Tennessee’s freshwater fishing opportunities in the state’s beautiful lakes and streams are second to none. Despite not being on the coast, the state offers no shortage of places to fish for some of your favorites. Whether for pure enjoyment or to catch your next meal, you’ll never catch anything without the right bait and gear. Start your fishing adventure with a trip to these 10 best bait and tackle shops in Tennessee.
This shop is everything that other bait shops should aspire to be. Not only do they carry bait and tackle, they also offer reel servicing and other maintenance to keep your equipment looking and functioning like new. They’ve also got an on-site deli, since fish aren’t the only ones who need to eat.
Jack’s has been a Chattanooga icon in the fishing community for over 40 years. They know what you need to catch fish in the area, and you can find it all at their store. While you’re there, you can stock up on all the extras, like soda, beer, snacks, and your fishing license.
If you’re looking for that hometown service experience, you’ll find it at Jerry’s Bait Shop. The folks here are serving up a heaping helping of southern hospitality with a side of the best bait in the area. They also carry a wide range of other outdoor gear, including duck and turkey calls, bows, and guns.
For live bait in Memphis, you’ll want to make Gator Brown’s your first choice. In addition, you can get your rod and reel serviced while you peruse the shop. They also make their own weights.
Poindexter’s has been serving its community for over three generations. Their fans love them because they always have a large selection of fishing tackle in stock. In addition to serving your fishing needs, you can also count on them for hunting and archery supplies.
This family owned-and operated business has steadily grown its following since the 1970s when it first opened by Big Charlie himself. It’s your one-stop shop for high-quality fishing gear and the best breakfast in town.
A trip to this bait shop means you get the full fishing experience right here—including the fishing spot! Located on the lake, the shop is tucked inside a camping and RV park so you can extend your fishing trip as long as you like.
This friendly little gas station pit stop offers the best bait for fishing in the area. You can fuel up at their deli, grab some extra fuel for the boat, and stock up on snacks and drinks, all in a single trip.
Previously South Third Bait and Tackle, In-N-Out in Memphis has been serving the community for over 25 years. The locally-owned shop provides high-quality bait at unbeatable prices. Stop in for helpful advice and guidance, too.
Does anything compare to the feeling of a small-town shop? Not only is the staff welcoming and informative, but they’ll also provide you with all of the bait and tackle you’ll ever need for a successful fishing trip. If you’re in the Soddy-Daisy area, you simply cannot pass through without visiting.
Alli Hill is a freelance content writer and mom of two. She spends most of her free time exploring the great outdoors by trail or by kayak. She is also the founder and director of FreelanceSpeak, a blog to support other freelance creatives.
