“PERHAPS THE BEST TROUT FISHING IN THE EAST”​- LEFTY KREH
South Holston River Lodge Signage at Blue Wing Olive Cabin
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SOUTH HOLSTON RIVER LODGE

The South's Premier Fly-Fishing Destination
Escape to the Orvis® Endorsed South Holston River Lodge, the South’s Premier Fly-Fishing Destination. Come enjoy the all-inclusive experience with professionally guided fly fishing, premium riverside accommodations, creative & delicious meals & exceptional customer service all exceeding your expectations. The Lodge sits nestled in the trees perched above the famed, trout filled tailwater of the South Holston River in Bristol, Tennessee. This Blue Ribbon 15-mile tailrace hosts 7,000 to 10,000 trout per mile & is best known for its huge population of wild brown trout, consistent hatches year-round fly-fishing opportunities. We think Lefty Kreh’s quote said it best “Perhaps the best trout fishing in the east.”

ORVIS® ENDORSED LODGE

2024 Fly-Fishing Lodge of the Year Finalist
2025 FLY-FISHING LODGE OF THE YEAR

Founded in 1856, with more than 160+ years of adventure, Orvis® is a trusted name when it comes to fly-fishing. South Holston River Lodge has been honored to be an Orvis® endorsed lodge since 2016. In fact, we are the only all-inclusive Orvis® endorsed fly-fishing lodge in our region that caters specifically to the South Holston & Watauga Tailwaters in East Tennessee. 

The South Holston River Lodge was nominated as a 2024 Finalist for Orvis® Endorsed Fly-Fishing Lodge of the Year, SHRL is the 2025 Orvis® Endorsed Fly-Fishing Lodge of the Year, & we’re thrilled to be amongst the highest rated fly-fishing lodges in the industry. We hope you’re able to visit soon and experience what South Holston River Lodge is all about! 

5 Star Reviews
"My FAVORITE TRIP EVERY YEAR"
-Andrew B., Orvis® Review
5 Star Reviews
"BEST GUIDED EXPERIENCE"
-BRF92, Orvis® Review
5 Star Reviews
"Excellent in every aspect"
-Holland West, Orvis® Review

BLUE RIDGE GUIDE ASSOCIATION

FRIENDS OF THE LODGE

At South Holston River Lodge, we stay involved in what’s happening on our tailwaters. We’re proud to partner with Blue Ridge Guide Association, their mission is to focus on the conservation and preservation of our regional fisheries in Tennessee, North Carolina & Virginia. You can learn more about the BRGA and more SHRL friends below.

Fishing from Drift Boat | South Holston River Lodge
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RIVER RESOURCES

adventure awaits

Explore our River Resources section and learn about the history of our beautiful South Holston and Watauga Rivers. We’ve listed some of our most frequently asked questions, seasonal information as well as a Pre-Trip Planning Guide so you’ll be well prepared for your trip – Don’t forget your Tennessee Fishing License! We can’t wait to see you!