Smallmouth Bass Streams Fly Fishing Report - September 21, 2022

Over the next few nights the cooler air temperatures will start lowering the water temperature so if you plan to fish the Shenandoah River, plan to bring your chest high waders unless you enjoy a cool dip.  I do have some customers that refuse to wear chest high waders until the first of October.  It is a personal preference but I like to be prepared just in case. 

Both the North and South Fork of the Shenandoah River are clear and fishable.  With the lower levels, be sure to wade carefully so that you are not scaring the fish.  Plan to fish the shady banks and if possible try to stay and fish in the evening hours.  

I can usually continue to catch bass on topwater flies such as the Shenandoah Blue Popper and Shenandoah Chartreuse Chugger through the first part of October.  As far as streamers, the Shenk's White Streamer and Murray's Heavy Hellgrammite (black) size 6 are working well.  Now, let's talk about another pattern that is doing well--The Murray's Crayfish.  Fish these near the banks where there are cobblestones in water 1-3 feet deep. From 40 feet out in the river cast your crayfish pattern back against the bank and strip it out in 2-inch jumps every 5 seconds.