Sam Presutti

How many years have you been fishing?

25+

How many years have you been guiding?

10+

Who introduced you to fly fishing?

My father introduced me to fishing at a young age, I was later gifted a fly rod by my grandmother which planted the seed for what has become an obsession.

Can you tell us a little about your home waters and the fish you pursue there?

My Home Rivers are the South Holston & Watauga Tailwaters in East Tennessee. These rivers have some of the highest trout per mile densities in the country. We have prolific hatches throughout the year that grow some of the largest brown trout found anywhere.

What's the height of the season for you? What time of year is your personal favorite?

With mild winters and the constant supply of stable water temperatures from our dams we have a 12 month fishery. Our peak seasons are March-June and September-Oct but we have opportunities for great fishing every month of the year.

What are your favorite travel destinations? What's on the bucket list?

I love to saltwater fly fish every chance I get! I am crazy about New England Stripers and False albacore!

The Seychelles would be at the very top of my bucket list!

What you like most about Thomas and Thomas rods? Which rods do you fish?

T&T makes fly rods that have always spoke to me from the first time I had one in my hand. You can tell they were created with the intent to be a fishing tool for the most avid angler. It's also a plus they are crafted with unmatched top tier craftsmanship. I fish them all!

What's your current go-to fly?

I keep fly selection simple. It’s all about where you put it and how you fish it!

Other than fly tackle, what piece of gear do you find indispensable?

Sunglasses. In my fishery we are highly dependent upon being able to sight fish. I keep 3 different lenses in my boat at all time for varying light conditions.

My favorite thing about guiding is:

I’m an extremely teaching focused guide. I love to bring my anglers to the next level and see those moments where new techniques click with them for the first time.

From the angler’s point of view, what do you see as the main value of going on a guided trip?

The main value of going on a guided trip is to see how the guide approaches his particular fishery and the techniques they use in varying conditions to stay on the bite! You can pack a lifetime of learning into an 8 hour trip!

What can new anglers expect to get out of a guided trip? 

New anglers can expect to learn how to dial in their cast and presentation techniques to put more fish into the net!

What’s your ideal lunch when on the water? What do you actually pack?

Depends on the season! In the summer I’m a light eater, I typically pack salad, charcuterie or a sandwich. In the cooler months it’s hard to beat a nice hot soup!

What fly fishing blogs/magazines do you read regularly?

The Drake

When I'm not fishing you'll find me:

Enjoying a top notch bourbon while tending to my grill!