I spent the day with Bobby, an oral surgeon that had come across the mountains of NC
to see what the South Holston River has to offer. Bobby arrived at the shop at 9:30 so we suited up
and headed out to get started. There was a “Big Pulse” Earlier in the morning so when we arrived at the
water it was very high and still on it’s descent. While we waited for the water to drop. We worked on
casting, the reach mend and the importance of fishing across and down. The water eventually did
drop and the topwater action got heated in a hurry. The “big pulse” kicked up a variety of bug life.
Within the first hour we saw “off the chart small” midges, Blue Wing Olives, Pale Yellow Sulphurs,
and black flies.  Bobby caught fish on a little olive emerger that I tie and the fish seemed to
really key on Blake’s Stripper throughout the day.  I had discussed with Bobby some of the entymology
of the river during our hike in.  I just didn’t figure he would have seen all the different species on the same day.
Through the early afternoon before lunch we hooked up with quite a few
fish, brought to had several fish, and long distance released the rest. Bobby was amazed at the “numbers of fish” that are in the river.
At 2pm we decided to have a break for lunch. Then moved on down river to another spot where we finished out the day.
All in all it was great day to be out on the water.

If you would like a Guided Trip give us a call at 423-878-2822.

Josh McFadden

Champion Outfitters Guide Service