All Tennessee venues

Dale Hollow Lake

Tennessee

Dale Hollow Lake: key facts at a glance
Species
Water typeLake
LocationTennessee
LicenseTennessee fishing license required — issued by the Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency (TWRA)

Data: GilledIt venue directory, July 2026. Confirm details with the venue or state agency before traveling.

Reading the water…

The key facts for this water are in the table above. No direct contact details are on record.

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About Dale Hollow Lake

Dale Hollow Lake spans the Tennessee-Kentucky line with deep, clear water famed for smallmouth bass above all: the world record smallmouth — 11 lb 15 oz, caught by David Hayes on 9 July 1955 — came from this reservoir and still stands seven decades later, having been delisted for a spell over a disputed affidavit and then reinstated after a Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency investigation. Largemouth bass share the water and national tournaments still visit. This record marks the reservoir itself, which spans both states; check which state license applies to the water you fish.

Details gathered from public sources. Confirm with the venue before travelling.

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Dale Hollow Lake: frequently asked questions

Yes. Dale Hollow Lake is public water in Tennessee, open to anglers with a valid Tennessee fishing license. Access is via public ramps and shore access points; check the state fish and wildlife agency for seasons and any water-specific regulations.

Dale Hollow Lake is stocked with Smallmouth bass, Largemouth bass. Stocks vary by water and season, so check with the venue or the TWRA for the latest reports.

Yes, anglers fishing in Tennessee need a valid state fishing license, even on private waters like Dale Hollow Lake. Licenses are issued by the Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency (TWRA); some states require a separate freshwater/saltwater stamp. Resident, non-resident, and short-term licenses are typically available online. Our Tennessee fishing license guide at /us/blog/tennessee-fishing-license-guide covers current prices, where to buy, and who is exempt.

Directory data as of July 2026.

Plan your visit to Dale Hollow Lake

Check the rules, grab your license, and go fishing. Confirm access and hours with the venue or state agency before traveling.

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