Smallmouth Bass Streams Fly Fishing Report - March 25, 2026

The North Fork of the Shenandoah River looked absolutely tempting as I crossed over it this morning.  Water levels are ideal and clarity is good. There are access spots from New Market to Strasburg that are suitable for wading.  For a long full day float in a kayak, put in at Headley Road and take out at the Strasburg Park.  For a shorter float, put in at Deer Rapids and take out at Strasburg Park. Use a 9ft 7-weight fly rod with bigger, heavier flies and fish as deep and slow as you can.   The South Fork of the Shenandoah River is clear and fishable especially by floating.  We prefer the CFS to be less than 1,000 for wading and we are right on the edge of that at the time of this report.  Just be cautious if you plan to wade.  Bring the chest high waders as the water temperature is running around 50 degrees.

Recommended flies:

• Murray's Tungsten Cone Head Marauder, black or olive size 4
• Murray's Magnum Darter size 4
• Murray's Magnum Hog Sucker size 4
• Murray's Marauder, Chartreuse size 6
• Bass Stonefly Nymph size 4

Fish down and across stream. A sink tip line is recommended but you can also use the Scientific Angler Sonar Leaders to get your flies down.

Fly Fishing Schools--Summer 2026

We offer Full Day Fly Fishing Schools and Half Day Lesson on the Shenandoah River throughout the summer.  A great opportunity for anglers to learn the art of fly fishing on open water. Fly Rod and Reel Outfit are provided for the day. Click on the links for more information and available dates.