The state of Tennessee is blessed with an abundance of waterways. There are usually two groups of boaters. The first group is fishermen. Whether it is a sport to them, a form of relaxation, or they make their living from it, their goal is to find quiet places to fish. The second group is made up of recreational boaters. They are out there to have fun—water skiing, tubing, diving and swimming.
Boone Reservoir in northeastern Tennessee, Cherokee Reservoir near Jefferson City, TN, Chickamauga Reservoir just north of Chattanooga, Douglas Reservoir at the foothills of the Smoky Mountains, and Fort Loudoun Reservoir at Knoxville are just a few of the dozens of reservoirs that are known for their fishing and boating. However, not all forms of water recreation are permissible in these areas.
Tennessee has nine major rivers. However, not all of them are deep enough to allow much boating other than canoes or kayaks. Some have rapids and are great for white-water rafting. They make for great fishing and swimming, but not so much for boating. So that leaves us with Tennessee’s many lakes.
The most popular lakes used for boating and water recreation are Beech Lake, Dale Hollow Lake, Norris Lake, Old Hickory Lake, Watauga Lake, Cheatham Lake, Cherokee Lake, and J. Percy Priest Lake. Beech Lake is located just north of Lexington, off Tennessee State Route 104. This is a 1000-acre lake that is known for their annual boat race. They do require a permit for year-round fishing. Dale Hollow Lake borders Kentucky and Tennessee. They are popular for both fishing and water sports alike. Norris Lake is a narrow lake located in the Central Peninsula State Forest. There are many places nearby where one can rent boats, jet skis, and various other equipment. Old Hickory Lake is just 6 miles north of Nashville. This lake was formed by the installation of a dam back in 1954. Because of the close proximity of a dam, life jackets are required on all boat occupants. Watauga Lake is the third cleanest lake in America. This is because it still yet largely undiscovered. It is 19 miles long and is fantastic for fishing and water recreation. It's located in the northeast corner of the state near the Virginia and North Carolina borders. Cheatham Lake, located on the Cumberland River, features a recreational site near the dam. So, once again life preservers would be required. Cherokee Lake is a peaceful lake, 33 miles long. It is located at the foot of the towering Cinch Mountain Range. This lake is known more its large-mouth bass fishing; however, water recreation is also permitted. Percy Priest Lake receives over 5 million visitors each year. It is located just 10 miles east of Nashville. As with so many others of Tennessee’s lakes, it is formed by a dam from whence it gets its name.
Make sure that whether you are going as a fisher or a boater, that you have the proper permits required. Many lakes simply require a small daily fee, while others will require boat and fishing permits. Please check with your destination’s information to be notified of any other stipulations. Most of all, have fun and be safe!