Stones River Fishweir

Beneath the surface of the Stones River lies a V-shaped formation of stones. This fishweir, an ancient fishing structure, once helped Indigenous communities trap and catch fish with remarkable efficiency. Variations of fishweirs exist worldwide, their designs shaped by local geography, river conditions, and the needs of the people who built them. 

The V-shaped design here is a flowing stream weir, typically built in shallow waters for easy access. Its point faces downstream, naturally guiding fish into the smallest part of the structure, where they could be easily caught using spears, nets, and cages. This fishweir was uncovered in 2000 during an archaeological survey for the Stones River Greenway. It measures approximately 197 feet long and 115 feet wide, yet its exact age remains unknown. Archaeologists speculate it could date back as far as the Paleoindian Period (over 13,000 years ago). 

Over time, later Indigenous peoples—and possibly even early European settlers—may have repaired and reused this structure to catch fish such as longnose gar, bass, and catfish, which still populate the river today. The placement of the fishweir reflects the enduring importance of waterways. Long before roads and highways, rivers connected people, facilitated trade, and enabled cultural exchange. Settlements were strategically built near rivers, ensuring access to food, water, and transportation.

Unlike other sites on this tour, the fishweir’s underwater location makes excavation difficult. Yet, its presence beneath the Stones River offers a powerful connection to the ingenuity of past peoples. Just as the Greenway system allows modern visitors to explore nature, this ancient structure reminds us of the resourcefulness of those who lived here long before us. As we walk along the river, we continue a tradition of using the land and water to sustain life—just as the Indigenous peoples of Nashville did for thousands of years.

From Jackson Downs Boulevard, turn LEFT onto Lebanon Pike for about 2.8 miles. Turn RIGHT onto McGavock Pike and stay on that road almost 4 miles. After you cross over Briley Parkway, turn LEFT onto Opry Mills Drive. This will bring you along the back side of the Gaylord Opryland Hotel and Convention Center. Stay straight on this road to reach the Opry Mills mall parking lots. Park along the back if you can, and face the hotel as you listen to this stop. The excavation sites discussed on this stop were located in parking lots at the hotel.