I am going up to Pickwick for our spring break and staying in the Mariot that overlooks the dam.  Are there any good places to fish from shore around the dam and what baits should i be throwing?

The fishing can be great when the turbines are on! Try a dropshot rig with a grub or live minnows in the eddies. Crankbaits work too but be prepared to hangup as the riprap and tangled lines will grab your lure in the swift current.  Cast upstream and let the rig come back with the current until your sinker catches then let it float in the current. Hang on tight because you might catch anything from bass to large drum or big stripers. Good luck

Fishing the Tennessee River from the bank is pretty challenging. My only suggestion is live minnows under a float, but it's difficult to keep the bait alive. One thing is for sure, don't throw any lures you don't mind losing.