Blue Stream Fly Fishing
Fly Fishing Report for:

South Fork Holston River - Sugar Grove - Virginia

Hatch Chart - Best Access/Spots - Local Fish - About

Water Flow Chart

Using Water Flow Charts & Weather Reports: Begin with our water flow charts to grasp stream velocity and volume – look for stable or rising trends to pinpoint ideal fishing times. Learn to interpret sudden spikes or drops, which can indicate potential challenges. Next, consult our weather reports to understand ambient conditions. Pairing the two, you can anticipate fish behavior, choose the right gear, and select the best fishing spots. Use these tools together for a holistic approach to your next fishing adventure.

In-Depth Weather

Directions To Location

Hatch Chart

Month Hatch Time of Day Recommended Fly Sizes Popular Fly Patterns
January Midges Morning-Afternoon #18-22 Zebra Midge
February Blue Winged Olives Afternoon #18-22 RS2, Pheasant Tail
March Blue Winged Olives, Sculpin All Day #16-20, #4-8 Pheasant Tail, Woolly Bugger
April Caddis, Mayflies Afternoon-Evening #14-20 Elk Hair Caddis, Hare's Ear
May Sulfurs, Caddis All Day #16-20 Elk Hair Caddis, Pheasant Tail
June Sulfurs Afternoon #16-18 Comparadun, Light Cahill
July Sulfurs, Terrestrials All Day #16-18, #8-12 Ant Patterns, Hopper Patterns
August Terrestrials Midday-Afternoon #8-12 Hopper Patterns, Beetle Patterns
September Blue Winged Olives Afternoon #18-22 RS2, Pheasant Tail
October Blue Winged Olives, Caddis All Day #14-22 Elk Hair Caddis, RS2
November Midgs, Blue Winged Olives Morning-Afternoon #18-22 Zebra Midge, RS2
December Midgs Midday #18-22 Zebra Midge

While we strive to ensure the precision of our hatch charts, some reflect broader river region insights. Through ongoing partnerships with local guides and fly shops, we’re committed to refining our data. Should you notice any inconsistencies or have feedback, we welcome you to reach out. 

Best Fishing Spots

The South Fork Holston River – Sugar Grove showcases an array of excellent spots for fly fishing attracting anglers from across the globe.

  • Webb Bridge: This area provides plenty of trout throughout the year and gives anglers a great chance at hooking a trophy fish.
  • Ripleys Bridge: Favored for its deep slow-moving pools ideal for fly fishing, and it’s excellent for beginners.
  • Stoney battery: This section has some rapid waters. It’s best for experienced anglers looking for a challenge.
  • Alvarado Station: A bit downstream but plentiful in brown and rainbow trout.
  • Upper weir dam: The most popular spot for fly fishing due to the consistent water temperature and water flow.

Note: All these spots require a Virginia freshwater fishing license and follow a strict catch-and-release policy to preserve the water system.

Best Access Points

The South Fork Holston River – Sugar Grove offers an array of access points for fly fishing enthusiasts.
  • One of the best starting points is at Alvarado. It has free public access with a large parking area and excellent access to the river.
  • Another recommended point is Stoney Point, where the river widens and offers beautiful fly-fishing opportunities.
  • Also, there’s a beautiful stretch from Weaver Pike Bridge upstream to the South Holston Dam. This region offers numerous wading opportunities.
  • The areas near Big Springs and Weber City offer direct access to the river from the road, though parking here can be rather limited, it’s a worth location to fish due to river’s structure.
  • Finally, the Osceola Island and TVA Weir Dam would be profitable locales for both the experienced and novice fly fishermen.

Local Fish

  • Brown Trout: Brown Trout is one of the most coveted species for fly fishers because of its elusive behavior and strong fight. It’s known for its striking gold, brown, and red coloration.
  • Rainbow Trout: Rainbow Trout are known for their beautiful coloration and are a favorite among fly fishers for their willingness to bite and their acrobatic fighting style.
  • Brook Trout: Brook Trout is the only trout species native to the South Fork Holston River. Its vibrant coloration and preference for cooler, shaded waters make it a fun and challenging catch.
  • Mountain Whitefish: Mountain Whitefish is a species native to the western United States. While not as colorful as trout, they are praised by anglers for their scrappy fight.
  • Smallmouth Bass : The Smallmouth Bass is an aggressive fighter, and it’s resistant to catching. They are prized for their size and aggressive behavior when hooked.
  • Largemouth Bass : Largemouth Bass are famous for their explosive strikes and powerful fights. They tend to inhabit the slower, deeper sections of the river.
  • Bluegill: Bluegill is a popular target for beginners due to their prolific nature and willingness to take a fly. They’re smaller but put up a good fight for their size.
  • Yellow Perch: Yellow Perch offer a fun challenge for fly fishers due to their size and tendency to travel in large schools. They’re most easily recognized by their distinct yellow and green coloration.

About The River

The South Fork Holston River, charmingly coursing through Sugar Grove, is steeped in an enduring history. Initially named ‘Hogoheegee’ by native Americans, it was later renamed by European settlers for its resemblance to the Holston River in Tennessee.

This invaluable river grew to become a central asset for the community, contributing towards agriculture, industry, and transportation. Sugar Grove, which sits pretty on its banks, witnessed key developments as the encompassing farm lands prospered by using the river’s resources.

  • The establishment of grist mills along the river, around the 1800s, ushered an era of industrial progress.
  • During World War I and World War II, the river provided a boost to the local agriculture.
  • Over time, the river has become a popular point for recreation – attracting fishing enthusiasts and nature lovers for its thriving trout population and scenic beauty.

Today, the South Fork Holston River and Sugar Grove symbiotically embody the harmonious blend of history, industry, and nature.

Facebook
Twitter
LinkedIn

Recent Articles

Hip Waders vs. Chest Waders: The Pros & Cons
Gear ReviewsFly Fishing

Hip Waders vs. Chest Waders: The Pros & Cons

April 20, 2024

Hip Waders or Chest Waders? Choosing the right gear for fly fishing can make all the difference in…

Read More
Tying a Pheasant Tail Nymph: Step-by-Step Fly Tying Instructions
Fly TyingFly Fishing

Tying a Pheasant Tail Nymph: Step-by-Step Fly Tying Instructions

April 18, 2024

Welcome to fly tying: How to tie a Pheasant Tail Nymph! If you’re new here or a seasoned…

Read More

Fly Tying Articles

Tying a Pheasant Tail Nymph: Step-by-Step Fly Tying Instructions

April 18, 2024