
Fly Fishing Guide Trips on the South Holston & Watauga Rivers
Ready to take your fly fishing to the next level? South Holston Angler offers professionally guided fly fishing trips on two of East Tennessee’s premier tailwaters — the South Holston River in Bristol and the Watauga River near Elizabethton, Tennessee. These rivers are known for their cold, clear flows, prolific hatches, and healthy populations of wild brown and rainbow trout.
Our trips are designed for anglers of all skill levels, whether you’re learning the fundamentals or looking to target trophy trout on some of the region’s most famous tailwaters. All trips are led by seasoned local professionals — learn more about our Expert Fly Fishing Guides and what sets them apart.

2026 Fly Fishing Guide Trip Rates
Our guided fly fishing trips are designed to give you the most productive and educational day possible on the South Holston and Watauga Rivers. Whether you’re new to fly fishing or looking to refine advanced techniques, each trip is customized to your goals, skill level, and river conditions.
Full-Day Guided Fly Fishing Trip
Best for anglers who want maximum time on the water and in-depth instruction.
8-9 hours on the river
One-on-one coaching and strategy
Lunch, Drinks, plus All terminal tackle and flies included
Prime floats based on conditions
$600 Per Boat
Still on the fence? Take a look at our Fly Fishing Guide Trip Reviews to hear directly from anglers who’ve fished the South Holston and Watauga with us. If you're ready to book a trip with the South Holston Angler Contact Us
Half-Day Guided Fly Fishing Trip
Ideal for first-timers, families, or anglers short on time.
4 hours on the water
Focused instruction and high-percentage water
All terminal tackle and flies included
$400 Per Boat
Your Personalized Fly Fishing Adventure: What to Expect on a Full-Day Guided Fly Fishing Trip
Spending a full day on the river comes with many advantages. A full-day guided trip allows for more time to focus on learning and refining techniques and tactics.
During a full-day trip, your guide will provide all necessary fishing gear, as well as lunch and drinks for your convenience. Please note that rain gear and fishing licenses are not included, so make sure to bring those items. These trips typically last 8–9 hours, with the start time flexible to your preference. However, it’s recommended to follow your guide’s advice on the ideal time to begin for the best fishing experience.


What’s Included in Your Guided Fly Fishing Trip:
8-9 Hours of Fly Fishing
Everything you need to fish with including All terminal tackle such as rods, reels, and flies
Lunch: Typically Sandwiches, a side, and chips
Cold Beverages: Water, Coca-cola, and Gatorade
Half-Day Fly Fishing Guide Trips: A Flexible Tailwater Option


Half-day trips are perfect for anglers who want to fish during the optimal conditions of the day. These shorter outings are ideal for beating the heat, targeting evening dry fly action, floating during afternoon generation releases, or working around inclement weather.
During a half-day trip, your guide will provide all necessary fishing gear, except for rain gear and fishing licenses. While lunches are not included on half-day floats, your guide will have plenty of drinks available. These trips typically last 4–5 hours, offering an affordable and flexible way to experience the beauty of the river. For the best results, we recommend following your guide’s advice on the most productive fishing hours.
Interested in how the fishing has been recently? Check out our regularly updated Fishing Reports.

How to Prepare for Your Fly Fishing Guide Trip: What to Bring
At The South Holston Angler, we fish in a wide range of conditions—from rain and snow to wind and the heat of summer. It’s important to dress comfortably and appropriately for an 8-hour day on the water. If you’re unsure about what to wear or bring, feel free to contact The South Holston Angler or your designated guide for personalized recommendations based on the time of year. Here is a list of items we recommend bringing on your guided trip to ensure you’re prepared and comfortable.
What You Need to Bring on Your Guide Trip:
Tennessee Fishing License
Sunglasses: for Eye Protection, and Sun
Headwear: Hat or Toboggan
Rain Jack
Waders, or Rain Pants: if Recommended
Comfortable Foot Wear: Sandals or Boots depending on the time of year
Sunscreen: Although your guide should have some.
Snacks: If you bring young children
Child life vest: For anglers under 12 years of age.
Optional: Rods, flies, small packs or bags.
The South Holston Angler does not provide Tennessee fishing licenses. Use the link below to visit the TWRA website and purchase one online. Be sure to select an "all species" fishing license, commonly referred to as a trout stamp. You can choose between a three-day or annual license, depending on your needs. Please note that for out-of-state anglers, a one-day license option is not available.

Fly Fishing Guide Trips Make the Perfect Gift
Looking for a unique gift? Guided fly fishing trips are prefect for birthdays, Christmas, Father's/Mother's Day, Graduations and more – create some incredible memories with the special people in your life. Contact Us to secure you next fly fishing excursion.
Booking & Cancellation Policy for Guided Fly Fishing Trips


After contacting South Holston Angler and finalizing your trip date(s), you will be asked to submit a deposit to secure your booking.
Guide Trip Booking Policy
Your guide trip deposit secures your trip dates and must be paid after booking. If you book additional days, each day will require a separate deposit. Please note that all guide trip deposits are non-refundable once booked.
The remainder of your trip balance is due on the date of your float. For cancellations made within two weeks of your scheduled trip, the full balance for the trip(s) will still be required.

Ready to Book Your Guided Fly Fishing Trip

Explore the South Holston and Watauga on Your Own:
Click the Link to See a A DIY Angler’s Guide to the South Holston and Watauga Rivers

Check Out Our Recent Fishing Reports!
Lodging Near the South Holston & Watauga Rivers
Planning a multi-day trip? We’re happy to recommend Lodging near the South Holston and Watauga Rivers to make your stay as seamless as possible.

















