Frequently Asked Questions About Fly Fishing the South Holston and Watauga Rivers
Fly fishing the South Holston and Watauga Rivers brings up a lot of common questions for anglers visiting East Tennessee. From trout species and fly selection to seasonal timing, river access, and safety, this page answers the most frequently asked questions based on firsthand experience guiding on both rivers year-round.
Curious how the South Holston and Watauga Rivers are fishing today? Check out our regularly updated Fishing Reports for current conditions, water flows, and what’s working right now.
South Holston & Watauga River Fly Fishing Basics
What Can I Expect to Catch While Fly Fishing the South Holston and Watauga Rivers?
The South Holston and Watauga Rivers support strong populations of wild brown and rainbow trout, making them two of Tennessee’s premier tailwater fisheries. Average trout range from 8 to 12 inches, though both rivers are known for producing large wild brown trout exceeding 20 inches. While trophy fish are present, they are selective and challenging, with one quality fish often being the highlight of a successful day.
When Is the Best Time to Fly Fish the South Holston River?
The South Holston River is a year-round fishery, but the prime season runs from March through October. Here’s what to expect during each season:
Spring (March–May): Outstanding nymph fishing with midges, BWOs, Sulphurs, and caddis.
Summer (June–August): Prime dry fly fishing, especially during Sulphur hatches and terrestrial activity. The upper two miles often fish best in the afternoons.
Fall (September–November): Productive nymphing and streamer fishing as brown trout feed aggressively ahead of spawning season.
Winter (December–February): Slower but consistent fishing with midges, BWOs, and egg patterns.
For current flows and conditions, check the South Holston River Fishing Report.
When Is the Best Time to Fly Fish the Watauga River?
The Watauga River is a year-round fishery, with prime conditions typically occurring from January through July and mid-September through November.
Winter (January–March): Excellent nymph and streamer fishing following the spawn, with midges, BWOs, and egg patterns producing well.
Spring (April–May): Peak dry fly season featuring the Black Caddis hatch in April followed by Sulphurs in May. Evening hatches are often best.
Summer (June–July): Terrestrials such as beetles and ants become effective as Sulphur activity tapers off.
Fall (Mid-September–November): Streamer fishing improves as trout feed aggressively before spawning, with nymphing also producing consistently.
When to Fly Fish the South Holston and Watauga Rivers
What are the Best Flies for the South Holston River in Bristol, TN?
Fly selection on the South Holston River varies by season. In spring and summer, productive patterns include Sulphur dry flies, Zebra Midges, Pheasant Tails, and Scuds. During winter months, trout key in on Blue Winged Olives (BWOs), egg patterns, and small midge imitations.
For more details, and hatch chart take a look at our South Holston River Fly Fishing page
What Are the Best Flies for the Watauga River in Elizabethton, TN?
Fly selection on the Watauga River also changes throughout the year. In spring and summer, effective patterns include Caddis and Sulphur dry flies, Zebra Midges, Soft Hackle Pheasant Tails, Frenchies, and Red Butt Nymphs. During winter, BWOs, egg patterns, Zebra Midges, and streamers often produce the most consistent results.
Learn more in our Fly Fish the Watauga River Guide page.
Fly Selection for the South Holston and Watauga Rivers
What Is the Best Area to Wade Fish the South Holston River?
Tailwater Trail & Bouton Trail: Located in the upper two miles, offering year-round fishing and some of the river’s best hatches.
Big Springs Road (Mile 6): Particularly productive in the spring, with quality brown trout holding in runs and riffles.
What is the Best Area to Wade Fish the Watauga River?
The Watauga River offers excellent public access for wade fishing. Some of our top recommended spots include:
Siam Bridge: Easy wading and ideal for dry-dropper rigs.
Hunter Bridge: A favorite among anglers and guides, holding abundant wild trout year-round.
Riverside Park: Especially productive in spring during the Black Caddis hatch.
Wade Fishing Access on the South Holston and Watauga Rivers
Regulations, Generation, and River Safety
What Are the Fishing Regulations on the South Holston and Watauga Rivers?
