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Tennessee · Fishing
Tellico Plains sits at the edge of the Cherokee National Forest and gives anglers direct access to some of the best freestone river fishing in East Tennessee.
4 spotsUpdated dailyFree to access
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Tellico Plains sits at the edge of the Cherokee National Forest and gives anglers direct access to some of the best freestone river fishing in East Tennessee. The Tellico River is the main draw, running cold and clear through a tight mountain valley and holding rainbow trout, brown trout, and brook trout across a stretch of designated trout waters that sits around 1,100 feet in elevation. The river fishes well for wading, and the moderate difficulty rating reflects that — you don't need to be an expert to get into fish, but the current and rocky substrate mean you'll want to know what you're doing before stepping in. McNabb Creek adds another option for anglers who want to get off the main stem and work smaller water. The Donley Cabin area gives you a base close to the river, which matters when you want to be on the water at first light without a long drive. Four active listings in the area keep things focused — this isn't a destination with dozens of competing spots pulling you in different directions. You pick your water, learn it, and fish it.
The Tellico River trout waters hold rainbow trout, brown trout, and brook trout. Brook trout tend to push into smaller, higher tributaries, so if brookies are your target, McNabb Creek is worth exploring rather than sticking to the main stem.
The trout waters are rated moderate difficulty. Wading is manageable for most anglers with some river experience, but the streambed is rocky and the current can be strong after rain. Felt-soled or studded wading boots are a real advantage here over plain rubber soles.
Mcnabb Creek Group
~1 min drive
A worthwhile stop near TN.
Thunder Rock Campground
~46 min drive
A worthwhile stop near TN.
Jackrabbit Mountain
~50 min drive
A worthwhile stop near NC.
Tellico River Trout Waters
~3 min drive
Moderate
Indian Boundary Lake
~8 min drive
A worthwhile stop near TN.
Chatuge Lake - Jackrabbit Mountain Area
~42 min drive
Easy
Donley Cabin
~3 min drive
A worthwhile stop near TN.
Apalachia Lake
~23 min drive
A worthwhile stop near NC.
Chilhowee Group Camp
~52 min drive
A worthwhile stop near TN.
Fontana Lake - Cable Cove Area
~34 min drive
Moderate
Massey Branch Fishing Pier
~28 min drive
A worthwhile stop near NC.
Nottely Lake
~47 min drive
Easy
A 9-foot 4-weight or 5-weight rod covers most situations on the Tellico. The river runs at around 1,100 feet elevation, so it stays cool enough for trout through much of the year. Nymphing rigs produce consistently, but dry fly fishing can be productive during hatches, particularly in spring and early fall.
Early morning is generally the most productive window, especially in summer when midday sun warms the shallower sections. Late afternoon into evening can also be good, particularly for brown trout that become more active as light drops.
Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency manages trout regulations on the Tellico, and rules can vary by section — some stretches have artificial-lure-only or catch-and-release requirements. Check the current TWRA Fishing Guide for the specific regulations that apply to the section you plan to fish before you go, as these details change and vary by year.
