The following information is taken from an official Park publication. The official publication for all Park regulations is Title 36 of the Code of Federal Regulations. A copy of the Code can be obtained at most ranger stations and visitor centers.

You must have a valid Tennessee or North Carolina state fishing license to fish all open Park waters. Licenses must be presented on demand by a Park Ranger.

Tennessee License Requirements: Residents and nonresidents age 13 and older need a license. The exception is residents who were 65 prior to March 1, 1990. These persons require only proof of age and Tennessee residence.

Persons under 13 in Tennessee are entitled to the same limits as adults and are subject to all other regulations.

The Park does not sell state fishing licenses. They may be purchased from outfitters

Fishing is permitted year-round in open waters.

Fishing is allowed from a half hour before sunrise to a half hour after sunset.

The possession of brook trout is prohibited because the Park is pursuing an aggressive program to protect and restore the brook trout to a self sustaining level. Logging operations in the early 1900s eliminated the brook trout from its natural range.

Five (5) rainbow or brown trout, small mouth bass, or a combination of these (7 inch minimum), each day or in possession. Any brook trout caught must be immediately returned unharmed to the water.

(a) Fishing is permitted only by the use of one hand-held rod.

(b) Only artificial flies or lures with a single hook may be used.

(c) Fishing tackle and equipment including creels and fish in possession are subject to inspection by authorized personnel.