Blue Ridge Guide Association

Blue Ridge Guide Association’s mission is to focus on the conservation and preservation of our regional fisheries in Tennessee, North Carolina & Virginia.

Blue Ridge Guide Association (BRGA) past/ongoing efforts: • Conservation efforts across the South Holston and Watauga Rivers and tributaries • Ongoing collaboration with TVA and TWRA to improve trout habitat and water quality • Six water temperature gauges installed across both rivers • Multi-year economic impact study with Appalachian State University to support conservation policy • $60K+ guide relief fund launched in 2025 after Hurricane Helene • Active partnership with Trout Unlimited on education and conservation • Development of a conservation-focused Best Practices standard for guides and anglers. • Development of a resource focused best practices financial advisor standard for guides and outfitters. • Two+ river cleanups each year plus a large community fundraiser weekend with raffles, films, and events