Welcome to the South Holston Angler

About Us - South Holston Angler: Your Premier Native Tennessean Fly Fishing Guide Service

Welcome to South Holston Angler, where your fly fishing adventure is guided by native expertise and local passion. Founded by John Stunkard, the South Holston Angler is a premier fly fishing guide service based in Bristol, TN. John’s deep-rooted enthusiasm for fly fishing and extensive experience have established him as a renowned guide across the nation, and his dream of creating a top-notch guiding outfitter has become a reality with South Holston Angler.

Why Choose South Holston Angler?

As a native Tennessean, John Stunkard brings unparalleled local knowledge and a deep connection to the South Holston River and its surroundings. This local insight enhances your fishing experience, offering you the best opportunities to catch fish in our region’s pristine waters.

Expert Local Guides

At South Holston Angler, we believe in quality over quantity. We work with a select team of local guides who are not only experts in the art of fly fishing but also passionate about sharing their knowledge. Each guide is a local professional who brings a deep understanding of the river and a love for the sport. Our guides are dedicated to providing personalized, safe, and educational experiences, ensuring that each client leaves with new skills and lasting memories.

Commitment to Learning and Conservation

Our guiding philosophy centers on teaching and learning. We focus on equipping our clients with new fly fishing techniques while ensuring a respectful and sustainable approach to the river. Our guides are committed to maintaining the highest standards of safety, professionalism, and environmental stewardship.

Experience Fly Fishing with Local Experts

Whether you’re a seasoned angler or a beginner eager to learn, South Holston Angler offers a unique opportunity to experience fly fishing through the eyes of native Tennesseans. Discover why our clients rave about our personalized service and in-depth local knowledge.

BOOK NOW!!

THE SOUTH HOLSTON ANGLER TEAM

John Stunkard

Owner & Head Guide

Aden Blackburn

Guide

Joe Kostura

Guide

Meet Our Expert Fly Fishing Guides at South Holston Angler

At South Holston Angler, our team of expert fly fishing guides is meticulously hand-selected by founder John Stunkard to ensure the highest level of expertise and professionalism. Each guide on our team is not only highly skilled but also deeply passionate about the art of fly fishing, embodying the essence of what makes South Holston Angler the premier fly fishing guide service in Bristol, TN.

Why Our Guides Stand Out

  • Qualified and Professional: Our guides are chosen for their extensive experience, technical proficiency, and dedication to providing exceptional fishing experiences. They are adept in various fly fishing techniques, including nymphing, dry fly fishing, and streamer fishing, tailored to both the South Holston River and the Watauga River.

  • Passionate Local Experts: Our guides bring an intimate knowledge of the South Holston River and the Watauga River. Their deep understanding of these renowned rivers ensures you benefit from their local insights and expertise.

  • Commitment to Excellence: The South Holston Angler team strives for excellence in every aspect of our service. We focus on delivering a personalized experience, helping you master new skills and enjoy a successful day on the water.

Whether you’re looking to refine your techniques on the South Holston River or explore the pristine waters of the Watauga River, our expert guides are here to make your experience unforgettable. Discover the difference that a team of dedicated and knowledgeable guides can make on your next fly fishing adventure with South Holston Angler.

Colton Wise

Guide

Sam Persutti

Guide

Preston Vance

Guide

Book Your Guided Fly Fishing Experience

Ready to experience top-notch fly fishing with Bristol’s leading experts? Contact South Holston Angler today to book your guided trip and see firsthand why our team is renowned for their exceptional skills and local expertise on both the South Holston River and the Watauga River.

OUR MISSION

It's are mission to create memorable experiences that keep people coming back for a lifetime. The South Holston Angler focuses their trips on learning. We want our anglers skills to improve after each outing with a guide. Our goal is to match our clients with the perfect guide that fit their tastes, needs for a day on the water.

Our vision is to create a guide service that's reputation carries across the nation. We want to focus on quality over quantity. Our business is going to stay small keep us from diluting what we love to do.

OUR VISION