Fishing Report: May 2025

The Watauga and South Holston Rivers are fishing exceptionally well right now. The Watauga is holding steady at 230–240 CFS with cold, clear water and just a touch of color—perfect for confident trout. The South Holston is generating in short pulses (morning, noon, and evening), giving anglers plenty of low-flow windows for productive fishing.

Both rivers have stable temperatures in their upper sections and are seeing solid activity in the early morning and late evening. Dry flies and small nymphs are working well during low water, while streamers and heavier rigs can produce during generation. Trout are feeding actively, and the clarity makes for rewarding sight-fishing.

Good time of year for hard fighting fish

One exciting seasonal highlight: stripers and hybrids are starting to push into the lower river stretches, chasing cooler water and baitfish. If you’re looking to land both trout and a trophy striper in the same day, now’s the time to gear up and get out there.

Whether you're new to fly fishing or looking to level up, I’d love to guide you on the water. Booking a trip now means hitting peak conditions—clear flows, hungry fish, and the best times of day all lining up. Shoot me a message to grab a date!