Frequently Asked Questions - Norris Lake
How do I get to the Lake?
To Flat Hollow Marina: Take exit #134 Caryville/Lafollette and proceed East on State Route 63 for approximately 19 miles (after mile marker 17 and Pro Angler Gas Station). Turn South (right) onto Mercury Dr for a 1/4 mile. Turn East (left) onto Old SR-63 for 1/4 mile. Turn South (right) Flat Hollow Rd for approximately 3 miles. Turn West (right) onto Flat Hollow Marina Rd for approximately 0.9 mile. Flat Hollow Marina will be on the left.
To Shanghai Resort and Marina: Take exit #134 Caryville/Lafollette and proceed East on State Route 63 for approximately 6 miles. Turn South (right) onto Hunters Branch Rd. Follow Hunters Branch Rd for approximately .5 miles to stop sign. At stop sign turn right onto Demory Rd. Follow Demory Rd for approximately 5 miles and take a slight left onto Shanghai Rd. Follow Shanghai Rd all the way to Shanghai Resort and Marina.
When do I pick up the boat?
The houseboats at Norris Lake can be picked up between 2 and 5 PM and are due back by 11 AM.
What will the temperatures be like on my trip?
The lake is warm from mid-summer through late fall and pleasantly cool in the shoulder seasons. Winter and early to mid-spring water temperatures are too cold for extended swimming without a wetsuit. View a month-by-month list of temperatures here.
How difficult is driving a houseboat?
Driving a houseboat is different than driving a car, but is not that difficult. The marina staff will walk you through driving the boat when you pick it up. Most people get the hand of maneuvering the boat within a few minutes.
If you're concerned about your ability to handle the boat, you may arrange for a captain to guide you out of the marina or drive you to a specific destination on the lake.
How do I check availability or reserve a houseboat?
Give us a call at 888-454-8825, and one of our reservation agents will be happy to check availability for you. It's helpful if you already have an idea of when you want to go and what boat you're most interested in when you call.
Alternatively, you can contact us online with your availability request, and one of our agents will be happy to get back to you with the information you need.
How early do I need to reserve?
Norris Lake is a very popular. Some of our boats have been known to book out more than two years in advance. The earlier the better is a good rule to follow, particularly if you have an exact date in mind for your trip, or if you're planning a trip over a holiday weekend.
However, if you're flexible with your dates or the exact houseboat model, we can almost always find a trip for you even a few weeks before hand.
Are linens included with my houseboat rental?
Yes, linens are provided on all boats. However you will need to bring your own bath and beach towels.
Are pets allowed on my houseboat?
The marina cannot allow pets of any kind. You will need to find alternative accommodations for your pets.
How old do you have to be to rent the houseboats?
Shanghai Resorts requires all renters to be 23 with a valid drivers license. The Flat Hollow Mariana requires all renters to be 21 with a valid drivers license.
Do I need a license to operate the houseboats, or is a skipper provided?
There is no special license needed to operate our houseboats. There are rules for operating houseboats on the waterways, and we will explain them to you upon your arrival.
Will I get seasick on a houseboat?
Houseboats are on pontoons and there is very little motion. Seasickness is basically unheard of on fresh water.
What is the best time of year to go houseboating?
It is always a good time to go houseboating! Summer is the most popular and busiest season. Fall offers Indian Summer days and cooler nights. Springtime is good for viewing abundant wildflowers, waterfalls, and wildlife. Winter is favorable for the anglers, when fishing is at its best. And the rates are significantly lower between September and May.
Can I fish from the houseboat?
Yes! Fishing is a very popular activity on the lake. The most popular fish in Lake Norris are three species of black bass - largemouth, smallmouth and spotted (Kentucky) bass. Striped bass are also sought after, as are crappie and walleye. Fishing is especially good from November to April, when water temperatures are cooler. The marina stores sell a good variety of bait and tackle for optimizing your chances of catching fish, whether you're a novice or an expert.
