Update for August 31, 2023 The Shenandoah National Park is closed effective immediately to fishing due to the low water levels and high stream temperatures. We will keep you updated.
8/30/23 Most of the mountain trout streams in the Shenandoah National Park are very low making it very tough to fish for the native brook trout. The water temperature is running around 65 degrees. I keep thinking we will get some rain that will improve the conditions but that doesn't seem to be happening. If you are set on fishing these streams, then go into the streams from the bottom access such as the Rose River and look for higher gradient areas to hide your approach. Sneak, sneak, sneak. Fish a Murray's Flying Beetle or Murray's Housefly size 18 on a Classic 7.5ft 6X leader. If you want to get creative, fish one of the dry flies above with a 2ft 6X dropper behind it and tie on a Mr. Rapidan Ant size 18.
For help on access, see my book Trout Fishing in the Shenandoah National Park or stop by the fly shop.
Learn to Fly Fish in our Spring 2024 Mountain Trout Schools. These fly fishing schools are a favorite among our customers and they do fill up. Reserve your spot today! We offer two different schools--some meeting at Graves Mountain Lodge in Syria VA and fishing in the Shenandoah National Park and some meeting at Murray's Fly Shop in Edinburg VA and fishing in the George Washington National Forest. Fly Rod & Reel outfits are provided.
- Mountain Trout School in the Shenandoah National Park
- Mountain Trout School in the George Washington National Forest