There has been some good hatches of tan caddisflies in the mountain trout streams. Fish a Mr. Rapidan Delta Wing Caddis size 16 on the lips of the pools and on the edges of the riffles in the heads of the pools with a slack line cast. The Mr. Rapidan Soft Hackle, Brown size 16 and Bead Head Hare's Ear size 14 have been productive underwater.
The native brook trout spawn in October and November.
A Message from the Park
Shenandoah National Park will reopen a portion of the boundary parking area at Whiteoak Canyon Trail off Route 600 in Madison County October 11, 2019 at 8:00. Hikers may park in the lower lot and walk across the new bridge; however, vehicles may not cross the bridge until it passes an inspection.
There is no emergency phone at the trailhead and hikers must be prepared to self-pay using exact change or a credit card.
The bridge across Cedar Run was severely damaged during heavy rains in 2018. The new bridge was constructed as a collaborative effort between the Piedmont Environmental Council, Trout Unlimited and the landowner, Jimmy Graves of Graves Mountain Lodge. The new bridge will have the capability for fish to pass underneath which will improve the stream habitat and provide excellent visitor access to the Whiteoak Canyon and Cedar Run trails.
Stream Conditions: The rain we received yesterday helped the streams a little. You will have better water levels by accessing the streams from the bottom and hiking up about 30 minutes. These streams are low and clear so sneak along so you do not spook the fish. If you need help on deciding which streams to fish, call or email me and I will be glad to help. Use the stream gradient to hide from the fish and to hide your approach. For more information on the Shenandoah National Park Streams, refer to my book Trout Fishing in the Shenandoah National Park or stop by the fly shop and take a look at our marked maps for the Park.
Recommended Gear: I am using a 6ft or 7 1/2ft 6X Leader on a 2 to 4 weight fly rod--preferably 8ft or shorter.