Preston grew up in East Tennessee, spending his days fishing in the tailwaters of Watauga and South Holston. Early on, he realized that simply casting worms from the bank wasn’t enough to keep him engaged—something was missing. That’s when he discovered fly fishing. This new form of fishing quickly turned into a deep passion that occupied Preston’s every thought. He dedicated himself to learning the nuances of fly fishing, connecting with others who shared his enthusiasm, and constantly improving his techniques to catch more fish.
Driven by this passion, Preston began guiding others in the art of fly fishing. With several years of experience leading trips in the local area, he founded his outfit to introduce beginners to the sport and assist experienced anglers in sharpening their skills. Booking a trip with Preston means spending time with a friend who is eager to teach you the right methods, help you understand the basics, and position you for a successful catch. His goal is to ensure each outing is enjoyable and leaves you eager for more.
Preston is flexible regarding the starting point of your trip, accommodating your preferences to make the day as convenient and enjoyable as possible. For example, when my 16-year-old son tried fly fishing for the first time, Preston was fantastic—approachable, humorous, knowledgeable, and patient. Overall, the experience was very positive, and we look forward to booking another outing with Preston as our guide.
The initial payment for this excursion cannot be refunded unless the trip is canceled due to weather conditions. Cancellations made on the day of the trip or failing to show up will result in the full remaining amount being charged to the provided card.
We provide all rods, reels, and tackle for your convenience. However, we suggest you also bring sunglasses, sunscreen, clothing suitable for the weather, and any personal gear you'd like to use during the trip.
Experience the Legendary South Holston River with Captain Preston – The Premier Fly Fishing Adventure in Tennessee!
Discover the South Holston River, affectionately known as “SoHo,” a stunning 14-mile tailwater that flows from the South Holston Dam into Boone Lake. Celebrated as one of the premier trout fisheries in the United States, the SoHo boasts an impressive trout population of approximately 8,500 Brown and Rainbow Trout per mile. Among these are wild Brown Trout averaging between 16 and 22 inches, making it an ideal spot for fly fishing enthusiasts.
The tailwater conditions maintain stable water temperatures year-round, providing excellent fishing opportunities in every season. When the Tennessee Valley Authority (TVA) is not releasing water, the river's shallow stretches make wading easy. However, during higher flows, fishing from a drift boat is recommended—this is where Captain Preston’s expertise shines.
Choose between a half-day trip (4 to 5 hours) or a full-day excursion (7 to 8 hours) under the skilled guidance of Captain Preston. Whether you prefer drifting in the boat or wading the river, all fishing tackle is supplied for your convenience. Full-day trips include a satisfying lunch, while half-day outings offer snacks and beverages. Anglers who plan to wade are asked to bring their own waders and boots.
Trips launch at 7:00 AM and can start from various points along the river, offering flexibility to fit your plans. These trips welcome anglers of all skill levels and are friendly for children and those with disabilities. Along with spectacular scenery and abundant trout, enjoy professional instruction and a relaxed atmosphere—feel free to bring along a cold beer (no glass containers) and your favorite music to enhance your experience.
