Creek Fishing Regulations

[MidTennFisher]

If I understand correctly, creeks flowing into reservoirs would fall under the state regulations in terms of size and creel limits. Is that correct?

For example, just about every reservoir in the state has a 15" minimum for Largemouth Bass and 18" Minimum for Smallmouth Bass. If I were to fish in a small creek that eventually makes its way into said reservoir, am I only subject to the statewide regulations which would be 5 bass per day in combination of Largemouth/Smallmouth/Spotted but no size limit?

I've been told about certain creeks where it is allowed to harvest smaller Smallmouth because that water falls under statewide regs. Also, where is the line drawn between "creek" and "reservoir"? I just want to make sure I'm correctly informed. I do like to eat Bass and would rather be able to harvest smaller ones and let the larger ones go. They taste better anyway. Thanks.

 

[scn]

There are usually some river mile designations on where it turns from reservoir to river. Give the fisheries section in the regional office in which you will be fishing a call, and they can give you the locations where the regs change.