Anglers now have new access to the Caney Fork River in Smith County thanks to a partnership between the Tennessee Department of Transportation, Tennessee Department of Tourist Development and the Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency. A new parking area and access trail to the Caney Fork River is now open at the I-40 Welcome Center in Smith County at mile marker 267. The Welcome Center can be reached by both eastbound and westbound traffic on I-40. The new access area was developed to provide safe, legal access to the popular river for fishing.
"The Caney Fork River is widely known as a great place for trout fishing and the new access area at the I-40 Welcome Center will provide anglers with a safe place to park and fish," said TDOT Commissioner Gerald Nicely. "This new access area will help reduce illegal parking and trespassing on private property to gain entry to the river."
The Caney Fork River is routinely stocked with rainbow, brown and brook trout. Special trout regulations apply and a fishing license with trout privileges is required.
"Thousands of anglers make trips to the Caney Fork River each year to enjoy trout fishing," said Tourist Development Commissioner Susan Whitaker. "We are pleased to partner with the Department of Transportation and Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency to provide better access to this popular fishing destination."
The angler parking area is connected to a road within the existing Welcome Center and provides parking for 12 vehicles. Signs are posted designating the area as "Angler Parking." Information on parking area rules, safety information and special trout regulations are also posted in the parking area. The site provides walk-in access to the Caney Fork River.
The Caney Fork River flows are regulated by Center Hill Dam, so anglers should check the Tennessee Valley Authority's water release schedules before fishing. The schedule can be found on the Tennessee Valley Authority's website at www.tva.gov/lakes/cnh_r.htm or by calling 1-800-238-2264.