We are picking up a few smallmouth bass and I expect it to improve over the next week with the warmer weather. The water temperature was in the lower 50's last week and it seems the smallmouth are holding in the deeper pockets or pools just waiting for a big mouthful to go by. The Murray's Heavy Hellgrammite in black or olive in size 4, Bass Caddis Nymph and Bass Stonefly Nymph are doing well this week. Strip these along the stream bottom very slowly.
Both the North Fork and the South Fork of the Shenandoah River are clear and fishable. The water levels are lower than usual for this time of year so wade cautiously so that you are not scaring the bass. More than likely if you have seen them, then they have already seen you. If you are going to wade then the North Fork would be perfect. If you want to do a float trip (and possibly some wading along the way) then go to the South Fork of the Shenandoah. If you need help on public access, stop by the fly shop or see my book Virginia Blue Ribbon Streams.
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