[IdahoBoy]

I have been reading quite a bit about the S. Holston & Watauga rivers in NE TN for the last few years, and have always wanted to make a trip up and fish either, or both, of them. There seems to be large browns in the area; oh, how I love browns! I love putting miles on the truck and seeing new places.

I grew up in North Idaho, and spent time fishing from rafts in Montana, Idaho, Wyoming, and Utah with my family; we almost always fished with in-line spinners (Mepps, Panther Martin, rooster tails etc). I have read the regulations over and over again, and they are very specific on creel quantity, but not specific about fishing techniques; are you allowed in-line trident barbed lures like a Mepps or Panther Martins? Do any of you use them? They have always been productive for me.

As my brothers and I grew older, a few of them began taking up fly fishing. I have tried it from time to time, but never fell in love with it as they did. There is just something about having a spinner rod in my hand that adds to the experience. I can't find any information about spinner fishing; mostly fly fishing guides and dry/wet flys that are hitting. Am I the only spinner fisherman out there? I have called some guide services as well, and they scoffed at the question in a round about way.

I have tried TMs, and am very new to them; they don't have them out west. They have been somewhat productive. I plan on trying to master them, and try their merit out west in Montanan waters this summer.

Let me know what y'all think, know, opinions etc on spinner fishing in TN, and suggestions on access points to the Watauga & S. Holston Rivers.

For some reason I feel like fly fisherman think spinners are cheating... but catching fish is catching fish - to each their own IMO.

Thanks,
-Spike