Norris Lake is the largest reservoir on a Tennessee River tributary. It extends 73 miles upstream from the mouth of the Clinch River and 56 miles up the Powell River from Norris Dam. This dam represents the first Tennessee Valley Authority (TVA) project. Construction began in 1933, and the lake was opened to the public in 1936.

The parks that TVA constructed around the lake became the focus of Tennessee's state park system. A popular tourist and recreation boating destination, the lake offers boating, fishing, water skiing, swimming and scuba diving. Other recreational activities include golfing, four-wheeling, hiking, tennis, and camping.

Fishing

Norris Lakes offers many greate opportunities for fishing. The Tennessee state record, brown trout was caught in the Clinch River below Norris Dam and also a 42.8-pound muskie in 1983. Anglers can enjoy over 56 fish species including spotted bass, crappie, largemouth bass, smallmouth bass, walleye and more. Bring your boat, rent a boat or hire a fishing guide, it is all available at Norris Lake.

Search Norris Lake Resources
    Coordinates:
36.2242N -84.0914W
Map It:
Lake Type:
Reservoir
Surface Area:
33,840 acres
Maximu Depth:
145 ft
Elevation:
1020 ft
Normal Water Clarity:
10 ft
Major City:
Knoxville
Airport:
Knoxville

Boaters will enjoy over 20 marinas and 59 access sites located along the lake's 800 miles of shoreline. Most marinas offer full service including boat rentals, accommodations, supplies, fishing tackle, and restaurants.

• TN Fishing Licenses
• TN 2012 Statewide Limits and Regulations
• TN Fish Consumption Advisories
• TN Wildlife Resource Agency
• Norris Dam State Park