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Top-Rated Backcountry Trout Fishing in Chattanooga

  • Published Date: July 17, 2025
  • Fishing
  • Chattanooga
  • $75 - $175 price range

Summary

Ready for some serious trout action just outside Chattanooga? This backcountry trip takes you to prime fishing spots on a stunning river system, only 20 minutes from downtown. You'll hike in and wade the waters, so come prepared for moderate physical activity. Don't worry about gear or know-how – we've got you covered with all the equipment and expert instruction you need. Whether you're a first-timer or a seasoned angler, you'll find challenge and reward in these waters. The seasonal nature of the trout fishing here means you're in for some of the best catches around. It's just you and the river on this solo adventure, giving you the space to really hone your skills or simply soak in the peaceful backcountry. Chattanooga Fly Fish knows these waters inside and out, so you're in for a day of top-notch fishing in a truly beautiful setting.
Top-Rated Backcountry Trout Fishing in Chattanooga

Riverside Reels

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Rainbow trout caught fishing in Chattanooga

Nice rainbow trout reeled in TN!

Wiper (Hybrid striped bass) caught in Chattanooga

Tennessee fishing for bass!

A single fishing rod with a line cast into the water in Tennessee

Skipjack Shad biting in Chattanooga!

One fish caught while fishing in Chattanooga

Bass reeled in TN!

Spotted bass caught in Chattanooga

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Scenic landscape of Tennessee

Best Chattanooga Fishing Charter

Scenic view of Chattanooga

Wonderful view in Chattanooga

A fisherman with a catch of fish in Chattanooga

Blasting Rock Bass

A rainbow trout caught in Chattanooga

Essentials: Trout and gears

Rainbow trout fish caught in Tennessee

Clear waters reeling in rainbow trout in TN!

Rainbow trout caught fishing in Chattanooga

Nice rainbow trout reeled in TN!

Wiper (Hybrid striped bass) caught in Chattanooga

Tennessee fishing for bass!

A single fishing rod with a line cast into the water in Tennessee

Skipjack Shad biting in Chattanooga!

One fish caught while fishing in Chattanooga

Bass reeled in TN!

Spotted bass caught in Chattanooga

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Scenic landscape of Tennessee

Best Chattanooga Fishing Charter

Scenic view of Chattanooga

Wonderful view in Chattanooga

A fisherman with a catch of fish in Chattanooga

Blasting Rock Bass

A rainbow trout caught in Chattanooga

Essentials: Trout and gears

Rainbow trout fish caught in Tennessee

Clear waters reeling in rainbow trout in TN!

Rainbow trout caught fishing in Chattanooga

Nice rainbow trout reeled in TN!

Wiper (Hybrid striped bass) caught in Chattanooga

Tennessee fishing for bass!

A single fishing rod with a line cast into the water in Tennessee

Skipjack Shad biting in Chattanooga!

One fish caught while fishing in Chattanooga

Bass reeled in TN!

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Hike-In Trout Adventure Near Chattanooga

Hey there, fellow anglers! Ready for a top-notch fly fishing experience just a stone's throw from downtown Chattanooga? Our Backcountry Trout trip is calling your name. This isn't your average day on the water – we're talking about a hike-in wade trip that'll get your heart pumping and your line singing. Whether you're a seasoned pro or you've never held a fly rod, we've got you covered with all the gear and know-how you need. Let's dive into what makes this trip a must-do for any fishing enthusiast visiting the Scenic City.

Trip Overview

Picture this: you're just 20 minutes from the hustle and bustle of Chattanooga, but you might as well be in another world. Our backcountry trip takes you deep into some of the most gorgeous river systems you've ever laid eyes on. We're talking crystal-clear waters, lush forests, and the kind of scenery that'll make you forget to check your phone (not that you'll have service anyway). This trip is perfect for those who love a bit of adventure with their fishing. You'll be hiking in to reach the sweet spots, so come prepared for some moderate physical activity. But trust me, the payoff is worth every step. Once we're in position, you'll be casting for rainbow trout and smallmouth bass in waters that'll make your Instagram followers green with envy.

What to Expect on the Water

Alright, let's talk shop. This isn't your grandpa's bait-and-bobber fishing – we're going full fly here. Don't worry if you're new to it; I'll show you the ropes. We'll be using lightweight rods and reels, paired with flies that mimic the local insects our finned friends love to munch on. Expect to do a lot of wading, so good boots are a must. We'll cover different casting techniques, how to read the water, and the art of presenting your fly just right. For you seasoned anglers, we can get into some more advanced methods like nymphing or dry-fly fishing, depending on the conditions. The best part? It's just you and me out there, so we can tailor the day to your skill level and what you want to learn.

