Watts Bar Lake

Gateway to History and Outdoor Recreation.

Shoreline Miles: 771 miles / Surface Acres: 39,000 acres

Watts Bar Lake

The largest TVA reservoir in the 9 Lakes region, is a top destination for both birding and fishing. Its extensive tributaries and marshy shorelines create ideal nesting habitat for osprey, as well as a variety of other waterfowl and wading birds. Anglers are drawn to the lake for its healthy populations of bass, crappie, and catfish, while nature enthusiasts enjoy spotting wildlife along its quiet coves and inlets. With its diverse ecosystems and recreational opportunities, Watts Bar Lake offers something for everyone who loves the outdoors.
Plan Your Trip

Birding

Watts Bar Lake in East Tennessee is a premier birdwatching destination, offering a rich tapestry of habitats that attract a diverse array of bird species year-round. The lake’s expansive wetlands and forested shorelines provide ideal environments for both migratory and resident birds. Along with the largest inland osprey nesting populations in the Southeast, other birds include eat blue herons, black-crowned night herons, double-crested cormorants, and various species of egrets can be observed, particularly during the spring and summer months.
Early mornings and late afternoons are optimal viewing times. Explore the lake’s birding opportunities by accessing areas such as the Long Island Wildlife Management Area, which is accessible only by boat. This area provides a tranquil setting for observing nesting birds and other wildlife

Fishing

Watts Bar Lake offers anglers a diverse fishing experience, particularly in its grassy underwater areas. The lake’s aquatic vegetation, including hydrilla, coontail, and milfoil, provides excellent cover for bass and crappie, especially during the fall months. For crappie, both black and white species are abundant, with peak fishing occurring during the spawning period in early spring. . After the spawn, crappie move to deeper waters, where night fishing with lights can be particularly effective. The presence of mossback fish habitats further enhances the fishing environment by attracting baitfish.

Local Flavor Spotlight

Ready to Dive In? Whether you’re dreaming of a lakeside retreat or an adventurous mountain escape, we’ve got you covered. Check out these locations, or reach out to us for personalized recommendations tailored to your perfect getaway. Your next adventure is just a click away!.
Obed Wild and Scenic River
Rockwood RV Resort and Marina
Quail Hunting, Fishing, Fine Dining