Fishing Season: year round

Holston Proper - TN

Fishing Outlook & Conditions

Water Temp:

58

Dane Law's Tip of the Week

Check generation schedules. Some good flows now, but some high water days mixed in. The Cumberland river just to the west and the Hiwassee River to the south are excellent choices for trout right now.

Directions open in app

Map of Holston Proper

Orvis-Endorsed guides nearby

Southeastern Anglers

5-Day Outlook as of 11/3/25

River is in transition. 11/03/25 Call Dane 770-655-9210

Techniques & Tips as of 11/3/25

Streamers on higher flows. Nymphs or Dry dropper on lower flows.

Local Species Available year round

  • Fish Icon

    trout and smallmouth

Dane Law's Recommended Fly Patterns

"Must-have" fly fishing patterns in descending order of importance:

Name: Colors: Size(s):
guides choice N/A

guides choice

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Dane Law's Recommended Gear

Description: About Holston Proper

The Holston River is a major river system of east Tennessee. The Holston river is one of the newest tailwater trout fisheries in the area. It is located below Cherokee dam in Jefferson city near Knoxville. This section of tailwater is well below the south fork of the Holston. TWRA began stocking trout here in 1999 and it has been a huge success. This stretch also offers superb smallmouth fishing from the drift or jet boats. The river is comprised of a limestone bottom and fertile water for insects. Hatches include Caddis, Crane Flies, Midges, and some Mayflies. There are also good populations of Crawfish and Minnows which are especially important to the smallmouth. Much of the river is bordered by private land so drift fishing is the most productive. There are several drift stretches available.

Nearest Airport:

Knoxville, TN.

Hatches:

caddis, crane flies, midge, mayflies, crawfish

Best Time to Fish:

9am to 5pm

Best Stretch:

lower stretch for smallies

Best Access:

Dam. Indian Cave, Nances Ferry