Fishing regulations on the South Holston and Watauga Rivers are set by the Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency (TWRA) and are subject to change.
Watauga River: Anglers may keep 7 trout total (combined rainbow and brown trout), with no minimum size requirement.
South Holston River: Anglers may keep 7 trout total, with only one trout allowed over 22 inches. All trout measuring 16–22 inches are protected and must be released immediately. These regulations apply to a combined creel of rainbow and brown trout.
Because regulations can change, anglers should always verify current rules with the Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency before fishing. Fishing Regulations for South Holston River
Is TVA Water Generation Dangerous on These Rivers?
Yes. Water levels on both the South Holston and Watauga Rivers can rise rapidly and without warning due to TVA water generation. Anglers should always check TVA lake and generation schedules before wading.
Although rare, unscheduled releases do occur. Paying close attention to your surroundings is critical for safety. A good practice is to periodically observe rocks or features near the riverbank as reference points. If you notice the water beginning to rise, exit the river immediately. Anglers often have only a few minutes to safely leave the river before flows become too strong to navigate on foot.
Neither river is suitable for wade fishing during high-water releases, and anglers should never attempt to wade while generation is occurring.
Do You Provide Fly Fishing Equipment on Guided Trips?
Yes. All guided fly fishing trips include rods, reels, flies, leaders, and terminal tackle. Lunch and beverages are also provided on full-day trips. Anglers should bring appropriate clothing for the season, rain gear if needed, sunglasses, and a valid Tennessee fishing license.
Where do I get my Tennessee fishing license?
Tennessee fishing licenses can be purchased online through the Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency. License requirements vary based on residency and trip length. Tennessee residents typically need a combination hunting and fishing license with a trout stamp, while non-residents must purchase a 3-day, 10-day, or annual all-species license. You can purchase your license directly through the TWRA Website before your trip.
Where can I find the Generation Flows on the South Holston and Watauga River, and can I wade while generating?
TVA generation schedules can be found on TVA.com or through the TVA Lake Levels mobile app. Look for release information under South Holston Dam or Wilbur Dam, depending on the river you’re fishing. Wade fishing while generating is extremely dangerous and not recommended. Water levels can rise rapidly with little warning, making it unsafe to exit the river on foot. We strongly recommend checking generation schedules before fishing and using our detailed river guides to understand how long it takes rising water to reach public access areas.
Do I Need a Guide? FAQs About Guided Fly Fishing Trips on the South Holston & Watauga Rivers”
Whether you’re new to tailwater fly fishing or looking to shorten the learning curve, hiring a guide can make a big difference on both the South Holston and Watauga Rivers. From understanding TVA generation schedules and seasonal hatches to knowing where trout hold under changing conditions, a local guide helps anglers fish smarter and safer. Below are answers to common questions about guided trips, and you can learn more about our Guided Fly Fishing Trips on the South Holston and Watauga Rivers here.
Is a Guide Worth It If I Already Fly Fish?
Absolutely. Even experienced anglers benefit from fishing with a local guide on the South Holston and Watauga Rivers. Tailwater fisheries change daily due to TVA generation schedules, water clarity, and seasonal hatches. A guide helps dial in fly selection, rigging, and approach while putting you in the most productive water for current conditions. Many seasoned fly anglers book guided trips to shorten the learning curve and consistently catch more fish.
I Have No Fly Fishing Experience — Is That a Problem?
Not at all. Guided fly fishing trips with South Holston Angler are beginner-friendly and designed to teach the fundamentals in a relaxed, hands-on setting. We focus on casting basics, reading water, fly selection, and proper fish handling so you leave with skills you can use on future trips. Many of our guests catch their first trout on a fly rod during their guided trip.
Explore the Tennessee Tailwaters on Your Own:
Click the Link to See a A DIY Angler’s Guide to the South Holston and Watauga Rivers
Check Out Our Up-To-Date Fishing Reports on the South Holston and Watauga River
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