Although the majority of South Holston Lake is located in Tennessee, its best fishing is likely to be found on the Virginia side. The entire lake covers 7,580 acres that are filled with crappie, sunfish, walleye, catfish, and black bass. Other popular activities on and around South Holston Lake include boating, water sports, hiking, hunting, and picnicking.

The Virginia portion of South Holston Lake is in Washington County.