Smallmouth Bass Streams Fly Fishing Report -April 30, 2026

Smallmouth Bass Streams Fly Fishing Report -April 30, 2026

The North Fork of the Shenandoah River looked great as I crossed it this morning. The recent rains helped the levels slightly and water temperatures are in the low 60's.  We are still using chest high waders when wading.  All areas from New Market to Strasburg are fishable. Some anglers are picking up some nice sized smallmouth on the North Fork.   The South Fork of the Shenandoah River is clear and fishable by either wading or floating. 

Recommended flies for this week:

  • Murray's Madtom Sculpin, Black size 4
  • Murray's Magnum Creek Chub size 4
  • Murray's Magnum Darter size 4
  • Murray's Magnum Hog Sucker size 4
  • Articulated Daddy's Money in Copper size 4
  • Gallops Dungeon in Olive size 2

Fish these on a Murray's Fluorocarbon 9ft 2X Leader or Murray's Bass Bug 9ft 0X Leader.

 

🎣 Full Day Fly Fishing Schools

Join us for a hands-on, full day experience on the stream — perfect for all skill levels. Learn proven techniques from expert guides in prime smallmouth bass water.

Learn More & Register

🎣 Half Day Fly Fishing Lessons

Short on time? Our half day on-the-stream lessons are a great way to learn the basics of fly fishing while on the water — guided by our expert instructors.

Learn More & Register

🎣 Smallmouth Bass Fly Fishing Rod & Reel Outfits 6-8wt

Gear up with the right rod and reel outfit for smallmouth bass. Our 6-8wt selections are perfectly matched for big water and hard-fighting fish.

View Outfits
Back to blog

Shenandoah River Real-Time Conditions

Live USGS Streamflows (CFS) & Water Temperature

Loading live streamflow data...