WATAUGA RIVER FLY FISHING

FLY FISH THE WATAUGA RIVER

The Watauga River tailwater begins after the Wilbur Dam and flows 16 miles to Boone Lake. The water flows from the dam and maintains a consistent temperature year-round, so it offers great fishing in every season.

Watauga means “river of plenty” in Cherokee—and it definitely has a lot to offer. The river is stocked with over 6,000 fish per mile, including trophy brown trout and rainbow trout. That’s why Watauga is known as one of the best places for trout fishing in all of Tennessee!

The aquatic insects are also abundant in the Watauga, including blue-winged olives, sulphur mayflies, crane flies, and caddis.

It is extremely important to pay attention to when the Tennessee Valley Authority (TVA) is generating. When the dam is generating, fly fishing must be done by boat and not waded.

Man Standing in Boat with Caught Trout on SoHo River

Watauga River WildLife

Watauga is home to various fish and aquatic insects. These are just a sampling of the wildlife you may see during our fishing trip together!

Rainbow Trout
Brown Trout
Blue-Winged Olives
Sulphur Mayflies
Crane Flies
Caddis
Gallery

RECENT FISHING TRIPS

Check out some of our recent guided fly fishing trips.

OUR PRICING

Full-Day Trip

Best For All Skill Levels

$ 495
per boat
  • 8-hour trip
  • Lunch included
  • All gear provided
  • Fishing license required
  • Each boat holds two anglers
  • Recommended for beginners to learn the process & techniques
  • Location dependent on water and weather conditions
Best Value

Half-Day Trip

$ 395
per boat
  • 4-hour trip
  • Snacks and drinks included
  • All gear provided
  • Fishing license required
  • Each boat holds two anglers
  • Location dependent on water and weather conditions

MEET YOUR GUIDE

Preston Vance is a native of East Tennessee and one of the region’s experts on fly fishing. His goal is to provide a memorable and safe experience for you on the water.

Preston Vance & Family

EXPERIENCE EAST TENNESSEE

The river is calling. Create your memorable experience on the water with our expert guided fly fishing trips.