The next few days of weather in the 60's should warm the stream temperatures just enough to prompt a few bass to start feeding. At this time of year we like to get the boat or kayak out and float to the deeper pools and fish around the back eddies. Keep in mind that the bass are looking for an area that provides food without having to exert much energy to obtain. I find that using a sink tip III line often helps me catch some of the largest bass in these back eddies. Using this line with a Murray's Fluorocarbon 9ft 2X sinking leader enables me to swim my Murray's Tungsten Cone Head Marauders right along the stream bottom where the bass are holding.
We are pushing the season a little bit so don't expect to set the world on fire on the smallmouth bass fishing just yet. One thing about this time of year is that you can usually expect to have the river to yourself or with very few anglers. We recently spotted some eagles and deer along the river while floating. Who wouldn't appreciate nature!
Both the North and South Fork of the Shenandoah River are clear and fishable. If you need help on access, stop by the fly shop or see my book Virginia Blue Ribbon Streams.
Interested in learning more about fly fishing for smallmouth bass?
- Join us on April 22 at 10a.m. at Murray's Fly Shop for Harry Murray's discussion on Fly Fishing on the Shenandoah River for Smallmouth Bass. This is a classroom discussion so you will not be on the stream.
- Take an On The Stream Fly Fishing School. These start in June 2024 and fly rod and reel are provided.