Smallmouth Bass Streams Fly Fishing Report - May 20, 2026

Smallmouth Bass Streams Fly Fishing Report - May 20, 2026

Both the North Fork and South Fork of the Shenandoah River are clear and fishable. We are expected to get some rain in the next few days which will improve the water levels. Water temperatures have been in the 70's the last few days.  Best fishing has been early morning and late afternoon to evening hours when the sun is off the water. Some anglers are still using chest high waders while some have converted over to wet wading.  Wade as carefully as you can and fish down and across stream.

Best Recommended Flies:

  • Bass Caddis Nymph size 6
  • Murray's Crayfish, Olive size 6
  • Murray's Magnum Hog Sucker size 4
  • Near Nuff Sculpin size 6
  • Murray's Madtom Sculpin size 4
  • Shenandoah Blue Popper size 4
  • Shenandoah Chartreuse Chugger size 4
  • Use a Murray's Bright Butt 9ft 2X Leader or Bass Bug 9ft 2X Leader

The South Fork of the Shenandoah River has been very productive this week by either wading or floating in a kayak.

 

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FLY FISHING SCHOOLS

 

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Short on time? Our half day on-the-stream lessons are a great way to learn the basics of fly fishing while on the water — guided by our expert instructors.

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Shenandoah River Real-Time Conditions

Live USGS Streamflows (CFS) & Water Temperature

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