Caney Fork
Of all the rivers I've had the honor of guiding, The Caney will always hold a special place in my heart. I was 5 years old the first time my father took me to the Caney Fork and it was there that my lifetime love of trout angling began. The river was primarily a put and take river back in those days, but progressive regulations have really put the Caney Fork on the map.
The Caney Fork is one of the largest tributaries to the Cumberland River. In fact, we often call it "The Little Cumby". It's located about an hour east of Nashville on interstate 40. Cookeville lies about 20 minutes to the east of the Caney and is a great place to find lodging, dining, and shopping.
Helpful Caney Fork Area Links
Cumberland Transit Fly Shop (Nashville)
TWRA has implemented these progressive regulations on the Caney Fork River. These regulations have been very beneficial to the fish and the quality of the fishery. More trophy quality fish are released to be caught by other happy anglers.
Click on bottom right corner to view larger map
The tailwater begins at the foot of the USCOE Center Hill Dam. Coldwater releases from the dam provide suitable conditions for trout almost all the way to Carthage. Much like the Cumberland River, the Caney's riverbed is comprised mostly of gravel and the occasional gravel bar. Rolling hills and sheer rock bluffs line the river and provide a beautiful back drop for a day of fishing.
The food base on the Caney Fork is primarily midge based. We do see a good amount of sow bugs, scuds and craneflies. Several species of caddis and mayflies show from time to time but are typically sporadic at best.
The best method for success is light nymphing with small nymphs and light, fluorocarbon tippets. Indicators are also used but special care must be taken to keep the indicators small and inconspicuous. Streamer fishing can also be productive for finding the larger trout.
Caney Fork River Trout Fishing Regulations
- Total daily creel of all trout (rainbow, brown and brook) in combination is 5 fish
- Rainbow Trout: 5 per day, 14–20 inch protected length range, only one fish over 20 inches may be harvested
- Brook Trout: 5 per day, 14–20 inch protected length range, only one fish over 20 inches may be harvested
- Brown Trout: 1 per day, 24 inch minimum length limit