Ocoee River

The Ocoee River, located near Copperhill, Tennessee, is a popular destination for fishing enthusiasts.

Fishing Species

• Rainbow Trout: The river is well-known for its rainbow trout, especially in its upper sections. The trout fishing is generally best in spring and fall.
• Brown Trout: Found in many parts of the river, brown trout are often caught by anglers seeking a challenge, as they can be elusive.
• Smallmouth Bass: The lower sections of the river are ideal for smallmouth bass fishing, particularly in the summer months.
• Largemouth Bass: This species is common in the calmer stretches of the river.
• Bluegill & Other Panfish: Found in the slower-moving sections and around submerged structures.
• Catfish: Both channel catfish and flathead catfish can be found in deeper, slower areas of the river.

Fishing Areas

• Upper Ocoee River: This section is renowned for clear, fast-moving waters and is primarily known for its trout fishing. It’s a beautiful and popular spot for anglers targeting rainbow and brown trout.
• Lower Ocoee River: The lower section offers calmer waters, making it ideal for smallmouth bass and panfish. The river’s pools and eddies attract these species.
• Tennessee Valley Authority (TVA) Reservoirs: These reservoirs, such as the Parksville Lake, which is part of the Ocoee River system, provide additional fishing opportunities for bass and catfish.

Fishing Regulations

• Trout Fishing: In general, anglers must follow Tennessee’s fishing regulations, which include daily limits and length limits for trout. Typically, the daily limit for trout is seven, but only two can be lake trout.
• Seasonal Restrictions: The fishing season is open year-round, but certain areas of the river may have specific seasonal closures or restrictions, particularly for trout. Catch-and-release rules may apply in specific areas.
• Delayed Harvest Areas: Some stretches of the river, especially near the Ocoee River and Parksville Lake, may have delayed harvest rules, where you must release fish caught during certain months.

Best Times to Fish

• Spring and Fall: These are considered the best times to fish for trout, as water temperatures are ideal, and fish are more active.
• Summer: Smallmouth bass fishing is prime in the lower sections, with warmer water attracting the fish.
• Winter: Trout fishing can still be good in the upper sections, but conditions may be more challenging.

Fishing Access and Regulations

The Ocoee River is accessible from several points, with the TVA and U.S. Forest Service maintaining access to various sections. Make sure to check for access points and whether any areas are closed or restricted due to environmental factors or weather conditions. You may also need a valid fishing license from the Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency (TWRA).

For more detailed fishing regulations and information, visit the TWRA website or consult with local fishing guides.

TWRA Fishing Regulations: Comprehensive fishing regulations for Tennessee.

Before engaging in fishing, ensure you have the appropriate licenses and are familiar with the specific regulations for the area you plan to visit.