Smallmouth Bass Streams Fly Fishing Report - March 24, 2022

I find that I can pick up a smallmouth or two around the ledges.  These are miniature dams which have an inch or two of water flowing over them. They range from 2050 feet long reaching perpendicular across the river. The river is 3-5 feet deep immediately downstream of these ledges. The feeding stations for the large bass are right below the ledges and especially below the ends of these ledges. 

I fish a Murray's Magnum Streamer (Darter, Hog Sucker or Bluegill) size 4 across stream or up and across stream or down and across stream. Any angle that will fish your fly deeply and slowly is best. 

The water temperature is still cool, so bring your chest high waders and be patient. 

Learn to fly fish in our Full Day Fly Fishing Schools Summer 2022.  We also offer wading and float trips on the Shenandoah River.

Both the North Fork and the South Fork of the Shenandoah River are clear and fishable. If you plan to wade, I think the North Fork would be better and save the floating for the South Fork.

This Saturday March 26 at 10a.m. I will be conducting a discussion on the access places on the North and South Fork of the Shenandoah River along with times of the year and what flies to use.