fly fish the Shoals

FLY FISH on the tennessee river in north alabama

Captain Tony Cox

Born and raised fly fishing on the Tennessee River, and a licensed USCG captain here since 2005. I've also been a high school baseball coach and teacher since 1989. I gladly guide the experts who are new to our waters, but am right at home "coaching up" anyone that wants to learn how to catch their first fish on a fly! I offer casting/fly fishing lessons, wade and canoe trips, tailrace trips below Wheeler and Wilson Dams, and lake trips on Wheeler, Wilson, and Pickwick Lakes.

Being Up a Creek in the Shoals is a Good Thing!

Smallmouth bass are the main target for anyone fishing the Shoals area of Northwest Alabama. I offer smallmouth trips (as well as for largemouth, stripers, and white bass) in the world famous tailraces of Wheeler Dam and Wilson Dam. But some great fish - that get less pressure - are available on Cypress Creek, Shoal Creek, and Bluewater Creek.

Single angler trips are greatly preferred- but multiple anglers can be accommodated in some situations. You will need a valid Alabama fishing license. All fishing gear is provided, and there's always a cooler of water on board the boat. All fishing is catch and release, and we do it all on the fly. I'll be as flexible as possible to make sure your trip is enjoyable!

Trip Options

1/2 Day trips: $250

WADING @ private access points on any of multiple creeks.
CANOE FLOATS - drift boat style, in Old Town Sport Boats
TAILRACE TRIPS - in the Sea Ark Jon below Wheeler/Wilson
MAYFLY HATCHES - running the lakes (Wheeler, Wilson, or Pickwick) in the Renegade Nomad flats boat in mid June during the big Hexagenia hatches.
TRIBUTARY RUNS- Jonboat runs up from the Tennessee River into multiple creeks and in to wadeable water.

FULL DAY TRIPS: $400

Pair any of the two half day trips! Kinda like the CookOut Menu, but with no onion rings....

GUIDED LESSON: $150

Half day that includes basics of rigging up, knots, rod and line weights, terminal tackle, flies and all the things you need to know to get started on your flyfishing adventures! Includes casting lesson and time on the water fishing. Designed to get you independent and on your way!!