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Shoreline of a Tennessee lake

Five Great Tennessee Lakes for Pontoon Boating

 

There's nothing like pontoon boating in the South, with its natural beauty, fun family atmosphere, and great fishing. Tennessee has some of the region's most scenic and relaxing lakes for enjoying a summer weekend on the boat with your family. Whether you live there or are towing your Bennington pontoon boat there from out of state for a day trip or a longer stay, here are five great choices.

 

Watts Bar Lake

Known as the "King of the Southern Great Lakes," Watts Bar Lake has over 722 miles of shoreline and 39,000 acres of water surface. Home to numerous bird species as well as spotted bass, crappie, and largemouth bass, the lake is a perfect place for bird watching or fishing. There are nine marinas and plenty of wide-open stretches of water for relaxed cruising or getting up to speed for tubing or skiing.

 

Chickamunga Lake

Open from March until August when water levels are the highest, Chickamunga Lake has over 800 miles of shoreline with eight parks and two wildlife centers. Top activities include pontoon boating, swimming, jet skiing, and fishing. Visitors often take a break from the water to enjoy the hiking and camping opportunities.

 

Cherokee Lake

Located in Panther Creek State Park, Cherokee Lake is a reservoir that was formed by damming the Holston River. Surrounded by the Clinch Mountain Range, the lake offers breathtaking views to take in while cruising. As a break from boating and other water sports, you can hike on some of the state park's 17 trails.

 

Norris Lake

Surrounded by rock formations, forest, and hills, Norris Lake is 85 square miles of gorgeous boating atmosphere. A full service lake with plenty of marinas, boat ramps, and camping grounds, Norris is easy to access and offers tons of activities for the whole family. Norris Dam State Park offers camping, cabins and more, including the Lenoir Museum Cultural Complex, featuring a pioneer museum, an 18th century grist mill, and other historic sights and artifacts.

 

Old Hickory Lake

A popular fishing lake just 35 minutes from Nashville, Old Hickory Lake has plenty of sauger and walleye, 41 access sites, and eight public marinas. While you're there, take in the Old Hickory Lake Arboretum, which features over 60 species of trees and shrubs.

 

These and dozens more lakes await you, your pontoon boat, and your family in Tennessee. Find a Bennington pontoon boat dealer in Tennessee or wherever you live, and let us know about your adventures in The Volunteer State.