Tennesee’s Wild Side Weekly Pro Staff

Randy Ratliff

I am Randy Ratliff, the owner and guide of Troutfishers Guide Service. We are a professional, licensed and insured fly and spin fishing guide service in East Tennessee.

I learned to fish from my Dad as a young boy on the rivers, lakes, and ponds around our home. During my teenage years my Grandfather was the influence to my migration towards using the long rod. He tied his own flies using feathers and fur from around the farm. I really miss his sage advice and my time on the water allows me to think of him.

When I am not guiding, I can be found at my tying bench producing the proven local patterns I have developed over the years or out on the water keeping in touch with the rivers and streams.

I have had the privilege to guide several well know country and pop music celebrities like Gary Morris, Dan Seals, and Jim Seals.

Our wade and float trips for trout, and smallmouth, are taken on the South Holston, Watauga, Holston below Cherokee Dam, Clinch, The Holston, and Nolichucky Rivers. We have a special use permit allowing us to guide in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park.

From beginners to the experienced fisherman we can cater a trip for you. My goal is to give my clients a memorable outdoor experience which brings them back year after year.

Randy Ratliff