Boating At South Holston Lake In Tennessee

Free Public Boating & Watersport Activities

Nestled in the northeastern part of Tennessee, South Holston Lake is a picturesque reservoir that stretches across the border into Virginia. Surrounded by the rolling Appalachian Mountains, the lake's scenic beauty and clear waters make it a sought-after destination for boating enthusiasts and nature lovers alike.

South Holston Lake offers a range of nearby attractions to complement the boating experience. The nearby towns of Bristol and Johnson City provide opportunities to explore local culture, dine in charming restaurants, and visit historic sites.

Boating on South Holston Lake is a popular pastime, with its 7,580 acres of water offering ample space for all types of watercraft. From pontoon boats to speedboats, visitors can enjoy a variety of boating activities while taking in the breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains.

The lake is home to several marinas, such as Lake View Dock and Laurel Marina & Yacht Club, providing boaters with access to boat services, fuel, and provisions. These marinas ensure that visitors have a seamless and enjoyable boating experience on the lake.

Water sports enthusiasts will find plenty of excitement on South Holston Lake, with activities such as water skiing, wakeboarding, and tubing being popular choices among visitors seeking an adrenaline rush on the water.

Boat launch ramps are strategically located around the lake, allowing boaters to easily launch their vessels and begin their adventures. Well-maintained and accessible launch ramps contribute to a smooth entry onto the water.

For those without their own boats, rental boats are available at select marinas and boat rental businesses, providing visitors with the opportunity to experience the joys of boating without owning a boat.

Fishing on South Holston Lake is a favorite activity for many, as the lake is well-stocked with a variety of fish, including bass, trout, and catfish, providing anglers with a rewarding fishing experience.

With a boating season that typically runs from spring to fall, South Holston Lake invites boaters and outdoor enthusiasts to immerse themselves in its natural beauty and partake in an array of recreational activities on its pristine waters.

Camping facilities in the nearby Cherokee National Forest and other areas offer an opportunity for visitors to extend their stay, embracing the peacefulness of the outdoors and enhancing their experience with the lake's natural surroundings.

Boating, camping and fishing.

Located in northeast Tennessee, South Holston Lake is a scenic boating, water sport and fishing lake with magnificent views of the Appalachian Mountains which run parallel to the lake. Marinas, boat launches and campgrounds are scattered around the lake. Launching boats, canoes and kayaks is easy making access to fishing areas a breeze. This 10,000 surface-acre reservoir is home to quality bass fishing. Annually, South Holston Reservoir makes the Bassmaster Top 100 bass lakes in the USA. This clear-water lake is less fertile than others in the area, so the numbers of bass is fewer, but the quality of both largemouth and smallmouth more than makes up for it. Crappie, walleye, trout, catfish, bluegill and other sunfish also reside in the lake. The cool, clear water makes for an ideal trout and walleye fishery. There are plenty of places to fish from shore all around the lake. Because part of the lake is in Virginia, check VA and TN regulations before fishing. Also be aware of significant draw downs of water in winter, often lowering the water level 30 feet or more.

Area Amenities

Marina: YES
Boat Rental: YES
Boat Launch Ramp: YES
Campgrounds: YES
RV Hookups: YES
Lodging: YES
Convenience Store: NEARBY
Bait & Tackle: NEARBY
Restaurant: YES

Camping

Cherokee Trails Campground - 423 391-0118

Cochran's Lakeview Campground - 423 878-8045

Camper's Cove Campground - 423 878-9341

Little Oak Campground - 423 735-1500

South Holston Lake Map

Fishing

Fish species found in South Holston Lake include largemouth bass, smallmouth bass, spotted bass, channel catfish, blue catfish, black crappie, white crappie, walleye, rainbow trout, brown trout, lake trout, bluegill, redear sunfish, rock bass, warmouth and white bass.

Largemouth bass Smallmouth bass Spotted bass Channel catfish Blue catfish Black crappie White crappie Walleye Rainbow trout Brown trout Lake trout Bluegill Redear Sunfish Rock Bass Warmouth Sunfish White Bass