Smallmouth Bass Streams Fly Fishing Report - April 2, 2025
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The smallmouth bass fishing has been hit or miss. Some days we are picking up a few and other days its a bust. The water temperature has been in the upper 50's. It is still on the early season of the smallmouth bass fishing but the water levels on the Shenandoah River are perfect so who can refuse a nice afternoon on the water. Chest High Waders and a wading staff are recommended when wading.
We are fishing extra large nymphs right below the heaviest riffles along the stream bottom. Strip your nymph 4-inches every 4 seconds as you wade across and down the river. Recommended heavy nymphs: Murray's Heavy Hellgrammite size 4, Bass Stonefly Nymph size 4, Bass Caddis Nymph size 6, and Olive Bass Dragonfly Nymph size 6. Split shot might be needed if you are not getting your flies to the bottom but try it without first.
Both the North Fork and the South Fork of the Shenandoah River are clear and fishable by either wading or floating. Keep in mind, there are dams on the North Fork that are not legal or safe to go around, so plan accordingly. If you need help on access, stop by the fly shop or see my book Fly Fishing the Shenandoah River for Smallmouth Bass.
Fly Fishing Schools on the Shenandoah River
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Full Day Fly Fishing Schools include a classroom presentation and on the stream instruction for a full day of learning. These start at 9am at our fly shop in Edinburg on scheduled dates. 2025 Dates: May 31, June 7, 13, 20, 21 or August 16, 23
$200pp, class sizes are small, pre-registration is required. Fly Rod & Reel outfits are provided for the school. -
Half Day Fly Fishing Lessons include a short meet/greet at 9am at our fly shop in Edinburg, then off to the river for a basic fly fishing lesson until about 1pm. 2025 Dates: June 4, 25, 28, July 12, 16, 26, 30, August 2, 6, 27, September 10, 24, 27
$125pp, class sizes are small, pre-registration is required. Fly Rod and Reel outfits are provided for the lesson.