Smallmouth Bass Streams Fly Fishing Report - June 19, 2024

We are using nymphs like the Bass Caddis Nymph, Bass Stonefly Nymph and Murray's Heavy Hellgrammite right below the heavy riffles. In water 3-4 feet deep over cobblestone bottoms, fish a Murray's Crayfish size 6 along the stream bottom. Along the shady banks fish a Shenandoah Blue Popper size 6 or Shenandoah Chartreuse Chugger.  Fish all of these on a Bright Butt 9ft 2X leader.

The streams levels are getting low for this time of year, so wade carefully--the bass are wary. The best time to fish is early morning from sun up till about 9a.m. and then the last two hours of the day. The water temperature is around 76 degrees. 

The North Fork of the Shenandoah River is clear and fishable.  If you are looking for deeper water, try fishing above the dams at Chapman's Landing and at the Lupton access of the Seven Bends State Park. Wade downstream from each of these access spots.  The further you wade toward the dams the deeper the water will get.  Keep in mind if you decide to float in a kayak, it is not legal or safe to go around the dams. You will have to paddle back upstream to exit the river at the same access that you entered. 

The South Fork of the Shenandoah River is clear and fishable. This could easily be fished by floating in a kayak or by wading. Downstream of Bixler's Bridge to Foster's Landing provides some wonderful water. Again early morning and late evening are the best times to fish. 

Summer 2024 Fly Fishing Schools

Full Day Fly Fishing Schools start at 9a.m. with a classroom presentation then continues on the Shenandoah River with hands on instruction for a full day of learning. Openings on June 21, 22  August 3, 24

Half Day Fly Fishing Lessons start at 9a.m. for a meet/greet with the instructor. Then drive to the Shenandoah River for a casting lesson and a basic lesson on fly fishing until about 1:30p.m.