Trout Streams Fly Fishing Report - April 24, 2024

Let's start with the small native brook trout streams in the mountains.  We are getting some wonderful fishing on these streams. We are seeing caddis hatches, some little yellow stoneflies and light cahills. Match these with Mr. Rapidan Delta Wing Caddis, Olive size 14, Murray's Little Yellow Stonefly Dry size 16, and Light Cahill Dry size 16. We are still seeing some Blue Quills and the Blue Quill Dry size 16 is working for this hatch.  As far as nymphs the Bead Head Hare's Ear size 14 and Mr. Rapidan Bead Head size 14 are working well.  The major key to fishing these streams is to stay low and sneak. The brook trout are easily spooked. Our students in the schools are learning this very quickly.

All of the Shenandoah National Park streams have good water levels and are open for fishing. For more information on the Park and access to the streams, see my book Trout Fishing in the Shenandoah National Park or stop by the fly shop. The Park has asked that all anglers mash the barbs on their hooks or fish with barbless hooks to help preserve the life of the brook trout. 

Now let's move onto the stocked trout streams. All of the local stocked trout streams have good water levels for fishing.  Passage Creek in Fort Valley was just stocked yesterday with browns and tiger trout. Streamers such as the Murray's Marauder (in olive or black) size 10 are working well along with nymphs such Copper Johns in size 14. If you need help with access, stop by the fly shop and take a look at our master map. These streams won't be stocked much longer so take advantage.