Booking guided fly fishing trips on the Clinch, Cumberland and Holston rivers offering year-round fly fishing opportunities to target trophy trout in Burkesville, Kentucky and Eastern Tennessee.
Guided Fly Fishing Trips on the Clinch, Cumberland and Holston Rivers
USCG Licensed Captain | 30 Years Experience | All Gear Included | Southern Hot Lunches on Full Day Trips
Explore the Rivers We Guide
Which River is right for you?
| River | Best For | Species | Best Season |
|---|---|---|---|
| Clinch | Technical anglers | Rainbow & Brown Trout | Year-round |
| Cumberland | Trophy trout & float trips | Rainbow & Brown Trout | Year-round |
| Holston | Dry flies & caddis hatches | Rainbow & Brown Trout | Peak seasonal hatches |
AN All-Inclusive On-the Water Experience
Every guided fly fishing trip includes everything you need to fish – you just need to show up.
- Premium Sage fly rod outfits
- Rio Leaders and Umpqua Tippet
- Hand-tied flies for current conditions
- Full -day trips: Southern meat-and-two lunch with homemade dessert
- On-the water instruction for every experience level
- Safe, professional drift or jet boat transport
Meet Your Guide Captain Jeff Sharpe
“After 30 years of fly fishing, I still look forward to every morning on the water” – USCG OUPV Captain Jeff Sharpe
Hi my name is Jeff Sharpe and I am the owner / operator of JA Sharpe Fly Fishing and www.sharpefly.com
I have spent the last thirty years of my life chasing Rainbow, Brook and Brown Trout in major tailwaters and small mountain streams throughout the Southeast. I have been a professional fly fishing guide for over fifteen years. I have worked for several other outfitters in Kentucky, Georgia and Tennessee and struck out on my own in October of 2023. Please feel free to contact me via phone, email or socials and lets spend some time on the water!
Licensed Guide Kentucky & Tennessee | USCG OUPV Six Pack Licensed Captain | Fully Insured | 30 + Years Experience
Whats Fishing Well Right Now?
Cumberland River Fly Fishing Report August 26 2026
Cumberland River Fly Fishing Report – August 26 2026...
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Cumberland River Fly Fishing Report August 9 2026
Cumberland River Fly Fishing Report August 9 2026 stocking...
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Cumberland River Fly Fishing Report July 31 2026
Cumberland River Fly Fishing Report – July 31 2026...
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best time of year for fly fishing on the Cumberland River?
The Cumberland River offers exceptional, year-round trout fishing. Tailwater flows provide stable conditions across all four seasons, with spring and summer bringing prolific insect hatches and aggressive feeding behavior, while fall and winter offer incredible opportunities for targeting trophy brown and rainbow trout in uncrowded waters.
Do I need to bring my own fly fishing gear?
No gear or prior gear setup is required. Every guided trip is fully all-inclusive, featuring premium Sage rod outfits, Rio leaders, hand-tied flies matched to current conditions, and all necessary terminal tackle. You are welcome to bring your favorite rod if you prefer, but everything you need for a successful day on the water is provided.
What is included in a Full-Day Guided Fly Fishing Trip?
Full-day floats include a full session on the water with a USCG licensed captain, professional drift or jet boat transport, on-the-water instruction tailored to your experience level, all tackle and gear, and a homemade southern meat-and-two lunch complete with dessert.
Do I need a fishing license for both Tennessee and Kentucky?
Depending on where your float takes you on the tailwaters, licensing requirements vary. For the Cumberland River around Burkesville, you will need a valid Kentucky fishing license, which can be obtained via the Kentucky Department of Fish and Wildlife Resources. For trips on the Clinch or Holston rivers, you will need a Tennessee license available through the Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency.
Ready to Spend a Day on the water?
Secure your dates for the 2026 season or grab a gift certificate for the angler in your life!
Prefer to call or text? Reach Jeff directly at 865-936-1557