Customer Stories

"We had a great time trout fishing with Brian! Really excellent guide and teacher. Highly recommend." - Laura "Brian was an excellent guide! We would 100% book with him again. He put us on fish all day long." - Amelia "I had an amazing time with Chattanooga Fly Fish! We went trout fishing and got to try it for the first time—it was such a fun and memorable experience. I'd definitely love to do it again sometime!" - Sean

Species You'll Want to Hook

Let's talk about the stars of our show: rainbow trout and smallmouth bass. First up, the rainbows. These beauties are the bread and butter of our backcountry trips. They're known for their acrobatic fights and stunning colors – trust me, there's nothing quite like seeing that flash of pink and silver as a rainbow leaps out of the water. They tend to hang out in the cooler, faster-moving sections of the river. Spring and fall are prime time for these guys, but we can target them year-round. They're picky eaters, which makes fooling them with the right fly all the more satisfying.

Now, onto the smallmouth bass. Don't let the name fool you – these fish are all fight. Pound for pound, they're some of the hardest-fighting fish you'll find in freshwater. We typically find them in the slower, deeper pools and around structure like fallen trees or big rocks. Summer is when they really turn on, and if you're lucky, you might hook into a real bruiser. They're not as selective as trout, which means more aggressive strikes and heart-pounding action. When a big smallie hits your fly, hold on tight – you're in for a wild ride!

Why Anglers Keep Coming Back

Look, I've guided all over, and there's something special about these Chattanooga waters. It's not just the fishing – though that's world-class. It's the whole package. The solitude of being out in nature, the challenge of outsmarting a wily trout, the rush of a hard-fighting smallmouth... it all adds up to an experience you can't get anywhere else. And let's not forget the convenience. Where else can you be in a major city one minute and in pristine backcountry the next? It's the perfect way to escape the grind without having to plan a whole vacation around it. Plus, with just you and me on the trip, we can really dig into improving your skills. By the end of the day, you'll be casting like a pro and reading the water like you've been doing it for years.

Time to Book Your Spot

Alright, folks, if you're not itching to get out on the water by now, check your pulse! Our Backcountry Trout trip is more than just fishing – it's an adventure, a learning experience, and a chance to connect with nature, all rolled into one unforgettable day. Whether you're looking to land your first trout on a fly or you're aiming to perfect your technique, this trip has something for everyone. And remember, we provide all the gear, so all you need to bring is your sense of adventure (and maybe a snack or two). Spots fill up fast, especially during peak seasons, so don't wait to book. Give us a call or hit that 'Book Now' button – your next great fishing story is waiting to be written in the beautiful backcountry of Chattanooga. See you on the water!

Customer Reviews

Trout Master Brian

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We had a great time trout fishing with Brian! Really excellent guide and teacher. Highly recommend.

LA
Laura Abney

April 10, 2025

Fish All Day Guide

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Brian was an excellent guide! We would 100% book with him again. He put us on fish all day long.

AM
Amelia McQuade

December 28, 2024

Fly Fishing Fun

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I had an amazing time with Chattanooga Fly Fish! We went trout fishing and got to try it for the first time—it was such a fun and memorable experience. I’d definitely love to do it again sometime!

SB
Sean Borg

April 20, 2025

Learn more about the species

Rainbow Trout

Smallmouth bass are a blast to target in our local waters. These scrappy fighters usually run 12 to 20 inches long and put up a heck of a fight for their size. You'll find them in rocky areas of rivers and lakes, often near drop-offs or submerged logs. Summer's the prime time for smallies, especially early mornings and evenings when they're most active. They love warm water and will chase down a well-presented lure with impressive speed. Anglers prize smallmouth for their aggressive strikes and aerial acrobatics once hooked. If you're looking for a fun, hard-fighting fish that'll test your skills, smallmouth are tough to beat. They're also great eating if you decide to keep a few for dinner. Here's a local trick: When the water's choppy, try working a topwater lure like a Zara Spook with a "walk-the-dog" retrieve. Smallies can't resist smashing it, and the surface strikes are a real thrill.

Rainbow Trout

Smallmouth Bass

Rainbow trout are a real treat to catch in our local rivers. These beauties typically range from 8 to 20 inches long, with striking pink stripes along their sides. You'll find them hanging out in cool, clear waters, often near riffles or deep pools. Spring and fall are prime seasons, but we can hook 'em year-round if we know where to look. Rainbows are famous for their acrobatic fights - they'll leap clear out of the water and give your line a workout. Anglers love 'em for their sporty nature and tasty, pink flesh. Whether you're a fly fishing pro or just getting started, these trout offer an exciting challenge. Here's a local tip: When the water's low and clear, try drifting small nymphs or dry flies near undercut banks. Rainbows love to hide in those shady spots, waiting to ambush their next meal. Just remember to approach quietly and keep your shadow off the water for the best chance at a strike.

Smallmouth Bass
Chattanooga Fly Fish

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Don't let another season pass you by! Experience the thrill of fly fishing in the beautiful waters of Chattanooga with expert guide Brian Pendergrass. Book your unforgettable fishing adventure today and discover why Chattanooga is a mecca for anglers around the world.

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