Smallmouth Bass Streams Fly Fishing Report - August 2, 2025
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August 2 update: After looking at the North Fork of the Shenandoah River this morning which was still slightly muddy, I am expecting the levels to be fishable by Monday 8/4 especially upstream of Edinburg. You will still see some murky water by Monday in areas as it continues to push through. The water levels are at what we would consider "springtime" levels. You can either wade or float in a kayak at these levels. Prepare ahead of time if floating as there are three dams on the North Fork that are not legal or safe to go around.
August 2 update: The South Fork of the Shenandoah River still has a "stained" to muddy color in most areas but if you give it another day, I expect it to be fishable by Monday 8/4 especially upstream of Luray. Water levels are suitable for floating but still a little extra flow for wading. If you plan to wade, just be cautious as these are fuller levels than we normally have in the summertime.
If you only plan to fish underwater nymphs and streamers then consider using a Murray's Fluorocarbon Sinking Leader 9ft 2X to help get your flies to the bottom. Recommended flies: Murray's Heavy Hellgrammite, Black size 6, Murray's Tungsten Cone Head Marauder, Olive size 4, Murray's Marauder size 6 in brown or olive, and Rubber Leg Nymph size 6 in brown.
If you prefer to try your luck around the shady banks and downed trees on top water flies, then use a Murray's Bright Butt Leader 9ft 2X with a Murray's Chugger size 6, Shenandoah Blue Popper size 4, or Murray's Sunfish Slider size 6.
Things to help you learn more about fly fishing for smallmouth on the Shenandoah River.
- Register for our Full Day Fly Fishing School on August 16 or 23. Includes classroom and "on the stream" instruction for a full day of learning.
- Read my book Fly Fishing the Shenandoah River for Smallmouth Bass
- We have a few openings in our Half Day Fly Fishing Lesson on August 6. These are held on the Shenandoah River for a basic lesson on fly fishing.
Looking for a new fly rod outfit for smallmouth bass?? Check out our Scott Session 9ft 7wt 4pc fly rod outfit with reel, line and backing for COMBO of $903.90