Discover premier trout fishing on the Watauga River with expert guides from Wahoo's Adventures. Enjoy scenic float trips and secluded fishing spots in Tennessee's mountain haven.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
Hang tight — photos are loading
This usually takes just a second.
Difficulty
moderate
Duration
4–8 hours
Fitness Level
Moderate physical fitness required; some casting and wading involved
Wildlife
History
The Watauga River has been integral to local communities since the Cherokee era, with the area designated a protected Wild Trout Water region.
Conservation
Wahoo's Adventures emphasizes catch-and-release practices and habitat preservation to protect the river's health.
Wahoo's Adventures
Discover premier trout fishing on the Watauga River with expert guides from Wahoo's Adventures. Enjoy scenic float trips and secluded fishing spots in Tennessee's mountain haven.
Wahoo's Adventures is a licensed outdoor outfitter based in the Appalachian region that specializes in guided river experiences, riverside camping, and fly fishing trips. The company operates signature trips on the Watauga River near Elizabethton, Tennessee, and on the New River near Todd, North Carolina, offering a range of activities for families, anglers, and outdoor enthusiasts. Core offerings include Watauga River rafting and tubing, New River camping with tent and treehouse-style sites, guided fly fishing wade trips and fly fishing lessons, and specialty options such as cooler tube rentals and River Dog Tubing. Each experience is designed with safety, accessibility, and environmental stewardship in mind.
Certified guides provide instruction, river navigation, and local ecology interpretation to ensure guests of all ages feel prepared and confident. Equipment is maintained to industry standards, and convenient amenities — such as nearby showers, grills, and easy water access at campsites — support comfortable multi-day stays. Popular lodging options include unique treehouse cabins like the Hobbit House, Cascades, and Raven's Nest, which offer direct paddling access and modern bathroom facilities.
Wahoo's Adventures partners with local authorities and follows river safety protocols, seasonal flow advisories, and leave-no-trace practices. Advance reservations are recommended for peak summer weekends and specialty accommodations, as cabins and guided slots fill quickly. The operator’s regional focus on the Watauga and New rivers delivers authentic, family-friendly adventure that emphasizes nature connection, skill-building, and memorable outdoor recreation.
Booking information, seasonal schedules, and group rates are available online or by phone year-round for families now.
Tours Offered
10+
Rafting, tubing, camping, and fishing trips
Locations
Watauga & New
Elizabethton, TN and Todd, NC
Family Friendly
All ages
Activities suitable for every age
Booking Tip
Advance recommended
Reserve peak dates early
Reserve guided trips, cooler tubes, or a treehouse cabin—popular dates fill fast
Wear layered clothing
Weather can change quickly on the water, so pack layers to stay comfortable.
Bring polarized sunglasses
They reduce glare on the water, helping you spot fish more easily.
Use appropriate fly tackle
Match the tackle to the type of trout and water conditions for best results.
Arrive early
Beat the crowds and get the best fishing spots before peak hours.
Fly rod and reel
A quality fly rod suited for trout fishing enhances your chances of success.
spring; summer; fall
Waders and boots
Protective waders keep you dry and stable while wading through the water.
spring; summer; fall
Polarized sunglasses
Help you spot fish beneath the water's surface.
Sun-protection
Sunscreen, hat, and lightweight clothing shield you from sun exposure.