Fishing / Fish Viewing / Snorkeling
FISHING IS A WAY OF LIFE IN THESE MOUNTAINS AND OUR FISHING IS EXCELLENT YEAR ROUND! THE HIWASSEE IS A WORLD CLASS TROUT FISHING RIVER!
Take home a “fish-tale” to tell your friends! Our lakes and rivers are filled with many varieties of fish including crappie, bluegill, white bass, trout, catfish, yellow bass and perch!
Visit the Tennesee Wildlife Resource Agency (TWRA) for more information on fishing regulations in Tennessee, maps or brochures. Also, visit the Cherokee National Forest site for more information about fishing at Parksville Lake and other Forest Reservoirs.
For details about hunting and fishing in Tennessee contact: TWRA 800.332.0900. http://www.tn.gov/twra
Fish Viewing / Snorkeling
Conasauga River Underwater Fish Viewing Area
Come to the Conasauga Snorkeling Hole to play, float and sightsee! Put on a face mask and get a closer look at the many species this river harbors. The Conasauga River supports over sixty fish species, including the federally listed blue shiner, amber darter, and Conasauga logperch. An exceptionally diverse community of mussels is also present. The Conasauga River Watershed encompasses only 1% of the of the land base of the Colorado and Columbia Watersheds combined but supports more native fish species. This is one reason why the Conasauga is recognized as an ecologically important area by private and public organizations alike. Guided snorkeling tours (private or groups) are available at select times during the year by calling the Cherokee National Forest at 423-476-9700.
Directions: From junction of Hwy 64 / 411 south of Benton, TN, travel south 6.7 miles on Hwy. 411. Turn left onto TN 313 (Ladd Springs Road, becomes Willis Springs Road). Travel 4 miles, then bear right on gravel Forest Service Road 221 (Pea Vine/Sheeds Creek Road). Continue for 4.7 miles and turn right onto parking area for Conasauga River Trail 61.
Important Reminders: Always snorkel with a partner and wear safety flotation gear.
Please do not disturb or collect the sensitive fauna of this river.