Hooked on Middle Tennessee: A Day Chasing Giant Catfish on Percy Priest and the Cumberland
All Ages Welcome • 4 Hour Trip • 2 Passengers Included, Can Accommodate Up to 6
The sun lifts over a mirror-flat stretch of water, turning the low hills around Percy Priest Lake into dark silhouettes. Your captain eases the outboard to a whisper and points to a shallow drop where the current meets a submerged channel—an unspoken promise. A rod clicks, the reel sings, and for a minute the world narrows to the weight on the line and the patient pull of a Tennessee catfish.
Trail Wisdom
Get a Fishing License
Tennessee requires a state fishing license for most anglers—buy online in advance or confirm with your captain after booking.
Dress for Sun and Wind
Bring a sun hat, polarized sunglasses, and a light windbreaker—conditions change quickly on open water.
Bring Snacks and Hydration
The charter supplies coolers and ice, but pack any snacks or drinks you prefer for the trip.
Handle Fish Properly
Use wet hands or a rubberized mat for releases and follow your captain’s guidance to minimize stress to fish.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Toward the eastern arm of Percy Priest Lake, explore the secluded coves off Anderson Road launch for quiet shorelines
- •Old Hickory Lock & Dam offers accessible shoreline views and occasional shoreline fishing if you dock nearby
Wildlife
Bald eagle, Great blue heron
Conservation Note
Practice catch-and-release where appropriate, dispose of fishing line and tackle properly, and follow Tennessee fishing regulations to support sustainable fisheries.
J. Percy Priest Reservoir was created in the late 1960s by damming the Stones River; the reservoir reshaped local recreation and fisheries.
Seasonal Guide
spring
Best for: Active feeding, Warm-water flats, Family outings
Challenges: Variable weather, Higher boat traffic on weekends
Spring is prime as warming water brings catfish into feeding patterns—expect active bites and comfortable temperatures in the mornings.
summer
Best for: Long daylight trips, Night-time flathead fishing, Family-friendly schedules
Challenges: Hot afternoons, Afternoon storms
Summer offers long days and strong action but plan for heat; early starts or evening trips are often best.
fall
Best for: Cooler weather, Stable water clarity, Big pre-winter fish
Challenges: Shorter daylight hours, Colder mornings
Fall sees fish feeding ahead of winter; bring layers for crisp mornings and expect steady action.
winter
Best for: Less boat traffic, Clear water pockets
Challenges: Cold temperatures, Slower fish metabolism
Winter fishing is quieter and more tactical—fish are less active, so patience and precise bait presentation matter.
Photographer's Notes
What to Bring
Polarized SunglassesEssential
Reduces glare and helps you read underwater structure.
Non-Slip Deck ShoesEssential
Provides stable footing on a wet boat deck.
Layered Sun ProtectionEssential
A sun shirt, hat, and SPF 30+ sunscreen protect for long hours on open water.
Insulated Cooler Bag
Keeps drinks cold and preserves any fish you plan to bring home.
Common Questions
Do I need a fishing license?
Yes—Tennessee requires a fishing license for most anglers; purchase one online via Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency or check with your captain after booking.
What species of catfish will we target?
Common targets are channel catfish, blue catfish, and flathead catfish—each requires slightly different tactics that the captain will teach.
Are kids allowed and is there an age limit?
Kids are welcome—children under 12 fish free on this charter; parents should ensure appropriate supervision and life jackets where required.
How many people fit on the boat?
The boat holds up to six people comfortably, with the standard booking including two passengers as noted in the tour details.
What happens if weather cancels the trip?
Weather cancellations receive a full-valued gift card for rescheduling; operators prioritize safety and will notify you if conditions make running unsafe.
What should I bring if I want to keep fish?
Bring a cooler with ice and check Tennessee size and creel limits; the captain can advise on proper handling and cleaning options.
What to Pack
Polarized sunglasses for glare reduction; Sunscreen and hat for sun protection; Non-slip shoes for boat safety; Cooler with ice if you plan to keep fish
Did You Know
J. Percy Priest Reservoir was completed in 1968 when the Stones River was dammed; the project created over 14,000 acres of lake that reshaped local recreation and fisheries.
Quick Travel Tips
Closest airport: Nashville International (BNA); Expect 20–40 minute drive from downtown Nashville to most launch areas; Cell service may be spotty on open lake—download directions and confirm meeting point; Tennessee fishing license required—buy online ahead of time
Local Flavor
After a morning on the water, head back toward Nashville for hot chicken in East Nashville or grab a locally brewed beer in the Germantown area—both pair well with fish stories and a wiped-clean cooler.
Logistics Snapshot
Closest airport / trailhead: Nashville International Airport (BNA) / Various public boat launches on Percy Priest and Old Hickory; Driving distance from downtown: 15–45 minutes depending on launch; Cell service: Intermittent on open water; Permits/passes: Tennessee fishing license required
Sustainability Note
Dispose of all fishing line and tackle properly, avoid using lead sinkers in sensitive habitats, and follow size/creel limits to support the long-term health of the fishery.