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Chattanooga Bait and Tackle Shops

With the lovely Tennessee River, Harrison Bay, and Chickamauga Lake all within an hour of downtown Chattanooga, it’s no surprise that the Scenic City has a bait and tackle shop for everyone’s fishing needs.

Whether you’re planning to go bass fishing, fly fishing, or you just need a TWRA fishing license, these local shops below have got you covered.

Bait and Tackle Shops

From live bait to fishing rods to waders and more, it takes a lot of preparation and gear for a full day of fishing. Luckily, Chattanooga has plenty of stores to help you prepare. Below, we’ve compiled a list of a few bait and tackle shops to visit before heading out on the water.

Catfish Sumo

Catfish Sumo is all about helping fishermen catch the biggest catfish possible. If you’re looking to beat your personal best, this bait and tackle shop is here to help. While they don’t have a brick-and-mortar retail store, Catfish Sumo offers catfish fishing rods and reels, tackle, sinkers, and more for purchase online. They also offer masterclasses and books to help you learn how to catch bigger catfish.

Academy Sports + Outdoors

Ever a fan favorite, Academy offers plenty of gear for fishing, hunting, and other outdoor activities. With fishing rods and reels, bait and tackle, and all other kinds of fishing accessories, this is a reliable stop before your fishing trip.

Lake Chickamauga Tackle & Outdoors

Looking to support a small business? Look no further than Lake Chickamauga Tackle & Outdoor where they seek to provide the necessities for commercial, professional, and recreational anglers. They also offer live bait.

Talkin’ Tackle Outfitter & Lodge

Along with live bait, tackle, and other fishing goods, Talkin’ Tackle offers a three-bedroom lodge for fishermen looking to get away and hit the river for a relaxing weekend. While you’re there, you can also grab some advice from their co-owners, the Wishin’ I Was Fishin’ guides.

Jack’s Bait & Tackle

With 58 years under their belt in February, Jack’s is the longest running family-owned bait shop in Chattanooga. For the past five years, they have won second place as the best outdoor specialty store in the Chattanooga Times Free Press’ Best of the Best awards. They offer live bait (including minnows, crickets, red worms, and more) as well as custom-made bait and tackle.

Hog Farmer Bait Company

Located just outside of Chattanooga in Soddy Daisy, this local store proudly offers products made in the USA. With rigs, jigs, swimbaits, and more, Hog Farmer Bait Company has everything you need for a day out on the river.

Fly Fishing Shops

While it can be a relaxing hobby, fly fishing is no easy feat, especially if you don’t have the right gear. Just like with bait and tackle, Chattanooga has shops focused on meeting all of your fly fishing needs.

The Hatch Outfitters

Offering fly rods and lines, waders and boots, and more, The Hatch Outfitters does it all. And, if you’re looking for more than just gear, this shop also offers guide services. Whether you’re a new angler or season pro, Hatch Outfitters will take you out for a day on the river.

Bass Pro Shops


While also offering typical bait and tackle, Bass Pro Shops is also an excellent choice for all things fly fishing. Located in Chattanooga’s East Ridge area, this store is an easy spot to run in and grab supplies before heading out for a day on the river. They offer the usual fly rods, lines, waders, and accessories while also selling essentials like polarized sunglasses and sun protection apparel.

TWRA Fishing License

Before you head out on the water to go bass fishing or fly fishing, it’s important to make sure you have your TWRA Fishing License and that it’s up to date. If you need to purchase a license or are due for a renewal, you can do so at the stores below:

  • Lake Chickamauga Tackle & Outdoors
  • Jack’s Bait & Tackle
  • Academy Sports + Outdoors
  • Bass Pro Shops

If you’d rather purchase your license online, there are a couple places you can do so. Head to Go Outdoors Tennessee to purchase a fishing license through their website. You can also purchase and store your license using the On the Go app (available in the app store and on Google Play).

Fishing Spots in and Near Chattanooga

Once you have your fishing license secured and purchased all your fishing equipment, it’s time to hit the water for a day of fun and relaxation. Whether you’re looking to catch bluegill, trout, catfish, or other varieties, here are just a few of the prime fishing spots located in and around the Scenic City:

Harrison Bay State Park

Harrison Bay State Park

Only 30 minutes from downtown Chattanooga, Harrison Bay is the perfect venue for all things outdoors, whether you plan to go boating, swimming, fishing, or camping. With over 35,000 acres of the lake accessible, this is the perfect place to spend a day on the water, especially if you’re looking to catch bluegill or bass.

Chickamauga Dam

Owned and operated by the Tennessee Valley Authority, the Chickamauga Dam is a local favorite for fishing, especially if you’re interested in catching largemouth bass. The dam also offers a beach area, boat ramp, and fishing pier.

Hiwassee River

Though an hour away from Chattanooga, the Hiwassee River is worth the drive. With consistent water temperatures all year long, trout fishing is especially popular at this spot, and you may even find some brook trout. Once you tire of fishing, you can also enjoy camping and hiking while taking in the scenic views of the river.

Tellico River

Located in Monroe County, and upwards of an hour away from Chattanooga, lies the Tellico River. With incredible fishing opportunities, this is the perfect spot for an all-day fishing road trip. The area boasts 30,000 acres of backcountry including three rivers that are perfect for catching brown, rainbow, and brook trout.

Once you have the necessary gear and you’ve picked the perfect fishing spot, you’re ready to get started. Happy fishing!

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