🐟 Why wild fish matter:
Wild fish are a vital part of our rivers and streams here in East Tennessee. They help keep insect populations balanced, cycle nutrients through the water and land, and provide food for birds, mammals, and even other fish. Healthy fish populations also support local recreation, tourism, and the cultural heritage of fishing in our mountain communities.

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Simply put: protecting wild fish helps keep our rivers clean, healthy, and thriving for everyone — people and wildlife alike.​

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✅ Keep our rivers clean: trash, plastics, chemicals, and yard runoff can harm fish and the insects they eat.

✅ Don’t introduce pet fish or bait fish into local streams — it can spread disease and outcompete native species.

✅ Respect fishing regulations and seasons: these protect vulnerable species and keep fish populations sustainable.

✅ Avoid disturbing spawning areas (often shallow gravel beds in spring and early summer).

🐟 Many fish you see in East Tennessee rivers — like rainbow trout, brook trout, and smallmouth bass — are beloved by anglers and also help keep insect populations balanced.

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📸 Want to learn more? Visit the Erwin National Fish Hatchery right here in town — they raise trout for local rivers and offer educational tours. They also host numerous educational events for other wildlife so keep watching their page! Want to get involved? Visit Friends of Erwin National Fish Hatchery for more info. 

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⚠️ Important Note:
We’re not biologists, and this information is for general education.