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OUR FLY-fishing GUIDES

Hundreds of years of combined experience

At South Holston River Lodge, we’re serious about fishing. We’ve put together the best team of fly-fishing guides in the area. With hundreds of years of combined experience, we’re sure to pair you up with someone that will impress, no matter if you’re trying to improve your skills or just have a relaxing day. We cannot sing their praise enough, our fly-fishing guides are key to your experience at South Holston River Lodge, we’re sure you’re gonna love them as much as we do!

Orvis Endorsed Fly Fishing Guide of the Year 24 Finalist

BRANDON BARBOUR

Brandon is a native of Franklin County, in Southwest Virginia just down the road from our tailwaters. Largemouth, Smallies, Stripers Trout captured his main focus growing up. Brandon, a college athlete attended King University here in Bristol was a standout pitcher for the Tornado’s. Brandon’s knowledge of our rivers combined with his overall fishiness along with his outstanding personality is just one of the reasons he is so regularly requested. When Brandon is not guiding you can find him scouting the river or chasing that next big buck! Brandon has been recognized as a 2024 Finalist for Orvis® Endorsed Fly-Fishing Guide of the Year!

Andrew Bright

Andrew’s family resides in East TN and SW Virginia where he was born raised. A true natural when it comes to fly-fishing guiding. His carefree attitude infectious smile is the reason he is one of the most requested guides at the lodge. His dedication to the sport his knowledge make him a true asset. Whether you’re a beginner or seasoned angler, Andrew exceeds all expectations.

When he is not guiding or spending time with his wife Ashley, daughter Sienna son Holston, you can find him in the woods scouting for big bucks & gobblers.

JOHN STUNKARD

John grew up in Elizabethton, TN. Although he always had a fascination with fishing, he didn’t get his first fly rod until 12 years old. From casting to tying, John does it all. While fishing with him, you can expect to learn. His goal is to improve his client’s angling prowess while guiding, his ability to share information keeps them coming back for more. 

Don’t be surprised when you catch him on the river during his few days off. Not only does he love to guide, but he also still loves to fish.

BRAYDON WILHOIT

Born & raised in the Tri Cities, Braydon is the future of the fly-fishing guiding industry in East Tennessee. This “Young Buck” is just plain fishy!! He rows the boat like a veteran & his fly-tying skills are superlative. He is an absolute joy to be in the boat with & has a constant smile that makes the day super fun to say the least – a true asset to our team. If you want to speak the language of baseball he is your man! 

Braydon was selected first team all-state & was named conference MVP! He is an impressive young man & you will not find another guide that will work harder to make your day more enjoyable.

TRAVIS HONEYCUTT

Aden Blackburn

KOREY HARTLEY