Smallmouth Bass Streams Fly Fishing Report - April 9, 2025
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With the cooler nights the smallmouth bass fishing has slowed. The temperatures are to rise into next week so that will help. Fishing in the afternoon after the water temperatures have had time to increase a little is your best bet. Get your flies as deep to the stream bottom as you can and strip every 5 seconds to tempt that large bass. Provide a big mouthful with flies like Murray's Magnum Hog Sucker size 4, Murray's Magnum Darter size 4, and Murray's Heavy Hellgrammite, black size 4. We are still in the early season of smallmouth bass so don't expect to catch what you would in the summer months.
Both the North and South Fork of the Shenandoah are currently clear and fishable. By floating you are able to get to some of the deeper pools but if you only have an hour or two, I wouldn't hesitate to wade. Just make sure to bring your chest high waders and a wading staff.
If you need help with access, stop by the fly shop or see my book Fly Fishing the Shenandoah River for Smallmouth Bass.
Fly Fishing Schools on the Shenandoah River
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Full Day Fly Fishing Schools include a classroom presentation and on the stream instruction for a full day of learning. These start at 9am at our fly shop in Edinburg on scheduled dates. 2025 Dates: May 31, June 7, 13, 20, 21 or August 16, 23
$200pp, class sizes are small, pre-registration is required. Fly Rod & Reel outfits are provided for the school. -
Half Day Fly Fishing Lessons include a short meet/greet at 9am at our fly shop in Edinburg, then off to the river for a basic fly fishing lesson until about 1pm. 2025 Dates: June 4, 25, 28, July 12, 16, 26, 30, August 2, 6, 27, September 10, 24, 27
$125pp, class sizes are small, pre-registration is required. Fly Rod and Reel outfits are provided for the lesson.