Trout Streams Fly Fishing Report - Update February 17, 2023

Trout Streams Fly Fishing Report - Update February 17, 2023

Update for February 17--The local stocked trout streams are currently carrying extra water with some discoloration this morning.  I expect them to be back to normal by Saturday 2/18.  As far as the mountain trout streams in the Shenandoah National Park--the water levels are going to be too high for good fishing on the lower boundaries.  If you come into the smaller streams from the Skyline Drive you might be able to get away from some of the high water levels. 

Posted February 15.  Before I get into the different stream reports, I want to mention the latest podcast I did on Trout Fishing with Nymphs.  We carry a variety of nymphs--whether you are looking for nymphs that match the aquatic insects, bead head style, jigged nymphs, fast sinking or even ones that are a cross between a nymph and a streamer.  

Stocked Trout Streams - All of the local stocked trout streams are clear and fishable.  The rain we received the other day has helped maintain good stream levels. Frequently you will see rainbows feeding on midges at this time of year. A good technique is to fish a Mr. Rapidan Midge size 18 with a Mr. Rapidan Olive Soft Hackle Nymph size 16 on a dropper below it. Cast this upstream and drift it back downstream with a very slow lifting action. 

Mountain Trout Streams - This 60 degree weather will start warming the brook trout streams. I have many customers that are exploring different streams just to get out of the office and get some fresh air. They are picking up a few brookies.  Of course, once the hatches start in late March and April the native brook trout fishing will really take off. Nymphs will be the way to go. The Mr. Rapidan Bead Head Nymph, Bead Head Hare's Ear and Copper John Nymphs work well in faster water and deeper pools. The Murray's Adams Nymph and March Brown Nymphs are working in slower water.  The mountain streams are carrying extra water from the rains and ice melting over the last few days but I expect it to run out quickly. 
Murray's Trout Nymph Assortment contains 12 of our most popular nymphs in a 12 compartment fly box. 
Interested in learning more about the native brook trout streams?

Special Store Hours:  Please note that Murray's Fly Shop will be closed January 19-22 for the holiday.  We will resume our normal hours on Wednesday February 22 at 9a.m.  Our website is open 24/7.   

 

 

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