South Holston & Watauga Fly Fishing Report: January 2026

January Fly Fishing Is Off to a Strong Start

Both the South Holston and Watauga Rivers have been fishing extremely well to start the month. We’ve been noticing a consistent pattern: on colder days, both rivers have been generating in the mornings due to higher power demand. During these high-water periods, trout feeding activity has increased noticeably—especially for anglers nymphing.

On warmer days, flows have remained consistently low. Fortunately, the fishing hasn’t slowed much at all under these conditions. Below is what we’ve been seeing produce the most success so far this January.

Watauga River Fly Fishing in January

Winter creates some unique opportunities on the Watauga River. Reduced angling pressure has led to better fishing, and the river has remained primarily low throughout December, with signs pointing toward continued low flows into January. These conditions offer excellent wade fishing opportunities for DIY anglers.

We’ve also been floating the Watauga during these lower flows, and the fishing has been solid. Lately, we’ve been seeing higher fish counts per day compared to recent months!

The flies we've had the most success with while floating the Watauga River include:

• #22 BWO Nymphs

• #22 Black Zebra Midge

• #20 Rainbow Warrior

• #14 Glo-Bug

Fly Fishing the South Holston River in January

The South Holston River can be excellent in January, especially during higher flows. Currently, we’re seeing generation primarily on colder nights due to increased power demand. That said, conditions can change quickly as we move into the coldest part of the year, and even a modest amount of rain can trigger more frequent releases from South Holston Dam.

During low-flow periods, we’ve been seeing afternoon BWO hatches. Trout have been rising sporadically, so we recommend fishing dry-dropper rigs during these windows to maximize opportunities.

Our Best Flies for the South Holston in January Include:

• #20 Rods BWO Nymph

• #20 Mayhem Midge

• #20 Purple Zebra & Stripper Midge's

• #20 BWO Comparadun

• #14 Glo-Bug

Check Out Some Trip Highlights From The Last Couple Weeks!

David and Sam wrapped up their 2025 season with a bang! What a day!

Sharri got a taste of some epic fishing at the end of 2025! Great Browns Sharri!

What to Expect as We Move Further Into January

January weather can be unpredictable, and because of that, we expect to see a mix of high and low flows. In our experience, the best fishing typically occurs during high-water periods—especially when flows are ideal for streamer fishing.

If the rivers remain low for extended stretches this month, there will still be plenty of opportunity for wade anglers. River traffic is usually lighter than most times of the year, and anglers should keep a few BWO dry flies ready. Afternoon windows can produce some excellent dry-fly opportunities.

Float trips from now through March can be some of the best of the year. We’ve had many standout days while most anglers assume the rivers are “sleeping.” High fish counts, along with solid chances at a larger brown trout, are very much in the cards.

Interested in a guided trip? Contact South Holston Angler to get on the calendar.

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