This Popular Tennessee Trout Pond in Cherokee National Forest Is Finally Reopening

A popular trout fishing spot in Tennessee reopened March 1, 2026, after having been closed to the public since 2021 for renovations. The 2-acre Green Cove Pond, near Tellico Plains in the Cherokee National Forest, welcomes licensed anglers to return with a restored fish habitat and improved public access. The healthier pond now supports stronger and more abundant rainbow trout, as well as improvements to the local ecosystem.

The Pond’s History and Need for Renovation

Green Cove Pond was built in the 1960s to provide a public fishing spot stocked with rainbow trout. It became a popular fishing hole in the Cherokee National Forest and was last renovated 30 years ago. The 650,000-acre Cherokee National Forest, located in the heart of the Appalachian Mountains, is the largest region of public land in Tennessee. The area is culturally significant, as part of the ancestral home of the Cherokee Nation. It’s also a key habitat for many species of plants and animals.

Safe public access to the pond had deteriorated over the years. The sidewalk and pier foundations had eroded, making the area unsafe.

Further, the pond had accumulated years of sedimentation, causing the water to become shallow. When ponds grow shallow, the water warms up, and the oxygen levels decrease. Additionally, a water valve to control the water levels had broken. All of this contributed to harmful conditions for the rainbow trout, which require deeper and cooler waters to thrive. Trout are cold-water fish and will retreat to the lower and cooler depths during hot summers. What’s more, trout require high levels of dissolved oxygen, which warm water does not contain.

What Was Done During the Renovation?

The Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency announced that over 500 cubic yards of sediment were removed during a multi-year renovation process. The pond water was drained in August 2021 to begin improvements. A broken water valve was replaced so that water levels can be better managed. Retaining walls were built to stabilize the shoreline and prevent erosion. And finally, public access to the pond was made ADA-compliant with expanded and renovated sidewalks, parking, and picnic areas.

A new floating fishing pier and an extended trail around the pond also bring greater access to the public. Chief of Fisheries, Jason Henegar, said in a statement, “We are grateful to see the completion of this project and look forward to many more years of expanded angler access to the area and superb trout fishing.”

Ecological Impact

Draining the pond and construction work on the surrounding infrastructure temporarily disrupted the aquatic environment and local plant and animal life. However, by removing excess sedimentation, the water quality improved, and the size of the aquatic habitat increased with the greater depths. The cleaner water and stabilized shoreline help improve the ecosystem, not only for the trout but also for other invertebrates and aquatic creatures living in the pond.

Recreational Impact and What Anglers Can Expect

Anglers should expect increased trout rates thanks to a healthier environment and recent restocking of the pond. Although fishing is open to anyone with a license, the pond is a particularly popular spot for families with small children, seniors, and anglers with disabilities. The nearby Tellico River, while a prime trout fishing spot, can be challenging for anglers with mobility impairments. The river has steep riverbeds, rocky shorelines, and some fishing areas that are only accessible by hiking trails, making it potentially difficult to access. The floating fishing pier and expanded trails offer more areas for fishing around the pond.

How to Access Green Cove Pond

Green Cove Pond is located near Tellico Plains in the Cherokee National Forest. If you are heading there, locals recommend starting at the Green Cover Angler Store and Lodge. From there, fishing areas along the Tellico River are, as the lodge website states, “literally a step off your back deck.” Follow signs to Green Cove Pond and watch for possible detours, as some roads may be closed. Licenses are required to fish, and the pond has limits of seven trout per day with no length limit.