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Fishing the Tennessee River

Fishing the Tennessee River

The Tennessee River is home to hundreds of different types of fish. Many are found nowhere else in the world!

The river flows through different regions, from the mountains in the east to the valleys of north Alabama to the plains of western Kentucky. Each area provides a slightly different habitat for fish and other aquatic species.

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TVA keeps an eye on the fish that are swimming in the rivers and reservoirs. Scientists regularly catch and release fish in fish surveys. They check for:

  • Types of Fish
  • Size of Fish

Oxygen Boost

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Below a dam — called the tailwaters — the water is very cold because the water often comes from the bottom of the reservoir.

But this water may not have much oxygen. Fish need oxygen, just like people do!

TVA uses different ways to add oxygen to the water:

  • Drawing air into water as it swirls through a dam and turbines
  • Drawing oxygen-rich surface water down into the dam
  • Injecting liquid oxygen into the reservoir
  • Using additional small dams — called weirs — just downstream of a large dam. Oxygen is added as water flows over the dams. Weirs also help keep water in streams, even when the dam isn't releasing water.

Bringing Fish Back Home

Some types of fish have struggled to adapt to river changes. The mighty lake sturgeon, an ancient fish, had disappeared from the Tennessee River in the 1960s. Too many people were harvesting the fish. Changes in the river had also changed the sturgeon’s migration patterns. Migration is when a fish moves from one place to another.

TVA worked with partners like the Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency and Tennessee Aquarium to reintroduce the Lake Sturgeon in the early 2000s. Each year, thousands of young sturgeon are released into the river. Those baby fish can grow to 200 pounds and 6 feet long. TVA works with many partners to support hatchery programs for other fish, too! State and national fisheries release thousands of trout into the rivers each year!

Fishermen

Gone Fishing!

Just remember — before you head out to the fishing hole, make sure you've got all your equipment for a safe, fun day!

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  • Fishing rod and reel
  • Fishing line
  • Fishing hooks and weights
  • Bait and lures
  • Gloves and fishing net
  • A state fishing license
Boosting Oxygen in the Tennessee Valley Tailwaters Big Fish, Big Partnerships Surveying Sport Fish Eggstra, Eggstra The Rhythm of the River
DIY Fishing Game Visit a Snorkel Trail Lesson Plan: Aquatic Biomes (3rd Grade) Lesson Plan: Aquatic Biodiversity in the Tennessee River (Grade 6) Lesson Plan: My Aquatic Animal (High School)
Visit the Mobile Aquarium (coming soon)

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