Smallmouth Bass Streams Fly Fishing Report -Update June 27, 2023

Update for June 27, 2023 at 11:15a.m.  The North Fork of the Shenandoah River is slightly discolored but certainly fishable.  The slight discoloration actually works to our advantage as the bass are not quite as wary.  The Shenk's White Streamer size 6, Murray's Heavy Hellgrammite, Black size 6, and Murray's Chartreuse Marauder size 6 work well in these conditions.  The South Fork of the Shenandoah River is still too high for good fishing. We will post another update in the next few days.

Update for June 24, 2023 at 9a.m.The North Fork of the Shenandoah River is clear in Edinburg  downstream through Woodstock as of 9a.m. this morning but there is some muddy water coming from upstream in the Mount Jackson area.  I am not sure how long it will take it to run out but I expect only a day or so.  . The South Fork of the Shenandoah River came up overnight from heavy rains upstream.  It is currently too high for good fishing.

Posted June 21, 2023 This last week in our fly fishing schools and guided trips we have been picking up more smallmouth on streamers and nymphs instead of poppers.  There is always natural hellgrammites in the river and the Murray's Hellgrammite is designed to fish upstream, downstream, or across stream making it very versatile.  Other flies that have been working this week include Murray's Chartreuse Marauder size 6, Shenk's White Streamer size 6, Bass Stonefly Nymph and Murray's Crayfish.  Since the water is so low and clear we are switching over to a Bright Butt 9ft 3X leader.

With the water being low and clear it is very important to wade carefully and access the river before fishing.  Do not stand where you should be fishing.  Try to fish early morning or late evening and around the shady banks during the afternoon. 

We have been wading mostly on the South Fork of the Shenandoah River since that holds three times more water than the North Fork.  

If you need help on access stop by the fly shop or see my book Virginia Blue Ribbon Streams. 

Fly Fishing Lessons

Full Day On The Stream Fly Fishing Schools up coming dates August 5, 19, 25

Rod & Reel Outfits are provided.  Each school starts at 9a.m. with a classroom presentation and then continue with "on the stream" instruction until 5p.m.