Meet Captain Ryan Banta

Captain Ryan Banta brings over 25 years of fishing experience on the waters of Cherokee Lake and East Tennessee. Raised in this region, Ryan developed a deep respect for the outdoors and a natural connection to the water from a young age. That lifelong familiarity with the local fisheries gives him an edge that few others can match. Whether you're targeting Striped Bass, Crappie, or Walleye, Ryan's experience and instinct make him a trusted and knowledgeable guide who knows where and when to find fish.

For Ryan, guiding isn’t just a profession—it’s personal. He takes pride in helping others create meaningful experiences on the lake, especially when a guest hooks their first big catch. His calm, approachable style makes it easy for anyone to feel at home on the boat. He’s as comfortable teaching beginners how to cast as he is swapping techniques with seasoned anglers. No matter your skill level, Ryan’s goal is to make your time on the water both educational and enjoyable.

Over the years, Captain Ryan has mastered a wide range of fishing techniques, from light tackle and trolling to bottom fishing and vertical jigging. His ability to adapt to seasonal shifts, weather changes, and fish behavior ensures each trip is dialed in to current conditions. He approaches every charter with patience and purpose, helping anglers not only catch fish—but also gain a deeper understanding of the lake and its ecosystems.

About the Boats

To accommodate different group sizes and fishing styles, Captain Ryan operates two well-maintained and fully rigged boats on Cherokee Lake. The 23-foot Sun Chaser, powered by a 150HP Honda engine, is ideal for families or groups of up to six, offering space, comfort, and stability for relaxed fishing or sightseeing. For smaller, more targeted trips, Ryan runs a 24-foot Seaark, equipped with a 250HP Suzuki engine, a fighting chair, and a bait tank—perfect for chasing larger fish like striped bass. Both boats are clean, spacious, and outfitted with all the necessary gear to ensure a smooth, enjoyable day on the lake.