Best Fly Fishing in Tennessee: South Holston & Watauga for Trophy Trout!
Did you know Tennessee is home to two of the best trout rivers in the entire U.S.? The South Holston and Watauga Rivers offer world-class fly fishing, legendary hatches, and some of the largest wild brown trout in the country! Whether you're chasing dry fly eaters or monster browns, here’s why these rivers are a must-fish destination.
Large TVA dams and lakes regulate the flow and temperature, creating a stable ecosystem that’s ideal for trout. The incredible biomass in these rivers supports thousands upon thousands of brown and rainbow trout. Not only are these rivers home to dense fish populations, but they also produce some of the largest brown trout in the nation.
The Legendary South Holston & Watauga Rivers Produce Some of the Biggest Wild Brown Trout on the East Coast
The South Holston and Watauga Rivers are famous for their ability to produce huge wild brown trout. These fish are wary and challenging to fool, requiring patience, skill, and persistence to land a true trophy. However, for dedicated anglers, these rivers offer the chance to catch the fish of a lifetime.
Thanks to the cold, stable water temperatures regulated by South Holston and Watauga Lakes, trout in these rivers grow year-round, reaching maturity faster than in many other fisheries across the country. While the average trout size is 8-12 inches, larger fish are always a possibility. Every year, we’re fortunate enough to land a few true giants that lurk in the depths of these legendary tailwaters!
South Holston River Fly Fishing, Bristol TN.
The South Holston River is a year-round fishery renowned for its wild trout, prolific hatches, and some of the largest brown trout in the country. With an incredible 6,000–8,000 trout per mile, it ranks among the top ten trout fisheries in the U.S.
This 14-mile tailwater begins below South Holston Dam in Bristol, TN and flows into Boone Lake in Bluff City, TN. Its gin-clear water is every fly angler’s dream! Whether you prefer sight fishing nymphs to brown trout or casting Sulfur dries to rising fish, the South Holston offers an exceptional fly fishing experience for all skill levels.
Click the link to learn more about fishing the South Holston River, including essential gear, hatch charts, top fly selections, public access points, boat ramps, expert tips, and more!
Watauga River Fly Fishing, Elizabethton TN.
The Watauga River, located in Elizabethton, TN, is renowned for its legendary Black Caddis hatch, abundant wild trout populations, and diverse fly fishing opportunities. Anglers can often fish nymphs, dry flies, and streamers—all in the same day!
Home to an impressive 3,000–5,000 trout per mile, the river begins below Wilbur Dam, flowing 16 miles through Elizabethton, TN, before emptying into Boone Lake near Johnson City, TN. The Watauga offers a mix of fast, boulder-filled rapids, towering rock bluffs, and gentle riffles and runs—making it a prime fishery for both wade fishermen and drift boaters.
Beyond producing consistent action, the Watauga River frequently yields trophy brown and rainbow trout, making it a bucket-list destination for many fly anglers. Click the link below to learn more about the Watauga River, including essential gear, hatch chart, top fly selections, great public access, boat ramps, expert tips, and more!
The South Holston & Watauga River: Best Fly Fishing for Trophy Trout Near Boone, Asheville, Charlotte, Atlanta, and More!
The South Holston and Watauga Rivers are a premier fly fishing hub in the Southeast. Located near the Tri-Cities, they are just a short drive from Boone and Asheville, NC, and within six hours of major cities across Virginia, Georgia, North Carolina, Florida, Pennsylvania, and more. Whether you're planning a quick getaway or a multi-day fishing adventure, this area offers some of the best trout fishing in the region.
The South Holston and Watauga Rivers offer over 30 miles of fishable trout water, home to thousands of wild trout. The chance to catch trout over 20 inches makes these fisheries among the best in the country. With high trout densities, they provide an excellent experience for beginner fly fishers—while the opportunity to land trophy-sized fish draws anglers of all skill levels from across the nation!
Check Out this Video Recap from Summer of 2024!
Interested in South Holston or Watauga River Fishing Reports?
Our fishing report is updated frequently! We give Up-To-Date information on the fishing, flies, and tips! click the link to learn more!!!
Your Next Tennessee Fly Fishing Adventure Awaits!
The South Holston Angler would love to help put your trip together! We have guides, and we know some great rentals! If you have additional questions, don’t hesitate to reach out—we’d love to chat fishing with you!
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South Holston Angler Affiliates
Two Rivers Shuttle:
South Holston Fly Shop
The Fly Box TN
South Holston River Lodge
Blue Ridge Guide Association
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