing scene is quieter than what you'll find along the Mississippi corridor, but that's part of the appeal. The town's accessible lake fisheries — Marys Creek Lake Number Eight, Marys Creek Lake Number Nine, and the Houston Levee Golf Course Lake — offer calm, shore-friendly water that works well for anglers who want a few hours on the bank without a long drive or a boat. The Marys Creek lakes sit within the broader greenway system on the west side of town, making them a practical option for early-morning sessions before the day heats up. Houston Levee Golf Course Lake adds a different setting, tucked alongside the golf course on the north end of Collierville. All three are lake fisheries, so expect warm-water species typical of west Tennessee lowland lakes — bass, bream, and catfish are the most likely targets, though you should check current TWRA stocking records for specifics on any given season. None of these waters carry a gold-medal or wild-trout designation, so manage expectations accordingly: this is relaxed, community-scale fishing, not a destination trophy fishery. For anyone local or passing through Shelby County, that's often exactly what the situation calls for.
Frequently asked questions
What kind of fish can I expect to catch at these Collierville lakes?
All three lakes — Marys Creek Lake Number Eight, Marys Creek Lake Number Nine, and Houston Levee Golf Course Lake — are warm-water lake fisheries typical of west Tennessee. Largemouth bass, bluegill, and channel catfish are the most commonly targeted species in waters like these. For current stocking information, check the Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency (TWRA) website before your trip.
Do I need a fishing license to fish these lakes?
Yes. Tennessee requires a valid state fishing license for anyone 13 and older. You can purchase one through the TWRA website or at local retailers. Some municipal or park-managed waters may have additional access rules, so it's worth confirming with Collierville Parks and Recreation whether any permits are required for the specific lake you plan to fish.
What's the best time of day to fish here?
Early morning is generally the most productive window for warm-water lake fishing in west Tennessee, especially from late spring through summer when midday temperatures push fish into deeper, cooler water. The Marys Creek lakes in particular see light foot traffic early in the day, which helps. Late afternoon into evening is a solid second option as surface temperatures drop.
Is a boat required, or can I fish from shore?
Shore fishing is the practical approach at all three locations. These are community-scale lakes without boat ramps or launch infrastructure. A light spinning or baitcasting setup works fine from the bank, and you won't need waders.
What gear should I bring for a session at one of these lakes?
A medium-light spinning rod in the 6- to 7-foot range covers most situations. For bass, soft plastics and small crankbaits are reliable; for bream, a simple bobber-and-worm rig is hard to beat; for catfish, cut bait or stink bait on a bottom rig works well after dark or in the evening. Bring sun protection and water — shade is limited around open lake banks in the summer months.
