South Holston Dam
South Holston Lake is a stunning freshwater dive site that can be easily accessed from the shore. Located in Bristol, TN, this dive spot offers a maximum depth of 30-40 meters (121-130 feet) and an average visibility of 5-6 meters (16-20 feet). The shoreline of South Holston Lake is partially developed, while the majority of the reservoir is bordered by the breathtaking Cherokee National Forest.
Divers visiting South Holston Lake should take note of the significant winter drawdowns, which can result in water levels dropping as much as 40 feet below the summer pool. This fluctuation adds to the excitement and challenge of exploring this incredible dive site.
The lake is home to a diverse range of game fish that attract anglers and divers alike. Popular species include Smallmouth Bass, Largemouth Bass, Walleye, Trout, Crappie, and Catfish. Prepare for an unforgettable underwater adventure as you encounter these fascinating creatures in their natural habitat.
With a maximum depth of 16 meters (52 feet) and varying water levels, South Holston Lake is best suited for advanced and expert divers seeking thrilling experiences. Whether you're an experienced diver or a seasoned pro, you'll find plenty of opportunities to test your skills and expand your underwater exploration.
South Holston Lake is nestled in the United States, specifically located on South Holston Dam Road in Sullivan County, Tennessee. Immerse yourself in the beauty of this dive site and discover the wonders that lie beneath the surface.
Divers visiting South Holston Lake should take note of the significant winter drawdowns, which can result in water levels dropping as much as 40 feet below the summer pool. This fluctuation adds to the excitement and challenge of exploring this incredible dive site.
The lake is home to a diverse range of game fish that attract anglers and divers alike. Popular species include Smallmouth Bass, Largemouth Bass, Walleye, Trout, Crappie, and Catfish. Prepare for an unforgettable underwater adventure as you encounter these fascinating creatures in their natural habitat.
With a maximum depth of 16 meters (52 feet) and varying water levels, South Holston Lake is best suited for advanced and expert divers seeking thrilling experiences. Whether you're an experienced diver or a seasoned pro, you'll find plenty of opportunities to test your skills and expand your underwater exploration.
South Holston Lake is nestled in the United States, specifically located on South Holston Dam Road in Sullivan County, Tennessee. Immerse yourself in the beauty of this dive site and discover the wonders that lie beneath the surface.
Diving Conditions Score for South Holston Dam
5.9
AverageAverage conditions, be alert.
The score is based on a calculation of the current weather and sea conditions.
Dive Site Overview for South Holston Dam
Depth
16m
Visibility
5m
Experience Level
advanced
expert
Weather Conditions for South Holston Dam
Wave Height
1m
Wind Speed
3.1 m/s
Water Temp
18°C
Visibility
37km
Cloud Cover
0%
Wave Period
8s
Air Temperature
15.8°C
Precipitation
0 mm
Detailed 7-Day Diving Forecast for South Holston Dam
Alpha
Dive Score Chart for South Holston Dam
Best time to dive: 6:00 with score 7.883333333333333/10. Water conditions: Waves 1m, Wind 1.5 m/s.Best night dive time: 4:00 with score 7.303333333333333/10.
Chart showing hourly dive conditions including wave height, wind speed, water temperature, and visibility throughout the day.
Sunrise at South Holston Dam: 06:00
Sunset at South Holston Dam: 18:00
Optimal diving conditions at South Holston Dam are affected by daylight hours. Sunrise occurs at 06:00 and sunset at 18:00, which impacts visibility and water temperature for scuba diving and snorkeling.
Best Overall
6:00Score: 7.9/10
Waves: 1m (8s), Wind: 1.5 m/s
Best Night
4:00Score: 7.3/10
Waves: 1m, Wind: 2.3 m/s
Seasonal Analysis for South Holston DamAlpha
Historical patterns and best seasons for diving at South Holston Dam
The dive score combines all factors to rate overall diving conditions throughout the year. Higher scores indicate better diving conditions.
Monthly Dive Score Analysis - Seasonal Diving Conditions
Higher values indicate better diving conditions
Seasonal DiveScore Chart
This chart displays monthly diveScore data throughout the year, showing seasonal patterns. The data is presented as a bar chart with an overlaid line graph.Dive scores range from 1 to 10, with 10 being optimal conditions.
Higher values indicate better diving conditions
Best Season for South Holston Dam
Winter
Avg. Score: 8.8/10
Winter offers the best overall diving conditions with calmer seas and better visibility, despite cooler temperatures.
Best Months for South Holston Dam
January
Score: 9.0
December
Score: 8.8
February
Score: 8.5
Ideal Conditions for South Holston Dam
Water Temp
24.1°C / 75.4°F
July
Visibility
17.4m / 57.1ft
December
Wave Height
0.5m / 1.6ft
January
Wave Period
8.0s
January
Seasonal Insights for South Holston Dam
South Holston Dam shows typical northern hemisphere patterns with July being the warmest month (24.1°C) and January the coldest (-2.6°C). The calmest conditions typically occur in January with average wave heights of 0.5m and wave periods of 8.0s. The most comfortable wave conditions are in January with a low wave steepness ratio, creating gentler swells. January offers the longest wave periods (8.0s), creating more comfortable and predictable conditions for boat entries and exits. Ocean currents are slowest in January (0.5m/s) and strongest in January (0.5m/s). March is usually the driest month with 0.0mm of precipitation. For beginners, the best time to visit would be during January to March, when ocean conditions are calmer with long-period waves and currents are typically weaker. Experienced divers might enjoy the challenges and potentially better visibility during the shoulder seasons, with moderate currents that can improve marine life encounters.
Last updated: 1 min. ago - Jun 21, 2026
Note: This dive site is not a verified dive site. Please dive with caution. This dive site might have incorrect information by the community.
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