Smallmouth Bass Streams Fly Fishing Report - September 20, 2023

The nights are getting cooler so try to be on the water mid morning to late evening. Fish the shady banks, around grassbeds, and downed trees in water 2 to 4 feet deep. We haven't been getting as much action on topwater flies as we were earlier in the summer. I am using streamers and nymphs such as the Murray's Regular Black Hellgrammite size 6, Rubber Leg Nymph size 8, Shenk's White Streamer size 4 and of course the Murray's Crayfish size 6.  I have had several customers telling me they are doing well with the Chocklett's Micro Changer (olive/tan).  Give it a try.  Fish all of these on a 2X or 3X Bright Butt Leader.

We did get some rain over the weekend which helped but the streams are still low for this time of year. I would recommend wading on the North Fork of the Shenandoah River in the Woodstock area.  The South Fork of the Shenandoah River does hold more water than the North Fork so there are many areas you can wade or put in your kayak to float to different areas.  The best areas are from Luray downstream to Fosters Landing. Be sure to wade carefully so you are not spooking any bass before you have a chance. We are starting to get to the point that chest high waders will be a necessity.