TENNESSEE TAILWATERS

Float Fishing for Wild Brown Trout

Right on the doorstep of southwest Virginia, in the northeastern corner of Tennessee, flow some of the most productive tailwater

systems in the eastern United States--the South Holston and Watauga Rivers. The product of deep reservoirs and bottom-release

dams, these tailwaters run cold year-round. Robust insect populations and ample habitat allow a remarkable wild brown trout 

population to thrive, and some individuals grow to memorable proportions.  

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The water releases that feed these tailwaters are all-or-nothing. Low water,

or heavy water. Regular, scheduled high water events provide somewhat-

predictable opportunities to float long stretches of river and target the

rivers' biggest brown trout with large, meaty flies when they're most

vulnerable.

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When conditions allow, we offer streamer fishing trips year-round. Similar

in flavor to our musky fishery, this style of fishing is more like hunting than

fishing, and the fishing can be flat-out tough, some days. But we firmly

believe (and have seen first-hand) that a quality streamer day can change an

angler's life forever. The best way for an angler to approach a day of streamer

fishing is with focus, and the expectation of spending a day on a beautiful

river, receiving an in-depth education in one of the most visual, addicting,

and effective techniques for targeting our rivers' largest trout.

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Rates:

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Full day float trip for 1 or 2 anglers - $400/$450

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Rods, reels, flies, and other tackle are included. Lunch, drinks,

and photos from the day are also provided. Several days prior to

your booked date, we'll work out a meeting time and location,

and discuss lunch options.

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What to Bring:

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• Waders (in cold water months--no studs)

• Appropriate clothing

• Rain gear

• Polarized sunglasses

• Fishing license

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License Requirements:

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A Tennessee, all-species fishing license is required. You can

purchase yours here. 

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Payment:

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A $100 non-refundable deposit is required at the time of

booking, and can be paid by check or Venmo towards the total

cost of the trip. Paypal is accepted, but includes a convenience

fee. The remainder is to be paid on the day of the trip by check

or cash. In order to better serve you, in the event of inclement

weather or poor water conditions, as determined by Matt Reilly,

deposits can be put towards a rescheduled date within a year's

time.

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- Note: Listed rate does not include gratuity.

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Gratuity:

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Choosing what to tip can be confusing. Generally, throughout

the service industry, 20% of the trip rate is standard given you

enjoyed your time on the water and your guide. We give 110%

to our clients on the water every day in order to ensure that

you have a memorable, relaxing, and educational adventure that

will stick with you forever. It's our passion and why we do what

we do. 

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