What to expect on the Tellico River

The Tellico River is a tailwater fishery below Tellico Dam in Monroe County, roughly 30 miles southeast of Knoxville. The dam creates a cold, clear flow that holds smallmouth bass year-round and supports a growing walleye population. The upper section—from the dam down to the Tellico-Little Tennessee confluence—runs about 8 miles and is the most productive stretch for both species. Below the confluence, the river widens and warms as it joins the Little Tennessee, and the fishing changes character.

The Tellico's reputation rests on consistent smallmouth fishing and the chance at large walleye, especially in spring and fall. Water clarity is typically excellent, which means light tackle and natural presentations work better than heavy lures. The river is dam-controlled, so water levels and flow change throughout the day—something to plan around if you're wading or launching a boat.

Key Takeaways

  • The Tellico River below the dam holds smallmouth bass and walleye year-round, with the upper 8 miles from the dam to the Little Tennessee confluence being the most productive.
  • Spring and fall are peak seasons for walleye; summer smallmouth fishing is solid but requires early morning and evening effort.
  • Water releases from Tellico Dam change flow and level throughout the day, so check the TVA release schedule before you fish.
  • The river is open year-round for bass and walleye, but Tennessee regulations require a valid fishing license and set daily creel limits that vary by species.
  • Public access points include the Tellico River Wildlife Management Area and several informal pullouts along Highway 411, but boat ramps are limited.

Seasons and what fish are active

Spring (March through May) is the strongest season for walleye. Water temperatures climb from the low 40s to the mid-50s, and walleye move into shallower structure to spawn. Jigs tipped with live shiners or crawfish work well, as do crankbaits that mimic baitfish. Smallmouth are also active in spring, feeding heavily before and after their own spawn.

Summer (June through August) shifts the focus to smallmouth. Walleye retreat to deeper pools and are harder to locate consistently. Early morning and late evening produce the best smallmouth action; midday fishing is slow. Topwater lures, soft plastics, and small crankbaits all work, but the clear water means you need to cast accurately and use lighter line.

Fall (September through November) brings walleye back into the shallows as water cools. This is the second-best walleye season. Smallmouth remain active throughout fall, and the cooler water extends the productive hours into midday. Winter (December through February) slows both species, but the Tellico still holds fish in deep pools and behind structure. Winter anglers often focus on walleye in the deeper sections.

Species and what they eat

Smallmouth bass dominate the Tellico. They range from 12 to 18 inches on average, with fish over 20 inches possible but not common. They feed on crawfish, shiners, and other small baitfish. In clear water, they are sight-feeders and respond well to natural-colored soft plastics (4 to 6 inches), small crankbaits, and topwater early and late in the day. Jigs in brown, green, and natural tones work year-round.

Walleye are the secondary target and the draw for many anglers. The population has grown over the past decade, and fish in the 16 to 22-inch range are realistic. Walleye feed primarily at dawn, dusk, and night, and they prefer live bait or lures that imitate it. Jigs tipped with live shiners or crawfish are the standard approach. Crankbaits that run 6 to 10 feet deep also produce, especially in spring and fall when walleye are shallower.

Musky are present in the Tellico but are not a reliable target. A few fish over 40 inches are caught each year, mostly by accident on smallmouth lures or by dedicated musky anglers throwing large swimbaits and bucktails. If musky interest you, focus on the deeper pools and structure in the lower sections.

Access and boat ramps

The Tellico River Wildlife Management Area (WMA) provides the primary public access. The WMA includes a parking area and a short walk to the river just below the dam. This is where most anglers enter the water. Wading is the main method here; the river is narrow and rocky, and a boat is not necessary for the upper section.

A few informal pullouts exist along Highway 411 as it parallels the river, but these are not official access points and parking is limited. The nearest public boat ramp is on the Little Tennessee River at Calderwood, about 8 miles downstream from the Tellico-Little Tennessee confluence. This ramp allows you to fish the lower Tellico by boat, but you must navigate the confluence and the lower section, which is wider and slower.

