The South Holston River in Bristol Tennessee.

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.

Fall fly fishing the South Holston River.

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.

Drift Boats on the South Holston River in Tennessee
Drift Boats on the South Holston River in Tennessee

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

Aerial shot of a drift boat on the South Holston River.
Aerial shot of a drift boat on the South Holston River.

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.

Winter days are beautiful days on the South Holston River.

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.

Streamer fishing for big brown trout in Tennessee.

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

Fly fishing the South Holston River.
Fly fishing the South Holston River.

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

Guide John Stunkard fishes on his days off.

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

Watauga River Tennessee Big Brown Trout

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.