Fishing the South Fork of the Holston River in Northeast Tennessee

If you ask a local angler where to find the best trout waters in East Tennessee, there's a good chance they’ll point you toward the South Fork of the Holston River (aka Soho)—and with good reason. This river, stretching from the weir dam below South Holston Lake near Bluff City all the way through Kingsport, is a favorite for seasoned fly fishers and weekend warriors alike.

Whether you’re chasing brown trout, rainbow trout, or just a bit of peace and quiet, the South Fork Holston offers some of the most productive and scenic fishing in the Southeast.

What Makes Soho Special?

The river’s cold water tailrace, regulated by the South Holston Dam, provides ideal year-round trout habitat. In fact, this section of river consistently ranks as one of the top tailwaters in the entire country. The weir dam and oxygenation systems help maintain temperatures in the 50–65°F range—perfect for trout survival and growth.

The Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency (TWRA) actively manages this fishery, with both wild and stocked trout populating the waters. It’s not uncommon to land a 16- to 20-inch brown if the conditions are right.

What You’ll Catch

  • Rainbow Trout: Plentiful and often aggressive, these are great for beginners and fly anglers testing new patterns.

  • Brown Trout: The real prize. These wary fish are tougher to catch but often bigger and bolder.

  • Occasional Bass & Panfish: Especially in the lower stretches near Kingsport.

This river is especially known for its Sulphur hatch, typically happening from May through July. If you’ve never fished a dry fly hatch before, this is the kind of experience that ruins you—in the best way.

Local Tips for Success

  • Tailwater flows matter: Check TVA’s generation schedule before heading out. Wade fishing is safest and most productive when generation is minimal.

  • Wade vs. Drift Boat: Wade access is great near the weir dam and several public pull-offs. But if you want to fish multiple holes or deeper water, a drift boat or kayak opens up a world of opportunity.

  • Best flies: Sulphur patterns, midges, soft hackles, and pheasant tail nymphs are go-to options. In the cooler months, streamers can produce big browns.

 Where to Access

  • Weir Dam Park (Bluff City) – Great for wading and close to parking.

  • Emmett Bridge Access – Mid-river, excellent for both wading and launching watercraft.

  • Riverview and Winged Deer areas – Best for lower-river access closer to Kingsport.

 

Fishing the South Fork Holston River isn’t just about catching trout—it’s about immersing yourself in one of Northeast Tennessee’s most peaceful and productive natural settings. Whether you're a fly-fishing purist or a spin caster with a cold drink in your kayak, there's something magical about this river.

So if you're thinking of moving to Northeast Tennessee, or just looking for a day away from the hustle, don’t overlook the South Fork Holston. Bring a rod, a little patience, and maybe a dry pair of socks—you’ll be glad you did.