Smallmouth Bass Streams Fly Fishing Report - October 17, 2024

The North Fork of the Shenandoah River is clear and fishable. You have a good chance to catch some large bass by fishing the Murray's Magnum Hog Sucker size 4 along the gravel bars where the water is 2-3 feet deep along sections that taper off to the deep holes in the river. Other flies that work well in these areas include Murray's Tungsten Cone Head Marauder (black or pearl) size 4. Fish these on a 9ft 7wt fly rod with a Bright Butt 9ft 2X leader. 

The South Fork of the Shenandoah River is full but fishable.  It is still a little more water than what I prefer to wade in so I think you will be better off floating in a kayak. Use the same flies mentioned above.  

The water temperature on the North Fork is in the low 50's so bring your chest high waders.  I would recommend a wading stick as well.