Smallmouth Bass Streams Fly Fishing Report - May 8, 2024

The North Fork of the Shenandoah River is slightly discolored with full but fishable water levels.  Just be careful if you plan to wade since there is some extra water. My son was on the North Fork yesterday and they were able to land a few nice bass on the Murray's Heavy Hellgrammite (black) size 4, Murray's Magnum Hog Sucker size 4, and Murray's Magnum Darter size 4. I recommend fishing the Murray's Bright Butt Leader 9ft 2X. The water temperature has been in the low 60's this week.  The South Fork of the Shenandoah River is okay for floating but the flow is still too much for safe wading. Give it a few more days.

I have had a few customers and one of my guides picking up a few bass on hard head surface bugs such as the Shenandoah Chartreuse Chugger size 6. Try fishing areas where the water is five feet deep and rip the fat cup-faced Chugger across the surface. We are still on the early side of this type fishing but that will improve over the next few weeks as the water temperature continues to rise. 

Learn to Fly Fish (Summer 2024)

• Full Day Fly Fishing Schools start in June on specific dates at 9a.m. at Murray's Fly Shop with a classroom presentation, then continue on the river for hands on instruction.  School ends around 5p.m.  Fly Rods & Reels are provided for the school.  We have openings in June 15, 21, 22, July 20, August 3, 24.  Click for more info and to register
• Half Day Fly Fishing Lessons start in June on specific dates at 9a.m. at the fly shop in Edinburg.  Meet the guide, then head to the river for a basic fly fishing lesson until about 1p.m. Fly Rods & Reels are provided for the lesson. We have openings in June 1, July 10, 24, 27, August 7, 17  Click for more info and to register