Fishing Parksville Lake
AKA: Ocoee Lake, Parksville Reservoir
Popular Fish Species Parksville Lake, TN
Largemouth Bass Fishing
Parksville Lake is a popular bass fishing lake with locals. Anglers can also catch smallmouth bass and spotted bass, which reside here in decent numbers. Come enjoy fishing for largemouth bass year round. A history of careful fisheries management by the Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency has helped to maintain a thriving bass fishery. In Parksville Lake, bass often move shallow and become fairly aggressive when they are in a feeding mood. Use shallow crankbaits around rip rap. Around grass, use worms, jigs, topwater and spinnerbaits. In deeper water, drop shot rigs, big worms, jigs and spoons are good options. In winter, spend your time fishing deeper structure where the bass spend much of their time.
Black Crappie Fishing
A nice population of black crappie resides in Parksville Lake. Crappie tend to run in schools, and once a school is located, there is a good chance for catching significant numbers. Crappie fishing is easy and requires simple, basic gear. Virtually any fishing pole, reasonably small line and crappie jigs or small hooks baited with live bait, creates the ideal setup. Add a bobber and you can set the depth you prefer the bait to maintain. The best time to catch crappie tends to be at dawn and dusk. Live bait and small jigs are the most common method for crappie here. Because crappie prefer cover and structure, locate brush and vegetation in appropriate water depths. Using a fish finder can help locate schools of crappie, which tend to stack vertically around cover. In spring and fall focus on the 8 to 12 foot range. As the crappie move deep in summer and winter, follow points out deep, as well as find ledges near channels in deeper water.
Muskie Fishing
Fishing for muskellunge in Parksville Lake is improving each year and could provide a trophy fish on any given cast. Giant musky roam these waters and are aggressive eaters. Muskie fishing can bring some exciting moments to your fishing day, as big muskies are spectacular, and strong fighters. Use a strong rod in medium- to medium-heavy action, with heavy line - 20# or heavier. Because of their sharp teeth, steel leaders are highly recommended. Muskie have a big mouth so use big baits, same baits you would use for bass but in larger sizes. Topwater, spinnerbaits, crankbaits and jerkbaits all work well for hungry muskie. The best time of year to chase these big fish is Spring, and then again in Fall as the water temperature starts cooling.
Fish species to fish for...
Guide to fishing for largemouth bass, smallmouth bass, spotted bass, channel catfish, flathead catfish, black crappie, rainbow trout, brown trout, bluegill, redear sunfish, rock bass and warmouth at Ocoee Lake in Tennessee.
Parksville Lake Fishing Video
Pretty as a picture post card, Parksville Reservoir, aka Ocoee Lake, is a 1,900-acre lake in the southeast corner of the state, at Ocoee, TN. Home to the state record spotted bass, this cool-water reservoir supports a broad variety of fish species. Trout, bass, crappie, catfish and a variety of sunfish populate these waters. There are 47 miles of shoreline to explore, and much of the north shore is available for fishing from shore - thanks to Highway 64 paralleling the lake.
Parksville Lake, also known as Ocoee Lake, is a picturesque reservoir located in southeastern Tennessee. This beautiful lake is nestled in the scenic Cherokee National Forest and offers anglers a serene fishing experience, as well as opportunities for boating and camping.
Parksville Lake is known for its excellent fishing, particularly for bass. Largemouth bass and smallmouth bass are the primary targets for anglers, and the lake's structure, including submerged trees, rock formations, and drop-offs, provides ideal habitats for these species. Anglers can employ various techniques such as casting with crankbaits, jigs, and soft plastics to entice the bass. The lake's healthy bass population and the opportunity to catch trophy-sized fish make it a popular destination for bass fishing enthusiasts.
In addition to bass, Parksville Lake is home to other popular fish species. Crappie fishing is productive, with both black and white crappie providing anglers with ample opportunities for a successful day on the water. Anglers can target crappie near submerged structures and brush piles using jigs, minnows, or small spinners. The lake also supports populations of catfish, including channel catfish and blue catfish, which can be targeted using various baits and techniques. Other fish species found in the lake include sunfish and sauger, offering additional fishing options for anglers.
Parksville Lake's combination of excellent fishing, boating opportunities, and camping facilities make it a sought-after destination for outdoor enthusiasts in Tennessee. Whether you're targeting bass, crappie, or catfish, enjoying a leisurely boat ride, or camping by the lakeside, Parksville Lake offers a serene and enjoyable environment for all who visit.
There are several places around the lake to launch fishing and pleasure boats. During winter lake levels drop below the ramps, so four-wheel drive vehicles are recommended for launching. Canoes and kayaks are a nice option for fishing here.
Primary fish species residing in Parksville Lake
Click images for fishing tips and details about each species.
Ocoee Lake Amenities
Marina: YES
Boat Rental: YES
Boat Launch Ramp: YES
Campgrounds: YES
RV Hookups: YES
Lodging: YES
Convenience Store: YES
Bait & Tackle: YES
Restaurant: YES
Today's Weather & Forecast
Boating is a popular activity on Parksville Lake, thanks to its calm waters and scenic surroundings. Anglers and boating enthusiasts can launch their boats from public ramps and explore the lake's various coves, bays, and open waters. Boaters can enjoy leisurely cruises, engage in water sports activities, or simply relax while taking in the tranquil beauty of the surrounding forested hills.
Fishing Boat Rentals
Lake Ocoee Inn & Marina
Rentals: Canoes and kayaks
423 338-2064
Marinas
Lake Ocoee Inn & Marina
2496 US-64
Benton, TN 37307
423 338-2064
Public Boat Launch Ramps & Landings
Lake Ocoee Docks & Fuel
Located in the northwest corner of the lake, this is a one-lane, concrete ramp with a dock and limited paved parking for vehicles with trailers.
Public Access Boat Ramp
Located mid lake, on the north side of the lake, this is a one-lane, concrete ramp with limited gravel parking.
Fishing Guides On Parksville Lake
If you offer fishing guide services on this lake, please contact us for a free listing, to be posted here.
Fishing License
Click here for a Tennessee Fishing License.
Camping facilities near Parksville Lake provide visitors with the opportunity to extend their stay and fully immerse themselves in the natural beauty of the area. Campgrounds offer amenities such as campsites, picnic areas, and restroom facilities. Camping near Parksville Lake allows anglers and outdoor enthusiasts to enjoy the peaceful ambiance of the lake and its surrounding wilderness.
Campgrounds & RV Parks Nearby
Parksville Lake RV Campground - 423 338-3300
Parksville Reservoir, TN Map - Fishing & Camping Areas
Contact Information
Ocoee Lake
Parksville Lake RV Campground
3171 Highway 64 East
Benton, TN 37307
423 338-3300
Fishing lakes in each state.
082024
Ocoee Lake in Tennessee.
TENNESSEE
Trout, bass, crappie, catfish and panfish fishing in southeast TN.