Trophy Cat-fishing in Chattanooga

by Danny Mitchell
(Chattanooga, TN)

Pretty Girls--Nice Catfish

Many people that visit Chattanooga each year tour the Tennessee Aquarium. They often marvel at the size of the catfish that are on display there. I have toured the aquarium several times myself, and have to smile a little when I have overheard someone say, "I'd like to have my fishing rod in here". Well just outside the Tennessee Aquarium is the Tennessee River just full of those catfish. Lake Chickamauga sits about 12 miles to the north was impounded by TVA in the 1940's. The lake is an excellent fishery year round with good numbers of crappie, bass, and yes trophy catfish.

Big blue catfish and the smaller but hard fighting channel catfish can be caught year round. Summertime is prime time though, both for size and numbers. Cut bait fished on the bottom around the river channel ledges can produce good results. Out by the nuclear plant, and down by Chickamauga Dam are good local hot spots.

Outcaster Fishing Adventures is a Chattanooga based fishing guide service that runs charters year round. A typical summertime catfish charter is usually a 5 hour trip either in the early morning or evening to avoid the summer heat. Catches of 12 to 25 fish is common. Most catfish range from 4 to 10 pounds with some fish 10 to 15 pounds, and the occasional trophy fish. We utilize light tackle to further maximize the fight. This kind of fishing is lots of fun for everyone, especially families and kids.

If you would like to learn more about a "Catfishing" trip when you visit Chattanooga please visit www.outcasterguideservice.com for more information.