What Cedar Lake Offers

Cedar Lake sits in the Cumberland Mountains of east Tennessee, roughly 40 miles north of Knoxville near the town of Jellico. The lake covers about 1,100 acres and reaches depths of 80 feet in places, making it a solid destination for largemouth bass, catfish, and crappie. The water is clear enough in most seasons to sight-fish shallow areas, and the rocky shoreline and submerged timber create the structure that holds fish year-round.

The lake is less crowded than Norris or Watts Bar, which means you can find quiet water on weekends and predictable patterns throughout the year. Access is straightforward — a public boat ramp operates on the north end near the dam, and several small marinas rent boats if you don't have your own. The surrounding terrain is forested and hilly, so expect scenic views but also wind that can kick up quickly in spring and fall.

Key Takeaways

  • Cedar Lake holds largemouth bass year-round, with spring and fall offering the most consistent action in shallow water near structure.
  • Catfish fishing is productive from May through September, especially at night using live bluegill or chicken liver near the dam and deeper channels.
  • A Tennessee fishing license is required for all anglers 13 and older; purchase one online through the Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency before you go.
  • The public boat ramp on the north end is free, but arrive early on weekends because parking fills quickly during peak season.
  • Water levels fluctuate seasonally, so check current conditions with the marina or TWRA before planning your trip, especially in late summer and winter.

Largemouth Bass Seasons and Patterns

Spring (March through May) is the most reliable time to catch largemouth bass at Cedar Lake. Fish move into shallow water to spawn, and they feed aggressively before and after. Focus on rocky points, fallen trees, and the grass beds along the north and west shorelines. Throw crankbaits, soft plastics, and topwater early in the morning, and switch to slower presentations like Texas-rigged worms as the day warms.

Summer (June through August) slows the bite but does not stop it. Bass retreat to deeper structure — the channels between the main lake and creek arms, and the timber piles near the dam. Fish early and late in the day, and do not overlook the deeper ledges in 20 to 40 feet of water. Jigs and swimbaits work better than topwater once the sun climbs.

Fall (September through November) brings another strong bite as water cools and bass return to shallower feeding zones. The transition happens gradually, so watch the water temperature — when it drops below 65 degrees, move back to the shallow structure you fished in spring. Crankbaits and jerkbaits are especially effective during this window.

Winter (December through February) is the slowest season, but bass are still catchable if you fish deep and slow. The main lake channel and the deepest holes near the dam hold most of the fish. Jigging and drop-shotting work better than casting, and patience is essential — you may go hours between bites.

Catfish and Other Species

Channel catfish and flathead catfish both inhabit Cedar Lake, and both are most active from May through September. Fish at night using live bluegill, shad, or chicken liver. The dam area and the deeper channels that feed into the main lake are your best bets. Set multiple rods and wait — catfish fishing here is not fast, but a 20-pound channel cat or a 40-pound flathead makes the patience worthwhile.

White crappie and black crappie spawn in spring and are easy to catch around brush piles and fallen timber in 8 to 15 feet of water. Small jigs and live minnows work equally well. Summer crappie fishing slows considerably, but fall brings another brief window of good action.

Bluegill and other sunfish are abundant and provide good action for children or anyone wanting consistent bites. Fish the shallow grass beds and rocky banks with small jigs or live crickets.

Regulations and Licensing

Tennessee requires a fishing license for all anglers 13 years old and older. You can purchase a one-day, three-day, or annual license through the Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency website or at most sporting goods stores and marinas around Cedar Lake. The cost varies by license type and residency status — non-residents pay more than residents for multi-day and annual licenses.

Bass have a 12-inch minimum length limit and a five-fish daily bag limit. Catfish have no minimum length and no daily bag limit, so you can keep as many as you want. Crappie have a 9-inch minimum and a 30-fish daily bag limit. Check the current TWRA regulations before you fish, because rules change and exceptions apply to certain areas of the lake.

Live bait is allowed, and you can use multiple rods if you have a valid license for each rod. Night fishing is legal, which makes Cedar Lake a good option for catfish anglers who prefer to fish after dark.

Access, Facilities, and Logistics

The primary public boat ramp is located on the north end of the lake near the dam, off Highway 25. The ramp is free and maintained year-round, but parking is limited — on weekends during spring and fall, arrive before 8 a.m. or plan to wait. There is no fuel dock at the public ramp, so fill up in Jellico before you launch.

Two small marinas operate on the lake: Cedar Lake Marina and Jellico Marina, both offering boat rentals, tackle, and basic supplies. Rental boats are typically 16 to 20 feet and cost between $60 and $100 per day, depending on the boat size and season. Call ahead to reserve, especially on weekends.

Lodging options are limited immediately around the lake. Jellico, 5 miles south, has several motels and a few restaurants. Knoxville, 40 miles south, offers full hotel and dining choices if you want more amenities. The nearest tackle shop is in Jellico; stock up on supplies before you arrive because options are sparse.

Water Conditions and Seasonal Considerations

Cedar Lake is a TVA-managed reservoir, so water levels fluctuate based on power generation and seasonal demand. Summer levels are typically stable, but fall and winter can see significant drops — sometimes 10 to 15 feet from peak summer. This affects where fish hold and which shallow areas remain fishable. Check with the marina or the TVA website before your trip to understand current water levels.

Spring rains can muddy the water, especially in the creek arms. The main lake body clears faster than the upper ends, so if visibility is poor, fish the deeper channels and use darker-colored lures. Fall and winter water is usually clear, which makes sight-fishing easier but also makes fish more cautious.

Wind is common in spring and fall, particularly in the afternoon. The north end of the lake is more exposed; the creek arms and coves on the west side offer shelter. Plan your day to fish exposed areas in the morning and move to protected water as the wind picks up.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best time of year to fish Cedar Lake?

Spring (March through May) and fall (September through November) are the most productive seasons for largemouth bass and crappie. Summer is slower but still fishable if you fish early and deep. Winter is the slowest season, but patient anglers can still catch bass in the deepest channels.

Do I need a boat to fish Cedar Lake?

A boat makes fishing easier and gives you access to more water, but you can fish from shore along the public areas near the dam and boat ramp. Shore fishing is most productive in spring when bass are shallow. Boat rentals are available at Cedar Lake Marina and Jellico Marina if you do not have your own.

What should I bring for a day of catfish fishing?

Bring live bluegill or shad, chicken liver, multiple rods, a headlamp or flashlight, and patience. Catfish fishing is a waiting game — set your rods and monitor them. Bring a cooler with ice to keep bait fresh, and plan to fish from dusk through midnight for the best action.

Are there any restrictions on the type of bait I can use?

Live bait is allowed, and cut bait is legal for catfish. Check current TWRA regulations for any seasonal restrictions on specific bait types, as rules can change. Artificial lures are always legal for bass and crappie.

How far is Cedar Lake from Knoxville?

Cedar Lake is approximately 40 miles north of Knoxville, roughly a one-hour drive via I-75 North and Highway 25. Jellico, the nearest town with services, is about 5 miles south of the lake.