Smallmouth Bass Streams Fly Fishing Report - October 30, 2024
There are several dams on the North Fork of the Shenandoah River that back up water over ten feet deep. As the water gets colder many smallmouth are attracted to this water. The water temperature on the North Fork has been in the low 50's so chest high waders are needed if wading. Kayaks are ideal to get to the deeper water but be prepared to paddle back upstream as most of the dams are not legal or safe to go around. Much of the weed growth is dying out now so this deep water is good to fish.
Good flies for this deeper water are Murray's Cone Head Tungsten Marauder (black, olive or pearl) size 4, Murray's Magnum Hog Sucker size 4, and Murray's Magnum Chartreuse Streamer size 4.
Both the North Fork and the South Fork of the Shenandoah River are clear and fishable. Since the water is so clear, if wading, try to sneak, sneak, sneak so that you are not spooking the bass.
Want to learn more about the smallmouth bass fishing on the Shenandoah River? Read my book Fly Fishing the Shenandoah River for Smallmouth Bass.