South Holston River
One of the most technical rivers in the East, the South Holston, or SoHo, is a tailwater trout stream home to some of the largest browns in the East. It is claimed to have 5000+ trout per mile of river, and the target species are the large browns. The river is home to the famous sulfur hatch. The wide river can have trout rising to the hatching sulfurs or the falling spinners any day from spring to late summer. Even with the abundance of insects, the trout are challenging to catch and require the angler to cast dries effectively and get a natural drift.
The river hosts some large hatches. Sulfurs are abundant in May and June and can produce some excellent surface feeding. Caddis are also common. Small black caddis are on the water early and reward anglers who fish at sunrise. Winter and fall are dominated by midge hatches. Trout will rise to emerging midges most days in the fall. Scuds are also on the menu and can be fished using a nymph rig. Winter is a great time to swing a streamer over brown trout.
The scenery on the upper stretch is a mix of grassy meadows, forest, and farmland. The river can have a distinctive western feel. The riverside scenery is complemented by the beauty of the river's flow. The clear water flows through pools, runs, and riffles. The water is colored green by aquatic vegetation, home to most insects. Just floating through the river is a memorable experience.
Logistics
Meet in the Elizabethan TN area
Time: Full day with 6-7 hours of float time
Tackle: Fly Fishing
Target species: Trout.
1 to 2 Anglers per boat.
$650
Equipment: It is recommended to use your gear, but rods can be provided if you don’t have appropriate equipment. Weaver Fly Fishing will provide tackle and flies. Waders are recommended if you want to wade some of the river. However, cleats are NOT allowed in the boat.
