Trout Streams Fly Fishing Report - Update May 23, 2026

Trout Streams Fly Fishing Report - Update May 23, 2026

Update for May 23, 2026  We have received almost 3 inches of rain in the last few days.  For this weekend I would recommend fishing the native brook trout streams in the Shenandoah National Park by coming into the streams from the Skyline Drive or headwaters of the streams in the higher elevations.  This will allow for better water levels. Use caution while hiking and wading around slippery rocks and downed trees. The lower boundaries of the streams will have extra water and will need a few days to return to normal. 

Originally posted May 20--The native brook trout streams are low, clear and fishable. We are getting some great dry fly action despite the low water levels.  Plan to come into the streams from the lower boundaries for better water levels. Also plan ahead--some of the streams in the Shenandoah National Park hold up better than others during low water levels.  We have been receiving a few rain showers which has helped and over the next few days we are expected to receive more.  I cannot stress enough--stay low and hide your approach! The trout are very wary.

Best flies this week:

  • Mr. Rapidan Dry size 16
  • Murray's Flying Beetle size 14
  • Shenk's Sulphur Dry size 16
  • Klinkhammer, orange size 16
  • Stubby Chubby size 16
  • for droppers use a Mr. Rapidan Soft Hackle Nymph, Olive size 16 or Perdigon Nymph size 16
  • fish these on a Murray's Classic 7.5ft 6X Leader or Mountain 6ft 6X Leader

Reference book:  Trout Fishing in the Shenandoah National Park

 To help in releasing the brook trout, use barbless hooks or mash the barbs down. 

Complete Fly Rod & Reel Outfits Banner

Stocked Trout Streams--Update for May 23, 2026   All of the local stocked trout streams are currently high and muddy and unfishable.  It will take a few days to clear up.

original post on May 20--All of our local stocked trout streams are low and clear.  They probably will not be stocked again until October as the DWR does not stock these streams in the summer.  The DWR is still stocking a few streams throughout Virginia--visit their website for the latest stocking schedule.

Recommended flies for rainbows & browns:

  • Murray's Flying Beetle size 14
  • Mr. Rapidan Dry size 16
  • Murray's Crayfish, Olive size 10
  • Murray's Hellgrammite (regular weighted) black size 10
  • Rubber Leg Nymph, Brown size 8

 

Back to blog