Private land borders most of the Tellico, so respect posted property and do not trespass. The WMA and the Highway 411 pullouts are your safest bets for legal access.

Regulations and licenses

Tennessee requires a valid fishing license for anyone 13 and older. You can purchase a one-day, three-day, or annual license through the Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency (TWRA) website or at most sporting goods stores. The license is inexpensive and supports the fishery.

Smallmouth bass have a 12-inch minimum length and a daily creel limit of 6 fish. Walleye have a 15-inch minimum and a daily creel limit of 6 fish. Musky have a 40-inch minimum and a daily creel limit of 1 fish. These regulations are current but can change, so check the TWRA website or the current Tennessee fishing guide before you go.

The Tellico River is open year-round for both bass and walleye. No special permits or stamps are required beyond the standard fishing license.

Water flow and dam releases

Tellico Dam is operated by the Tennessee Valley Authority (TVA). Water releases change throughout the day based on power demand and other factors. High flow makes wading dangerous and can push fish into deeper, slower water. Low flow concentrates fish but can make launching a boat difficult.

Check the TVA release schedule online before you fish. The TVA website shows real-time and forecasted releases for Tellico Dam. Most anglers prefer to fish during low-flow periods, which typically occur in early morning and late evening. If you plan to wade, call ahead or check the schedule to avoid arriving during a heavy release.

Gear and tactics

For smallmouth, a 6 to 6.5-foot medium-power spinning rod with 8 to 10-pound braided line works well. Pair it with a 6-pound fluorocarbon leader to account for the clear water. Soft plastics (4 to 6 inches), small crankbaits, and topwater lures are your main tools. Cast to structure—rocks, logs, and current breaks—and work the lure slowly.

For walleye, a 6.5 to 7-foot medium-power rod with 10-pound braided line and a 6 to 8-pound fluorocarbon leader is standard. Jigs (1/4 to 3/8 ounce) tipped with live shiners are the most consistent approach. Cast upstream and let the jig drift with the current, feeling for bottom contact and strikes. If you prefer crankbaits, choose models that run 6 to 10 feet deep and fish them slowly.

Wading is the primary method on the upper Tellico. Wear a wading belt and felt-soled boots for traction on the rocky bottom. The river is cold year-round, so a wading jacket or chest waders are necessary even in summer. Move slowly and deliberately; the clear water means fish can see you, and sudden movements spook them.

When to fish and what to bring

Spring and fall are the best times to visit. Water temperatures are moderate, walleye are active, and smallmouth are feeding. Summer is productive for smallmouth but requires early morning or evening effort. Winter is slower but still holds fish for patient anglers.

Bring a headlamp or flashlight for early morning or evening fishing. Polarized sunglasses help you spot fish in the clear water and see structure. A small net is useful for landing walleye. Bring plenty of water and snacks; the upper Tellico is remote, and services are limited. If you wade, bring a wading staff to test depth and maintain balance on the rocky bottom.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I fish the Tellico River year-round?

Yes, the Tellico is open year-round for smallmouth bass and walleye. Winter fishing is slower, but fish are present in deeper pools and behind structure. Spring and fall are the most productive seasons.

Do I need a boat to fish the Tellico?

No. The upper Tellico below the dam is best fished by wading, and most anglers do not use a boat there. If you want to fish the lower section by boat, you can launch at Calderwood on the Little Tennessee River, but you must navigate downstream to reach it.

What is the best bait for walleye on the Tellico?

Live shiners are the most consistent choice. Crawfish also work well. If you prefer lures, jigs tipped with live bait or crankbaits that run 6 to 10 feet deep are reliable. Fish early morning, evening, or at night for the best results.

How do I know when the dam is releasing water?

Check the TVA website for real-time and forecasted releases from Tellico Dam. Most anglers prefer to fish during low-flow periods, which typically occur in early morning and late evening. High flow makes wading dangerous and can push fish into deeper water.

Where can I buy a Tennessee fishing license?

You can purchase a license through the Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency (TWRA) website or at most sporting goods stores in the area. One-day, three-day, and annual licenses are available. The license is inexpensive and required for anyone 13 and older.