Hiwassee River Lake is a productive, nutrient-rich eutrophic lake in Bradley County, Tennessee. Water quality is graded C based on 1 sampling years through 2026. Compared to the 1 other monitored lakes in Bradley County, Hiwassee River Lake ranks #1 for water quality.
Source: EPA Water Quality Portal sampling records, Tennessee DNR, last sampled 2026-06-16. Grade methodology: LakeGrade methodology.
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Swimming Safety
Generally safe for swimming, moderate water quality
Water Quality Grade: C, Fair
Murky, only visible to about 4.1 ft. Phosphorus level: 29.3 µg/L. Trophic State Index: 55.
| Metric | Value | Grade |
|---|---|---|
| Water Clarity (Secchi Depth) | 4.1 ft | D |
| Phosphorus | 29.3 µg/L | C |
| Chlorophyll-a (Algae) | No data | |
| Trophic State Index (TSI) | 55 | Eutrophic |
High nutrients, frequent algae, reduced clarity
Where to stay near Hiwassee River Lake
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Fishing Hiwassee River Lake
Location
County Ranking
Ranked #1 of 2 lakes in Bradley County
Cleaner Lakes Within 30 Miles
Hiwassee River Lake holds Grade C. One nearby lake has a higher grade.
Nearby Lakes in Bradley County
Explore Hiwassee River Lake across LakeGrade
More Tennessee Lake Rankings
Other Grade C Lakes in Tennessee
Eutrophic Lakes in Tennessee
More records, surveys & data sources
Data Sources
Water quality data from the EPA Water Quality Portal
Grading methodology based on Metropolitan Council standards
Most recent sample: 2026-06-16
Monitoring stations: 3