If you’re planning to fish in the Land Between the Lakes National Recreation Area in 2024, it’s important to understand the fishing license requirements for the states of Kentucky and Tennessee. While the Land Between the Lakes itself does not require a special fishing license, anglers 16 years and older who plan to fish in Kentucky will need to purchase a Kentucky fishing license. In Tennessee, those 13 years and older are required to have a fishing license.
Kentucky Fishing License Requirements
For anglers fishing in Kentucky waters within the Land Between the Lakes, a valid Kentucky fishing license is required for those 16 years and older. Kentucky fishing licenses can be purchased online or at many resorts and local businesses surrounding the Land Between the Lakes. The license fees vary depending on the type of license and the angler’s residency status.
Tennessee Fishing License Requirements
In Tennessee, anglers 13 years and older are required to have a fishing license when fishing within the Land Between the Lakes. Tennessee fishing licenses can also be purchased online or at various locations throughout the state. The license fees depend on the type of license and the angler’s residency status.
Reciprocal Agreement Between Kentucky and Tennessee
There is a reciprocal agreement between Kentucky and Tennessee for some portions of Kentucky Lake. This means that anglers can fish with either a Kentucky or Tennessee fishing license in certain areas of the lake. Specifically, anglers can fish from Eggner’s Ferry Bridge (U.S. Hwy 68/80 in Kentucky) south to the Gov. Ned McWherter Bridge (U.S. Hwy 79 in Tennessee), including all embayments except Blood River in Kentucky. However, anglers must abide by each state’s size and creel limits when fishing waters in that state.
Special Guidelines and Regulations
When fishing in the Land Between the Lakes, anglers should be aware of the specific rules and guidelines set by the recreation area. These include:
- Noting the difference between the states’ possession limits and those of the Land Between the Lakes
- Placing discarded fishing line in the recycling stations located near many of the boat ramps
- Being responsible for any trash generated during the fishing trip, including bait containers and other used items
It’s important to familiarize yourself with these guidelines and regulations before casting your line in the Land Between the Lakes.
Types of Fish and Fishing Locations
The Land Between the Lakes offers a variety of fishing opportunities, with lakes and ponds teeming with fish such as bass, crappie, sauger, catfish, and bluegill. Some popular fishing spots include:
- Hematite Lake: An 83.6-acre lake open to bank fishing and boats without gasoline motors, offering catfish, bream, bluegills, and largemouth bass
- Honker Lake: A 180-acre sub-impoundment of Lake Barkley with a variety of fish species
- Kentucky Lake and Lake Barkley: Offering over 300 miles of undeveloped lake shoreline and providing some of the best locations for sport fishing in the area
Before fishing in any of these waters, anglers should educate themselves on the size and creel limits specific to the Land Between the Lakes, as they may differ from state regulations.
Planning Your Fishing Retreat
With so many fishing opportunities and natural wonders in the Land Between the Lakes, it’s the perfect destination for a relaxing fishing retreat. Consider booking a comfortable cabin or lodge along the shores of Kentucky Lake or Lake Barkley to make the most of your fishing adventure. The area also offers a variety of other attractions and activities, ensuring that you and your family will have plenty of good times and memories to cherish.