Smallmouth Bass Streams Fly Fishing Report - August 20, 2025
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Both the North Fork and the South Fork of the Shenandoah River are clear and fishable. The North Fork is getting a little low and kayakers are finding out just how many limestone ledges and rocks there are in the river. For this reason I recommend going to the South Fork if you want to float as this Fork carries 3 times more water than the North Fork. I personally prefer to wade and often I will go on the North Fork in the evenings simply because it is close by. Regardless on which Fork you decide to fish, wade carefully as the water is crystal clear and the bass are wary. If you need help on access, stop by the fly shop or see my book Fly Fishing the Shenandoah River for Smallmouth Bass
FLY SHOP VACATION NOTICE: Murray's Fly Shop will be closed August 30 through September 8 for vacation so please plan accordingly.
I have had several customers asking this week about shiner minnows. Several years ago I did a video on Minnow Matching and I covered the Silver Outcast and Murray's Heavy Shiner Streamer which are some of my favorites for shiner minnows.
WATCH VIDEO (Silver Outcast discussed at about 10.15 minutes in)
In our schools and reports from customers, the Murray's Marauders and Murray's Heavy Hellgrammites are catching many bass. We are getting some topwater action with Shenandoah Chartreuse Chugger and Blue Poppers. Some anglers prefer to use dry flies for some topwater action. Nothing wrong with that! Hopper, Crickets, Dragonfly and Damselflies in a size 6 or 8 work well for smallmouth bass fishing.
Here are a few to try: