You have picked a good area, with plenty of good fishing all around. I would encourage you to look to the west however, because of the nearby TN River. That opens up many more possibilities. As far as nice people go, TN is full of people who will greet you kindly. Several years ago I retired and moved to SD for four years. I knew what I was getting into because I had been going there since the 70's. People treated me greatly. After being all over the USA I have found that people by and large are welcoming. I will confess something that is a major concern to those of us who call ourselves native Southerners.....we are concerned that many who are fleeing the North because of the political climate will continue to vote the same way down here as they did up there and cause this blessed way of life to be in jeopardy. That's not an accusation against all who move South, and probably does not apply to you, but just food for thought. Come on down, learn to like biscuits and gravy, grits, and catfish....and don't get me started on the BBQ !!!