Smallmouth Bass Streams Fly Fishing Report - August 30, 2023

The first two hours in the morning and the last 2 hours in the day are the best times to be on the water.  We have been doing well with poppers such as Shenandoah Blue Popper, Murray's Chuggar, Frog size 6.  The Hexagenia hatch is going on so don't hesitate to put a Mr. Rapidan Skater Dry size 8 on in the evening. 

During the day, fish the shady banks with nymphs such as the Bass Caddis Nymph, Murray's Regular Hellgrammite size 8, and Olive Dragonfly Nymph. Don't hesitate to use the hellgrammite or olive dragonfly nymph as a dropper below the Shenandoah Blue Popper.  Fish all of these on a Bright Butt 9ft 2X or 3X leader.

The water on the North and South Fork of the Shenandoah River is very low and super clear.  If you do not wade carefully and plan your strategy before entering the water, then every bass in the river is going to know you are there.  If you see the bass, the bass sees you--you just missed your chance. Wading would be best with the water levels we have at this time. There are many public access places on the North Fork and the South Fork.  On the North Fork two miles north of my fly shop is Chapman's Landing.  Fish downstream from here.  The further you go the deeper the water will get because of the dam 3 miles downstream. On the South Fork, Bealer's Ferry and Foster's Landing are great spots to wade.   

I only have a few St. Croix Mojo 9ft 6-weight 4pc fly rods left that are on sale for $150.  This would work well on the bass streams and the larger trout streams.  Comes with a 5-year warranty and cloth rod sack.