Smallmouth Bass Streams Fly Fishing Report - September 27, 2023

Normally 2 inches of rain would have muddied the river but our area was so dry that the rain soaked in and improved the water levels providing us with some good fishing.  The water temperatures are cool enough that I am wearing my chest high waders. 

Many of the largest bass search the drop-off gravel bars at dusk to feed on hog suckers that feed here. As a youngster growing up on the North Fork of the Shenandoah River I saw that many of the bait fisherman used live hog suckers to catch their largest bass.  Today I use the Murray's Magnum Hog Sucker size 4 often when I'm big fish hunting.  Other flies working this week include the crayfish patterns such as Clouser Crayfish Olive size 6, Murray's Heavy Hellgrammite Olive size 6, Murray's Chartreuse Marauder size 6.  Fish all of these on a Bright Butt 9ft 2X or 3X leader.  

The North Fork of the Shenandoah River is clear and fishable.  Good areas include Chapman's Landing north of Edinburg and Seven Bends State Park in Woodstock (Lupton access).  The South Fork of the Shenandoah River is clear and fishable.  You can either wade or take a kayak to get to some good spots in the river. Downstream from Luray (Rt 675 bridge) to Fosters Landing provides some excellent fishing.  Plan to get on the river around mid morning and fish till dark. 

If you need help with access, stop by or call the fly shop and I'll be glad to help you.