Great Fishing Hole and Park for Families and Kids

Herbert Holt Park, located on the right, as you are coming into Gatlinburg, is a subtle quiet park hidden away from the bustling city. It features a pavilion, play area, walking trail, and free fishing for kids under 12 in the river! The pavilion can be reserved, please call the Gatlinburg Community Center for reservations. The city of Gatlinburg is the only city in Tennessee which stocks the rivers weekly with Rainbow Trout to provide the experience of trout fishing for visitors and locals alike. There are very few cities in the nation that spend resources to stock animals for the enjoyment of the population, and Gatlinburg is one of them. Gatlinburg also provides many children’s fishing areas to allow children to participate in one of the great outdoor traditions of the Smokies. The trout-stocking project began in 1980 and continues strong today. In 2005, Gatlinburg ordered a large upgrade of their trout farm, ensuring a steady supply of trout for city waters. Anywhere from 35,000 to 45,000 fish ranging from 8-14 inches long are placed in Gatlinburg streams annually. The trout hatchery is located at Herbert Holt Park, just past the Gatlinburg entrance from Pigeon Forge.