Growing up on Douglas Lake, angler and business owner, Hobie Rice knows a thing or two about fishing lures. The sport of angling is about so many variables- skill, equipment, fish, and weather.
A lure is as essential as the bait for fish. The first lures were brought to this country by the English settlers. The lure replaced live bait by mimicking the “action” of live bait, whether the lure mimics a deep dive, zig-zags, or floats near the surface. There are dozens of types and colors of lures to choose from.
At Ledge Hog Fishing Supply in Dandridge, TN, they have reengineered the blade lure for fishing a multiple depths. This is a lure that is popular with professional anglers for its ability to attract trophy size fish.
In May, Cocke County Tourism and Brad Wiegmann from the Fishing Guide Podcast had an opportunity to sit down with Hobie and talk about Douglas Lake fishing and other attractions in Cocke County. Listen inand get a few “tips” on fishing for the big bite.
If you are heading to Douglas Lake for a fishing trip, stop by Bucks an’ Bass to pick up a Ledge Hog lure. Find a place to stay here.
The Adventure Side of the Smokies is a veritable outdoor waterpark for paddlers, float trips, kayak fishing, and swimming, all surrounded by some of Mother Nature’s most beautiful mountains and forests in the southeast.
During this week of National Water Safety, we want to remind you to play it safe on our waters. Each of the rivers offers a different experience, but also different risks.
The Pigeon River is known for its exhilarating whitewater, but the inherent danger comes from the rapids and the rocks.
In the spring, the French Broad can vary in depth and current from rains and extreme weather. Popular for float fishing and backpack paddling, the level of the river and weather conditions are your best guides before entering the river.
The Nolichucky can also vary in water flow and depth. Flooding rains upriver, will create hazardous conditions downriver.
Never enter the water without wearing a personal floatation device (PFD). Even strong swimmers can get caught in a current on the rivers. When the water is high, eddies can form from submerged rocks and trees. Make sure the PFD is sized properly for both adults and for children. PFDs can be purchased locally at most large box retailers in the area if you have forgotten to bring on.
Come play, but play it safe in and around our rivers and lake.
The Great Smoky Mountain National Park is one of the most visited parks in the US, but did you know that the national forests and public lands surrounding GSMP offer an abundance of trails, waterfalls, camping, and pet-friendly options away from the more crowded trails and heavy traffic on the roads? Planning your vacation? Start here in the Gateway to the Smokies.
Your journey begins with the drive. For visitors traveling the south and from the east, consider taking a different route to avoid congested roads and the many traffic lights.
Sitting in the shadow of the national park are two affordable destinations – Newport and Cosby- for your Smokies vacation.
Which are Gateway Exits?
From I 40, make exits 443 (Foothills Parkway), 440 (Wilton Springs), and 435 (Newport, SR321) as your Gateway to the Smokies exits.
Exit 432 needs to be your preferred exit for staying on Douglas Lake and day tripping to your favorite attractions.
When you stay away from the more expensive portions of the Smokies, your vacation will be more relaxing and more affordable. Plus, you are were you will find funky small shops, uncrowded trails, and those mom and pop restaurants that make vacations fun. Parking will not be a worry.
Here are some of our favorite lodging choices to make your basecamp:
Holiday Inn and Suites Express and Hampton Inn are two branded chains in Newport. Depending on the dates of your travel, prices can range from $125 to $180.
If you are bringing your pet, consider the Econo Lodge off exit 440. You will be close to the GSMP, Cherokee National Forest, Douglas Lake, plus an outdoor pool after a day of adventure. Your pet is welcome on the trails of the National Forest and the Martha Sundquist State Forest. One exit up is Hartford, with some great BBQ dining along the Pigeon River.
Camping- New this year is Roamstead. Not only are there traditional campsites, but you can book a cabin or a yurt. Prefer a place along the river? Check out Pigeon River Camping. There are options for RVs, tents, and small cabins.
Cabins- If you are looking for that special place with cozy cabins, crackling campfires, and star filled skies, look no further than Creekwood Inn at Whisper Wood Farms. Not only is their onsite dining, but the Inn will prepare a picnic basket for your day on the trails.
To see more, click here Come see why we call this I40 corridor the “Gateway to the Smokies.”
