East Tennessee may not strike you as a trout destination but with so many well managed rivers, the word is out. We primarily float the Clinch and Holston rivers near Knoxville but have other seasonal rivers that we work as well. Plentiful bug life and water quality being top notch is why our trout fisheries have been labeled blue ribbon for many years. Being in the south also provides us with year round opportunities (due to mild winters) to float these rivers giving the anglers a great experience no matter the season.

The Smokies are home to wild rainbow, brook and brown trout streams flowing through the hills of Appalachia. These streams are where most of us cut our teeth on fly fishing here in East Tennessee and still holds a special place in our hearts. Rock hopping and fishing big dry flies pretty much sums up fishing the Smokies with most driving through the park without ever getting out of their car. Don’t be them, let us show you the wild side of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park.

The GSMNP has Rainbow, Brown and Brook Trout which are all wild fish and the season is open year round to anglers.  We wade fish these streams and use light fly tackle because the average fish is 7 to 10 inches long and the waters are small. We also like to wear natural colors or even camo to stay hidden from these spooky fish. Along with fishing in the wild, especially the back country, don’t be surprised to get an occasional visit from some of the wildlife. Most of the places we fish have very easy access, but some don’t, so please let us know what kind of trip you are looking for.

The spring, fall and winter months are good times to focus on the lower streams in the park because the water temperatures are just right and at good levels most of the time.  During the summer months, going higher is not a bad idea where the water will be cooler and the fishing pressure will be down.  If you are looking to catch Brook Trout, then you will have to work for them because the majority of these fish live around 2,000 feet and higher.  These are everyone’s favorite to catch because they are beautiful fish and the only species of trout native to the Eastern United States.