Fishing on Watauga Lake

Q & A with C&C Outfitters Chip Chambers

Watauga Lake is one of the most popular fishing destinations in Tennessee and it’s no surprise why. With its clear waters and abundant fish species, it's a fisherman's paradise. We had the chance to catch up with C&C Outfitters Fishing Guide Chip Chambers to get his insider tips and recommendations for a successful day on the lake.

Q: What are some of the most popular fish species found in the lake, and what techniques do you recommend for catching them? A: According to Chip, Watauga Lake is home to a diverse range of fish species including Largemouth, Smallmouth, and Spotted Bass, as well as Crappie, Walleye, Rainbow, and Lake Trout. He recommends using a 4" worm fished with a 3/16 oz slip sinker or drop shot from May to November for great results.

Q: What are the best times of year to fish at the lake, and what factors should anglers consider when planning a trip? A: Chip suggests that later April to early June is a great time to catch Bass and Walleye, while November is ideal for Crappie fishing. Anglers should keep in mind that there is heavy recreational boat traffic during the Summer, so always be aware of boats and stay safe.

Q: What safety tips do you have for novice anglers or those new to the lake? A: Chip reminds anglers to always wear a life preserver and kill switch, and to keep a change of clothes in the boat during Winter and early Spring. He also emphasizes the importance of being aware of other boats on the lake, especially during the busy Summer months.

Q: What are some of your favorite spots or techniques for catching fish at the lake, and why? A: Chip's go-to technique for catching fish at Watauga Lake is using a 4" worm fished with a 3/16 oz slip sinker or drop shot from May to November.

Q: Are there any special regulations or conservation efforts in place at the lake that anglers should be aware of? A: Chip encourages catch and release on all Bass, and reminds anglers of the 5 Bass aggregate limit per day on Black Bass. He advises checking local regulations before fishing.

We want to thank Chip Chambers of C&C Outfitters for taking the time to share his expertise with us. If you're interested in booking a fishing trip with Chip and the team, you can reach them at 423-707-8821, via email at [email protected], or on Facebook at C & C Outfitters.

THIS WEEKS NEWSLETTER WAS SPONSORED BY CONNECT FISHING LEAGUE ONLINE FISHING TOURNAMENTS

Are you looking for a fun and exciting way to challenge yourself as a fisherman on Watauga Lake? Join the Connect Fishing League and participate in our South East Region February Bass Tournament! Whether you are a seasoned angler or just starting out, this tournament offers something for everyone.

The tournament runs from February 13th to February 19th and is open to all anglers fishing on Watauga Lake. You do not need to be a member of the league to participate, but members have their online tournament software fee waived. The cost to join the league is only $20 per year.

The tournament is a length-based competition, with the total length of your best five largemouth or smallmouth bass determining your score. And with the tournament spanning over multiple days, you have plenty of time to perfect your techniques and catch the biggest fish.

The online format of the tournament offers many advantages, including easy registration and real-time scoring updates. You can register for the event for only $25. To get started, simply click the button below:

So grab your gear and join the Connect Fishing League for a fun and exciting tournament! If you have any questions on this event please reach out to the Tournament Director Mike Stridde [email protected]

Tight lines and happy fishing!