Fishing, Boating and Other Adventures on the Lakes of the East Tennessee River Valley
(PRWEB) July 02, 2013 -- The East Tennessee River Valley is sometimes known as the “Great Lakes of the South” because it hosts seven Tennessee Valley Authority lakes that impound millions of acre-feet of water and offer a multitude of boating, fishing, swimming, waterskiing, camping, picnicking and hiking opportunities, as well as a variety of water-related events.
TVA was established in 1933 to harness the river and be the Tennessee River Valley’s main source of power. It built the dams, created the lakes, enhances habitat for wildlife, and monitors the health of the water all while creating a lake lifestyle. Fishing and boating rose in popularity and accessibility making way for a breadth of tournaments, festivals, tours and fun for the whole family.
Nestled in the Clinch River Valley at the base of the Cumberland Mountains, Norris Lake has over 33,000 acres of water and over 800 miles of mostly undeveloped shoreline. Renowned for its fishing, Norris Lake boasts over 56 species of fish, including spotted bass, largemouth bass, smallmouth bass, crappie, and walleye. The cool water below Norris Dam offers excellent brown and rainbow trout fishing. Full service marinas offer boat slip rentals, cabins and camping sites, guides and all amenities for a day on the lake. From October 14- 27, guided boat trips allow visitors to see the vibrant fall colors.
“Norris Lake has long been a favorite spot for vacationers and fishing enthusiasts,” says Julie Graham, President/CEO, Union County Chamber of Commerce. “With the expansions of amenities at the marinas and more interest in adventure tourism, we are seeing more visitors, who have traveled longer distances to experience the lake".
During the summer, boaters especially look forward to the July 4 holiday and it is known for huge celebrations on the water. One of these celebrations can be found in Kingston, TN on Watts Bar Lake. Smokin’ on the Water is a three day event beginning on July 2 and ending with the fireworks display on the 4th at the city park. Spectators for the grand fireworks display line up in their boats to watch the finale after a long day of boat races, live music, children’s activities, and indulging in food from the many vendors in the park.
Tellico Lake is formed at the apex of Fort Loudoun and Watts Bar lakes creating a haven for fisherman and boaters. Like Norris, Tellico has pristine fishing conditions and does not disappoint with an abundance of bass, crappie, and catfish. A 24 mile nature trail meanders through the wilderness and offers breathtaking views of the serene lake.
Fort Loudoun Lake connects the headwaters of the Tennessee River at the convergence of the French Broad and Holston rivers to Tellico and Watts Bar lakes. The shoreline is dotted with marinas, parks, clubs, a university, nature preserves, and weekly events. In the fall, the Vol Navy, a cohort of University of Tennessee Football fans and devoted boaters, is out in full force in downtown Knoxville near Volunteer Landing Marina. With a multitude of places to eat and play along the three-mile Volunteer Landing River Walk, it is a popular meeting place for lake enthusiasts. NavCal River Rides offers historical sightseeing cruises and seasonal theme-based tours on the lake.
Douglas Lake, tucked into the foothills of the Great Smoky Mountains on the French Broad River, is a prime fishing area for bass fishermen. The lake will be swarmed by devoted anglers for the Oakley Big Bass Tournament headquartered in Dandridge, TN on October 19-20. Bass fisherman hungry for the bite of “the big one” will be out to compete for the grand prize and recognition as Big Bass Champion. To register or obtain additional information about this and other bass tournaments, anglers can contact the Bass Pro Shop in Kodak, TN. Dandridge, a small town with charming historic center, was recently voted “Best Small Town on the Water” by readers and fans of "Life on Water Magazine".
Harrison Bay State Park on Chickamauga Lake celebrated its 75th year in June of 2013. This park was developed by TVA as a demonstration recreation center to show local communities and visitors the value of the lake. During the summer this lake and park will be filled with families hiking, boating, fishing, and participating in various watersports. Anglers can expect to catch bass, bluegill, and catfish. Other attractions include an Olympic sized swimming pool, an award-winning Jack Nicklaus golf course, and camping in rustic cabins.
Take a look at the East Tennessee River Valley Geotourism MapGuide to learn more about these recreational opportunities and other geotourism venues and adventures and find out what makes this region a National Geographic Destination.
The East Tennessee River Valley Geotourism MapGuide, a partnership in sustainable travel and tourism with National Geographic, is an online planning guide to a region “Where Rivers and Mountains Meet,” from the Smoky Mountains through Knoxville, Chattanooga and North Georgia. The MapGuide is a program coordinated by the Southeast Watershed Forum, a nonprofit organization helping communities protect and enhance their land and water resources.
Jane Fowler, Southeast Watershed Forum, http://www.tennesseerivervalleygeotourism.org, 865-450-5188, [email protected]
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