Fishing TN river gorge

[ParksvilleFisher]

Never have fished on the TN River down through the gorge but wanted to head that way this fall when the leaves are changing. Sure should be pretty. I have a 17 foot Tracker. Any hazards or other issues I should be aware of? Where is the best place to launch? Thanks for the advice.

 

[fishinvol]

I guess I would launch down at the Racoon Mountain ramp. It's pretty simple, Not much in the way of hazards as long as you aren't hugging the bank when running.

 

[tennfisher]

Biggest hazard could be cruiser wakes, and I'm not joking.

Tennfisher

 

[Fastwin]

I agree with tennfisher. The water is so deep you aren't likely going hit anything but the large cruisers want to view the leaves too and come from all parts of the country to do it. Last year I saw cruisers from VA, MI, OH, and other states this side of the mississippi river. They have boats ON their boat. Most of them create a normal wake and are courteous but a few like to trim down for laughs I suppose. I've even seen a cruiser rock the Gorge Explorer - he was pissed. The inconsiderate boaters don't care about anyone except themselves and won't respond on any VHF channels.

Since the river is narrow those wakes take only a few seconds to hit you and don't dissipate like they do in a lake.

 

[dragfish]

Don't let these guys scare you from a beautiful fishing experience. You will encounter a lot of pleasure boaters and big boats, but your boat will handle the wakes just fine (just remember to point your bow into the larger wakes)
Put in at Sullivan's (about 4 miles past the State Police Hdq on hwy 41) head downstream to Mullin's Cove ( big lake a couple miles downstream on the right) and you will be out of the main river traffic, have a great view and be in a good fishing spot! Watch for the Bald Eagles in the back of the cove!
Just be careful going into the cove-there are some shallow points! Have fun-you'll love it. emoThumbsup

 

[Mike Hernandez]

I agree with Dragfish, it's a good place to go. I have a 17' Tracker also and I do just fine out there. I normally launch at Hales Bar or Marion County Park. Sullivan's ramp is pretty good too, but I just got used to being further down I guess. There's several good places to fish and the scenery is great. Ospreys nest on a few of the marker poles. Beautiful birds. Unfortunately I haven't seen the Bald Eagles yet but will be looking for them next time I head out there.

Good luck and enjoy.