Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Do you allow pets?
A: Unfortunately pets are not allowed at this time on our main campus, Whistling Timbers is a cabin that we manage that is pet friendly.
Q: Do you have free WiFi?
A: Yes. Each of our cabins has free wireless internet available. The login information will be in the cabin upon your arrival.
Q. When is the best time of year to fish?
A: Fishing is year-round on the South Holston River and is good throughout the year. Even in the heat of the summer, water temperatures remain a cool 50 degrees (since we are a tailwater) so trout remain active even in the summer. If you're interested in catching big fish, then the last fall through February is best as big browns migrate to spawning grounds in the river.
Q. When is the best time to wade fish?
A: Springtime (March-May) is often the best for wade fishing opportunities since the TVA is working to raise the South Holston Lake to full pool by Memorial Day and electricity demand is often low during Spring. The black caddis hatch is quite good off our property in April and nymphing is a go-to method. Our sister river, the Watuaga River, typically has a strong tan Caddis hatch in April that is a lot of fun. Summertime TVA releases are tied more closely to electricity demands so releases typically occur at various times for various lengths of time. There are often periods of time during the day where the TVA is not generating allowing for wade fishing opportunities and the Sulfur hatches during the day make for wonderful top-water fun during the summer. Fall is often least attractive for wade fishermen since TVA begins drawing down the lake right after Labor Day and will not get to low pool until Christmas-time. Floats trips are very popular in the fall because we have more consistent TVA flows, big fish coming into the river from Boone Lake to spawn, spectacular fall foliage, and the lowest amount of rainfall typically.
Q: Do you offer guided river tours?
A: Yes, our guide service can get you on the water.
Q. Do you allow spin casting?
A. We are predominantly a fly fishing lodge but we recognize there are many ways of catching trout. If you do spin cast, we kindly ask that you avoid using treble hooks and live bait. This will help protect the health of our rivers.
Q. Are you a catch-and-release only lodge?
A. For many of us, our livelihoods depend on the production of the river so we ask that you show restraint in the number of fish that you keep. We recognize, as anglers that you may want to keep a few to grill that evening.
Q: What can my spouse do if not a fisherman?
A: If fishing isn't your thing, we offer over five miles of river trails to walk, hiking in the mountains. Downtown Bristol is also only about 15 minutes away and is known for its great shopping and dining options. Bristol Caverns are only 2 miles away and the Birthplace of Country Music Museum is also located in downtown Bristol.
Q: How far are you from Bristol Motor Speedway?
A: We're located about 15 minutes from the speedway.
Q: Can I fish in the winter?
A: Yes! The South Holston is fish-able year-round. There are sections of the river that are closed during the spawning season, however, neither our frontage nor the TVA property in which our property abuts is affected.
Q: How do I know if the TVA is planning on generating?
A: You can call this toll free number: 1-800-238-2264, or click here.
Q. What is your current capacity?
A. We can accommodate 28 adults at this time.
Q. Are meals provided?
A. We offer the service of scheduling drop-off or chef prepared meals by a local catering company, more information can be found on our catering page. Each cabin has a fully-equipped kitchen (stove, refrigerator, microwave, and toaster) and Food City grocery store is only 3 miles away. A local convenient store called "The Store" is only one mile away. There are many fine restaurants located downtown Bristol, TN/VA. in addition to a few restaurants close by for home style cooking.
Q. Can we have a fire outside in a fire pit?
A. Each cabin has its own fire pit and complimentary firewood.
Q. What makes your lodge unique from other lodges in the area?
A. There are many fine lodges in the area, but our distinctive feature is our location and our capacity. We have one of the largest capacities of any lodge in the area making it a great choice for large groups. Not only do we have 540' of river frontage on the South Holston River, but our lodge property (14 acres) abuts TVA public lands making it accessible to our lodgers for fishing, hiking, kayaking, and boating. In addition, our lodge is located on a stretch of the South Holston that is very accessible for wading but also offers guided float fishing. Our prices are competitive and we seek to offer our best care for you.
Q. What is the nearest airport to Tailwaters Lodge?
A. The closest airport to us is Tri-Cities Regional Airport (TRI). It is located about 20 minutes from us.
Q. Do you offer a shuttle service to and from the airport?
A. Yes! We are more than happy to provide transportation to and from the airport for our lodgers.
Q. Are there any additional fees when booking?
A. The cabin rate is based on two lodgers, each additional guest after two is $30 per person per night. This helps us with the additional expense and use of the cabin. Cleaning fees vary from $75 - $200 based on the cabin and group size. Each reservation is subject to a 9.25% Sales Tax and a 4% Sullivan County Tax. When booking, the system will present a summary of these fees.
Q. Is there a noise policy?
A. Yes. For the comfort of other guests, we have implemented a quiet time of 9:00PM.
Q. What if we want to invite guests over for the day/evening but not have them stay overnight?
A. If you plan on having guests come and visit while you are staying with us, please let us know so that we may be prepared for anything that may come up. Additional fees may apply.