Fishing At Calderwood Lake

AKA: Calderwood Reservoir

What to fish for...

Guide to fishing for largemouth bass, smallmouth bass, spotted bass, channel catfish, flathead catfish, black crappie, white crappie, walleye, rainbow trout, bluegill, redear sunfish, rock bass, warmouth, white bass and sauger at Calderwood Lake in Tennessee.

Nestled in the southeastern corner of the state, Calderwood Lake is half in Tennessee, and half in North Carolina. This 514-acre reservoir is a cold-water fishery which is ideal for trout, walleye and smallmouth bass. The lake is also home to crappie, catfish, white bass, sunfish and sauger. There is a canoe and kayak portage near the Calderwood dam, and the only boat launch is located in NC on the east side of the lake off Tapaco Road. Anglers fishing from a boat can fish the entire lake with a NC or TN fishing license. Fishing from shore requires a license for the state in which you are located.

Lake Video
Available Fish Species
Amenities
Today's Weather & Forecast
Boat Launch Ramps
Campgrounds & RV Parks
Map
Contact Info

The purpose of this page is to deliver an overview of this lake, the fishing options, and area amenities. Our goal is to provide info to first time visitors, as well as beginner and novice anglers. We gathered details from personal experience, numerous trusted websites that each offer select bits of information, and videos of fishing activity on the lake. These websites include the Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency, marinas at the lake, campgrounds, boat rental agencies and others. By consolidating this information to one page it allows visitors to see the entire picture, all in one place.

Lake Video

Calderwood Lake, nestled in the mountains of eastern Tennessee, is a hidden gem for anglers seeking a peaceful and rewarding fishing experience. This scenic reservoir, located on the Little Tennessee River, offers excellent fishing opportunities, boating adventures, and camping options.

Calderwood Lake is known for its thriving population of smallmouth bass, making it a paradise for bass anglers. These feisty fish can be found throughout the lake, particularly near rocky shorelines, submerged structures, and deep pools. Anglers can enjoy casting with a variety of lures, including crankbaits, jigs, and soft plastics, to entice the aggressive strikes of smallmouth bass. Calderwood Lake is renowned for producing trophy-sized smallmouth bass, offering anglers the chance to land impressive catches.

In addition to smallmouth bass, Calderwood Lake also supports populations of largemouth bass, crappie, catfish, and sunfish. Largemouth bass can be found in the lake's shallower areas, while crappie fishing is productive around submerged brush piles and standing timber. Catfish enthusiasts can target channel catfish and flathead catfish, which are known to inhabit the deeper sections of the lake. Sunfish, such as bluegill and redear sunfish, provide additional angling opportunities for those looking for some fun panfishing action.

Calderwood Lake's combination of outstanding fishing opportunities, scenic beauty, and peaceful surroundings make it a must-visit destination for anglers and nature lovers. Whether you're targeting trophy smallmouth bass, exploring the lake by boat, or enjoying a relaxing camping trip, Calderwood Lake offers a serene and rejuvenating experience in the heart of Tennessee's natural splendor.

Primary fish species residing in Calderwood Lake

Click images for fishing tips and details about each species.

Calderwood Reservoir Amenities

Marina: NO
Boat Rental: NO
Boat Launch Ramp: YES
Campgrounds: Primitive
RV Hookups: NO
Lodging: NO
Convenience Store: NO
Bait & Tackle: NO
Restaurant: NO

Today's Weather & Forecast

Boating is a popular activity on Calderwood Lake, with its serene waters offering ample opportunities for exploration. Anglers can launch their boats from the lake's public access points and navigate the picturesque waterway. Boaters can cruise along the shorelines, search for productive fishing spots, or simply enjoy the breathtaking scenery that surrounds the lake.

Public Boat Launch Ramps & Landings

Magazine Branch Boat Ramp
Located mid lake, on the north side of the lake, this is a single-lane, concrete ramp with a dock and gravel parking.

Click here for a Tennessee Fishing License.

Camping facilities are available near Calderwood Lake, allowing anglers and outdoor enthusiasts to extend their stay and immerse themselves in the tranquil environment. Campgrounds provide various amenities, including campsites, picnic areas, and restroom facilities, ensuring a comfortable camping experience. Camping near Calderwood Lake allows anglers to wake up to the sounds of nature, ready to embark on another day of fishing or outdoor adventures.