What to bring
Tackle for muskellunge
Three picks from the musky checklist that work for the fish here. Affiliate links: buying through them pays this site a small commission at no extra cost to you.
Spending more? The bigger purchases, compared side by side:
The fish
Muskellunge in Tennessee
Muskellunge are native to the Cumberland River drainage in Tennessee and are stocked by TWRA in several lakes and rivers. The state record, 43 lb 14 oz, came from Melton Hill in 2017. Several of the best musky waters have a 50 in minimum, so almost every fish is released.
How to tell a muskellunge
A long, pike shaped body, light olive to silver with dark bars or spots, and a mouth full of teeth. The tail lobes are pointed. Also called musky, muskie.
Where to catch them
Best muskellunge water in Tennessee
Where muskellunge fishing is strongest. Each page lists every public ramp, pier and bank access on that water, with directions.
Other lakes and rivers with muskellunge
Limits
Tennessee muskellunge limits
Statewide: 1 a day, 36 in minimum. These 4 lakes and rivers have their own rules, which replace the statewide limit there.
| Water | Daily limit | Length | Where or when |
|---|---|---|---|
| Caney Fork River | 1 | 50 in minimum | Above Center Hill Dam, including Collins, Calfkiller and Rocky rivers, Cane Creek and tributaries |
| Center Hill Lake | 1 | 50 in minimum | |
| Dale Hollow Lake | 1 | 50 in minimum | |
| Melton Hill Lake | 1 | 50 in minimum | Muskies not kept must be released immediately; no culling |
From the 2026–27 Tennessee Fishing Guide (TWRA), in effect 1 August 2026 to 31 July 2027, checked 25 September 2026. Rules change, so check the guide before you keep a fish.